11 Best Hotels in St. Petersburg, Russia

Between them, the buildings that make up the Taleon could tell the story of St. Petersburg—the restored structures from the 18th and 19th centuries were private homes, literary salons (where writers like Dostoyevsky read), and a famous cinema house. The main hotel areas are set in the former mansion of Stepan Eliseev, a prominent 19th-century banker and arts patron whose family collections are now displayed at the Hermitage. Given all this history, the hotel conjures up plenty of gradeur and romance: Guest rooms are awash in light-gold wall coverings, marble-topped furniture, and loads of inlay and ornate plasterwork. A personal butler adds to the opulence, as do such modern luxuries such as hydromassage tubs and a covered rooftop pool, and the restaurant serves champagne-and-caviar fueled Russian meals that can be as over the top as the rest of the place.The central location is steps from chic shopping, and a short walk to major sights.

The hip international chain has treated the historic city center to some modern indulgence, along with spectacular views from many of the stylish rooms that take in nearby sights: St. Isaac's Cathedral, the Hermitage, and other landmarks. The lively bar, rooftop terrace, and Alain Ducasse restaurant are the places to be seen these days, and guests enjoy a luxurious spa, a fitness center, indoor pool, and many other amenities.

An art-nouveau landmark, one of St. Petersburg's most renowned hotels before the Revolution, is once again a luxurious place to stay, with magnificently decorated guest quarters overlooking St. Isaac's Square through tall windows. Downstairs, lovely lounges are filled with antiques, the Davidoff restaurant serves Russian classics, and a spa and fitness center are state of the art. A staff well accustomed to attending to celebrities and heads of state delivers service fit for royalty.

Behind the stunning neobaroque facade lies an art-nouveau interior with stained-glass windows, antique furnishings, and stylish and comfortable guest rooms done in pleasing shades of mauve, cream, and gold. The Russian staff upholds the highest European standards, and an endless list of amenities includes the hotel's own brand of cigars and chocolates. Nevsky prospekt, the Hermitage, and ploshchad Iskusstv are all within walking distance. If money is no object, this is the place to stay.

Behind a 1853 facade are sumptuous rooms furnished with substantial antiques, loaded with modern amenities, and, in many cases, overlooking the Hermitage. St. Petersburg's other great hotel, after the Grand, is also noted for superior service and offers a fine French restaurant, as well as a tearoom, lounges, and a spa.

Spacious rooms furnished in modern Scandinavian style are delightful, but guests spend most of their time in the glass-roofed spa, with a pool in the style of an ancient Roman bath, hydromassage pools, a cold plunge pool, and eight types of saunas. It's a 15-minute walk to the Hermitage, and about the same distance to the Peter and Paul Fortress, but most other major sights are farther afield and the closest metro station is a 20-minute walk away.

Modern comfort prevails in the bright, stylish guest rooms at this hotel, some with views of the adjacent Yusupovsky Garden and the old city. Czech crystal chandeliers and marble floors in the reception area offset the otherwise businesslike surroundings, while an excellent top-floor restaurant, two bars, and a pool and fitness center are among the many amenities.

An 1861 neoclassical mansion, once home to the Samoilov acting family, has been completely brought up to date, and along with an adjoinging wing offers sleek, contemporary rooms that suggest modern luxury more than historic heritage. The art deco–inspired lobby is a snazzy place to relax, especially when a DJ plays low-key lounge music on weekends. Among the amenities are two restaurants, three bars, a small shopping arcade, and a nice health club and spa. A memento-filled rooms pays homage to the Samoilov family and their 19th-century heyday.

Business travelers especially like this smart chain, where they can count on unremarkable but comfortable, attractive, and quiet accommodations with good beds and comfy lounge chairs; this one is just off Nevsky prospekt and top-floor rooms have great views of domes and towers. The buffet breakfast is extensive (but extra), and the Mediterranean restaurant a neighborhood favorite.

The late-19th-century playwright Anton Chekhov stayed here during his visits to St. Petersburg, and he would probably be in awe of the current reincarnation, with luxurious quarters done in shades of navy blue and gold and filled with antique reproductions. A prime spot on the corner of Nevsky prospekt and Vladimirsky prospekt is the choicest real estate in town, close to everything, and within the historic building itself a range of amenities is on offer, including a restaurant, bar, and a nice gym. Wintertime guests appreciate the heated floors in the luxe bathrooms.

Stylish rooms resemble those in a 19th-century mansion, have large bathrooms, are equipped with tea kettles and many other nice touches, and best of all, overlook the Neva River and the golden spire of the Peter and Paul Fortress. Connecting rooms are well suited to families, and an ample and varied breakfast is included in the price.