Art Deco Imperial Hotel

Old world glamour and history combine with a good mix of local and tourist traffic at the Art Deco Imperial Hotel. Built between 1913 and 1914, this hotel’s Art Deco/Art Nouveau design not only shines, but takes guests back in time. The lobby is spectacular with exquisite stained glass, a grand staircase, and elaborate tile designs while ornate items such as statues and upscale, detailed carpets cover the common areas. Plush, antique leather seating decorates the hotel and there are free newspapers in the lobby. Cafe Imperial features herringbone patterned wood floors, granite-topped tables, and the original mosaic ceiling from 1914. Large, bright windows help fill the wood paneled area with natural light and there are lovely antique light fixtures. Prime Bar also fits into the historic feel with golden tray ceilings and plump red vintage couches. The luxurious feel of this hotel comes down to all of the magnificent small details that combine to create an authentic Art Deco experience.

The Art Deco Imperial Hotel is located on the corner of a busy road in the center of Prague’s Old Town. Restaurants, shops, and offices are within walking distance, as are the Palladium Shopping Centre, Hybernia Theatre, Prague City Museum, Republic Square, and public transportation. Since trams are free and busses/metro stations are under a two-minute walk away, a rental car is not necessary to get around the city.

Although not as remarkable as the common areas, the rooms still have Art Deco style and posh tones in a good size space. Detailed carpets in leopard and intriguing prints are set against vintage-style tan curtains with large tassels while a unique envelope-style bedspread gives the area some character. Large geometric gold mirrors cover the walls and all rooms have photos of historic Art Deco details from the hotel hanging over the bed. Some rooms also have antique pattern couches and wood armchairs. Well-stocked minibars include various types of drinks and coffeemakers, bathrobes, and slippers are in each room; upgraded rooms have Nespresso machines as well. Flat-screen TVs rest on old school wood cabinets and some rooms have welcome fruit plates and water. Even though rooms are soundproofed, some still have street noise.

Brilliant multi-toned marble bathrooms are sleek and rich with silver/gold antique fixtures, heated towel racks, and heated floors. Speckled granite countertops have L’OCCITAN or Nature Philosophy amenities in addition to makeup mirrors. All bathrooms have large tubs with showers, but some have deep soaking tubs with jets and separate walk-in showers. Each bathroom includes a scale as well as a lovely flowery scent.

Easily the crown jewel of this hotel is one of the most famous Grand House Cafes in Prague: Cafe Imperial. With a one-week waiting list and no walk-ins allowed, this exclusive eatery is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. It’s over 100 years old and serves modern Czech and international cuisine with the smell of fresh brewed coffee perfuming the air. The Art Deco Imperial Hotel’s free breakfast is served here with fruit, meat, yogurt, eggs, pancakes, and hot beverages to exceptional reviews. There is also a bar, Prime Bar, that serves cocktails.

The fitness and wellness centers on-site also make a good impression with Roman-style historical mosaics and lavish accents. Gorgeous multicolored tiles adorn the steam bath and massage rooms while the sauna is a good size with light wood. The fitness center is open 24 hours a day and is located in the historic wine cellar. Dark green tile and wood paneling/floors create a fancy workout area with different types of equipment. There are personal trainers, massages, and physiotherapy that cost extra.

This hotel is also pet-friendly with concierge services in addition to 24-hour room service. Parking and airport transportation are available on-site, but incur fees. Wi-Fi is free.