Prague is a city of contradictions. It’s got such an intense old-soul feel to it but is also so oddly modern—a trippy blend of the old and the new. You can admire the 13th century Old Town Hall with its world-famous Astronomical clock and right around the corner from it, you’ll find a string of buzzing bars and CBD stores. Visit the apartment where Kafka was born and below it, you’ll find an ice cream shop. But this is all part of Prague’s alluring, mystical charm. And when soaking up Prague’s history, you want to stay somewhere that gives you the same magical feeling of being immersed in both the past and present.
On the outside, The Almanac X Alcron Prague hotel blends in unassumingly with its next-door neighbours. But step inside its gleaming, white marble lobby and, initially, one can mistake the hotel for a grand, operatic art gallery.
Originally opened in the 1930s, The Almanac X Alcron Prague, (which was named Hotel Alcron back then) was considered the epitome of the Art Deco style. Recently refurbished in 2023, the hotel has seen some major changes, with art being the central focus. Every corner of the hotel—from the lobby to the lounging areas to the rooms to the Alcron restaurant—features modern art from local artists. Paintings, murals, sculptures, it’s all here.
However, with a legacy that dates back close to 100 years, it was important for the iconic Alcron Art Deco spirit to remain. This challenging renovation was carried out by the Spanish studio Tres Cinco Uno in collaboration with Czech architects from Studio Marani, and much like the city of Prague itself managed to fuse the past and present together seamlessly. Nostalgia lovers need not worry because the contemporary updates don’t drown out the original spirit of the hotel. If anything, they elevate it and the sharp observer will notice the original, historic details. From the original brass bannister to the sublime, winding marble staircase, both dating back to the hotel’s opening in 1932.
With a deep-rooted connection to Czech art and culture, the Almanac X Alcron Prague is easily one of Prague’s prettiest and gorgeously decorated hotels. The vibes are: chic, elegant and a little bit sexy. Perfect for a weekend getaway.
Lobby, Almanac X Prague
Decor-wise, rooms are contemporary, spacious and bright. There are 204 rooms to choose from but the standouts have to be the top floor castle suites, which offer stunning views of Prague’s infamous rooftops and feature gorgeous original artwork by Czech artists. Waking up to Prague’s skyline as the sun rises makes the castle suites totally exceptional.
Location-wise, you can’t get any better. Located in the heart of Prague New Town, the hotel is literally right in the city centre and the historic Wenceslas Square is less than a ten-minute walk away.
Foodwise, the Alcron restaurant is big on serving reinvented Czech, plant-forward cuisine, so dishes are fresh, light and vibrant. Must-have dishes? The fairytale style, pickled watermelon and cherries with mint and cucumber gel. And the wild lake salmon trout with fish veloute. Dessert is a must and the chocolate tart is the most popular. A decadent, giant slab of pure chocolate with salted caramel and tonka bean.
Much like the hotel, the aesthetics of the restaurant combine both past and present. Whilst the design is informal, elegant and modern, look up and you’ll find several Art Deco crystal chandeliers. A shoutout to the incredible Alcron bar, which is speakeasy style. Dark, mysterious and sexy, it’s a great little spot for incredible cocktails and craft drinks and to while away the midnight hours.
A mirror to the city it resides in, the Almanac X Alcron Prague offers the perfect fusion of past and present.
Reserve your stay now at almanachotels.com.
words. J. Bibi Cooper
