There are over 2,500 hotels in the Russian Federation, of which many now specialise in accommodating foreign guests. Many hotels meet international standards now, especially in big cities, whereas others are very basic. Direct reservations by clients are on the increase. In lower classes of accommodation, it is advisable not to leave valuables in hotel rooms and to lock the door before going to sleep.

Note: Anyone travelling on a tourist visa to the Russian Federation must (officially at least) have accommodation arranged before arrival, although this is rarely enforced.

Several companies provide bed & breakfast accommodation with English-speaking families in Moscow, St Petersburg and other cities.

Camping holidays are now offered by a number of independent companies. There are a few campsites in areas of the country popular with foreign visitors; however most are of doubtful quality. When Russians camp, they usually do so in the wilderness.

There are currently 16 hostels in the Russian Federation affilliated to the International Youth Hostel Federation. Hostels tend to be safer and cleaner than hotels of similar prices. Reservations from outside the Russian Federation should be made at least three to four weeks in advance. There is no age restriction.

Russian Youth Hostel Association
St Petersburg International Hostel, 3rd Sovetskaya, 28, St Petersburg 193069, Russian Federation
Tel: (812) 329 8018.
Website: www.hostelling-russia.ru