Luxury in a Timeless City of Hundred Spires

Few European cities capture the imagination quite like Prague. The Czech capital enchants visitors with its Gothic grandeur, Baroque elegance, literary heritage and an atmosphere that seems untouched by time. Nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague effortlessly blends centuries of history with a vibrant contemporary spirit, making it one of Europe’s most irresistible destinations.

The best introduction comes from the water. Cruising along the Vltava River offers a front-row seat to the city’s architectural splendor. Historic bridges, majestic churches, colorful facades and the imposing Prague Castle unfold like scenes from a living painting. Few experiences capture the romance and beauty of the city quite as perfectly.

Standing proudly above the river is the iconic Charles Bridge, one of Prague’s most treasured landmarks. Adorned with magnificent Baroque statues and framed by Gothic towers, it has become the city’s most photographed monument. Early in the morning, before the crowds arrive, its timeless beauty is particularly magical.

This time, I decided to explore Prague in a more original way. I embarked on a Treco tricycle, an electric three-wheeled vehicle that feels like a modern-day carriage gliding effortlessly through the city’s historic streets. As we cruised past Gothic towers, hidden courtyards and picturesque neighborhoods, the experience offered a refreshing perspective that traditional tours simply cannot match. Operated by young Israeli entrepreneur Naor Hanania, the tours have become a popular choice for travelers seeking a more personal connection with the city and a less demanding alternative to long walks. Quiet alleys, hidden gardens and charming corners emerge beyond the well-trodden tourist routes, creating memories that linger long after the journey ends.

The city’s landmarks seem endless, yet one attraction continues to draw visitors with almost mystical appeal. The Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square, dating back to 1410, remains the oldest astronomical clock in the world still in operation. Every hour, hundreds gather beneath its intricate mechanisms, surrounded by colorful medieval buildings, lively cafés and the vibrant pulse of Prague’s historic heart. A symbolic beacon in this timeless city.

Prague’s Jewish heritage adds another deeply moving dimension to its identity. Its beautifully preserved synagogues provide a fascinating glimpse into one of Europe’s oldest and most distinguished Jewish communities. Their remarkable preservation reflects centuries of cultural richness, prosperity and an enduring legacy that continues to shape modern Prague. Walking through the Old Jewish Cemetery is an unforgettable experience. The ancient gravestones, layered upon one another through the centuries, tell silent stories of generations who once flourished here. The resting place of the Maharal of Prague remains a profoundly emotional site, a testament to memory, faith and continuity.

Our home in Prague reflected that same harmonious blend of heritage and innovation. Born in Bohemia, entrepreneur Julius Meinl founded, in 1862, one of Europe’s most celebrated coffee and gourmet empires. Today, that legacy lives on through the House of Julius Meinl and our residence in the Czech capital: The Julius Prague.

Arriving at the property feels less like checking into a hotel and more like entering an elegant private residence.I wanted to learn more about this relatively young hospitality brand and the vision behind it. Martin Švehla,  Head of Hospitality for the Julius Group, was waiting for me in one of the hotel’s meeting rooms. Although calling it a meeting room hardly does it justice. With its bookshelves, soft furnishings and warm lighting, it felt more like a cosy private library in a stylish home. Impeccably dressed, like a model stepping out of a fashion magazine, Švehla perfectly embodied the refined yet relaxed spirit that defines The Julius Prague.

“Our idea was always to create a place where guests feel at home,” he explains. “Not a traditional hotel, but an urban residence where people can truly live the city.”

The Julius Prague opened in May 2022 following the careful transformation of a 19th-century residential building. Today, the property offers 124 serviced apartments and 44 guest rooms, built around a concept that places space, comfort and flexibility at its heart. Each apartment includes a kitchen and generous living areas, allowing visitors to experience Prague more like locals than tourists.

“Space is one of the most important elements of our philosophy,” continues Švehla. “Families especially appreciate it, and most stay for nearly four days. We also welcome many business travelers who value the feeling of living in a real home while away from home.”

The sophisticated interiors bear the signature of celebrated Italian designer Matteo Thun. His vision drew inspiration from Czech Art Nouveau master Alphonse Mucha, whose rich palette of dark oranges and greens helped shape the hotel’s distinctive atmosphere. Natural materials, light woods and locally sourced elements from Moravia and across the Czech Republic create an environment that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in local heritage.

Behind the venture stands one of Central Europe’s most storied family businesses. For more than 160 years, the Meinl name has been synonymous with coffee, gourmet products and delicatessens throughout the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. The company pioneered catalogue shopping and home delivery long before the digital age. The family’s Jewish roots remain an important chapter in its story; they fled to London during World War II and returned to Austria after the liberation of Europe.

It was Julius Meinl VI, now 40, who envisioned a new chapter for the family enterprise by expanding into hospitality. “The brand’s international appeal continues to grow, with the United States and Gulf countries representing its strongest markets in Prauge, while Israel consistently ranks among its top five source markets”, reveals Švehla.

Located in the heart of the capital-city, just a short stroll from its principal attractions, The Julius offers a refreshing hospitality concept. The moment we entered our suite, it became clear why the property has earned such admiration. Spacious living areas, refined contemporary interiors, premium amenities and thoughtful details created an atmosphere of effortless luxury. Rather than traditional hotel rooms, the accommodations feel like elegant city residences designed for travelers who appreciate both comfort and style.

The culinary experience adds another layer to the hotel’s appeal. Breakfast is outstanding, emphasizing high-quality local ingredients and impeccable service. Executive Chef  Milan Dolejš,who has been with the hotel since its opening, has crafted a gastronomic identity that mirrors The Julius itself – refined yet welcoming. Having worked extensively in Italy, he brings a Mediterranean sensibility to the menu, creating an original Czech-Italian fusion inspired by Matteo Thun’s Italian design vision. His philosophy is simple: to bring out the very best in every ingredient. The result is an elegant dining experience that perfectly complements the hotel’s sophisticated atmosphere. The dinner he prepared for us was exquisite.

Švehla reveals that Prague is only the beginning for the brand. With a concept centered on restoring historic buildings in major European capitals, future projects are planned for Berlin, Bucharest and Budapest. Unlike many hospitality brands, the company owns its properties, allowing it to preserve their individual character while building a distinctive identity. A loyalty program is also under consideration, reflecting a young brand already thinking far beyond its first successful address in the Czech capital.

No doubt, we will hear much more about The Julius brand in the years ahead.

Like Prague itself, this hotel beautifully balances past and present, tradition and innovation, history and contemporary design. And perhaps that is precisely the enduring magic of this extraordinary city.