The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague: An Honest Review of My Stay

When looking for a place to stay in the “City of a Hundred Spires,” not only is Prague’s Malá Strana district, which is just at the base of the castle and boasts views across the Vltava river to the old town, an incredible place to stay, but the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague located in this area is a once in a lifetime experience.

Housed in a 13th-century monastery, where active monks still reside, with the other part converted into luxury accommodation, this hotel features a unique history that is sure to impress even the most seasoned travelers.

During my stay, I experienced everything from their exclusive monastery tour to drinking specially brewed lager in historic beer cellars and dining in restored Baroque chambers with original frescoes.

As someone who’s just racked up her 32nd country, I’ve stayed at my fair share of accommodations, from very budget to super unique, which also tends to be more costly. And even after all these places I rested my head, the Augustine still truly wowed me.

Discovering that I could tour a 13th-century library with books that might be the only remaining copies in the world and realizing that I could sip cocktails surrounded by 700 years of history in the peaceful Sundial Garden surrounded by actual medieval monastery ruins, I experienced something truly unrepeatable—which is exactly why I’m sharing every detail about whether the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague actually deserves its reputation as a once-in-a-lifetime accommodation experience.

The Augustine: History and Present

The building where the Augustine hotel is now began as a 13th-century Augustine Monastery.

Augustine monasteries, or Augustinian friaries, are religious institutions founded by the Order of Saint Augustine, also known as the Augustinians.

These monasteries are associated with the Rule of Saint Augustine, a set of guidelines for monastic life based on the teachings of Saint Augustine of Hippo. The Rule emphasizes simplicity, dedication to prayer, study, and service, which is why it’s little surprise that an impressive library is housed here.

Even today, a group of monks still resides in part of the building, while Marriott has leased the other side to create a hotel.

After decades of communist rule, many of Prague’s historic buildings were in serious need of repair, so renowned interior designer Olga Polizzi transformed a section of the 13th-century St. Thomas Church and monastery into Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague.

However, even though Marriott is now in charge of part of the property, they kept the original Baroque details, frescoes, ancient stone archways, tranquil gardens, and hints of monastic life, while also providing excellent modern amenities to their guests.

The central Sundial Garden even features some propped-up remains of the medieval monastery, so you can sip cocktails while being surrounded by history.

Location and Nearby Attractions

For first-time visitors to Prague, it can be a bit hard to figure out where the best place to stay is, as there are many neighborhoods to choose from. However, anyone looking to be near landmarks such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle could not ask for a better location than the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague.

Located in the heart of Prague’s historic Lesser Town, in the neighborhood of Malá Strana, this hotel is right on the main tourist path. But don’t let that make you think that means loud or busy. Set back off the road a bit, the property is secluded and serene.

It was honestly easy to forget we were THAT close to so many main attractions because of how quiet the hotel was, but just a short walk off the property, and there were tons of restaurants, shops, and attractions.

While we mostly walked from attraction to attraction, excellent public transportation options are just a short distance away. This hotel is only five minutes from the Malostranská metro station, and multiple tram lines stop even closer.

Walking Distance to Main Attractions:

• St. Nicholas Church – 4 minutes
• Charles Bridge – 6 minutes
• Prague Castle – 11 minutes
• St. Vitus Cathedral – 12 minutes
• Lobkowicz Palace – 13 minutes
• Prague Astronomical Clock – 17 minutes
• Tyn Church – 18 minutes
• Strahov Monastery – 20 minutes
• The Powder Tower/Obecní Dům – 24 minutes
• Dancing House – 29 minutes
• Vyšehrad – 51 minutes (best if visited by public transport)

My Experience at the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague

First Impressions and Check-in Experience

My travel companion and I spent a few days in Prague before moving to the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague.

Our first hotel was the Hotel Metamorphis, a lovely accommodation in the heart of the Old Town of Prague. Since this place is located on the opposite side of the Vltava river, we stayed on that side of the city until we migrated over and had no idea of the gorgeousness that awaited us.

Upon arriving at the Augustine, we were warmly greeted by the staff and offered a welcome drink.

Unfortunately, as we had shown up a bit early, our room wasn’t yet ready, but we were kindly suggested to visit the Augustine Restaurant, where we could grab a cocktail and lounge in the Sundial Garden.

I’m really glad we did. The weather was incredible that day, so it was lovely to sit and enjoy the sun while sipping a cocktail and looking at the ruins of the old monastery and its historic sundial.

After ordering one of the Augustinian Angels Cocktails, I got the Jophiel, which was fabulously tasty (I nearly had another), we returned to reception. We were then led to our rooms, and our luggage was delivered shortly thereafter.

Room Features and Amenities

The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague features 101 uniquely designed rooms and suites, including six stunning signature suites.

Notably, the Tower Suite, which was once the monastery’s observatory, features a full 360-degree view of Malá Strana. The Fresco Suite boasts original frescoes discovered during renovation and a 19th-century parquet floor.

The Classic Queen

We stayed in the Classic Queen room, which had more than enough room for us to spread out and relax.

The room was large enough to easily fit the queen bed, a desk, TV, a chez lounge sofa (which I found incredibly comfy to work from), a side table and chair, a mini-fridge, a coffee/tea maker, and two closets.

The marble bathroom was also spacious and featured a bathtub, shower, bidet, lighted makeup mirror (always wonderful when you haven’t brought this female travel essential with you), hairdryer, robe, slippers, and amenities such as shower cap, cotton swabs, nail file, etc.

I especially enjoyed the adorable monastery-inspired decor, such as the small statue and the wing of an angel. These elements helped to remind you of the awe-inspiring place you were sleeping, even while surrounded by these modern amenities.

I loved that there were plenty of mirrors in the room. As two female travelers, it’s sometimes a struggle if there is only one in the bathroom.

I also enjoyed the speedy Wi-Fi, the dual-voltage outlets, the complimentary bottled water, and the evening turndown service.

The views from the bedroom and the bathroom were equally impressive. Even with the windows wide open, it was still incredibly quiet.

The rooms at the Augustine boast the exceptionally comfortable Hypnos mattresses, which are the official beds of the British royal family. And I can honestly say, they are fabulously cozy.

Dining Options

After decompressing and exploring our room for a bit, we headed out for a bite to eat at U Glaubiců, a Czech restaurant a short distance away, before returning for a drink in the St. Thomas Brewery.

The St. Thomas Brewery

The St. Thomas Brewery, one of Prague’s oldest beer cellars, is located in the lower part of the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague.

It was founded in 1358 as a monastery brewery, but in the 20th century, this pub gained popularity among locals and famous Czech writers seeking inspiration.

While it also offers traditional Czech cuisine, what we were there for was their signature St. Thomas beer, a dark lager crafted from a secret recipe of the Augustinian monks.

It’s been brewed over the centuries, but is now brewed specially for the hotel according to the monks’ original recipe, making it one of the many unique reasons to stay at the Augustine.

Sitting in this grotto-like area, over the old ruins of this pub, while sipping this specially made lager was a real treat! It felt like I was stepping back in time and experiencing what long-ago monks or those writers may have. As a writer myself, I felt I could glean some inspiration there as well!

The Refectory Bar

After our lager, we headed back up to the ground floor and went to the Refectory Bar.

Housed in the historic dining hall of the monastery, where the monks once shared their meals, this artfully decorated bar is a wonderful place to grab a bite and a stylish drink.

Though they split the old dining hall in half, with one part where the monks still feast and the other this bar, they retained and carefully restored the Baroque frescoes of archangels in the hotel area.

The four archangels depicted on the fresco ceiling have even inspired the names of their signature drinks.

Get the power by drinking Michael, follow your inner voice with Gabriel, feel the love with Raphael or enjoy the beauty of the world with Jophiel.

As I’d already sampled Jophiel earlier, my travel companion and I decided to try out some of their more ornate cocktails, and we weren’t disappointed.

The monastic-inspired cocktail list, flavored with herbs from the garden, boasts quite a few options, but my travel companion settled on the ‘For Her,’ while I got the ‘For Him’ to complement.

Both drinks came with a macaroon, but mine was presented from a case that billowed smoke—very theatrical! We were also given some bar snacks to enjoy while we took in all the elements of the bar.

We then returned to our room, where turndown service had already arrived and left us some chocolate on the pillows and slippers on either side of the bed.

Breakfast at the Augustine Restaurant

While the Augustine Restaurant in the evening offers nouveau Czech cuisine, a modern interpretation of traditional dishes, we experienced the restaurant during breakfast and were blown away.

Upon arriving, we were escorted to a table and immediately presented with all the fantastic options. Not only was there a table full of fruit, pastries, breads, and more, but we were able to order as much off the menu as we’d like.

Off the à la carte menu, I LOVED the French truffle omelette, which featured parmesan, mushrooms, and was topped with truffle caviar. It was so delicious! I also tried the whole grain croissant and the lentil ragout, as it was noted as their signature dish; both were also tasty.

Additionally, I got freshly squeezed orange juice and coffee, which the very attentive and kind staff refilled at the ready.

My travel companion also thoroughly enjoyed her meal and tea.

Wellness and Leisure Facilities

The Augustine Spa

Unfortunately, while we were there, the Augustine Spa was under renovation, so I couldn’t scope out the offerings for myself, as they currently have them upon request.

However, typically, their luxury spa includes a sauna and a steam room when in operation.

One of their signature spa treatments is the St. Thomas Beer Body Ritual, which includes an exfoliation using finely ground organic hops and St. Thomas dark brew.

While I saw several places in Prague offer some sort of beer spa experience, this one sounds especially luxurious and unique in that this connects back to the historic brewery located here.

The Wallenstein Garden

Just before my stay at the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague, I had heard about the Wallenstein Garden from a TikTok video and thought it looked gorgeous!

Built in early Baroque style between 1624 and 1630 for Albrecht von Wallenstein, an ambitious military commander, he began to amass so much wealth and power that Emperor Ferdinand II saw him as a threat.

In 1634, the Emperor accused Wallenstein of treason and had him killed. While the Wallenstein family continued to own his palace, the government confiscated it in 1945 and it is now used by the Czech senate.

This Italian-style park is the second largest garden in the center of Prague and boasts an artificial stalactite wall. The park was partly taken over by the St. Thomas Brewery, hence its grotto-esque area.

Colorful peacocks and an owlery also call the garden home.

Unfortunately, while we were there, the two days we went past it was closed ‘for technical reasons,’ so I didn’t get to see the gardens for myself, but I highly recommend checking them out, especially as they are so close.

The Fitness Center

I do a lot of walking, typically 10 miles a day, while touring a city, so I don’t usually have the energy to work out. However, I liked that this fitness center was available, should I have the time or physical prowess.

Located on the ground floor, it was away from the main hotel rooms, so there were no noise issues.

When I stopped by, no one was working out, so all the equipment was available. It was also very clean and had a variety of machines I would typically use.

Outdoor Spaces

Aside from the Sundial Garden I mentioned earlier, I found two other outdoor spaces while wandering the hotel that were perfect for relaxing and lounging.

Unfortunately, the weather had turned a bit by my last day, so it was too rainy to enjoy these areas. On a good weather day, I would have loved to sit out there and listen to an audiobook or work a little on this blog!

Touring the Monastery

One of the surprises I had while staying at the Augustine was being able to explore the Baroque St. Thomas Church and a 13th-century library on an exclusive tour.

Hosted only on Thursdays for guests, upon check-in, the lovely concierge offered us the chance to sign up for the tour with William, a 92-year-old monk from New York (like myself)!

I was thrilled we happened to luck into staying on a Thursday and could take advantage of this opportunity.

As a huge history buff, staying at a 700-year-old monastery was already incredible, but to tour it with someone who’d lived the monastic life was a truly unique experience.

Artwork in the Lobby

Our tour started in the hotel’s lobby, where we were greeted by a member of staff.

She pointed out to the group the detailed paintings on the lobby walls that I had overlooked before—they were originals.

Background on the St. Thomas Brewery

We were then led down to the St. Thomas Brewery, where she explained how the Wallenstein Garden and the brewery were connected and showed us the original floor of the brewery.

The Wall of Fame

Next, we were shown a diorama of the entire monastery so we could get an idea of the scope of the building.

Before seeing the ‘wall of fame,’ they had hidden behind a door signed by famous guests such as Orlando Bloom, Santana, and Sean Bean, amongst others.

Entering the Monastery

Finally, we entered the monastery where we looked at some paintings while waiting for William.

This man has so much heart and admiration for the St. Thomas Church and the monastery overall, you could feel it radiating from him as he told us the history of the building and the Augustinians who have overseen it for centuries.

The St. Thomas Church

After a short introduction in the hall, he led us into the ornately decorated St. Thomas Church. The church has a lot of backstory, but one thing I recall in particular is that one of the monarchs of Lithuania is buried there (I’m partly Lithuanian on my mother’s side; the other half is Slovenian).

He also pointed out a very ‘Phantom of the Opera ‘- looking burial.

Apparently, it wasn’t originally like that, but due to vandals (if I recall correctly), he had asked the burial be repaired, and the death mask given in this exchange didn’t quite come out as expected.

The Library of the Monastery

The real treasure on this tour, at least in my opinion as a book nerd, was the 13th-century library.

We were led up a set of stairs to an incredible library that the monks have overseen for centuries. As I had missed my chance to see the Klementinum, where Albert Einstein taught and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played, I was thrilled to see this jewel of a library.

I thought it was neat hearing William talk about how they’ve preserved these works, especially ones from governing bodies or areas that may no longer exist due to land disputes or changes in borders.

He said many of the law books, in particular, may be the only ones left in the world!

Overall, this tour was magical! There’s no other word for it. I felt so special and honored to visit the monastery and witness how much reverence they have for their calling.

Value Assessment

Do I feel it was worth it to stay at the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague? Yes!

It is truly a unique experience that cannot be recreated elsewhere.

Budget travelers will find more economical options throughout Prague, but those prioritizing location, wonderful food and drink options, and once-in-a-lifetime historical and cultural experiences will find that the Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague, offers great value.

1. Location: The unbeatable central location justifies a higher rate than properties in outlying areas, which may cause travelers to spend more on transportation or take up travel time.
2. Food and Drink: The epic, unforgettable breakfast options and wonderfully unique places to grab a drink or a bite to eat add significant value and convenience.
3. Historical and Cultural Immersion: The authentic historical environment provided is worth the investment for travelers wanting to get the most immersive experience possible while in Prague. Not only can you hang out in a historic brewery and try specially made lager, but you can also get a guided tour by an actual monk who’s incredibly knowledgeable and charming to make your stay that much more special.

Those who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy program will also benefit from staying at this property.

Concerns About This Prague Hotel

To be an honest assessment, I like to address any shortcomings, however, I don’t feel there was much of anything to write home about.

The hiccups I can recall are that upon showing up for the tour, apparently, the concierge had forgotten to put our name down, but this was quickly remedied, and we were allowed to join.

We also weren’t told there was a cost to the tour, but as it was a donation to the monastery, we had no issues paying the fee, which equated to about $45 USD for two people.

The only other thing I’d say is that the bathroom door didn’t lock, and it wasn’t exactly soundproof. Luckily, my travel companion and I are easygoing, but I could see the need for a locking door and also one with more soundproofing.

Final Verdict

Luxury travelers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a one-in-a-lifetime experience will adore this rare combination of cultural legacy and superb elegance in the heart of Prague.

A stay at the Augustine allowed us to delve into the rich history of the Augustinian order, see the timeless beauty of St. Thomas Church, feast on incredible breakfast dishes, sip historic lager, have easy access to Prague’s famous attractions, sleep comfortably in a wonderful room, and gain a better understanding of the enduring traditions of monastic life, both past and present.

I would certainly return if I were heading to Prague again!

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Address: Letenská 12/33, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia

Transparency: This was a complimentary stay that I was gifted, but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

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