Prague Editor Picks

Cool and clean urban design, contemporary amenities like De Witte linens and iPod audio equipment, and an intimate, funky atmosphere draw style-conscious travelers to the Icon Hotel. Near Wenceslas Square, the property contains 31 spacious guest rooms and suites with plush designer beds. Breakfast, included in the room rate, is happily served at any hour of the day in the Jet Set restaurant. Come happy hour, the Icon’s sleek lounge and bar is a fashionable spot for a cocktail. There isn’t much here that’s traditionally Czech; this hip hotel could be in any European capital. In the next year or two, the city will likely see a new crop of trendy boutique hotels like the Icon.

The Mandarin Oriental has found an unlikely and spectacular home in Prague. Housed in a 14th-century converted monastery in the trendy Mala Strana neighborhood, the hotel opened its doors to guests in September 2006. Original parquet floors, dramatically arched ceilings, and limestone bathrooms with heated floors add sophistication to this 99-room architectural gem while expertly preserving its history. Steps from city sights, it also has a beautiful spa and gym.

2008 SMART LUXURY WINNER
A High Style Temple With Modern Flair

After the fall of the Iron Curtain, when formerly Communist countries opened their doors to developers, a great race began between luxury hotel companies to establish beachheads in important cities. The result was many glass and steel boxes with perfectly fine, perfectly boring accommodations. But when Mandarin Oriental debuted in Prague in 2006, it got it right.

Located just off Maltézské Námeˇstí (Maltese Square) and near bustling, cobblestoned Malá Strana, the hotel is steps from Charles Bridge and the city’s main action. Housed in a former church and abbey, the Mandarin makes thrilling use of its historic assets: The 99 guest rooms (including 22 suites) sport vaulted ceilings, parquet floors, and a soft palette accented in deep reds and blues, evocative of the property’s pious past. Common areas, such as the serene Monastery Lounge, which runs along a one-time Dominican cloister, or the sumptuous spa, where a glass floor reveals foundations of an early 14th-century church, are no less evocative.

While the hotel pays homage to the city’s history, it also offers modern luxury at some of the least-expensive rates of any Mandarin satellite. In December, the hotel opened the city’s second incarnation of design and glassware shop Arteˇl. American-born owner Karen Feldman (author of Prague: Arteˇl Style) is available for private city shopping tours. Did we mention that Prague remains a comparative bargain over nearby capitals Berlin and Vienna? Best season for value: fall/winter.

Great Value Alternative: Art Nouveau K+K Hotel Central’s rooms are trimmed in warm wood and muted tones. From $150/night; www.kkhotels.com

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Channeling old Prague, the Hotel U Prince owes half of its charm to its antique décor, the other half to its location across from the famous clock tower on Old Town Square. Staying true to its 12th-century origins, the property is furnished with rich, old-fashioned details – think intricate tapestries, elegant chandeliers, marble bath fixtures, and gilded mirrors. From the rooftop restaurant and bar, you’ll find unparalleled views over the square, especially at night, when the spires of Týn Church are illuminated against the stars. The hotel’s romantic ambience tends to attract more honeymooners and families than business travelers.

The world’s largest medieval castle is so huge it feels like its own town – gothic spires, narrow lanes, palaces, statues and courtyards surround the massive St. Vitus cathedral. Spend at least half a day.

The city’s other restaurants pale in comparison to the Bellevue – a Prague must....more

After exploring the gems of the city's past, check out what modern Prague has to offer, dished out from its most exclusive nightclub in the form of expert cocktails, sweeping city views from floor-to-ceiling windows, and state-of-the-art sound systems. Located atop a building in Wenceslas Square, the club draws a crowd of young locals, visitors, and the occasional celebrity (it's a favorite of Mic

This award-winning Czech restaurant, conveniently located in Old Town on the quiet...more

Those with a penchant for duck will be in heaven at Perpetuum, a popular modern restaurant...more