OUR FAVOURITE HOTELS IN THE CHARLES BRIDGE AND OLD TOWN AREA (MALA STRANA):
Very «boutique», the Savic mixes the charm of its Gothic and Renaissance architecture with the amazingly plush design of its public areas and five star rooms. Style and intimacy start from the trendy reception where, like in a palace hotel, we have been invited by a lovely female staff to sit up and fill the short check-in form. A small, unique courtyard in the centre of the hotel, ideal for relaxing on a warm spring or summer day, leads to the 27 fully air-conditioned rooms. Spacious and atypical, displaying unspoiled 14th Century original painted beams or vaulted high ceiling, splendid parquet flooring, each room has got a much personalized feel of class. Tastefully decorated with classical furniture made of Mahogany wood, sparkling chandelier, equipped with king size beds (four-poster bed in some rooms), and panoramic sat/pay plasma tv, mini bar, safe, and IDD telephone, many rooms display a wonderful view down the Old Town cobbled street. Supreme bonus: the floor to ceiling brown marble bathrooms (equipped with L'Occitane toiletry kit... and a plasma TV over the tub if you are lucky enough to stay in the suite #204) are challenging the Mandarin-Oriental, which is the most expensive hotel in Prague... There is complimentary use of a Nespresso coffee machine and Internet access in each room; Wifi free of charge in the public areas: reception, courtyard, "U Dominikana" bar-restaurant, not to forget the homey, extremely comfortable anti lobbies open lounges on each floor. The hotels gets part of its high reputation from the wide ranging breakfast, served either in "U Dominikana" or in the courtyard. Due to its UNESCO protected location, the Savic does not have parking place; but there is a secure parking a short walk away, which may be arranged by the anticipating reception staff. Room Service is from 7:30 to 23:00. Let's conclude our review with a good piece of news: the hotel is supreme value for the money. Due to its recent opening, rates are still incredibly competitive. During our stay, in the high season, a suite was sold out at EUR 200! A large double room (like #303, a large attic, with wooden beams both in the room and bathroom) went for EUR 179... Including breakfast and all taxes. A
top
5 deluxe hotel in Prague. Warmly recommended.
SAVIC:
Jilska 7, 110 00 Prague 1
MANDARIN ORIENTAL PRAGUE (****L): Unlike the other properties operated since 2006 by the prestigious, award-winning Mandarin Oriental Group, this is not a palace nor a grand hotel; but a quaint boutique hotel, pairing well Prague romantic and cultural atmosphere. Nestled in a peaceful section of the ancient neighbourhood of Malá Strana (Little Quarter) on the left bank, this discreet 99-room historic  mansion
occupies a complex whose origins date back to the 14th century.
Part Renaissance, part Baroque, and part modern, the hotel’s
distinctive set of buildings represents over six centuries of
architecture. Formerly a Dominican monastery, the structure
incorporates a large part of the outer wall of St. Mary Magdalene, one
of the oldest churches in Prague which was built on the site around
1330.With the expertise of renowned architects, the Mandarin Oriental Prague retains and highlights its distinguished heritage; carefully-preserved architectural features such as vaulted ceilings, archways, and original staircases are sensitively complemented with subtly opulent oriental touches, resulting in a hotel as unique as the city itself. The location of the hotel was specifically chosen for its peaceful atmosphere, close to the river, only minutes away from the Charles Bridge, and a short walk to the Old Town Square. Guests can meander through the cobbled streets marvelling at the romantic scenery, strolling through galleries and resting at lovely cafés, or taking in some of the very best of the city’s vibrant restaurants and night scene. In this select location, guests are surrounded by the palaces, gardens, and towers of old Prague, under the ever watchful presence of Prague Castle. Embodying a new standard of luxury in the Czech Republic. with subtle Asian touches, the hotel offers 99 guest rooms: including 20 exclusive suites, among the most spacious and luxurious in the city, boasting unequalled views of the Old Town and magnificent Prague Castle. Combining great character and historic features, all rooms are individually designed and benefit from the latest technology. High definition LCD screens are features in the bedrooms, bathrooms and in the Suites’ individual sitting room, while high-speed Internet connectivity throughout and smart desks are designed to enhance the workspace. In keeping with Mandarin Oriental’s innovative approach to food and beverage, the hotel offers stylish dining with culinary flair. Signature restaurant Essensia offers a combination of modern Czech cuisine with bright Asian flavours. Distributed across five rooms, each with its own architectural style, it is the ideal venue for a leisurely breakfast, stylish business lunch, a romantic dinner or celebration. The vaulted wine cellar guards an extensive array of wines from both the old and new worlds as well as some of the finest selections from the boutique wineries of Bohemia; the cellar is available for private events such as wine tasting, small cocktail parties or private dinners. By contrast, the hotel’s award-winning “Barego” bar makes for a stunning contemporary alternative and is a popular spot for the city’s movers and shakers, while the Monastery Lounge with arched ceiling and Baroque columns provides a beautiful, serene setting for afternoon tea. The 490-square-metre award-winning holistic Spa at Mandarin Oriental, is located in a former Renaissance chapel and linked to the hotel by an underground passageway, allowing guests to retreat to their rooms in complete privacy. In this truly unique setting, spa guests enter over a glass floor displaying the remains of a previous Gothic church uncovered during the hotel’s reconstruction. Offering six treatment rooms including two for couples, featuring private heat and water-based treatment facilities such as a Rasul and Vitality Pool, the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Prague provides a variety of holistic treatments from around the world whilst incorporating the historic spa culture of Central Europe. The hotel also offers a fully equipped fitness centre. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group operates of some of the world's most prestigious hotels and resorts. Including the legendary Oriental Hotel: since decades our home away from home each time we visit Bangkok. MANDARIN ORIENTAL PRAGUE: Nebovidska 459/1, 118 00 Prague PHONE: +420 233 088 888 FACSIMILE: +420 233 088 668 E-MAIL: moprg-reservations@mohg.com INTERCONTINENTAL
PRAGUE (*****): The ideal
base from which to explore the city endless historic sites, this 1970's
designed hotel is perfectly located:
right in front of the River Vltava, and the exclusively elegant
Parizská Street concentrating shops with the finest brands PRESIDENT
HOTEL PRAGUE (*****): One
of the most luxurious hotels in Prague, it comes first for its
unmatched
location: in the heart of Prague, on the right bank of the Vltava
River With a modern, rich design, gained after the lavish refurbishment made in 2004 to obtain a fifth star, the hotel is luxurious: though human sized. From outside, guest might expect a cold conference hotel; but just one step inside the lobby makes him feel a warm intimacy. This intimacy comes up to the 130 guest rooms (including 32 Junior Suites, three Senior Suites and one Presidential Suite with a huge panoramic terrace), which we found actually large and pleasantly well lit. Customized for a pleasant, top comfortable stay for tourism and business alike, they feature individual air-conditioning, large laptop size safe, SAT/Pay TV, IDD telephone... and a wireless handset that you can bring along with you whenever you wish to be reachable anywhere in the hotel. We found the bathrooms extremely elegant, with their rare green marble washbasin and their «L'Occitane» toiletry kit. Booking one of the 27 executive rooms might be quite interesting: many of those distinguished rooms come with terrace or balcony, and allow complimentary access to the fine Executive Lounge (with free use of PC with printer and fax machine, refreshments, snacks...); beside the lounge stands the «El Greco» meeting room, which is also available free of charge by Executive Rooms' guests. Actually useful for corporates! There is a wellness center (sauna, « Tawan » Thai massage, small workout room...), the fine dinning restaurant «Vltava», the pleasant «Piano Bar», a small casino, and well designed conference rooms with day light. Internet is provided free of charge in all the rooms, via data cable with high-speed connection and Wi-Fi in the rooms. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi in the Executive rooms, Executive Floor and lobby (where Pcs at guest disposal): which is worth being mentioned, when other Prague 5 - 4 star hotels usually charge high rate for Internet. Price starts from EUR 149 for a Deluxe Single Room (low season), till EUR 339 for an Executive Room (high season); and from EUR 179 for a Junior Suite (low season), till EUR 439 for a Senior Executive Suite (high season). This
very
recommendable hotel is well ranked in Tripadvisor,
and received the TTG Travel
Award 2008.
Affiliated to the UTELL
Hotels & Resorts.
PRESIDENT
HOTEL PRAGUE: Nám. Curieových 100, Prague 1
ÉLITE
(****): This
first class boutique hotel has a long and rich history, going back to
late
14th century. Luxurious without redundancy, this is first of
all
a charming -one should say nowadays "boutique"-
hotel where one
feels immediately at ease. Unique and picturesque, the We loved the building peculiar arrangement. Tortured stairs open on narrow corridors. Splendid frescoes remember distinguished guests that they stay in a highly hedonistic residence. The uniquely decorated rooms display pieces of original antique furniture. They have all been discretely though efficiently equipped with four star modern facilities: like individually controlled air-conditioned, IDD telephone with PC connection, satellite & pay TV, safety deposit box and a minibar. The bathrooms are quite small, but conveniently lovely. Room service is also available round the clock. Another great advantage, both for tourists and businessmen, is the hotel Elite strategic location: in a quiet lane, yet right in the heart of Prague's New Town. The Vltava River and its romantic embankments are a stone's throw. A short walk drives to the museums, main tourist attractions, shopping and business areas. Social life starts in the hotel itself: with an intimate bar opening on a small summer garden, but also with a grill club on the ground floor. As picturesque as the rest of the hotel, it serves Spanish, French and Argentinian cuisine, and is complemented by a cocktail bar with jazz and Latino music, housed in the building subterranean vaults. The efficient concierge service can provide secretarial, laundry and taxi services, or obtain tickets for various cultural events. Ladies will appreciate the beauty parlour and hairdresser's salon. Cars can be safely parked on the premises. Rates reasonable in a city where charm has a price. They go from CZK 3,400 for a Single room in low season, till CZK 5,700 for a Double room in peak season. A Junior Suite (for 1-3 persons) goes from CZK 4,300 till 6,200 (including buffet breakfast, service and all taxes). Special offers available. Major credit cards are accepted. Worth being discovered and deeply enjoyed. HOTEL
ELITE: Ostrovni 32, 118 00 Prague 1
After being attracted by the location and building architecture, we must say that we were not less impressed by the hotel itself. This a cozy, family run property: where we felt home at first sight. With its Old Europe atmosphere, parquets and beams smelling fresh wax, antiques everywhere you eyes can look, and warm welcome from the reception staff, U Zlate Studny displays an unmatchable Bohemian touch. The authenticity of the design goes up to the 8 well sized rooms and large apartments. Some of them display original 17th century painted beams: a pure marvel. Decorated with antiques, lovely fabrics, and gorgeous Bohemian crystal chandeliers, equipped with Sat TV, IDD phone, minibar and complimentary high-speed Internet connection, displaying a large bathroom, each room has got a wonderful view on the red Prague roofs and tortuous cobbled lanes. Allowing an interesting people watching activity... We warmly recommend the gorgeous, atypic apartments (70 and 80m2). They are extremely comfortable, and designed like a «bourgeois» family flat: once the door closed, you don't feel like at all in a hotel, and the price is astonishingly affordable (cheaper than a double room in a four star chain hotel!): from CZK 4,900 till 5,600. Double Rooms cost about CZK 3,500. Complimentary extra bed. Breakfast included. The hotel 17th Century vaulted restaurant is reputed for its fine Bohemian cuisine and affordable bill. A little piece of advice: print the name and exact address of the hotel, and show it to the taxi driver. There is actually a mix up with an almost similar named hotel (U Zlate Studne), located in the Castle area! Atmospheric
and well worth the trip!
U
ZLATE STUDNY (THE GOLDEN WELL): Karlova 3, 11000, Prague 1
PERLA (****): With a unique modern design and a strategic location, this still quite confidential address (the hotel opened in 2007) is building up a quick reputation among aware travellers.
Originality goes up to the unfailingly good taste 64 air-conditioned and soundproofed rooms, which we liked very much. Well exposed to the daylight, they all come warm and smart. With a Zen wallpaper, elegant parquet, aesthetic bathrooms, and smooth antiallergic beds, they have been tailored made for a total relaxation. Guests would hardly believe that they stay in a tourist packed area, with the Old Town Square, Venceslas Square and Charles Bridge a few steps away. Despite of its distinguished comfort, with safe, IDD phone, complimentary WiFi and Plasma Sat TV in the rooms, we surprisingly realized that the Perla wanted to play in the « low cost» category. We felt like -and actually were- in a four star hotel; selling itself like a three star. Room rate goes from approximately EUR 85 (Single Room / Low Season) till EUR 145 (Double Room / High Season). Budget oriented guests will like to hear that there is no minibar in the rooms, but discreetly disposed vending machines, filled with fine quality soft drinks, wine and snacks, sold out at common grocery retail price. Though this would be certainly more exciting to order -still at a very attractive price- from the very pleasant, funky Café Bar Perla (where the complimentary breakfast is served). The
wellness
facilities have been superbly designed. A low rate applies for using
the
sauna; while working out on the most modern « made in USA »
equipment is free of charge. There is a wide range of services:
featuring
laundry, dry cleaning, ironing, room service, fax &
photocopying, concert
and tours ticket service, etc.
We
warmly
recommend this rare jewel, which already enjoys encouraging reviews in
Tripadvisor.
PERLA:
Perlova 1, 110 00 Prague 1
The Hotel Ungelt comes with a difference: it is composed of ten splendid apartments: tailored made for those -tourists and businessmen alike- looking for more space and comfort in a distinguished, actually luxurious mansion. We have been astonished by the size, elegance and fair value for money of the 150 m2 large apartments: with three bedrooms, a ritzy living room / work room (equipped with flat screen sat TV, IDD telephone featuring 50 minutes complimentary VOIP calls on landlines to many destinations oversea), a convenient kitchen (featuring cooker, fridge, mini-bar), a bathroom and toilet. A home away from home, hosting at ease up to 6 people. While up to 4 guests will stay comfortably in the „Small Apartment“... remaining quite large, as a matter of fact, with a total area of 90m2, two bedrooms, a plush living room, a kitchen, a bathroom and toilets. Both categories of apartments have a long hall, with lots of closets: ideal for long stay. We loved the gilded cristal chandeliers and large windows, made for an airy feel. The generous breakfast (EUR 10) can be served in the apartment, where guests will eat in the intimacy of their private kitchen area. Besides its supreme elegance, we selected this hotel for the little extras it brings to its clientele. There is for instance a free WiFi access: those who left their computer at home can use the PC in the reception room or, better, borrow a laptop from the friendly concierge, and bring it up to the apartment. We also liked the Ungelt for its secured parking (EUR 25) per day: leave your car there, and walk away in this super location, with all the monuments and shops at an easy reach. The rate is reasonable, and extremely attractive for long stay up to one month. A Deluxe Apartment costs about EUR 169 till 249, depending on the season. The most luxurious and largest apartment (Gothic Suite de Luxe 6) goes for EUR 239 till 319. There is a
cozy lobby bar, and secretarial / tours and concert service
by the concierge.
Travellers will take a fancy for this exceptional hotel. UNGELT:
Stupartska 7, 110 00 Praha 1
ANTIK
(***L): A hotel
with much character, located
two blocks from the Astronomer's clock, with many reputed restaurants,
pubs, shops and everything you could wish standing right The 12 double rooms are good sized and spotlessly clean. Equipped with a comfy bathroom, toilet, telephone, Sat TV and a mini bar. They all allow for an additional bed. Guests looking for a joyful animation should ask for a street view (splendid Baroque buildings all around!); the rooms oriented to the small court yard garden are extremely quiet, making you feel like anywhere but in the heart of a capital city. In close co-operation with a reputed tour operator, the hotel Antik is a point of departure to plenty of attractive guided visits in Prague and the Czech Republic. A Double Room costs CZK 3490 – 3990. Rate for a Single is CZK 2990 – 3590. Additional bed is CZK 900. Including buffet-breakfast and WiFi Internet access. A
very
inviting hotel.
PHONE: (420) 222 322 288 FACSIMILE: 222 328 540 E-MAIL: info@hotelantik.cz OUR
FAVOURITE HOTELS IN THE NEW TOWN (NOVE MESTO):
KEMPINSKI
HYBERNSKA PRAGUE (*****): This
new palace hotel exudes the feel of supreme luxury. Ideally situated
just a short walk from the Art Deco Municipal House, Old Town Square,
Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge and other landmarks, the hotel
lavishly settled in a BEST
WESTERN METEOR PLAZA (****L):
Since
1307, a hotel of high tradition. This was then the obliged retreat for
the travellers reaching the Old City in This is still nowadays one of the most visited hotel in Prague. For multiple reasons. First of all, the Hotel Meteor Plaza is situated directly in the city center of Prague : near The Palace Hibernia, the Powder Gate and the wonderful Municipal House (with lavish restaurants, and a superb « Art Nouveau » concert hall). Wenceslav Square, the Old Town Square or other places of interest (like the Powder Gate, Municipal House, National Museum, State Opera, Old Town Square, Jewish cemetery, Old-New Synagogue, Charles bridge, Mala Strana, etc.) can be reached on foot within 3 till maximum 5 minutes. A must for tourists. But also for business travellers, who will appreciate to stay in the middle of Prague's downtown: with leading companies and most important trading banks at easy reach. Last but not least, the Masarykovo Railway Station is 400 meters from the hotel only. The metro and tram main crossing lines (No.: 5, 8, 14) are just 2 minutes walk. This picturesque building with a preserved façade accommodates 84 comfortable single/double rooms, and 6 large suites (which we found good valued, and ideal for families). Many offering a nice view on a Baroque palace opposite the street. If only 40 of them are fully air-conditioned, all are well sound-proofed and safely accessible with a chip card. They feature comfortable furniture, sat TV with in-house pay channels, radio with an alarm clock, minibar, IDD telephone with Internet socket, safety box, and immaculate well designed bathrooms with a bath tube or a shower, WC, and air dryer. The Meteor Plaza has got two reputed restaurants. The casual «Restaurant Park» opens on a pleasant Garden terrace. It serves a rich assortment of selected specialities of Czech and international cuisine, with a wide choice of national wines. The «Silenzio» gothic wine cellar stands under arched stone ceilings from the 14th century. Rustic and picturesque, this is the place for Czech food in a typical Bohemian atmosphere. The quiet and intimate Relax Center features high tech equipment: vertical and horizontal solarium, fitness, sauna, large whirlpool, massage machine «Hydrojet». Body massage available. Room rack rate starts from CZK 2,900 for a Single in the low season, till CZK 5,700 for a Double Room in the high season. A suite (ask for suite N° 310, with a Jacuzzi !) goes from CZK 3,900 only, till 6,500, depending on the season. Including buffet breakfast and VAT, but excluding local taxes. Interesting Half board supplement, at only CZK 300. There is a 24 hours secured parking operated in the hotel, at CZK 500 per night. This is a Best Western Hotel. An excellent choice. BEST
WESTERN METEOR PLAZA: Hybernska 6, 110 00 Praha 1
BOHEMIA
PLAZA RESIDENCE (****L):
Property
of the same family since 1879, this very central residence occupies an
opulent Neo Classic The magnificent 20 rooms (mostly suites and apartments) are spotless clean. Decorated in a unique and individual style, featuring priceless period furniture and lavish fabrics, they display many special small touches: like antique silver cutlery available in the drawer in the fully fitted kitchenette! There is a safe deposit box, cable TV & radio, IDD phone & high-speed Internet connection, minibar, ironing set or trouser press, and hair dryer. Lovely soft towels, robes and toiletries in the smart bathrooms. We liked very much the Deluxe Apartment "Florence" (N° 8). Its large Art Nouveau bedroom, with Roman bath connected with a restroom, is particularly original. There is a high tech Bang & Olufsen TV set in the living room, and TV in the master bedroom. The Oriental inspiration of the Executive Apartment "Marrakech" (N° 12), decorated with lovely paintings featuring romantic Arabic scenes, will please the aesthetes. The most demanded room -a favourite for honeymooners- is the "Chinese" Wedding Apartment, decorated with collection of Asian wedding fans, and rare "Belle Epoque"(1920's) Imperial China inspired furniture. A favourite home away from home for actors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, the Bohemia Plaza Residence pays much attention to the security and the privacy of its guests. For this reason, visitors can access the premises only together with the guest, or with his permission. You don't need to be a VIP to enjoy a very courteous treatment: the staff is attentive and anticipates all your requirement. Everybody enjoys welcome champagne and 24-hours room service. There is a garage. Airport meeting and Limousine service available at unbeatable price. Last but not least, the hotel takes pride in not having a "check out time" policy: those having a late flight can keep their room until departure! We found the rate extremely attractive: it starts from EUR 90 for a Studio in the low season until EUR 140 for a Deluxe Apartment during the high season. During Holidays (Christmas, New Year) it goes up to EUR 160 for a Studio, 190 for a Suite and maximum 250 for a Deluxe Apartment. Per night. Including great buffet breakfast. Long stays are subject to special weekly and monthly rates. The hotel features a plush business centre, with ritzy intimate meeting rooms and bars, like the luxurious Bankers Club. A sparkling gem in the Prague hotel industry. BOHEMIA
PLAZA RESIDENCE: Zitna 50, 120 00 Prague 2
DA
VINCI (***L): This
charming place combines a perfect location (500 m from Wenceslas
Square,
and a 2 minutes walk to the IP Pavlova metro and trams hub),
with
an unbeatable value for money. From outside, it looks like an Italian
"palazzo".
The lobby displays a fresh and Contemporary but not minimalist, the Da Vinci make you feel like in a lounge. Away from the downtown hustle. Indeed a boutique hotel, where each detail has been studied to please aesthete's eyes and traveller's requirement, it doesn't look like at all a "budget hotel". The quite large 27 smoking/non smoking double rooms (some with a balcony) and 1 apartment, equipped with dark oak furniture, Sat TV, IDD telephone, safe, have all Internet access and WiFi (available in all public area). Nice bathrooms, with hairdryer and vanity. There is a laundry service, a garage nearby (surcharge is EUR 13 / CZK 390), and a round-the-clock front desk. Friendly and courteous services. The full buffet breakfast is included in the room rate which is approximately EUR 120 / CZK 3,500 for a Single, EUR 130 / CZK 3,800 for a Double, and EUR 160 / CZK 4600 for the stylish family/business Apartment. The DA VINCI has a sister hotel, the Raffaello, located in the same area. With similar high comfort, quality of service and attractive rate. The kind of place we recommend with pleasure. DA
VINCI: Sokolska 25, 120 00 Prague 2
RAFFAELLO
(***L): This
classy 29 rooms and 5 apartments boutique hotel will satisfy business
and
leisure travellers alike. Located in a smart Art Nouveau building, in
the
heart of Prague (a stroll to Wenceslas Square and the main business,
shopping
and touristic areas), it The spacious rooms are decorated with beautiful Italian furniture made out of sherry wood. The bathrooms are certainly among the most immaculate we have ever seen: sparkling like a jewel! Some have tub; some have shower. Or both, in the case of the great value for money, actually nice apartments: we found the duplex particularly convenient for families. Each room has Sat TV, minibar, safe, IDD telephone, and dial up Internet Access. Only the attractive rate -and the absence of room service- reflect that the Raffaello is a three star superior hotel. Prices start from CZK 3,500 / EUR 120 for a Single, till CZK 4,600 / EUR 160 for an apartment. A double costs approximately CZK 3,800 / EUR 130. Including buffet breakfast. Efficient reception staff, laundry, and garage (CZK 390 / EUR 13). This is the Da Vinci sister hotel. A fair budget hotel which will please those using to stay in four star. RAFFAELLO:
Legerova 54, 120 00 Prague 2
OUR
FAVOURITE HOTELS IN THE CASTLE AREA (HRADCANY):
SAVOY
(****): We
actually love the Savoy,
its yellow "Art Nouveau" facade, and its elegant marble lobby.
Tastefully
rebuilt and renovated in the early 1990s, it survived the terrible
years
of destructive marxism: still with this typically old fashioned Central
European charm The 61 rooms and suites are very spacious, warmly decorated in schemes of bordeaux, royal blue and honey yellow, with elegant furniture and top luxurious bathrooms (lets say they are among the most beautiful -and obviously the largest- in the all Czech Republic!). Each room is fully air conditioned. VIPs enjoy the two independent telephone lines (four telephones in total), with a fax machine and PC. Safes are very large, and can accommodate a laptop. Satellite TV features plenty of channels, and is linked to an in-room VCR. Note that the mini bar, full with reputed Czech beer, Moravian wines and soft drinks, is complimentary: which is, as far as we know, unique in the world ! We found the place so glamorous, with the "Lobby Bar", its Library displaying antique books, its marble fireplace still operating, and its pullman armchairs fitted to enjoy the glass of chilled Champagne the hotel offers with compliments as a welcome drink. Some jet setters like to use it for most brilliant private parties. The breakfast displays a superb full buffet breakfast (with fresh smoked salmon and plenty of other exclusive delicacies... and even authentic Japanese Sushis on special request!), served in the Hradcany which has been confirmed as one of the top restaurants in Prague in the last edition of the Michelin guide book. There is a well equipped fitness centre, with Jacuzzi, sauna and steam bath, to help you loose extra weight. Conference rooms are particularly elegant, decorated with ancient paintings. Still one of the best four star deluxe hotels in the Castle District. During our last stay, in August 2000, we found the service even more anticipating and friendly than ever. The new reception staff is extraordinary: we came late from an appointment, and realized the guest relation employee took care of friends waiting for us by offering them complimentary coffee at the "Library". Just an example to show how you are pampered when choosing the right place to stay in Prague ! We understand why more and more State Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Ministers of Foreign Affairs like to make booking here during their visit to Czech Republic: mixing with international businessmen and famous artists from all around the world. All like the grand Presidential Suite: it features a large terrace with a commanding view over the Hradcany district. Prices are quite "grand" also, as a matter of fact: fares rank between EUR 234 - 265, and very interesting corporate rates are available on request. Managed by the Austrian company VIENNA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS & RESORTS, this is a one of the Leading Small Hotels of the World. SAVOY:
Keplerova ul. 6, 11800 Prague 1
OUR
FAVOURITE HOTELS IN THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS:
CORINTHIA
TOWERS (*****): The former Forum, now managed by CORINTHIA
HOTELS INTERNATIONAL, is just a 30 minute drive from
Ruzyne International
Airport, and only two stops away from the centre of Prague by the next
doorVysehrad station. One of the leading This 24 storeys building, standing right across the road from the Prague Congress Centre, is THE place for meetings and incentive: with cyclopean extendible ballrooms and pleasant conference rooms. Tourists will also enjoy very much its discerning luxury. Its 544 rooms include 17 Junior, 12 Executive, 9 Standard and 1 Presidential suites. We stayed at the brand new triplex Executive Club Floors . Our room was larger than the Prague standard in this category. The view over the city was dramatic: one of the very best we could have from any hotel in town. Businessman will like the extended working desk. All rooms have radio, satellite TV with different movie channels, IDD telephone with voice mail, mini-bar and hair-dryer. The Club Lounge serves complimentary breakfast, and free soft drinks are available all day long. We enjoyed the evening happy hours: with a large selection of canapés, wines, Ports, Cognac, offered to the VIP guests. Free of charge! Just besides the Lounge, a large and well equipped Business Centre allows free access to the Internet: how many hotels give such a facility in Prague? We also liked also the luxuriously appointed and well equipped Stratos Health & Fitness Centre. On the top floor, with a breathtaking view, it is has a lovely pool, saunas, massage (including authentic traditional Thai massage, by special trained staff imported from Bangkok!), solariums, gymnasium and squash court. The entrance fee is not expensive; but Executive floor guests don't have to pay for it at all. The Corinthia Towers is also reputed for its restaurants, including, where guests can experience a great variety of cuisine and atmospheres. We had one of the most delicious and generous buffet breakfast in town at the Toscana: which is a pizza and pasta elegant setting. Some details in that restaurant, at least for breakfast, shows the quality of service and F&B in this hotel: for instance, the smiling waitress came to our table with the traditional "coffee or tea?" question, but also kindly suggesting us a fresh made orange juice. We believed that Czech Republic was one of the largest importer of artificial orange powder: well, obviously the Corinthia Towers is not part of it! The amazing RICKSHAW Restaurant serves the smartest and most authentic Far Eastern cuisine in the all Czech republic. There are also the Let's Meet, Let's Eat, the Cafe Praha, and the entertaining Beer & Bowling Diner: with a wide selection of draught Czech beers and 10 pin bowling (4 lanes), ideal for affordable and relaxed dinner with friends. The hotel's cellar displays fine wines, and a rare choice of Armagnacs dating from as early as 1922. Rates start from approximately EUR 127 - 219 for a standard room. Those are rack rates. The hotel offers money saving packages: some of them (just like the Corinthia 24 Hour Delegate Package) even include meeting room rental. Fine hotel with a fine service. CORINTHIA
TOWERS: Kongresová 1, 140 69 Prague 4
HOTEL PRAHA (****): This oasis of relaxation, once a top protected residence for the international nomenklatura (lots of communist leaders used to make it their home away from home), is now one of the top five leading hotels in Prague.
Another plus of the Hotel Praha is its air-conditioned rooms: certainly the largest in town. Ours was a Junior Suite: twice the size of a similar room in most of Prague hotels. The terrace was almost as large as the suite! But even their Standard Rooms offer lot of space and discerning comfort. All are equipped with satellite TV, minibar, IDD telephone, large bathroom and own terrace. The wood panelled walls create a great intimacy. We also enjoyed the design of the furniture: that style you just find in those post-Soviet top deluxe hotels. American upper class travellers, but also lots of European people, actually enjoy the atmosphere created by such a "back to the 80's" decoration. Within two decades it will be top fashionable; expecting that the Hotel Praha will not be refurbished a more "international" way by that time... At least you feel like somewhere. In term of facilities, the hotel is perfect. If we found the restaurant Les Continents little bit plain, we enjoyed the beer cellar packed with a lot of friendly locals and hotel guests. There is an indoor swimming pool, sauna, massage parlour, fitness centre, gym, outdoor tennis and volleyball courts. By the billiard room is a bowling alley (with the unique "Czech Bowling" available in any hotel: balls are smaller, heavier, and without holes for the fingers). Beauty and hair-dressing parlours are also available. There is a safe parking. Service is perfect. There are two very reliable concierges (a Czech lady, but also a Cuban gentleman who knows Prague and the Czech Republic even better that his native island!), whom you can rely for any kind or advise or booking. They helped us on many occasions: always with a smile. Note, last but not least, that the Hotel Praha offers a full range of comfortable services for social events, small seminars and workshops, as well as for larger conferences in spacious, fully air-conditioned premises. And, just repeat it: this is where you will find the largest hotel garden in the "Golden City". Prestigious guest like Helmut Kohl, Tom Cruise, the Japanese Chairman of the Parliament, as well as some prominent Sheikhs, necessarily stand out in this hard to match hotel. Rates are in the five star range; though quite good value for money. HOTEL
PRAHA: Susicka 20, 166 35 Prague 6
REVIEW
OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN PRAGUE 
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have been much impressed by this property, 
and within walking distance of the Prague Castle, the Jewish Quarter
and
the Old Town square. The panorama from the rooms is well worth the
trip:
from most of them, guests can see the river, the Letna green hills and
the Castle, from the huge windows or, in some rooms and suites, from
the
large balconies and terraces.
hotel
Elite shrouds in myths and legends.
picture of this Baroque landmark 
Stylish,
though
cold, gray marble walls from the original 1930's building, alternate
with
what is certainly the most captivating lobby in town: gilded pearls
support
the check-in desk, and glass walls bear enigmatic asian-like
calligraphy.
right next door, this former convent faces the central Ungelt Square
(also
called Tyn Square by locals) : once a market place, it forms nowadays a
charming, serene hub of shops, renowned restaurants and pubs, tucked
away
among four rows of buildings in bustling Old Town.
on the door step. Amazingly quiet despite of such a great -and
therefore
crowdy- position. Romantic and picturesque, with a lovely café-lounge
where antiques are tastefully exhibited (and can be bought from the
shop
next door), it provides a comfortable, homey lodging, ideal for
families
and couples alike.
the late evenings hours : without the possibility to enter the city
through
the City Gate (now the Powder Gate), which used to be closed every day
at dusk. In the 17th century, the son of Empress Marie Terezie, Emperor
Josef II, spent a night here.
building from the late XIX th century. Totally refurbished in its
original
splendour by a specialized team from the Czech National Gallery in
2002,
with its antique furniture and chandeliers, it is 
trendy
atmosphere, with some high-tech touches (flat screen TV on the walls),
and opens to a lovely atrium.
displays
a cozy reception lounge & bar.
95%
of large hotels are lacking in town.
hotels
in town, reputed for its world class service, the Corinthia Towers
invested
huge financial and management resources to upgrade its
comfort.
Located
in Hanspaulka, one of Prague's finest residential areas, on a 20-Acre
estate
enjoyed by guests only, the Hotel Praha offers exceptionally fresh air
and an extremely pleasant countryside atmosphere in the very heart of
the
city. On the top of a hill, this S shaped modern building is made such
a way that its 80 Double rooms, 36 Junior Suites, 6 Apartments, and 2
Presidential
Suites all offer a breath-taking view of the city's panorama. All have
a huge terrace overlooking the Prague Castle: enjoying breakfast or
room
service here is particularly romantic. This is the unique hotel in
Prague
offering such an unusual and exceptional facility.
