What it is

An Art Nouveau palace of a hotel that’s often voted the best stay in Europe.

What it isn't

Dated. All 86 rooms were recently revamped by Olga Polizzi and are as pampering as they come, with marble bathrooms and Ferragamo toiletries.

What we think

The fact that the Hotel Astoria featured prominently in 1995’s flick GoldenEye says it all. This is James Bond to a tee—exactly the type of sumptuous hideaway one would expect to host all manner of legends. Built in 1912 and as Gilded Age as ever, it’s renowned for its Astoria Restaurant—where the glimmering crystal chandeliers are topped only by the Beluga caviar and Siberian dumplings gracing the menu. The intimate spa is equally beloved, thanks to its sauna and steam room and insider access to a pool and turbo-solarium in Hotel Angleterre, just next door. One can picture Bond, James Bond, going in for a massage before dashing out to meet one of his many gal pals at the bar.

You're here because

You have a small obsession with the Romanovs, and this was where they used to stow their Imperial guests, NBD.

The Moment

You’ve had your share of afternoon teas; is there anything more fun? But today, ensconced in a velvet lined settee in the aptly named Rotonda Lounge, you’re having one that would satisfy Catherine the Great. There’s a bountiful melange of pirozhki, ginger cakes, and—of course—Keta caviar. Another glass of bubbly? да!

Restaurants & Bars

Astoria Café - Russian cuisine with a French twist

Rotonda Lounge - Light meals and drinks throughout the day. Afternoon tea, with desserts from our Astoria Chocolatier is a St Petersburg tradition

Location

Smack dab in the center of St. Petersburg, an easy stroll from the 1860 Mariinsky Theatre (where Tchaikovsky premiered his work) and infamous Palace Square.