Direct reservations by clients are on the increase. The Pullman Iris also offers 4-star comfort. St Petersburg's Grand Hotel Europe is one of the first 5-star hotels in the Russian Federation. Whatever class of accommodation it is advisable not to leave valuables in hotel rooms and to lock the door before going to sleep. There are currently two hostels in St Petersburg, two in Moscow and one in Novgorod.
Hostels tend to be safer and cleaner than hotels of similar prices.
Reservations from outside the Russian Federation should be made at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Note there is no age restriction. Anyone travelling on a tourist visa to the Russian Federation must have accommodation arranged before arrival.