Staraya Ladoga lies about 120 km southeast of Saint Petersburg and 18 km north of Volkhov town.
From Saint Petersburg, the most straightforward public transport option is a marshrutka (shared minibus) from Moskovskiy bus station (Avtovokzal No. 2, near Moskovskaya metro). Services run toward Volkhov and stop in Staraya Ladoga; the journey takes around three to three-and-a-half hours depending on traffic. Check current timetables at the station as schedules change.
Alternatively, take a commuter train from Moskovsky or Ladozhsky rail terminals toward Volkhov-1 station, then catch a local bus or taxi for the final 18 km north to Staraya Ladoga. The train leg takes around two hours; a taxi from Volkhov is the simplest option for the last stretch and costs a modest fixed fare.
By car, take the M8 (also signed as M18 and A114 on different sections) east from Saint Petersburg toward Volkhov. The village is signed from the highway. Driving is straightforward and parking at the fortress is easy.