Pskov is one of Russia's oldest cities, set on the Velikaya River in the northwest near the Estonian border. Its medieval walls, the Krom citadel and the Trinity Cathedral give the centre a compact, walkable core, while the river divides the city into distinct banks.
For a visitor, the practical question is which side of the river to base yourself on. The sights cluster around the Krom and the old streets, and the two historic riverbank areas named in the sources — Zapskovye and Zavelichye — sit on opposite sides of the water. This guide covers those areas, what each suits, and the general accommodation levels you will find.
Best areas to stay in Pskov
1. Zapskovye
Zapskovye is the area across the river from the Krom, and it has the deepest roots as a trading quarter: German merchants were present here as early as the 13th century, and the Hanseatic League kept a trading post in the same area in the first half of the 16th century. For a visitor, that history means you are staying in the old commercial heart rather than a modern fringe.
It suits travellers who want to be close to the historic core and the river without being in the busiest part of town. Expect small guesthouses and hostels rather than large hotels. Because it sits across the water from the citadel, plan on walking over the bridge to reach the Krom and the Trinity Cathedral.
2. Zavelichye
Zavelichye is the area on the other bank, and it took over the Hanseatic trading post after a fire in 1562 pushed it across the river. It is the second of the two historic riverbank quarters named in the sources, and it shares the same relationship to the water and the old centre.
It suits visitors who prefer a quieter base with river views back toward the Pskov skyline. Accommodation here tends toward guesthouses and small hotels. As with Zapskovye, you will cross the river to reach the main sights, so check how close your base is to a bridge before booking.
3. The central streets near the Krom
The streets immediately around the citadel put you within walking distance of the Krom, the Trinity Cathedral and the surviving medieval walls. This is the most convenient base if your priority is seeing the main sights on foot.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone staying only a night or two. You will find the widest mix of accommodation levels here, from basic hotels to upscale options with restaurants. Being central also means more traffic and activity, so light sleepers should ask for a room away from the street.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels and small guest houses, some with basic amenities and a light breakfast, and some with river frontage.
- Mid-range: straightforward hotels with the essentials and a basic breakfast included.
- Splurge: upscale hotels, including riverside buildings and one with an indoor pool, restaurant and wine service; breakfast may be included or charged as a surcharge.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the central streets near the Krom. The citadel, the Trinity Cathedral and the medieval walls are all within walking distance, which matters most when your time is short. If you would rather trade a few minutes of walking for river views and a quieter setting, Zapskovye and Zavelichye are both sound alternatives on the opposite bank.
Frequently asked questions
Which side of the river should I stay on?
Zapskovye and Zavelichye are the two historic quarters across the water, both with Hanseatic trading history. Staying there gives you river views and a quieter base, but you cross a bridge to reach the Krom and the main sights. Staying near the Krom keeps the sights on foot.
Is Pskov walkable from the accommodation areas?
The main sights — the Krom, the Trinity Cathedral and the medieval walls — sit together in the centre, and the riverbank quarters are across the water from them. Expect to walk, and check your base's distance from a bridge before booking.
What amenities can I expect at the upper end?
Upscale options in Pskov include riverside buildings and one hotel with an indoor pool, a restaurant with wine service and breakfast available for a surcharge. Mid-range places typically offer the essentials with a basic breakfast.
Are there budget options in Pskov?
Yes. Hostels and guest houses make up the budget tier, some with basic amenities and a light breakfast, and some with frontage on the Velikaya River.
Compare live prices for these areas with the booking tools on this page before you decide.