Almanac X Prague review: the best of both worlds in the Czech capital

Walking down the cobbled streets of the Old Town in the juxtaposing city of Prague feels like being dropped straight into a history book. There are churches on every corner, each telling its own story about the medieval people who once populated the streets and buildings that whisper of civilisations past.

But alongside the 8th century history is a stark reminder of the far more recent Communist era in the brutalist architecture and tales of the locals who openly and candidly recount a life so many of us would struggle to imagine. And slap bang in the middle of the old and new towns is the Almanac X Prague hotel which brings the history and modernity of the outside in.

Why stay here?

The Almanac X Prague, which opened on 1 March, could not be more perfectly placed for a traveller that is looking to experience everything the Czech capital city has to offer. A mere 15-minute walk in either direction will take you to the 8th century Old Town or the 14th century New Town, which are both full of their own treasures. But this hotel isn’t just a base to explore the wonders outside, it’s a treasure in its own right.

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Enter through the revolving door and walk into a bright Art Deco-style lobby, that’s all sleek marble and precisely placed plants. On the walls, spot experimental artworks from local artists and behind the reception desk see friendly faces who welcome you warmly into the space. It feels like a true refuge from the bustle of the city. Walk straight ahead and you reach the Alcron Restaurant which is open plan, creating a feeling of fluidity, or turn left up to the inviting bar which has a sexier undertone compared to the brightness of the rest of the hotel.

The rooms

Step out of the lift and the angelic brightness that is so apparent downstairs is the first thing to greet you. The rooms are luxurious because every small detail has been considered, from the soft, spacious bed and sleek chaise lounge to the dark marble in the bathroom. A mirror sits along the length of the wall above the bed and the TV is hung perfectly to watch a film on Netflix before falling asleep after a long day of exploring the city. Comfortable yet functional, luxurious yet minimalist, these rooms are all style and no fuss – the perfect description of the hotel as a whole.

Eating and drinking

Aside from its history, Prague is famous for its delicious beers and one of the best places to drink one is at Kuchyn, a stone’s throw away from St Vitus Cathedral. It has an outside terrace with views across the rest of the city as well as traditional Czech dishes which are all worth tasting.

For dinner, take a break from the generally heavy traditional dishes by staying in the hotel. The menu at the Alcron Restaurant is predominantly vegetarian, making use of seasonal produce to create lightweight and flavourful dishes. Also, allow the sommelier to recommend wine pairings to make the experience extra special.

For an evening tipple, head to Hemingway Bar and make sure to order a “Breath in the Afternoon” cocktail for a touch of theatre. Or if you’re a Bloody Mary fan, who’s after an evening twist, then give the “Bloody Mary de Birria” a try.

What to do

Places to add to your Prague checklist include St Vitus Cathedral, which started construction back in the 12th century but wasn’t completed until the 1920s. It is also the site of the tomb of King Wenceslas. Stroll over the Charles Bridge and take part in the lucky rituals at two of the statues or head to Holešovice, which sits just below a lush park and is full of cool cafes and artist types.

Or, just step out of the hotel, head in any direction and simply stumble across something historic. For example, sat just around the corner is a courtyard which acts as a small glimpse into both the old and new. The shop fronts are clearly more recent mid-20th century relics but once you walk through the arch on the other side, you might spot a little owl figurine which was once used to signal to horse and carriages that the passage ahead was clear. A small but quirky Prague “easter egg”, the like of which are scattered all around the city.

The verdict

The ideal weekend break, Prague is less than a two-hour flight from London and feels like a true treasure trove of culture, history and fun. Almanac X Prague is simply the place to stay here and is the ultimate refuge from the hustle and bustle. With its chic design and stylised spaces, the hotel is also located perfectly to get stuck in and see everything the Czech capital has to offer. Truly the best of both worlds, just like the city itself.

Olivia Perl was a guest of Almanac X Prague, which is part of Almanac Hotels. Room rates start from €250 (£216) per night. Štepánská 40, 110 00 Prague 1, Czech Republic; almanachotels.com