Befitting the largest country in the world, Russia boasts mighty mountains, icy tundra, forests and lakes, sandy beaches and grassy plains, but it is the regal cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg that attract the most business to hotels.
Moscow, Russia, the sprawling capital, offers a fascinating window onto Russian history, both modern and medieval. The finest hotels in Russia are dotted around a grand metropolis whose exuberantly decorated Metro stations make for a top tourist attraction all by themselves.
Boating on the Moskva River offers a grand overview of the city, but no visit would be complete without a trip to the Kremlin, exquisite St. Basil’s Cathedral and the GUM department store on Red Square. Soviet symbols abound, though modern Muscovites prefer luxury shopping and fine dining to intrigue and espionage.
To the north, St. Petersburg has changed its name several times over the centuries, but its exuberance and grandeur have stayed constant. The undisputed cultural hub of Mother Russia, St. Petersburg overflows with historic monuments, none so revered as the Hermitage museum and Summer Palace.
Whichever Russian hotel you choose, consider the climate. Spring and autumn offer ideal travelling conditions, but summers can be humid and temperatures plummet during the icy Russian winter.
