Luxury Travel in Prague
I visited Prague as a prelude to my luxury river cruise starting in Nuremberg with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise. It was a convenient way to experience a bucket-list city without an additional trip. Most of all, to gauge if it merits a longer visit in the future. In fact, Prague exceeded my expectations; the architectural detail and preservation of the facades are impeccable.
The view overlooking the Vltava River, with Prague Castle in the background, was breathtaking. The Prague astronomical clock, dating back to 1410, fascinated me. In addition, being the third-oldest and still functional astronomical clock in the world.
Old Town is charmingly walkable, lined with quaint cafes. Crossing the Charles Bridge towards St. Nicholas Church was a highlight of the trip.
Click
&
Watch
Exploring Luxury and Style in Prague, Czech Republic
I was originally planning to spend four days in Prague, but my flight got canceled due to weather. As a result, I only managed three days there. One piece of advice I always give my clients is to arrive at their destination early to allow some flexibility in case of such incidents. Not to mention, to avoid missing boarding and having to rush to the next stop. Also, spending the day waiting through delays, shuttling between hotels and airports, can be incredibly exhausting. In conclusion, I was still able to use the 3 days to relax, unwind, and being less than 4 hours away by car from Nuremberg.
Virtuoso Accommodation
Andaz, a brand under Hyatt’s Boundless Collection
NEAREST AIRPORT: Prague – Václav Havel (PRG) – 7 mi/11 km
SIZE: 176 rooms
ROOM STYLE: Contemporary
VIBE: Sophisticated
The Sugar Industry Insurance Association’s former office building, constructed between 1912-1916, underwent extensive refurbishment to become the luxurious 176 room, Andaz Prague hotel. Designed by architects Josef Zasche and Theodor Fischer in the neoclassical style, the building features facade sculptures by German sculptor Franz Metzner. Its irregular pentagonal shape stretches along its length, enclosing two courtyards and connecting to Henry’s Tower via an open archway at its narrow western end.
Recognized for its architectural significance, the building was designated as a listed cultural monument by the Ministry of Culture in 1993.
Luxury Surrounding Lifestyle
Upon checking into The Andaz, located in the historical center of Prague, I felt an immediate connection to the city’s rich stories and legends. Whether wandering around the hotel or venturing out to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful metropolises, the experience was enchanting. My first impression of the hotel reception was that it felt homey rather than grand, which immediately put me at ease. After being shown to my room and feeling quite exhausted from my travels, I took the opportunity to rest before my inspection with Aali the next day. See the full inspection. I thoroughly enjoyed the artwork and the little notes and stories intertwined with the hotel. For instance, tales like Bruncvík and his faithful lion, the legend of the Golem of Prague, and Libuše were particularly captivating.
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
NEAREST AIRPORT: Prague – Václav Havel (PRG) – 9.3 mi/15 km
SIZE: 99 rooms
ROOM STYLE: Historic-modern fusion
VIBE: Elegant and timeless
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group opened its Prague property on 12 September 2006, occupying a complex dating back to the 14th century. The hotel, blending Renaissance, Baroque, and modern elements, was formerly a Dominican monastery and includes the outer wall of St. Mary Magdalene, one of Prague’s oldest churches. With the expertise of Dům a Město Architects and consultant Otakar Dvořák, the hotel preserves architectural features like vaulted ceilings and original staircases, enhanced with subtle oriental touches. In 2007, it won the Czech Republic’s “Building of the Year” award. In 2015, British design studio Black Sheep redesigned the interiors, showcasing the site’s historic elements.
Hospitality With Inimitable Charm
During my brief time in Prague, I managed to conduct two site inspections with our preferred partners. In addition, this second inspection added variety, showcasing a property with 600 years of history. Both hotels were centrally located, allowing for a pleasant walk to the Powder Tower and Astronomical Clock, through Old Town Prague, and over the Charles Bridge to reach the Mandarin Oriental. Surprisingly, during the renovation and rebuilding of the spa, there was a striking discovery of the remains of a Gothic church. See the full site inspection. The rooms are spacious, individually designed, and plush. Along, with some featuring posts and beams ceilings, parquet floors, vaulted ceilings, and polished limestone bathrooms.
Parting Snapshots
