Elite Traveler September-October 2016

INSPIRE CULTURAL CITIES

St Petersburg RUSSIA

If it’s romance you’re after, Russia’s former imperial capital won’t disappoint. The sense of history is palpable and the grand baroque and neoclassical architecture provides an antidote to Moscow’s Stalinist high rises. Best for Ballet and opera – the magnificent 19th-century Mariinsky Theater (mariinsky.ru) has hosted the premieres of numerous masterpieces. Don’t miss Erté: an Art Deco Genius is the first Russian exhibition devoted to the artist. At the State Hermitage Museum (hermitagemuseum.org) until September 18. Where to stay Situated on Nevsky Prospekt, a short walk from the Hermitage, the Belmond Grand Hotel Europe exudes old-school elegance. A shot of vodka at the caviar bar is just the ticket after a day’s sightseeing. Room to book The Kandinsky Suite, named after the abstract Russian artist, includes 24-hour butler service and views of the city’s Philharmonic Hall. Contact Maria S Malinina, reservation manager, maria.malinina@belmond.com, +7 81 2329 6847, belmond.com Price From $4,800 per night Florence ITALY Containing the greatest concentration of the world’s most important artworks, Florence is, unsurprisingly, a cultural hub – around 16 million tourists visit annually. The Uffizi Gallery is home to masterpieces, such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Bacchus. Best for Renaissance art. Don’t miss The first exhibition dedicated to Ardengo Soffici opens at the Uffizi Gallery on September 26. Where to stay Florence’s key attractions are within easy walking distance of the St. Regis. As well as a sumptuous spa, the hotel offers art lovers a bespoke experience with access to the most exclusive museums and private collections in the city, plus dinner at the hotel's Michelin-starred Restaurant Winter Garden. Room to book Modeled on the grand Medici court, the majestic Royal Suite boasts antiques and a balcony with vistas of the Arno river. Butler service is included. Contact Massimo Parlianti, head concierge, conciergeflorence@stregis.com, +39 0552 7161, stregisflorence.com Price From $11,250 per night