This hotel is housed in three 19th-century buildings with opulent Art Deco interiors. Since 2002, it has undergone several expansions and renovations, including one that's expected to be completed in 2019 and will add a spa and pool. Public spaces here are grand and sophisticated, including the huge two-level lobby with giant columns, gleaming marble floors, and modern art hanging on the walls. Multiple seating areas with plush sofas and chairs provide places where guests can hang out for casual business meetings or social gatherings, and the lobby bar serves drinks and light fare. A glass of sparkling wine is served to welcome guests. With its central location close to the business district and major attractions, coupled with its extensive conference space, the hotel draws many business guests, but also tourists, including families, couples, groups, and individuals. Overall, however, it does have a bit of a commercial vibe because of the many big events that take place here.

This hotel has a prime location in the heart of St. Petersburg on Nevsky Prospect, the city's main street. It is a five-minute walk from Moskovsky Station as well as famed Rubenstein Street, known for its many fine restaurants. Business guests can easily access the nearby business district, and many restaurants and bars are with walking distance. The State Hermitage Museum is about 15 minutes away by car or public transportation, and the Russian Museum can be reached in 15 minutes by public transportation (10 minutes by car). The Pulkovo Airport is about a 45-minute drive from the hotel, or an hour and 20 minutes by public transportation. 

Upscale rooms and suites are sophisticated and have a refined, traditional look. They're decorated in an Art Deco style with color schemes that are mostly beige and black, with some earth tones seen in drapery and artwork. Some rooms feature vivid colors like fuchsia and eggplant on beds and pillows. High-end furniture is mostly medium-toned wood, and the carpets are plush and soft. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, large flat-screen TVs with local and international channels, well-stocked minibars, pillow menus, free Wi-Fi, and work desks. Unfortunately, there are no coffeemakers in lower-category rooms, while those in higher categories will have Nespresso machines. All bathrooms have tubs and showers that are stocked with upscale toiletries and hairdryers. Robes and slippers are provided. Guests staying in Executive and Club Rooms have access to the Executive Club Lounge for additional perks. Suites are especially grand, with separate living areas, and some with dining and meeting areas. Some have a balcony or terrace. Views from rooms are of the interior courtyard, Nevsky Prospect, or the quieter Stremyannaya Street. Adjoining rooms are available for families. 

This hotel currently lacks a spa and pool, although they are being added in a renovation expected to be completed in 2019. Otherwise, all of the expected features of an upscale hotel are accounted for. The Imperial Restaurant serves Mediterranean fare for breakfast and dinner. The breakfast buffet, included in some rates, features an extensive spread of meats, cheeses, breads, yogurt, and other cold selections, as well as hot items such as bacon and eggs. The Cafe Vienna on the lobby level is a more casual space serving late breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as cakes and other desserts all day. Live jazz plays on the weekends at the Nevsky Bar & Lounge, and there's another bar in the lobby. Room service is available around the clock. Guests in higher-category rooms receive access to the Club Lounge for free breakfasts, drinks, and snacks.

The 24/7 fitness center is an attractive space with wood floors, large potted plants, and floor-to-ceiling windows providing natural light. Equipment includes cardio and weight training machines, as well as free weights. Large-screen TVs on the walls help entertain. A sauna is adjacent, and there's a terrace with views of the city. Massage services can be arranged in guest rooms.

The hotel's extensive conference center is well-regarded for its 17 handsome rooms, ranging from small boardrooms to grand ballrooms. Up to 1,000 guests can gather on one floor. In addition to business gatherings, the hotel also is popular for weddings and other social occasions. On-site parking is available for a fee, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.