City break in Prague: discover hidden delights in a medieval gem

Four monks still live at this converted 13th-century monastery. I was surprised to be able to tour their domain, the gorgeous baroque St Thomas Church (tours are offered to all guests). The hotel’s anything but modest: bathrooms have heated floors and lavish walk-in showers. Drop by the spa for a St Thomas Beer Body Ritual – hops and beer exfoliate the skin before you’re treated to a head-to-toe massage. The courtyard has a glass roof, so make sure to soak up the historical atmosphere with a cocktail from the Refectory Bar.

Want to be within touching distance (well, almost) of Prague Castle? Bed down at The Emblem. You can see its turrets from the steamy rooftop whirlpool tub – part of the hotel’s luxe The M Spa. Each of the 59 rooms is individually decorated with specially commissioned furniture like copper lamps and Fleming & Howland leather sofas. The Suite Library’s my favourite spot for a romantic weekend, where secret passageway leads you to an attic bedroom – think of it as your own fairytale hideaway.

Set in the Jewish Quarter, this upscale boutique hotel is steps away from Prague’s iconic sights. It’s all about the detail – from the feature wall mosaics made from contemporary photography to the Sampar toiletries in your bathroom. Step under the rainfall shower to wash away the day before slipping on your robe to look out over the serene courtyard from your window.

Part of the Strahov Monastery, this luxurious hotel delivers on old-world charm. The 27 boutique rooms have kept some of the original features (the building dates back to 1620) – check out the wooden beams and bare floors. Some rooms even have views over the 9th-century seat of Bohemian kings, Prague Castle. Brew an aromatic coffee on your Nespresso machine, snuggle into the plush down duvet and breakfast on homemade yoghurt delivered straight to your door.