Moscow hasn't just embraced capitalism, it's capitalised itself into the world's richest city in the space of a couple of decades. Moscow has the most billionaires, the most popular nightclub is called 'The Most', and it also boasts of having the world's most expensive cup of coffee. Moscow has accommodation to suit every pocket, from budget hostels to hotels worthy of a Tsar - or an oligarch. However, most of our Guru's selection of the best places to stay in Moscow are, unsurprisingly, luxury hotels. Historic and elegant, expect nothing but pure decadence!

Even before the fall of the Soviet era, Moscow was home to many very beautiful, very opulent buildings. The red brick of the Kremlin and black cobbles of Red Square are steeped in history and many treasures built by the Tsars stand as a reminder of the pre-concrete block era of architecture. But since then many of the less glamorous buildings - factories and warehouses - have been converted into more beautiful ones, now housing art galleries and museums and even clubs and restaurants.

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is on a tour with a local. There are plenty of themed tours such as cooking and eating. Setting up one or more of these tours in advance is also a good way to get local insight into some of the best places to stay in Moscow. Alternatively, check out our guide on how to spend 36 hours in Moscow.

If you're only here for a short time the best places to stay in Moscow will be close to the centre of town. The Metro system is good, but sprawling.

The best places to stay in Moscow

For the luxury traveller

• The Hotel Baltschug Kempinski's location, just across the river from the Kremlin and St. Basil's, makes it one of the best places to stay in Moscow. The fact that it's extremely luxurious also helps. Service is slick and you'll also find a top-notch spa and iconic views across the river.
• The Ritz Carlton is a good bet for luxury seekers. Here opulence is the name of the game with gilded interiors, sumptuous suites and a great spa.
• The 5* Hotel National is a top spot, boasting a wonderfully central location and set in a historic building. The interiors are classy with an understated opulence and there is a pool, lovely restaurant and spa.
• If you fancy a different sort of 5* experience then Mamaison All Suites Spa Hotel Pokrova should do the trick. Offering chic boutique suites with eclectic furnishings, this glitzy hotel boasts a top-notch restaurant and spoiling spa.
• Set in one of the 'Seven Sisters' high-rises, Radisson Royal Hotel offers palatial, classically elegant accommodation as well as a 31st floor bar offering superb views of the city. There are 5 restaurants to choose from or you can stay in a self-catering apartment instead.
• The Savoy Hotel boasts a quality befitting the name, providing smart classical accommodation and communal areas with breathtaking Rococo ceilings. Enjoy cocktails, champagne and caviar in the piano bar. A superb all round stay.
• St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya is opulent and has lavish suites harking back to a Romanov style of grandeur. Located in the heart of the city, it's a top choice for an upmarket city escape.

For those on a budget

• The Golden Apple is a hip hotel just 20 minutes walk from the Kremlin and by Moscow standards, it is excellent value for money if you book far enough in advance.

For location

• The Hotel Metropol is the grand dame of Moscow’s hotel scene and has been since she opened her elegant Art-Nouveau doors over a century ago. You’re in the Tverskoy district, right across from the Bolshoi and very handy for the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basils.
• Four Seasons Moscow has an enviable location right beside Red Square. The Stalin-approved architectural design is mixed with lavish contemporary finishes to create an elite five star hotel.

Moscow Suburbs

• The Barvikha Hotel & Spa is located in Moscow's smartest suburb and is a seriously cool hotel. Minimalist chic is the order of the day. Come here for a rejuvenating spa break, where they give you a full health evaluation and devise individual therapy programmes!

For An Apartment

• If you think you'd be best served by a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Moscow?

• In the summer months Moscow is warm; the average daily temperature reaches 19°C in July. This is also when there is the most daily sunshine at 9 hours per day. The winters are bitterly cold so definitely avoid coming at this time if you want to head off sightseeing. But the winter months, when there is snow on the ground and the river is frozen, offer a very atmospheric, romantic vibe too.
• Moscow is served by three airports: Sheremetyevo Airport, Domodedovo Airport and Vnukovo Airport. These all have public transport links to take you into the city.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Moscow.
• Read our guide on 36 hours in Moscow.
• Widen the net and search through our recommendations of the best places to stay in St Petersburg.
• Or feel free to contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Moscow