Places of Interest

The Kremlin complex of palaces and cathedrals dating from the 15th century is a 35-minute drive from the hotel. The compound’s iconic, gleaming golden domes epitomise Russian history and culture. Visitors can view the massive czar's cannon and bell, and tour the Armoury Museum where intricately jewelled Faberge eggs are on display, alongside collections of Romanov armour and weaponry.

 A 35-minute drive from the hotel takes you to St. Basil's Cathedral on Red Square. Topped by iconic, multicoloured domes, this 16th-century, former church resembling a fairytale castle, is now a museum. Visitors can view monumental paintings, frescoes and religious icons decorating the ornately gilded, labyrinthine interior of the cathedral, that actually comprises nine separate chapels.

The striking, contemporary Moskvarium complex for oceanography is a 25-minute drive from the hotel. The centre’s 2,300-seat auditorium shows 3D underwater films of killer whales, dolphins and seals. The 80 aquariums in the complex are home to thousands of species of sea creatures. Visitors can view menacing tiger sharks and agile seals, and the adventurous can even swim with friendly dolphins.

Pick up traditional handicraft souvenirs to take home as a memento of your trip to Russia: Matryoshka – a set of painted wooden dolls of decreasing size, one hidden inside another; elegant and sunny amber jewellery; Khokhloma and Gorodets wood painting – colourful tableware and pieces of furniture; famous Gzhel ceramics; and light-as-air Orenburg down shawls.