Swissotel Krasnye Holmy

This hotel was an oasis. The room was large and very clean and had a panoramic view of Moscow through three huge picture windows. The bathroom was marble with a shower and whirlpool tub. I believe the hotel is about 5 years old, and everything looks clean and new. It was the first hotel we stayed in Russia or Eastern Europe that didn't simply have two beds pushed together to call it a queen/king bed. It was a real bed!\nBreakfast was included in the room price. The breakfast included Russian and American breakfast food, and nobody could possibly leave hungry. The restaurant staff was very professional, but couldn't be called friendly.\nThe front desk staff was efficient but made us feel a bit unwelcome. That was the only downside to this hotel. \nIt is located a few blocks from the Metro (which can take you practically anywhere in Moscow) and the hotel has a free weekend shuttle bus to the Kremlin. If you walk, the Kremlin is about 45 minutes away.\nWe didn't take advantage of the pool or spa, but there is a health club that is available and that looks impressive.\nWe would definitely recommend this hotel.

Type:Shopping Distance: Requires transportation

Cash rather than credit cards

Moscow is an expensive city, and if you are looking for souveniers, try the shops away from the city center. Most shops take credit cards but will offer discounts for cash. You have to ask. The street vendors do not take credit cards, so be sure to carry rubles with you. There are many shops and reasonable restaurants around the "Sportivnaya" stop on the red line. The hotel provides a metro map and can advise how to get there.