Mandarin Oriental Prague

This 99-room hotel, a former 14th-century monastery, is located on the Malá Strana side of the river.

• The tucked away setting in the quieter Stare Mesto neighborhood that ensures quiet
• The spa, located in a former chapel, has an other-worldly quality
• The incredible views from the Presidential Suite

While some guest rooms of the Mandarin Oriental Prague feature vaulted and arched ceilings, all are individually designed and have a modernist edge to them, with contemporary furniture and textiles. Limestone bathrooms have such thoughtful additions as heated floors and décor seems to marry the best of Czech design with Asian aesthetics.

A series of rooms on the courtyard have semi-private terraces and outdoor seating areas, which allows for a state of calm respite in warm months. (During winter, these rooms might feel slightly dark and guests would be happier on higher floors). Unlike some properties, the difference between a Superior and Deluxe room is a great jump in size, so springing for a premium category might make all the difference in a stay, particularly if making use of one of the hotel’s roll-away beds for a child. Due to the historical status of the building, there are no traditional closets in rooms and free-standing wardrobes are found instead.    

The spa is housed in a Renaissance chapel, built over the ruins of a Gothic chapel and a glass floor shows the remains. The underground passageway between buildings has multiple niches displaying fascinating finds that archaeologists dug up during construction. The fitness room is very well equipped and rumor has it that Madonna spent up to seven hours per day there during a stay.

The Monastery Lounge has soaring vaulted ceilings, beautiful ambient lighting and draperies adorned with Gothic text. Tea and drinks are served in the cozy nooks throughout the day. The property also features Essencia restaurant, a wine cellar for private entertaining and Barego bar.

The two-story Presidential Suite has a small kitchenette located in a wardrobe (enough to make kids’ meals), two bedrooms, and a top floor living/dining room. The massive terrace provides one of the most stunning views of the city.

Return guests to Prague who would like to have a more intimate, less tourist-centric visit sometimes prefer the Mandarin Oriental for its removed location.