Hotels in Karlin

Cool, edgy Karlin has transformed itself from a down-at-heel industrial backwater into one of the hippest addresses in Prague. Standing out from the quaint historic center thanks to its shiny new office blocks and trendy loft conversions, this compact residential quarter has brought a new bohemian buzz to the south bank of the Vltava. Chic coffee shops, gourmet restaurants, and authentic brewhouses have sprung up alongside cutting-edge art studios and craft galleries, boosting Karlin’s image as the new face of Prague.

Hotels in Karlin

Karlin is an intriguing mix of old and new, with gorgeous Belle époque mansions sharing the streetscape with masterpieces of modern design. This diversity is reflected in its hotel provision, from family-owned boutique hotels to top international brands. The Hotel Mucha is a 4-star Karlin hotel with décor inspired by the founding father of Art Nouveau, Alphonse Mucha, whose famous paintings greet you as soon as you step into its elegant lobby. The Hilton Prague is contemporary chic personified, with 2 gourmet restaurants and an indoor pool and spa to enhance your experience in one of the best luxury hotels in Karlin.

Things to see in Karlin

Karlin’s town square is dominated by the imposing façade of Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, one of the biggest churches in the Czech Republic, famed for its stunning Neo-Romanesque interior. The church is dedicated to the brothers revered today as national saints, who invented the Glagolitic and Cyrillic alphabets to transcribe the Bible into the Slavic languages. Catch a glimpse into the past with a visit to the City of Prague Museum, which houses changing exhibitions alongside a fascinating permanent collection. One of its most popular attractions is a huge model of the city center created over the course of a decade by Prague librarian Antonin Langweil and left unfinished upon his death in 1837. The paperboard model features over 2,000 scale reproductions of historic Prague buildings, many of which are still standing. Lovers of eclectic architecture will find plenty to photograph on the streets and squares of Karlin. One of the most talked-about new developments is the conversion of a former sheet-iron factory into the stunning Corso Karlin complex by renowned architect Ricardo Bofill.

Good for foodies

Lovers of good food will find many tasty reasons to base their vacation in Karlin. The neighborhood is famous for its farmers’ markets—one of the most popular is held on Saturday mornings in summer in the town square, packed with colorful stalls selling organic produce and local specialties. Consider booking a self-catering apartment in Karlin and take advantage of the independent delis and fairtrade stores on your doorstep. This eclectic quarter also has a growing reputation for its diverse restaurant scene, specializing in the cuisine of the world, from Vietnamese street food to classic Czech fare.

How to get to Karlin

Prague’s main arrival point for international travelers is Vaclav Havel International Airport, with frequent connections to the city center via bus, taxi, or shuttle. Private cars can be booked in advance to meet your flight and deliver you direct to your Karlin hotel. If you prefer to use public transportation, airport bus services connect with the city’s excellent metro system. The main metro hub of Florenc is on the edge of Karlin, which is also well served by local trams and buses. Travel in Karlin itself is best on foot, as the district’s orderly grid layout makes it easy to get your bearings.