LuxeSyndicate

Like many cities filled with nouveau riche and the industries they love, Moscow has way more money than taste. The biggest, nicest hotels are indeed grand, but they tend to be restored Czarist palaces or entirely faceless biz hotels. One moderate exception is the Golden Apple, which proudly claims to be Moscow's first boutique hotel (est. 2004). Located not far from Red Square, the hotel's look is definitely modern, though some flourishes verge almost on Austin Powers parody — check out the titular golden apple couch-pod in the lobby. The rooms are consistent with the decor from the public spaces, going for general minimalism trimmed with vaguely absurdist design flourishes. An unremarkable onsite restaurant serves guests too hurried for neighborhood foraging, and a sauna steams your collectivist cares away. Rates begin at 8,820 RUB per night.