How to get to St. Louis

When planning a journey across the Midwest, it is impossible to overlook St. Louis — a colourful metropolis in the USA, renowned for its iconic "Gateway to the West" arch and rich musical heritage. Located on the banks of the Mississippi, this city attracts tourists with a blend of historical architecture and modern dynamism, offering guests a multitude of leisure options.

You can reach St. Louis in various ways, depending on your budget and preferences. The region's major transport hub handles numerous flights, while a developed network of highways and railway connections makes the trip convenient both for those who prefer flying and for fans of ground travel by train, bus, or private car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by air. The region's main air gateway is St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), which serves approximately 16 million passengers annually. The airport receives flights from across the country and abroad, ensuring a stable connection between the metropolis and the outside world.

If direct tickets are unavailable, consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest option is Belleville, located just 22 km from the destination. Travellers also occasionally choose airports in the cities of Marion (149 km) or Cape Girardeau (158 km), from where the journey can be continued by ground transport.

A railway journey is an excellent chance to view the scenic landscapes of the USA and arrive comfortably in the very centre of the city. Trains arrive at St. Louis Railway Station (ZSV), which is a key point on the region's transport system map and possesses convenient infrastructure for those meeting and greeting passengers.

For planning complex routes, stations in surrounding settlements can be utilized. For instance, a station in the city of Belleville is just 22 km away, while further out are hubs in the cities of Marion and Cape Girardeau. A train trip is often chosen by tourists for its special atmosphere and the opportunity to rest during the journey.

Intercity buses remain a popular and budget-friendly way to get to St. Louis. One of the shortest and most convenient routes runs from the city of Belleville: the bus covers the distance of 32 km in approximately 1.4 hours, making this an excellent option for local transfers.

For travellers departing from more distant points, there is a connection with the city of Marion. It is worth noting that, despite the distance of about 207 km, travel time can reach up to 13 hours due to route specifics and stops, so such a trip is best planned in advance, arming yourself with patience and a good book for the road.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and allows you to plan your own schedule. Closest to the metropolis is Belleville: you can drive 28 km in just 25–30 minutes (0.4 h), which is comparable to a taxi ride within a large city. This is an ideal option for a quick transfer.

If you are driving from southern directions, the road will take slightly longer but remains comfortable thanks to high-quality highways. The journey from the city of Cape Girardeau (186 km) or Marion (192 km) will require about 1.9 hours behind the wheel. Car rental in the USA is a popular practice, allowing you to easily reach St. Louis and explore its surroundings.

To ensure your stay in St. Louis is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local features in advance. Here are a few practical recommendations that will help you prepare for a trip to this American metropolis.

1. Dress for the weather. The climate here is continental, with hot summers and cool winters. In summer, light clothing and a head covering are essential, while in winter, a warm jacket and waterproof footwear will be useful. In spring and autumn, the weather is changeable, so it is better to dress in layers.
2. Transport. Although the city centre can be explored on foot, for trips to distant attractions, it is more convenient to use a rental car or the MetroLink light rail system. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available.
3. Finances. The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, from major hotels to street kiosks. A small reserve of cash is useful primarily for tips or minor purchases.
4. Health and Safety. As in any major city, standard safety precautions should be observed: keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night. Medical care is high quality but expensive — travel insurance is mandatory.
5. Tipping. In the USA, leaving a tip is customary. In restaurants, the norm is considered to be 15–20% of the bill; it is also customary to give 1-2 dollars to service staff, housekeepers, and porters.
6. Electricity. The mains voltage is 110V, using Type A and B sockets (with flat pins). Travellers from the UAE will definitely need an adapter to charge their gadgets.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the culture and attractions of St. Louis. Be open to new experiences, and the city will surely reciprocate!