Prague: Smart Splurges

Duplex 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 Nove Mesto; Praha 1 Václavské nám. 21; 011-420-224-232-319; www.duplex.cz
nightlife | dancing | dj | club

Guided Tour: Ten Centuries in the Architecture of Prague The rich architectural history of Prague extends as far back as the 10th century, making the city a veritable living museum of the shifting styles of the centuries, from Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance structures to Art Nouveau, Cubist, and Functionalist designs. Splurge on a qualified guide – this 3-hour tour ($175) practically equals a semester-long course in the subject back in the St www.guide-prague.cz
architecture | tour | historic | things to do

Koruna Pralines Offerings from Brno’s fabled chocolatier will satisfy any chocoholic. Plenty of other food goodies like gingerbread and marzipan too, as well as an impressive wine selection. Mala Strana; Ujezd 31; 011-420-603-482-930; www.speciality.pralinky.eu (Czech only)
shopping | souvenirs | specialty

Mandarin Oriental Prague Housed in a 14th-century converted monastery in the trendy Mala Strana neighborhood, the 99-room Mandarin Oriental, opened in 2006, features original parquet floors, dramatically arched ceilings, and limestone bathrooms with heated floors. Steps from city sights, it also has a beautiful spa and gym. Mala Strana; Nebovidska 459/1; 011-420-233-088-888; www.mandarinoriental.com
luxury | hotel | design | expensive

Manufaktura Stock up on souvenirs and handicrafts like ceramic ornaments and traditional Christmas decorations at this quality chain store. Find one of the most central outlets at Karlova 26 in Stare Mesto. Stare Mesto; Karlova 26; 011-420-221-111-079; www.manufaktura.biz
family | culinary | shopping | crafts

The Bellevue The city’s other restaurants pale in comparison to the Bellevue – a Prague must. Sure, the duck is succulent, the fish grilled to perfection, and the pasta topped with savory sauces, but people don’t line up reservations days in advance for the cuisine, they do it for the spectacular views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River. Reserve at least three days in advance and be sure t Stare Mesto; Smetanovo nábrezí 18; 011-420-222-221-443; www.pfd.cz
romantic | restaurant | expensive | view

Tramix Sure, you could take a conventional tram after the sun goes down, but you'll get far more out of your evening by boarding one of Prague's party trams, which bring together disco music, martinis, and about 150 good-looking strangers. You'll pay a bit more for the pleasure of riding these rails, but the ever-changing views of Prague's city streets make it a worthwhile splurge. www.tramix.cz
nightlife | dancing