How To Go Luxe in Prague

Prague, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, bears the unmistakable charm of an ancient European town that unfolds like a living postcard from a bygone era. From the bustling Old Town Square to many of Franz Kafka’s favorite joints, the city is draped in a regal tapestry of Gothic cathedrals, baroque palaces, and cobblestone streets across the Vltava river. Prague is an enchanting backdrop for an opulent escape.

This capital of Czech Republic whispers promises of indulgence at every turn—where history meets extravagance, and elegance is a lifestyle. On my recent visit to this romantic city, I discovered many ways to claim a laid-back holiday – dining and wandering, and indulging in the very best of outstanding hospitality.

I checked in to NH Collection Prague Carlo IV – a charming five story heritage hotel with a brilliant facade that once housed a bank. The hotel boasts 152 contemporary and lavish rooms across four categories. The crown jewel, the Carlo IV Suite, offers unparalleled spaciousness and elegance with plush bedding and marble bathrooms. Guests may unwind at the expansive spa – among the city’s largest, featuring a heated pool and an array of rejuvenating treatments, but I chose to explore first. I walked along Kafka’s favorite cafes and strolled about his home, visited Charles University and the opera house where Mozart himself played many times.

Absorbing Prague

Immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Prague is easy. Take a private tour of Prague Castle, where your guide will regale you with tales of Bohemian kings and emperors as you stroll through lavish halls and ancient courtyards.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus, and Adalbert, often called St. Vitus Cathedral, is a stunning Gothic masterpiece located within the castle that took 600 years to complete. This grand cathedral is the largest and most significant church in the country, serving as the seat of the Archbishop. It still holds the tombs of Kings and Emperors, blending original Gothic craftsmanship with Neo-Gothic restoration, creating a unified and awe-inspiring structure.

Taking in the stunning views of the city from the castle gardens, I walked down the Golden Lane. A steep slope and cobbled stone street reveals an ancient neighborhood, where each house bears a symbol, usually an animal at the entrance – instead of a number. Walking along, I reach back to the Charles Bridge, crossing it to reach the Old Town Square.

The Old Town Hall, established in 1338, has been a symbol of Prague’s history since the 12th century. Its Gothic tower, crowned by the world-famous astronomical clock, the Orloj, captivates visitors with its hourly parade of the twelve apostles (gathers quite the crowd). Created by master clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň in the 15th century, this intricate clock not only tells time but also tracks celestial movements, predicting events based on planetary hours. Legend says that the maker was blinded to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece.

I watch the apostles come to life and the clock go chiming, while enjoying my first bite of Goulash at Staroměstská Restaurace, the most authentic restaurant here as per my Czech companion’s recommendation. It has to be, given its legacy as an original Pilsner Urquell brand, from the house of the famous beer.

There is another very fun way of doing this. Hop onto a tour with Prague Old Car, a company that shows you around with lively commentary, sitting in replicas of vintage cars, like a Rolls-Royce! With heated seats, glasses of Champagne and blankets to protect you from a chill, it is a thoroughly entertaining way to see the most popular spots, and give your feet some rest.

Soaking in the night

In the evening, The Vault at my hotel (a former bank vault turned into an exclusive bar) offered an intimate setting to savor expertly crafted cocktails and try Becherovka, an intriguing Czech tipple made from herbal bitters. But for outdoor lovers, the Square comes to life post sunset. Restaurants overflow with tourists, and nightclubs hidden away in alleyways transform the atmosphere.

Fine dining aficionados will find themselves at Michelin-starred restaurants in the city like La Degusation Bohême Bourgeoise and Field. At La Degustation, Czech tradition meets modern artistry through a 19th-century cookbook, with a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying a three- or five-course menu of seasonal Czech dishes. Field, a chic minimalist restaurant run by two friends, offers a tasting menu in six or ten courses, including a vegetarian option. Both restaurants emphasize seasonality, showcasing ingredients’ natural flavors in a refined setting.

Prague’s luxurious essence lies not just in its historic beauty but in the sophisticated experiences waiting to be discovered.

Plush accommodations? No problem

The Mandarin Oriental in Prague offers a luxury stay in the Mala Strana district. Set within a former 14th-century monastery, it seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance. Guests can expect an epitome of opulence with spacious, beautifully appointed suites, a serene spa housed in a Renaissance chapel and exceptional dining experiences.

Discover unparalleled luxury at the Augustine Hotel, part of the Marriott’s Luxury Collection – set within a historic 13th-century Augustinian monastery, still active with four resident monks. The hotel is connected to the Baroque St. Thomas Church and offers guided tours on Thursdays, allowing guests to explore the monastery and its 13th-century library. The property features 101 uniquely furnished rooms and suites, including six signature suites, and is pet-friendly.

Or immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Four Seasons Hotel and experience a vibrant, unexpected stay surrounded by centuries of architectural marvels. This property is steeped in centuries of history, showcasing the city’s evolution from Baroque grandeur to neoclassical elegance and modern sophistication. The riverside hotel offers breathtaking views, allowing you to wake up to a scene straight out of a film and drift off while counting the city’s iconic towers under the night sky.

Shopping spree

Shop along Pařížská Street, where luxury boutiques such as Cartier, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès line the picturesque avenue, offering the perfect opportunity for a bespoke shopping spree. Explore Lasvit’s atelier studio, celebrated for its unique glass creations, from bespoke lighting to award-winning art pieces. Named by blending the Czech words for ‘love’ (Láska) and ‘light’ (Svit), Lasvit is a trailblazing glassmaker merging traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.

Since its inception in 2007, Lasvit has collaborated with renowned designers and artists creating striking installations that embody the beauty and spirit of Bohemia. Discover how Lasvit continues to inspire Czech glass making with its exceptional designs, now recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

From its music to culture to architecture, Prague offers an experience very different from other European destinations. Its depth cannot be explored in just one visit. Be prepared to go back…