What to expect inside

So, exciting times: we now have a year-round open-air swimming pool right in the middle of the city! As soon as the summer's first heatwave came, the pool became increasingly popular – and for good reason. First, there are actually two pools, not one: the first measures at 50x25 meters and includes six lanes along with a separate area for "free" swimming, while the second, shallower pool is 20x10 meters and allows you to comfortably sit in the water. Plus, there are sunloungers, umbrellas, and even a sauna – all included in the price of one visit. There is also a bar with refreshing drinks at the pool and a cafe on the premises – those you have to pay for separately. 

Naturally, the spectacular view on the Gulf of Finland, the Lakhta Center skyscraper, and the surrounding areas is another obvious selling point. Swimming outside in an urban area feels surreal – and even more so when the temperatures are quite below 20 degrees Celsius, as they were during this swimmer’s first visit. The water in the pool is maintained at 28-30 degrees, which is a tad warmer than pools usually are – it’s quite fun to jump in the water to get warm, not cool down.

Tickets and getting there

The new attraction is located minutes away from the Zenit metro station in the rapidly developing Flagshtok space (home to the city’s biggest ice skating rink in the winter).

To visit the pool, you will need to buy your ticket for one of the five daily sessions, lasting from 1.5 to 3 hours; the first session starts at 7 am and the last – at 8 pm. Make sure to buy your ticket in advance, as they are going really fast for the most convenient midday sessions. 

Tip: tickets are typically released four days prior to the session, at 3-3:30 pm, on the official website. 

The ticket prices are a little steep, with the morning session priced at 1,800 roubles, the latest one in the day – 3,000 roubles, and midday prices at 4,000 roubles. Prices are higher on weekends and holidays.

Is it worth it? 

Personally, I would say yes – at least for one visit. Even though it’s by far not the cheapest activity in the city, it’s a cool and unusual experience (and one you’d definitely enjoy more in the summer than any other season). The cheapest 7 am session is less crowded, while still offering all the same perks; and the pricier sessions can well be treated as time spent at a mini-vacation – you get 2.5 or even 3 hours of sunbathing, swimming, chilling by the pool, and hitting the sauna. Swimmers can also get a nice workout in and enjoy the 50-meter lanes. All in all, a visit will make a wonderful summer (and potentially, year-round) treat.

Is swimming your passion? Join the KronBars swimming club to find your fellow dolphins and reach new heights.