The Tourist Hotel Complex "Izmailovo" -Gamma-Delta is a huge hotel complex with more than 2,000 rooms between its two hotels: the mid-range Gamma and the slightly more upscale Delta. The two hotels share a massive, high-rise complex that's nearly a city unto itself, with a bowling alley, more than a dozen restaurants and cafes, a post office, a spa, and a hair salon. Some of the rooms have great city views, but overall the lodgings are nothing special. From the metro across the street, it takes 15 minutes to reach Red Square. For a more staid, modern property in the city center, visitors could try the Kardashevskaya Hotel.

The 109-room upscale boutique hotel Mercure Arbat Moscow is situated in Moscow's Arbat district, a neighborhood rich in history and Art Nouveau architecture. Though it's not walking distance to Moscow's biggest tourist attractions, it is a one-minute walk to the metro. The hotel itself is a marriage of 19th century details with modern decor that provides a fresh take on traditional French style. Guest rooms vary in size and layout, but all of them come with free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea facilities, and cozy beds. The property also has a fitness center, restaurant, and 24-hour bar. As an alternative, the nearby Hotel Metropol Moscow offers a much grander location, but rates are almost twice the price.

Beyond the Chekhoff Hotel Moscow, Curio Collection by Hilton's chiseled, 19th-century facade is a 95-room luxury hotel with designer decor, mod flourishes, and upscale dining. This boutique property is set in the Tverskaya District of Moscow, a 12th-century neighborhood known for its opera houses and historic architecture. Guest rooms include Wi-Fi, optional minibars, and free breakfast. But travelers could also consider the Peter I, another modern hotel built in an historic building, but with more traditional decor, closer proximity to Red Square, and higher rates.

The Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is a large, upscale hotel aimed primarily at corporate travelers, due to its location within easy reach of the capital's financial district and Expocentre complex. At 724 rooms, the property is huge, and it shares retail and dining facilities with the adjoining business center. However, on-site leisure and wellness options are limited, and they require a fee for non-Club guests. Standard rooms are perfectly adequate, albeit lacking polish, while Club-level rooms feature deluxe bathrooms and some superb city views. Although overall there's little to find fault, it doesn't quite reach the levels of luxury it advertises. The nearby -- and only slightly more expensive -- Radisson Royal Hotel Moscow is a better option.