How to Spend a Long Weekend in Prague
With Michelin-starred restaurants, luxurious hotels and excellent shopping, there’s something in Prague for everyone.
With Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels and excellent shopping, there’s something in this guide to Prague for everyone. It’s no wonder it is so often cited as one of Europe’s most magical cities. Such is the historical magnitude of the Czech Republic’s perfectly preserved capital that it’s been dubbed “The City of 100 Spires.” Prague exudes exquisite heritage, whether it’s in its Romanesque chapels, Gothic cathedrals, Baroque palaces or Art Nouveau buildings. Monuments from practically every period of history exist harmoniously on its cobblestone streets and around every corner. Its fairy tale charm has inspired Disney movies and captivates visitors with its romance from the moment they arrive.
Prague’s manageable size makes it the perfect destination for a long weekend break, and with warm summers and crisp, snowy winters, it’s truly a year-round destination. The main sights straddle the Old Town and Lesser Town, divided by the picturesque Vltava River, dotted each day with steamers, paddle boats and swans. Over 30 pretty bridges connect either side, with Charles Bridge being the most popular and a must-see.
Visitors and locals alike ponder the beauty of the city in one of its many decadent and ornate cafes. Along with a thriving coffee culture, Prague’s beer is regarded as some of the best in Europe – your visit isn’t complete without trying a pint of Pilsner. Step off a side street into a church or chapel and you’ll hear classical music concerts taking place at any time of the day. And at night, it’s the city’s vibrant jazz scene that really comes to life.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Prague
In the heart of the vibrant Old Town, just a three-minute walk from the Old Town Square, Four Seasons Prague is a peaceful retreat at the water’s edge, with postcard views of Prague’s finest sights: the river, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Experience centuries of Czech history across the four equally impressive historic buildings: Baroque, Neo-Classical, Renaissance and modern. There’s a popular Italian restaurant with an alfresco dining terrace and an AVA spa with hydrotherapy pool. Its 19 unique suites are among the largest in the city, with the Charles Bridge Presidential Suite and the Prague Castle Presidential Suite both extending over 1,674 sq ft; both are sumptuously decorated and feature breathtaking views of all the major landmarks.
Charles Bridge Presidential Suite from $4,090 per night. Contact Martin Dell, general manager, +420 221 427 777, fourseasons.com
Mandarin Oriental Prague
Housed in a former Dominican monastery, with roots dating back to the 14th century, Mandarin Oriental Prague sits near the banks of the river in the Lesser Town on one of the city’s prettiest streets, with views of Prague Castle. The hotel’s buildings comprise six centuries’ worth of architecture, with rooms spreading across Baroque, Renaissance and Spa wings. During its reconstruction, over 250,000 historical objects were found, and many are displayed throughout the hotel. It’s home to one of the best spas in the Czech Republic – the world’s only spa in a Renaissance chapel, connected to the hotel by an underground passage. Top suites include the Moser Crystal Suite, with exquisite crystal accessories and decorations, a light-filled living room, tall Baroque windows and arched ceilings; and the Presidential Suite, located in a private tower across two floors, with a terrace offering magnificent panoramic city views.
