A Hidden Gem in Kirov's City Center: Art Hotel
As I strolled along the Vyatka River, I couldn't help but feel a sense of history and charm in the city of Kirov. And then, I stumbled upon a hotel that truly stole my heart - the Art Hotel. After spending a few days at this 3-star gem, which was previously rated 2-star but has since upgraded, I'm excited to share my honest experience with you.
Key Details.
Object: hotel
City: Kirov
Address: ul. Herzen, d. 86
Category: 3 stars
Location: in the city center, near the James City Mall
Free services: breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, wake-up call
Pay services: spa center, laundry, ironing, copier, extra bed
Prices: 3200-5400 rubles
Building.
The hotel building itself is quite small, with only 2 floors, but it's cozy and welcoming. Let's take a look at the exterior, which is a bright orange building.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovThe location is great, with plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, as well as the large James City Mall. From here, you can walk to some of the city's top attractions, such as the local museum of milk, S.M. Kirov park, and 50th anniversary of the VCLSM park. I also had the chance to explore other interesting spots in the area.Art Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovArt Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovMarmara Spa Centre.
Art Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovThis spa centre is a great perk for guests of the hotel, offering a range of services, including a hammam, sauna, and pool. Let me show you the prices. A day pass on weekdays costs 550 rubles, while an all-day pass is 1250 rubles. Weekends are a bit pricier, but as a hotel guest, you'll get a discount.Hotel Art Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovWe didn't end up using the spa centre, to be honest - we're not really into the whole check-in process, and even with a discount, it seemed a bit pricey.Reception.
The reception area was really nicely done, with leather sofas and armchairs. There was a carpet on the floor, and some artwork and posters on the walls. The room was even decorated with real and artificial plants.
Hotel Art Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovRoom.
So, let's move on to our room, which I'll show you now. It was a "Comfort" room, and it was actually pretty nicely decorated. The furniture looked really nice, and it felt cozy and comfortable. Check out that big bed we had!
Hotel Art Hotel 2*, Russia, KirovSpace.
The room was huge, with a total area of 28m2. It could easily fit three people. And the best part? Breakfast was included in the price - we got a continental breakfast.
TV hangs on the wall right opposite the bed. It's not huge, but we don't really need it. We hardly ever turn it on. The room has a wardrobe where you can stash your stuff, but make sure you don't forget it there. I try not to clutter the drawers. And we've got a comfy leather armchair and a small side table to boot.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovCost.
The price is the same for one or two people, unlike other rooms where it's cheaper for one and more expensive for two. This room costs 4500 rubles, regardless of the number of people. Children under 7 stay free, but they can't occupy a separate bed. Breakfast isn't included for them, though. You'll need to pay 600 rubles per day for an extra bed. The room also comes with two small sofas. And here we've got a tea maker, a mini-fridge, utensils, and tea-making accessories (tea, coffee, sugar).
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovBathroom.
Let's take a look at the en-suite bathroom in this room. It's got a shower cubicle that's pretty spacious, with a shelf to put your stuff on. There's a towel to stand on when you get out of the shower, and each guest gets two towels, which is a nice touch. The bathroom's also got a hairdryer, but I don't use it.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovToiletries were all provided too - shampoo, body wash, soap, and even slippers and robes for guests. Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovYou can also buy a toothbrush set at reception for 100 rubles. It's not a problem if you forget your toothbrush or toothpaste at home - you can just buy one here.Standard.
I'll show you another room that's a bit more basic, which we just took a quick look at. This one's got a huge bed, towels, toiletries, and a hairdryer, but no slippers or robes. There's no kettle or fridge either, so you'll have to go to reception for a hot drink.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovSpace.
I was surprised by how small the room was compared to the "Comfort" option, which is roughly twice the size. The space here measures just 14m2 and can accommodate three people.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovBreakfast is also included in the price.
Price.
The cost of this room for one person is 3200 rubles, for two people it's 3700 rubles.
Corridors.
Check out this little sofa you can find on the floor. The whole area is decorated with artificial plants.
Hotel "Art Hotel" 2*, Russia, KirovOther Rooms.
They also have other rooms with enhanced comfort.
Upgraded Standard (3500 for 1, 4000 for 2)
Junior Suite (4300)
Twin (2 separate beds - 4000)
Business Class (4800)
Comfort two-room (5000)
The most expensive room: comfort two-room with a hot tub (5400)
I mean, 5400 rubles for the most expensive room is just ridiculous.
Deals.
They have promotions going on, like a 10% discount for regular guests booking over the phone.
And they also have special offers for corporate clients.
Summary.
I've got to say, I was really impressed by the Art Hotel in Kirov. It's cozy, reasonably priced, and right in the city center. By the way, if you're interested in culture, there's the Kirov Regional Library named after A.I. Gertsen on Gertsen Street, which hosts some really cool exhibitions. I'd definitely recommend checking it out.
The Good.
CozyReasonably pricedCity center locationYou can get a discount at the spaThey've got promotions going onSuper comfy roomsEverything you need is thereStaff is super friendlySome rooms even come with breakfast includedThe Not-So-Good.
The Standard rooms don't have a kettle or a fridgeMy Rating.
I'd give this hotel a solid 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation.
I'd be happy to recommend it to anyone.
If you're in the mood for some Chinese food, I'd suggest checking out the Golden Bamboo cafe in Kirov. They've got some amazing traditional dishes.
And if you want to try some delicious posikunchniki or varenyki, I'd recommend checking out the Bread Ear cafe in Kirov. We used to go there all the time when we were staying in the city.
I recently visited Kotelnich in Kirov Oblast, and I'm glad I stayed at the Central Hotel. It was a great experience.
If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, you can also consider the Silva Hotel in the same area. It's not bad at all.
That's all from me - I wish you all happy travels and great vibes. Thanks for reading!