Romantik Hotel U Raka
This stay at Romantik Hotel U Raka was absolutely unforgettable—a true gem for travelers seeking something special. Nestled in a quiet corner of Prague's Castle District, this boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building with just six uniquely decorated rooms. Every detail reflects local charm and craftsmanship, from the antique furnishings to the thoughtfully curated touches in each room—no two spaces are alike. The cleanliness is impeccable, and the breakfast experience stands out: homemade yogurts, fresh eggs cooked to order, an array of cured meats, cheeses, breads, pastries, and more—all served with warmth and care. We loved that we could escape the overwhelming crowds of Old Town early in the season, choosing instead to spend most of our time exploring Lesser Town and the Castle District. From the hotel, you can walk to major sights like Prague Castle, Petrin Hill, Strahov Library, and St. Nicholas Church—perfect for those who enjoy walking. While the area is slightly hilly, a short five-minute uphill walk gets you to the tram stop, though we found that affordable rideshares (arriving in under 2 minutes, costing only $6–7) were often more convenient for longer trips. Note: it’s not ideal for guests with mobility challenges, but as long as you’re able to walk comfortably, you’ll be fine. Our favorite part? Returning to the hotel in the afternoon for a late lunch on their lovely sunken terrace—smoothies, a delicious meat-and-cheese platter, or a savory ham-and-cheese pie, all enjoyed in peaceful solitude. Walking to dinner was one of the highlights of the trip: quiet, historic streets with stunning architecture around every corner, and plenty of great restaurants within a 1- to 15-minute stroll. Booking directly through their website was a smart move—we took advantage of their anniversary package (paid in cash in euros), which included $50 off per night, flowers, a large fruit bowl, a generous meat and cheese platter, a half bottle of sparkling wine, a full bottle of local wine, and a free airport transfer. Magda, who works there, is simply incredible—she goes above and beyond, often preparing little surprises for guests. Follow her recommendations for breakfast and lunch—they’re always spot-on. If possible, request Room 6: it has a cozy living area, a fireplace, an indoor terrace, and even a private outdoor table—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. This hotel truly made our trip magical.
