Overview
This discreet luxury bolthole, tucked away in Prague's charming Mala Strana district, offers elegant serenity across several historic buildings. As well as sumptuous, spacious rooms and impeccable service, guests get access to top-quality Asian food at Spices, and a range of high-end treatments at the fantastic spa. Located in a charming, cobblestoned section of the city's 'Lesser Quarter' (Mala Strana), the Mandarin Oriental is nicely out of sight of the tourist hordes, but only a six-minute walk to Charles Bridge, a 15-minute trot up the hill to Prague Castle and you can even walk to Old Town Square in 20 minutes.
The river and lovely Kampa Park (and Museum) are both right around the corner. The Mandarin Oriental reputation for sophisticated tranquility is, if anything, amplified here by the historical aura of the host buildings, which span the gothic, Baroque and Renaissance eras: replicas of some of the thousands of archaeological finds from the hotel's construction are displayed in glass cabinets along the hotel's connecting corridor, and the remnants of a 14th-century Gothic chapel are showcased below a glass floor in the spa area.
The hushed, sand-coloured interior, all stately vaulted ceilings and arched doorways, is strategically punctuated with vibrant modern artworks and sleek designer furnishings to create just the right balance of historical reverence and contemporary flair. Kylie, Madonna and the Dalai Lama are just some of the guests that have stayed here.
SOMETHING ABOUT PRAGUE
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views make it a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in art, music, food, or simply exploring the city, Prague has something to offer everyone.
The Old Town of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's easy to see why. The cobblestone streets and Gothic buildings transport visitors back in time to the medieval era. The most famous attraction in the Old Town is the Astronomical Clock, which has been ticking away since 1410. Every hour, the clock comes to life with a procession of the Twelve Apostles, which draws crowds of tourists and locals alike.
Another must-visit in the Old Town is the Charles Bridge, a historic bridge that spans the Vltava River. The bridge is lined with street artists, vendors, and street musicians, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. From the bridge, you can see the stunning views of Prague Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city.
The Prague Castle is not just one building, but a complex of palaces, churches, gardens, and museums. It is the largest ancient castle in the world and has served as the seat of power for Czech kings, emperors, and presidents. The castle is home to St. Vitus Cathedral, which is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Europe. Visitors can also take a tour of the castle's interior, including the Royal Palace and the famous Golden Lane.
For art lovers, Prague has a wealth of museums and galleries to explore. The National Gallery in Prague is the country's leading art museum and has an extensive collection of Czech and European art. The Museum of Decorative Arts is another must-visit, with its collection of glassware, ceramics, jewelry, and textiles.
In addition to its rich history and culture, Prague is also known for its vibrant food scene. From traditional Czech cuisine to international options, there's something for every taste bud in this city. Try the famous Czech dish of roasted pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut, or sample some of the city's famous beer at one of its many pubs
In conclusion, Prague is a city that has something to offer everyone. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Europe. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you're sure to fall in love with this gem of Central Europe.
What we liked most
Sleeping experience in a 14th century Dominican monastery, with a touch of Oriental mood
The Mandarin Oriental Prague has been opened on 12 September 2006. This project marries the legendary hospitality of Mandarin Oriental with the inimitable charm that has made Prague one of Europe’s foremost travel destinations: it’s spendid architecture
Nestled in a peaceful section of the ancient neighbourhood of Malá Strana (Little Quarter) on the left bank, the 99-room Mandarin Oriental, Prague 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 that was built on the site around 1330.
The rebuilding process was carried out under close supervision of the Conservation Authority, reporting directly to the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic, incidentally, located just across the street from the hotel
The most striking find was the remains of a Gothic church, uncovered during the renovation and rebuilding process of the Spa (check our pictures below). These have now been preserved under a glass floor showcasing the hotel’s strong ties to Czech history and culture.
In 2007, the hotel was awarded the prestigious “Building of the Year” award presented annually by the Czech government and professional organisations
Rooms
Decorated in the hotel's safe but tasteful cream-and-beige palette (with occasional splashes of red and blue), rooms feature parquet floors, goose-down bedding and generous bathrooms with heated floors and walk-in showers or baths. All are stacked with mod cons, including large LCD televisions and minibars.
Extra features in the Deluxe category include exposed beams and seating areas with armchairs, plus either peaceful views over the hotel garden through floor-to-ceiling windows, or a terrace with table. Suites get perks like an extra living room with sofas, Moser crystal chandeliers, historical Czech artworks and vaulted ceilings. The Presidential suite, located in its own private tower, has a split level structure, panoramic views and a dining area for up to 10 people.
Food and Drink
The elegant, arch-heavy Spices restaurant, designed by British studio Black Sheep, offers an ambitious but superb spread of Asian cuisine: immaculately presented nigiri, maki and sashimi, noodle and rice dishes spanning Thailand, China and Vietnam, plus Indian tandoori specialities, all with modern, upscale twists. An outdoor terrace makes for a wonderfully extended alfresco lunch or evening meal, supported by an all-star cast of cocktails and fine wines from the equally handsome Spices Bar.
Breakfast, also served in the main restaurant, is a royal buffet feast of mueslis, fruits and pastries, cheeses and meats plus warm dishes (scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon and chicken sausages) and a separate menu for eggs Benedict and pancakes.
Spices Terrace
Enjoying an atmospheric setting in the heart of Prague, Spices Terrace offers an enticing selection of dishes during Summer. For the comfort of diners, the terrace is covered with the heated terrace offering a secluded spot in which to enjoy a quiet drink or bite to eat.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and in addition, guests are invited to sample a range of delicious cocktails.
Private Dining
Spices Restaurant and Bar offers an exquisite private dining room hidden below the restaurant in a spectacular wine cellar. As an atmospheric setting for private functions, this beautiful dining room can accommodate up to 20 guests.
With authentic details such as bare brick walls and an original medieval well, it's the ideal place for wine tastings, private dinner or romantic proposals. In addition, a variety of packages and specially designed menus are prepared on request.
Services and facilities
Service here is as classy as it gets, with highly trained and unformed staff remembering your name and offering attentive, accomplished service from check-in to the restaurant and spa, through to the two daily room-cleanings. As well as a top-notch pan-Asian restaurant (Spices) and handsome bar, there’s also a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a jaw-dropping spa that's set in a 14th-century convent and offers a comprehensive range of treatments. The only thing missing, really, is a pool.
Services include: Parking, Restaurant, Room service, Bar, Laundry, Sauna, Spa, Wi-Fi, Fitness centre, Steam room/hammam
Spa & Wellness
The Spa is housed in a former chapel, we offer a unique space in which to begin your journey to equilibrium. From the moment you enter our spa you will feel a wonderful sense of serenity. Housed in a former chapel, the spa’s contemporary design incorporates some unique features such as the illuminated foundations of a former 14th-Century church, displayed below the glass floor of the lobby.
Our experience
Click here to see our full experience
Key info
Location: Nebovidska 459/1, Prague, 11800, Czech Republic.
Hotel website: mandarinoriental.com
Hotel phone: +00 420 233 088 888
INSTAGRAM: @mo_prague