Mandarin Oriental, Prague

Czech Republic
Europe

The Experience

Just 10 years ago, few of Prague's developers could've imagined that a world-class, five-star hotel could survive—thrive, even—on "the other side of the river." But don't let the location fool you. Prague is so walkable that staying in Mala Strana—across from Old Town via the world-famous Charles Bridge—doesn't feel like a compromise. In fact, most visitors find this area more appealing, thanks to a quaint, quiet location that attracts fewer of the loud European lads who fill the city center every summer evening. This newcomer—opened in September, 2006—is without peer not only in Mala Strana, but in the city at large.

The Rooms

There's undoubtedly an apt metaphor in converting a 14th-century monastery into a Mandarin Oriental hotel. But at least the designers retained much of the building's original architectural flavor. (That's no small feat when one considers much of the drab post-Soviet structures that litter Prague's outer neighborhoods.) The entry-level Superior rooms are a modest (but fine) 312 square feet; but if money is no object, the 1,600-square-foot Presidential Penthouse Suite features a roof terrace that's large enough to entertain and one of the city's best views of the Castle. A reasonable middle ground is the 624-square-foot Mandarin Deluxe Suite, which features vaulted ceilings, a spacious living room and equally stunning views.

The Service

Though Prague has long seen its share of moneyed visitors, even during the Soviet years, it's taken the better part of a decade for deluxe hotels to find their feet in the Czech capital. In keeping with the Mandarin Oriental's global reputation for top-notch service, staffers here are nothing short of impeccable. On-time and on-point, you'll rarely if ever get a taste of that traditional Eastern European surliness. They set the standard to which all other luxe properties in Prague should aspire.

The Highlights

Like a hideaway resort on a faraway island, the Mandarin Oriental, Prague offers an enveloping experience that keeps guests trapped—in a good way. The spa was built in the monastery's original chapel (many original details are actually preserved under glass), and features seven suites (couple treatments are encouraged) plus a tea lounge and Thai massage area. With its Asian-influenced menu and fancypants cocktails, Barego Bar isn't exactly an authentic Czech experience—but one can drink only so much fresh, locally brewed Pilsner Urquell, which can be found at any number of nearby pubs.

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