Fodor's Choice ratings you can trust. Exceptional restaurants, hotels, and sights selected to help you make the best choices. Simple pleasures. Embrace the local culture as you sample blini with caviar, stroll along the Neva River during the White Nights festival, or relax in the steam room at a Russian banya. Boundless activities. Find choices for every traveler, from exploring the world-class State Hermitage museum and browsing in trendy boutiques to watching classical ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre. Local Experts. Fodor's worldwide team of 700 writers reveal their favorite haunts to enrich your travel experience. Freshest Facts. You won't find a more up-to-date guide to the region. Our writers seek out hot spots while verifying that current listings still meet our high standards. Travelers like you. Get candid advice from fellow travelers at Fodors.com, and read their "Word of Mouth" tips throughout this book.