Fodor's Expert Review Domus Balthasar

This chic retreat is hidden in plain sight on one of the busiest streets in Prague, the road up from Charles Bridge in Malá Strana. It's a surprisingly good option for business travelers considering the touristy location. The petite 8-room hotel is housed in a structure dating back to the 15th century, when it was part of an archbishop's palace. It now offers free Wi-Fi and good prices, but if the busy surroundings aren't your scene, there's the quieter Domus Henrici sister hotel a little further up the hill.

Room No. 5 on the third floor (one of the deluxe rooms) has a historic wooden beam ceiling. Chance it and opt for a "good luck room" when booking a double room on the hotel's website--if available, you'll be first in line for an upgrade to a deluxe room or even the royal suite on arrival.

room

Some of the rooms have views of the bridge tower at the end of the Charles Bridge, and others are tucked away in the loft, complete with beams. All have soft pillows and touches of red among the plain but tasteful decor, and all have desks--helpful for those who are working while in Prague. There's no elevator.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Only the attic rooms have air-conditioning.

Photo: DeLuxe Room

Photo: DeLuxe Room

bathroom

The white tiled bathrooms have walk-in showers and large bath-tubs (apart from in the attic rooms, where there is a combined shower/bath). The dark counters and mirrors give the facilities some style. There are heated floors.

lobby

A small desk leading to the hotel's twisty, historic stone staircase, but staffed by friendly receptionists who are happy to show you around the various rooms and give upgrades where possible.

dining

There's no restaurant, so breakfast (a buffet plus a choice from the menu) is served in the Bohemia Bagel Cafe downstairs.