Prague: More Eastern European Splendor

Terrace Dining At Allegro in Prague

Many people do the trifecta in this part of the world:  a sybaritic journey that encompasses Budapest, Prague and Vienna.  My friends, Denise and Alan, combined their September trip to Budapest with Prague, a sensible decision since prices in Vienna weigh in considerably more.

With only a five-hour drive or a one-hour flight between these two great Eastern European capitals, a visit to both seems like a must, especially if a rich cultural scene and outstanding Old World architecture figure among your requisites of a memorable vacation.  Known as the Paris of the north, Prague also begs to be explored by foot, mostly since the majority of the main attractions are located within the city center.  With three major opera houses and several other prominent cultural hubs, Prague also boasts a vibrant music scene, although expect to pay a bit more here to attend events than in neighboring Budapest.

According to my extremely well-traveled friend, Denise, this seemed to be the case across the board.  She found Prague to be a notch or two up from Budapest—price-wise—although still significantly less than most other major European cities.  A dinner for two with wine, for example, rang in about $80. to $100., noticeably more than the same in Budapest.  

Czech cuisine, known for its large meat and potatoes emphasis, did not impress Denise nearly as much as the food and wine of Budapest, yet her entire gastronomic experience in Prague was certainly blown off the charts by her meal at Allegro, the only one-star Michelin restaurant in all of Central and Eastern Europe.  It came as no surprise that it was housed within the elegant confines of the Four Seasons Hotel Prague, another outstanding property embellished with world-class artwork and situated on the banks of a historic river.  As the name indicates, Allegro features an Italian cuisine, one that is especially refined and served in a stunning setting, itself worthy of five stars.

Italian Elegance in the Czech Republic

It seems as though the Four Seasons name is still more accessible in Eastern Europe than in other parts of the world.  Eastern Europe has not yet adopted the euro, so one can only imagine how long it will stay that way.  It might be a good time to start planning a trip to this part of the world soon.  With travel deals the way they are now, you might even be able to swing Vienna.

Four Seasons Hotel Prague, 420-221-427-000; www.fourseasons.com/prague

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