Radisson Royal Hotel, St.Petersburg

Expect classic elegance at this 1730-built property, where original facades remain intact, and interiors are a mix of old-fashioned and modern. Formally attired doormen evoke a bygone-era feel in the lobby, where light-patterned marbles and red-and-brown drapes are on the dated side, but backlit mirrors and furnishings in slate-gray or chocolate satin are smart. More attractive is the bar, which is both cozy and steeped in history -- prior patrons include famous artists, poets, and Nobel Prize winners. Ritzy accents from crushed-velvet or animal-print chairs are here, while the restaurant has a more classic look with its swirl-patterned carpet and shelves with wrought-iron detailing. Although many common areas have this old-fashioned feel, rooms were renovated in 2017 with contemporary, chic decor. Being on St. Petersburg's main street is a real pro here, so the property attracts a mixed crowd of romancing couples, business travelers, and vacationing families. This is a good upscale pick for the price, but for a true luxury stay, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Lion Palace St. Petersburg or Belmond Grand Hotel Europe.

The hotel sits on St. Petersburg's main street, Nevsky Prospect, which is packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. The street stretches south in a straight line, so the farthest jaunt for hotel guests is a 30-minute walk to the riverfront Winter Palace (home to the Hermitage Museum). With lots to see on the way, guests tend to enjoy the beautiful stroll, although hop-on, hop-off busses stop opposite, and trains at the Mayakovskaya metro station (a four-minute walk away) shorten journeys. It's six minutes on foot to the equestrian-flanked Anchivov Bridge and Faberge Museum. The mosaic-adorned Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood and Saint Isaac's Cathedral are farther toward the riverfront, as is world-famous ballet and opera house, The Mariinsky Theatre. Taxis are plentiful. Moskovsky train station is a 12-minute walk. Pulkovo Airport is around an hour away by car or public transport.

Renovated in 2017, rooms have a sophisticated design with contemporary decor in shades of blue and silver. Royal blues in velour-studded ottomans, seating areas, and plush carpets with swirl motifs have Art Deco accents from circular mirrors, bronze lamps, green-marble side tables, and silver leather headboards. As white-tiled bathrooms weren't updated during renovations, they're not as modern and are underwhelming with their shower/tub combos. However, heated floors, wall-mounted hairdryers, bathrobes, slippers, and quality toiletries are perks. Other amenities include large, digital-concierge HD Smart TVs, Nespresso machines, wardrobes with safes, minibars, air-conditioning, and kettles. All rooms come with desks, and suites have separate living areas. Suites offer city views, as do some rooms, but street noise can be problematic, while alternative courtyard-view or sky-lit rooms can be dark. 

The hotel is designed as a high-end base from which to explore the city, but on-site features are still extensive. Named after spice merchants, the Barbazan Restaurant serves refined Russian and international fare. Its rich breakfasts offer caviar, made-to-order hot fare, continental buffet options, tea, coffee, and fresh-squeezed juices. Some bookings, and all upgraded rooms include free breakfast. Lunch and dinner are also served here, with menu options such as grilled fish, soup, and pork loin. The room's neutral grays, whites, and punctuating reds are average-looking, however. The Cannelle Bar is more stylish, and serves drinks, light snacks, and Russian delicacies all day (until 1 a.m. during our visit). The small spa consists of a sauna, mosaic-tiled whirlpool, and treatment room offering massages, plus a tiny gym and relaxation area with loungers. Unfortunately, the design and compact space are disappointing. Solid corporate facilities include seven meeting rooms (two of which can form a large function space). There's also an ATM on-site. The 24-hour concierge can arrange laundry service, bookings, and airport transfers (all at a fee). No pets are allowed, and no parking is offered. Wi-Fi is free throughout.