Karlín: Prague's charming off-the-radar area
The district of Karlín cannot boast without the major historical landmarks that other districts of Prague are famous for. But if you don't mind seeing an alternative part of Prague beyond the old architecture, churches and castles, Karlín is a great place to spend time and one of the best places to stay in Prague, thanks to rapid development that has transformed the area into one of the most dynamic areas of the city.
Although the area is quietly becoming one of Prague's most attractive neighbourhoods, it hasn't always been this way. The Karlín district experienced one of the worst floods in the Czech capital in 2002 when the Vltava River burst its banks.
The flooding of the area caused many of the buildings to be damaged. Although there was a real estate boom in Prague at the time, premises in Karlín were much cheaper than in other parts of the city. This housing situation in the area has naturally attracted members of the creative and artistic community. This has led to the creation of Karlín Studios, home to affordable artistic ateliers, and an attendant gallery.
The charm of Karlín remains the same even as the neighbourhood continues to grow. Here you can still enjoy the intricate plasterwork of the nineteenth-century pompous apartment blocks and take in the beautiful views from the top of Vítkov Hill.
Having been an industrial area in the past, the air quality here has now improved thanks to the development of cycling culture. You can still sample the local national cuisine in a pub or pop into a modern coffee shop for a cup of locally roasted coffee.
Where to stay in Karlín:
- Best for comfort: Hotel Royal Prague. Hotel Royal Prague is set in Prague in the district of Karlín, 2.3 km from Prague National Museum. The hotel is located just 3 subway stations from the centre, only 50 m from subway and tram station Křižíkova. Hotel Royal Prague features a free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar.
- Best for budget: Adeba Hotel. Hotel Adeba can be found 2 metro stops or 3 tram stops from the very centre of Prague, and only a 5-minute walk from the Florenc Central Bus Station. There is a spa centre with sauna and hot tub on site.
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