When you look at the facade of the building and see a huge Swiss flag, only then do you realize that the hotel actually shares a building with the Consulate General of Switzerland. That's already a statement of solid reputation and quality; by the way, hotel management is Swiss also.

The courtyard makes you feel like Alice in Wonderland: it's hard to decide which way to go as there are several independent entrances to the rooms & suites, reception and Marius Pub - a good restaurant. It's an interesting detail reminiscent of the 19th century when one landlord would own a place offering rooms or apartments of different quality for rent to people from different social circles all in one building: the same courtyard with separate entrances leading to places of all kinds. The house actually dates back to as early as 1828 when Swiss architect Augusto Lange designed this classical piece. Located just off Nevsky prospect in the heart of the city, Helvetia proves its leading position among rivals in the class but stands aside as a good Swiss bank.

Location: The closest metro station is Mayakovskaya / Ploshchad Vosstaniya. A number of historical sites and museums are located close to Helvetia: Vladimir's Cathedral, Fyodor Dostoevsky memorial apartment & museum, Kuzhechny market to name just a few.

Facilities: Helvetia provides an impressive range of services and facilities. First of all there's a modern business center equipped with PCs with broadband internet access and all the common office tools like fax & copy machines, international phone etc. The second great thing is the Marius Pub where breakfast is served, an excellent place to eat at all times and a good bar. Laundry & dry-cleaning services are provided, there's a luggage room and a safe. Visa registration is free for guests & visa support service is also offered. A choice of sightseeing tours and transfer services offered as well as personal guides and chauffered cars or minibuses. Studio suites & family suites have kitchens equipped with stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, etc. Air, Railroad, Bus and Museum ticket bookings are offered. Free parking for quests. Large conference room is available.

Interior & Rooms: There are 59 rooms in total, classic singles ($165-$269) & doubles ($205-$290); superior singles ($185-$280) & doubles ($225-$310) Pices vary depending on the season. King-size or twin beds available in both categories. There are Studio Suites with one bedroom and fully equipped kitchen (singles & doubles from $230 to $350) and Family Suites with two bedrooms and fully equipped kitchen ($330 to $470). All prices include buffet breakfast. Additional bed is $50, including breakfast. Extra breakfast is 10$. All rooms have separate bathrooms with showers or bathtubs; some suites have two separate bathrooms. Soap, shampoo, towels, a gown and slippers are standard. All rooms offer 24h room service, telephone, TV (Local channels and Satellite channels). Payments by Visa & Mastercard accepted, cash payment in rubles.

Comments: A true four-star hotel, Helvetia is the first choice for those looking for quiet but classy accommodation for reasonable prices. Personal attention for customers' needs make this place a pick for businessmen on trips and tourists on vacations.

Hostel Services & Facilities: 24 hrs room service, business centre, laundry & dry-clean, safe-box, transport services (tickets/taxi), visa registration, tickets booking & table reservation, guiding services, a restaurant.

Room Facilities: air-conditioning, private bathroom & toilet, safe-box, telephone, TV (local & satellite channels).

Area Features: free parking, market nearby, historical city center.