Hotel Astoria

St. Petersburg is home to a few historic grand hotels, but the Astoria is near the top of any list—not just for its historic Art Nouveau elegance, but for the simple fact that its Western management (courtesy of Rocco Forte) takes some of the edge off the slightly disarming and disorienting experience that is present-day Russia.

The location is splendid, at the heart of the city, in St. Isaac’s Square, next to the cathedral and close to the Hermitage, the state-run art museum. As for the hotel itself, it’s a striking beauty, decorated in the original 1912 style, all the more impressive considering that it’s almost entirely a reconstruction; the original building was largely torn down during the 1990s renovation that connected the Astoria to its slightly plainer sister, the Angleterre.

It hardly matters; the décor is as opulent as ever, rich with antiques and artworks, guest rooms elegant but not overstuffed, with parquet floors and curtains of Russian linen alongside modern conveniences like satellite TV and laptop safes. Spaces are generous, as they should be given the extent of the renovation, and the white marble bathrooms are spacious as well, furnished with Italian toiletries.

Davidov’s is the traditional Russian restaurant, serving the finest caviars and vodkas you’re likely to run across. For something more casual, cross over to the Angleterre for lunch or dinner in the Borsalino Brasserie or English-style afternoon tea in the lounge.

How to get there:

Hotel Astoria is approximately a 25 to 45 minute drive from St Petersburg Airport (depending on the traffic).

Visa Information for Russia

Most travelers to Russia need to obtain a Visa from their local Russian Consulate prior to departure. Applying for a Tourist Visa is easier and cheaper than applying for a Business Visa. This can be a frustrating process so allow at least 10 days prior to departure to apply.

The process can only start after you make a Hotel Reservation. You will need a Certificate/Voucher from the hotel where you have a confirmed reservation in hand before you can go to the Consulate to apply for a visa. This Certificate/Voucher will be faxed or emailed to you by the hotel.

As soon as you have your Confirmation from TabletHotels.com, please contact customer service. We will assist you in obtaining the Certificate/Voucher from the hotel for your visa application.

• 147 Rooms
• Style: Modern Design
• Atmosphere: Quiet
• 2 Guest Reviews

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