Built as a palace in the 18th century, this five-star hotel lets you live like the nobility of yesteryear, with beautifully detailed wood furniture, headboards of fine leather, gold details, marble bathrooms and dramatic, St. Petersburg–inspired color schemes of cream, turquoise, gold, red, and blue. Just about every view from the guest rooms is grand, as it's located at the very central intersection of Nevsky and the Moika Embankment. Service is extremely attentive, and the breakfast that's included in some rates is excellent, with options that include caviar and champagne.