11 Best Hotels to Stay in Lesser Town, Prague: Your Ultimate Guide 2025 + Map
Nestled on the western bank of the Vltava River, Lesser Town (Malá Strana) is one of Prague’s most enchanting districts. With its cobblestone streets, baroque palaces, and breathtaking views of Prague Castle, this charming neighborhood offers visitors an authentic Prague experience away from the tourist crowds of Old Town. In this guide, I’ll explore why Lesser Town should be your base for exploring Prague and reveal the 11 best hotels that will make your stay truly memorable.
Why Stay in Lesser Town, Prague?
Lesser Town offers the perfect blend of convenience, charm, and local atmosphere that makes it an ideal location for visitors to Prague. Unlike the bustling Old Town, Lesser Town maintains a more relaxed pace while still providing easy access to Prague’s major attractions.
Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world, sits majestically above Lesser Town, offering spectacular views and endless exploration. The iconic Charles Bridge connects Lesser Town to Old Town, making it easy to visit both areas during your stay. The neighborhood itself is filled with beautiful gardens, picturesque squares, and historic churches that invite wandering and discovery.
The area is also home to some of Prague’s finest dining establishments, from traditional Czech taverns to sophisticated international restaurants. After a day of sightseeing, you can relax in one of the many charming cafés or beer gardens that dot the neighborhood.
Now, let’s explore the 11 best hotels in Lesser Town that will enhance your Prague experience. From converted monasteries to grand palaces, Lesser Town is home to some of the most exclusive and charming hotels in Prague.
11 Best Hotels in Lesser Town, Prague
1. Augustine, A Luxury Collection Hotel *****
Why I Love It: Housed in a 13th-century monastery, Augustine offers a unique blend of historical architecture and modern luxury, creating an unparalleled experience in Prague’s Lesser Town.
What Makes It Special:
- Occupies seven buildings including a former Augustine monastery with preserved features
- Elegant rooms with monastic influences and contemporary design
- Stunning rooftop views of Prague Castle
- The Refectory Bar serves St. Thomas beer, brewed according to a 700-year-old recipe
- Tranquil spa using products made with locally sourced ingredients
Perfect For: Luxury travelers seeking a peaceful retreat with historical significance.
Location Highlights: Just steps from Prague Castle and a short walk to Charles Bridge, while nestled in a quiet corner of Lesser Town.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Augustine, A Luxury Collection Hotel
2. Aria Hotel Prague *****
Why I Love It: A music-themed boutique hotel offering an artistic experience with each room dedicated to a specific music genre or composer.
What Makes It Special:
- Musically inspired rooms with handpicked artworks and sound systems
- Private entrance to the beautiful Vrtba Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Prague
- CODA Restaurant offering fine dining with live piano performances
- Music library with extensive collection of CDs and DVDs
Perfect For: Music lovers and culture enthusiasts looking for a unique themed hotel experience.
Location Highlights: Located near Prague Castle with easy access to Lesser Town’s main attractions and the adjacent Vrtba Garden.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Aria Hotel Prague
3. Mandarin Oriental *****
Why I Love It: A masterful conversion of a former Dominican monastery, offering world-class luxury with authentic historical character.
What Makes It Special:
- Rooms feature vaulted ceilings and period details alongside modern amenities
- Houses the only spa in Prague located in a former Renaissance chapel
- Award-winning dining at Spices Restaurant with Asian-inspired cuisine
- Impeccable service with personalized attention to detail
- Serene private garden perfect for summer dining and relaxation
Perfect For: Discerning travelers seeking exceptional service and spa experiences in historic surroundings.
Location Highlights: Centrally located in Lesser Town, a short walk from both Charles Bridge and Petřín Gardens.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Mandarin Oriental
4. Alchymist Grand Hotel *****
Why I Love It: A sumptuous baroque palace offering an opulent glimpse into Prague’s imperial past.
What Makes It Special:
- Extravagant baroque design with gold leaf detailing, crystal chandeliers, and antique furniture
- Eclectic collection of art and antiques throughout the property
- Aquarius Restaurant serves gourmet Czech and international cuisine
- Elegant Ecsotica Spa offering traditional Indonesian treatments
- Complimentary wine and cheese tasting daily for guests
Perfect For: Romantics and history enthusiasts seeking an ornate, palatial experience.
Location Highlights: Located on a quiet street in Lesser Town directly opposite Schönborn Palace, which houses the US Embassy, providing additional security and prestige to the area. Within walking distance of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Alchymist Grand Hotel
5. Hotel Pod Věží ****
Why I Love It: Located at the foot of Charles Bridge Tower, this family-run hotel offers outstanding value in an unbeatable location.
What Makes It Special:
- One of the closest hotels to Charles Bridge with some rooms offering direct bridge views
- Housed in a beautifully restored historic building
- Spacious, comfortable rooms with traditional Czech decor
- Complimentary welcome drink and breakfast
- Exceptionally friendly and helpful staff known for personalized service
Perfect For: Travelers seeking an authentic Prague experience with a perfect location and excellent value.
Location Highlights: Literally at the Lesser Town entrance to Charles Bridge, with immediate access to both Lesser Town and across to Old Town.
Price Range: €€ (Mid-range)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Hotel Pod Věží
6. Golden Well Hotel *****
Why I Love It: An intimate luxury hotel with one of the best restaurant terraces in Prague, offering breathtaking castle views.
What Makes It Special:
- Private entrance to Prague Castle gardens (seasonal)
- Award-winning Terasa U Zlaté studně restaurant with panoramic city views
- Personalized service with one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in Prague
- Elegantly appointed rooms with Renaissance and Baroque elements
- Complimentary iPad use and selection of books in each room
Perfect For: Couples seeking romantic luxury and gourmet dining with spectacular views.
Location Highlights: Tucked away on a quiet street below Prague Castle, offering both privacy and proximity to major attractions.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Golden Well Hotel
7. Alchymist Prague Castle Suites *****
Why I Love It: A sister property to the Alchymist Grand Hotel, offering an even more exclusive experience with just 8 luxury suites.
What Makes It Special:
- Located in a 15th-century building with just 8 spacious, individually designed suites
- Baroque-style decor with four-poster beds and antique furnishings
- Private butler service available
- Access to spa facilities at sister property Alchymist Grand Hotel
- Intimate atmosphere with highly personalized service
Perfect For: Travelers seeking privacy and exclusivity in historic surroundings.
Location Highlights: Situated on a quiet street close to Prague Castle, offering a secluded retreat in the heart of Lesser Town.
Price Range: €€€€ (Premium luxury)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Alchymist Prague Castle Suites
8. MOOo by the Castle ****
Why I Love It: Contemporary apartments in a historic building, offering modern design with historic touches.
What Makes It Special:
- Spacious, self-catering apartments with full kitchens
- Minimalist design within a historic structure
- Smart technology features throughout
- Perfect for longer stays or families needing more space
- Unique cow-themed design elements adding playful character
Perfect For: Independent travelers, families, or small groups seeking more space and self-catering options.
Location Highlights: Located near Prague Castle in a quiet part of Lesser Town, providing a local neighborhood feel.
Price Range: €€-€€€ (Mid-range to upscale)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at MOOo by the Castle
9. Hotel Three Storks ****
Why I Love It: A charming boutique hotel in a historic building offering authentic Czech character with modern comfort.
What Makes It Special:
- Named after the “Three Storks” (U Tří čápů in Czech) that adorn the building’s facade
- Beautifully renovated 14th-century building with modern interiors
- Spacious rooms with exposed wooden beams and historic features
- Excellent breakfast with local specialties
- Intimate atmosphere with just 21 rooms
Perfect For: Travelers seeking authentic Prague charm without sacrificing comfort.
Location Highlights: Positioned on a quiet street near St. Nicholas Church, offering a central but peaceful base in Lesser Town.
Price Range: €€-€€€ (Mid-range to upscale)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Hotel Three Storks
10. Hotel U Tří Pštrosů ****
Why I Love It: A historic hotel in a Renaissance building right at the foot of Charles Bridge, offering unbeatable location and traditional atmosphere.
What Makes It Special:
- One of Prague’s oldest hotels, dating back to the 17th century
- Historic rooms with authentic period features and Charles Bridge views
- Traditional Czech restaurant on the premises
- Named after the “Three Ostriches” that appear on its historic façade
- Intimate setting with just 18 rooms
Perfect For: History enthusiasts and travelers prioritizing location and authentic atmosphere.
Location Highlights: Directly at the Lesser Town end of Charles Bridge, perfect for early morning or late evening walks on the bridge without crowds.
Price Range: €€-€€€ (Mid-range to upscale)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Hotel U Tří Pštrosů
11. Archibald at the Charles Bridge ****
Why I Love It: Excellent value accommodations in a restored 16th-century building with riverside location.
What Makes It Special:
- Riverside location with beautiful views of the Vltava
- Exposed wooden beams and historic architectural elements
- Generous breakfast buffet included
- Cozy courtyard seating area
- Excellent service with helpful multilingual staff
Perfect For: Value-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on location or comfort.
Location Highlights: Located right by the river, just steps from Charles Bridge and Lesser Town’s main attractions.
Price Range: €€ (Mid-range)
➡️ Find more info and book your stay at Archibald at the Charles Bridge
How to Pick the Right Hotel in Lesser Town, Prague for You
Choosing the perfect hotel in Lesser Town depends on your travel style, preferences, and priorities. Here’s how to narrow down your options:
For Luxury Seekers: Augustine, Mandarin Oriental, and Golden Well Hotel offer the highest level of service and amenities. These hotels excel in creating memorable experiences with exceptional attention to detail and historic surroundings.
For History Enthusiasts: Alchymist Grand Hotel, U Tří Pštrosů, and Augustine preserve the most authentic historical character. If immersing yourself in Prague’s rich past is important, these properties showcase original architectural features and period décor.
For Families: MOOo by the Castle provides apartment-style accommodations with kitchen facilities and more space, ideal for families needing room to spread out. Archibald at the Charles Bridge also offers family rooms at a more moderate price point.
For Budget-Conscious Travelers: Hotel Pod Věží and Archibald at the Charles Bridge deliver excellent value without compromising on location or comfort. Though still in the mid-range category, they offer the best balance of price and quality.
For The Perfect View: Golden Well Hotel and Aria Hotel Prague boast some of the most spectacular vistas in the city. If waking up to panoramic views of Prague’s rooftops and spires is on your wishlist, prioritize these properties.
For Garden Access: Aria Hotel Prague offers exclusive access to the beautiful UNESCO-protected Vrtba Garden, while Golden Well Hotel provides a private entrance to Prague Castle gardens during summer months. Mandarin Oriental features its own serene private garden for peaceful relaxation away from the busy streets.
For Unique Experiences: Aria’s music theme and Augustine’s monastery connection provide distinctive hospitality concepts that go beyond typical hotel stays.
How to Book & Useful Tips
Practical Tips:
- Book 3-6 months in advance for peak season (April-October) to secure the best rooms and rates
- Consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (March/November) for better availability and prices
- Request a quiet room facing internal courtyards if you’re sensitive to noise, as some streets in Lesser Town can be busy
- Ask about airport transfer services when booking – many luxury hotels offer this service
- Check if breakfast is included, as this can add significant value to your stay
- Look for hotels with air conditioning if visiting during summer months (July-August)
Maximizing Your Stay:
- Take advantage of concierge services for restaurant reservations and local recommendations
- Ask about hotel-exclusive experiences (like Augustine’s brewery tour or private garden access at several properties)
- Check cancellation policies carefully, especially when booking well in advance
- Request a room with a view if this is important to you, as not all rooms within the same hotel offer equal vistas
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April-June): Beautiful weather and blooming gardens, though increasingly busy
- Summer (July-August): Peak tourist season with warmest weather but highest rates
- Fall (September-October): Golden autumn colors with fewer crowds than summer
- Winter (November-March): Magical atmosphere, especially during Christmas markets, with lowest hotel rates
Remember that many of these historic hotels have a limited number of rooms, and each room might be unique in size, layout, and amenities. Don’t hesitate to communicate specific preferences when booking to ensure the best match for your needs.
Lesser Town offers a perfect blend of accessibility, beauty, and authentic atmosphere that makes it an ideal base for exploring Prague. From luxurious five-star properties housed in former monasteries to charming boutique hotels with Charles Bridge views, the accommodation options in this historic district cater to every taste and budget.
Whether you’re seeking opulent luxury, historic charm, or modern comfort, Lesser Town’s best hotels provide an exceptional base from which to discover the magic of Prague. Each property offers its own unique character while providing a genuine connection to the centuries of history that make Prague one of Europe’s most beloved destinations.
Map of the Best Hotels in Lesser Town, Prague 2025
Useful Travel Resources
I want to share and recommend these travel resources that I personally use, as they can be helpful when planning your visit to Prague.
Accommodation: Booking.com has the largest selection of incredible places to stay.
Tours: Getyourguide.com has the widest selection of guided tours and experiences from various providers, conveniently sortable by rating.
Getting around: PID Lítačka mobile app lets you buy public transportation tickets and plan your journey easily.
Last article update: March 25, 2025
Author: Vera Nemochovska
