Where to Stay in Russia: Choose Your Area First

Choosing where to stay in Russia is easier if you pick an area first and a hotel second. This page explains how to think about location and transport links, how to read cancellation terms and which simple booking habits help first-time visitors. Details differ between hotels and can change, so confirm them with the property and the official source.

Choose an area before a hotel

Russian cities are large, and the area you choose shapes your days. Decide what matters most to you, such as being near the main sights, near a railway station, or in a quieter neighborhood, and then compare hotels within that area.

Reading about the neighborhoods of the city you will visit can help you picture each area before you book. Look at a map to see how the sights, stations and parks are spread out.

• Close to the main sights for short walks.
• Near a railway station for early trains or day trips.
• In a quieter area for a calmer base.
• Near a Metro line or tram that suits your plans.

Check location and transport links

Many visitors find a hotel within walking distance of public transport the easiest to use. Look at the map to see how far the nearest Metro station or stop is, and which lines it serves, and check what the route to your main sights would be.

Read the hotel's description of its location, and check the distance to your arrival airport or station. Travel times can vary with traffic and the time of day.

• Walking distance to the nearest Metro station or stop.
• The lines that serve it and the number of changes to your sights.
• The route from your airport or railway station.
• Whether the street is quiet at night.

Read cancellation and booking terms

Before you pay, read what the booking allows. Terms differ between hotels and rates, and some rates cannot be changed or refunded. A flexible rate can be useful if your plans may change.

Check what is included, such as breakfast, and whether any taxes or fees are paid at the property. Keep the confirmation email, and note the hotel's contact details.

• Whether you can cancel, and until when.
• Whether the rate is refundable or can be changed.
• What is included in the price.
• Any extra fees or taxes paid on arrival.
• The check-in and check-out times.

Booking tips for first-time visitors

Book accommodation after you have checked the entry rules and your flights, so you can match the dates. Ask the hotel about any registration of foreign guests, and check the current rules with the hotel and the official source, since requirements can change.

Save the hotel address offline, and let the hotel know your expected arrival time, especially if you arrive late. If you have questions, write to the hotel before you travel.

• Match your dates to your flights.
• Ask the hotel about registration and what it needs from you.
• Save the address and phone number offline.
• Tell the hotel your arrival time.

Quick checklist

• Decide which area suits your plans
• Compare hotels within that area
• Check the walking distance to public transport
• Read the cancellation and payment terms
• Check what is included and any extra fees
• Ask the hotel about registration of foreign guests
• Save the address and booking confirmation offline

Official sources

• UK government foreign travel advice
• US Department of State travel information

Frequently asked questions

Which area is best for a first visit?

It depends on what you want to do. Many visitors choose somewhere near the centre and public transport, and reading about the neighborhoods of your destination can help you compare areas before you book.

Should I book a refundable rate?

A refundable rate can be useful if your plans may change, but it can cost differently. Read the cancellation terms carefully, and check them with the hotel before you pay.

Do I need to register with the hotel?

Ask the hotel what it needs from you, and check the current rules with the official source. Requirements depend on your passport and situation and can change.

Is a hotel near the Metro important?

It is not required, but many visitors find it easier in cities that have a Metro. Check the walking distance and the lines on a map, and think about how you will travel to your main sights.

These are general tips. Rules and conditions depend on your situation and can change: please confirm all details with the official source before you travel.