With its fascinating history and grand architectural appeal, the question isn’t why visit Prague, but when. Spring is the ideal season for a trip to the Czech capital, as are the early summer months, before peak crowds and sweltering temperatures arrive in August. Anyone who plans a trip to the Czech capital in April or May will be rewarded with a wealth of festivals and events in addition to palace gardens in full bloom and the abundant greenery of Prague’s many wonderful parks.
At the centre of it all – with traditional Easter markets, world-class concert halls, and bustling shopping and dining districts – is Hotel Paris Prague. This 86-room 5-star luxury hotel housed in a 19th century neo-gothic building with stunning art nouveau embellishments is the perfect base for all those who wish to explore this iconic city.
Conveniently located along the Royal Way, the coronation route of Czech kings, the hotel’s proximity to the medieval Powder Gate, Old Town Square, and Charles Bridge make it an ideal starting point for embarking on any number of excursions – and afterwards, it provides a luxurious retreat from the bustling streets.
Musical stars light up spring
Hotel Paris Prague neighbours the city’s most prestigious venue for classical music, the Municipal House. This art nouveau treasure is adorned with original murals by Alfons Mucha. It’s also the seat of the Prague Spring Festival, a showcase of the very best classical musicians from the Czech Republic and beyond. The festival takes place from 12 May to 4 June and features performances by the Prague Philharmonic and other renowned Czech orchestras.
Additional festival performances take place at the Rudolfinum, a short walk from Hotel Paris Prague. From the vantage point of the concert hall’s iconic staircase, glimpse the stunning panorama of Prague Castle, the historic Jewish Quarter, or the newly reopened Museum of Decorative Arts. Follow up a performance in the Dvořák Salon with a visit to Prague’s popular riverside farmer’s market Náplavka. Here you’ll sample delicious, locally sourced food – everything from grilled fish to burgers.
Don’t miss the Easter markets
The Old Town Square Easter market typically runs from March through April. The colourfully decorated stalls selling ornate hand-painted eggs and traditional delicacies, as well as performances by folk ensembles on the main stage, shouldn’t be missed. Smaller markets pop up around Prague including a charming one adjacent to Hotel Paris Prague at Republic Square.
Summer promises its own delights with an array of festivals and open-air events to choose from including the Prague Food Festival and a host of rock festivals, such as Metronome Festival and United Islands, perfect when enjoyed alongside a trip to one of Prague’s many beer gardens. A favourite for its gorgeous view, the Letná beer garden is a short tram ride from Hotel Paris Prague. From here you can explore the trendy restaurants and museums of the district or walk further to sprawling Stromovka, the city’s largest park.
Relax amid art nouveau splendour
While guests will find no shortage of activities to keep them entertained in Prague, they’ll also want to take advantage of the comforts on offer at Hotel Paris Prague.
Boasting welcoming rooms as well as luxurious apartments and suites with replica art nouveau interiors and modern amenities, the hotel can accommodate any occasion, from group celebrations to romantic getaways. The breath-taking views from both the Mucha and the Tower Suite will appeal to those looking for a truly memorable escape. The former is a cosy wooden-beamed garret named after the famous Czech painter while the latter is tucked away in the hotel’s tower and features a 360-degree-view of the Prague centre. Both suites can be connected to create a spacious family accommodation.
Elegant in-house dining options are sure to attract gourmet palates. The fresh salads, soups, and light bites of the Café de Paris, a coffee house with a 1920s feel, are ideal for breakfast or lunch. Be sure to sample the sophisticated cuisine at Restaurant Sarah Bernhardt, where Executive Chef Karel Hynek fuses Czech tradition with French inspiration to create dishes including duck-leg confit or an organic Bohemian sirloin steak. All are paired perfectly with Moravian and French wines.
Guests are invited to the Wellness & Spa Centre to unwind from long days exploring the city with a foot massage, or even a special all-over body massage with aromatic herbs and grasses designed for de-stressing. These treatments ensure that you’ll end your Prague adventure on the perfect note. Θ
Further information
www.hotel-paris.cz