When the Hotel Ukraina (now the Radisson Royal Hotel) was first built in 1957, it was the largest hotel in Europe. Since then, that spot has been taken by other luxury hotels. But the Ukraina continues to be the tallest hotel in Moscow. Fresh from a three-year renovation, the hotel has taken on a more modern, luxurious feel. Apart from the amenities necessary at a contemporary five-star hotel, the Ukraina now has other touches such as boutiques selling luxury brands.
The 29th floor observation deck that was such a big attraction in the luxury hotel’s early days may have gone. But the restaurants on this top floor offer spectacular views of Moscow city. One of the prime attractions at the Hotel Ukraina as it stands now is the huge diorama of 1977 Moscow in the main lobby. American astronaut Neil Armstrong had famously wanted to buy this piece. However, the artwork that was created for a national exhibition in New York City was not available for sale at the time. The hotel’s new owners, the Rezidor Hotel Group, bought it fairly recently, during a 2007 auction.
Remnants of a grand past still remain. The massive chandeliers, the green glass lampshades and an enviable art collection make the Hotel Ukraina very popular among culture lovers. The walls of this luxury hotel are adorned by about 1,200 paintings by Soviet artists. In the past, many guests have offered to buy these paintings, but they have never been for sale. The hotel also has a strong Olympic link. The hotel currently features a 50-meter pool and fitness center. Former Olympians offer coaching lessons in various sports.
