Crisp, Clean Comfort in Central Prague at Hotel Golden Key

Prague’s Hotel Golden Key didn’t choose its name on a whim. This brand-new property, part of Asten Hotels, is housed in a 13th-century building that once was a locksmith’s shop (the gilt key that still hangs over the door is the medieval version of a street number). Talk about truth in advertising!

Despite its historic roots, the hotel feels fresh and modern inside, thanks to a total overhaul before it opened in 2014. With a can’t miss combination of spacious rooms, family-friendly configurations and warm service, it’s quickly become a favorite for parents traveling with kids.

Family-Friendly Review and Highlights of Hotel Golden Key

A Warm Welcome

One thing becomes clear right away: The Golden Key delights in welcoming little guests. When we checked in and reached our room, we found a series of lovely surprises waiting for us: a bottle of fruit punch and a plate of fanciful cupcakes; colored pencils and sketch paper with a personal note; and our son’s name spelled in bright paper letters across the bed. After a long travel day, these thoughtful touches brought a much-needed smile to all of our faces.

The Golden Key staff bends over backward to cater to kids’ needs. The concierge can offer a list of suggestions for family-friendly activities, amenities and more. Baby cribs and fee-based babysitting are available on request.

Accommodations

Rooms and suites at Hotel Golden Key feel bright, clean and welcoming, done in soothing neutrals with at least one well-chosen antique piece in each. Although the furnishings, decor and in-room amenities are simple and modern, that doesn’t translate to a lack of warmth. There’s plenty of space for families to spread out, and the beds and seating are super-comfortable.

We stayed in a Junior Suite, with a queen-size bed plus a pullout sofa bed for our son. Our room had windows that opened wide to let in fresh air and sunshine, and the view across the red tile rooftops toward Petrin Hill was spectacular. The Golden Key also offers five family suites, with two bedrooms and an ensuite bath, plus a luxury five-bedroom suite for large groups.

Best of all, the rooms are an incredible value for the size and location. Pricing starts at €139 per night for a Superior Room and €209 per night for a Junior Suite, with breakfast included.

Dining

Breakfast at the hotel is buffet-style, served in the cheery Designum Cafe off the lobby. The spread includes breads and pastries, charcuterie, sausages, fruit, egg dishes and more. Coffee, sweet treats and smoothies are available through early evening.

Although there’s no lunch or dinner onsite, the surrounding neighborhood is full of great places to eat. We loved the Three Violins just down the street, one of those rare restaurants that manages to cater to tourists without feeling touristy. Another favorite: Klasterni Pivovar, a brewpub near Prague Castle that’s jam-packed with locals. It’s an intense hike up the hill, but worth it.

Amenities

Onsite amenities are limited but well thought out. On the bottom floor sits a common lounge with a TV, a big table where kids can spread out with games, and armchairs for curling up with a book. The hotel offers a small fitness center as well, and a sauna/relaxation area for a parents-only mini escape.

Local Area

Hotel Golden Key sits on the steep, winding Nerudova Street in the heart of Prague’s centuries-old Mala Strana, or Lesser Quarter. This location is high on medieval charm and absolutely ideal in terms of sightseeing — Prague Castle is a short walk up the hill, and marquee sights such as the Charles Bridge and the astronomical clock are 10 minutes in the other direction.

TIP: The Mala Strana is extremely hilly, and the cobblestone streets plus Prague’s perpetual crowds can make maneuvering a stroller tough. Parents with infants and young toddlers may want to consider a backpack carrier instead.

For those who prefer level terrain, Hotel Golden Key’s sister property, Hotel Klarov, has an equally convenient location in Prague’s historic center. I toured the hotel and, while I didn’t find the immediate area quite as atmospheric as the Mala Strana, the rooms are lovely. Each room is named after a musician or band who has performed in Prague over the past couple of decades, from Beyonce to Andrea Bocelli, and sassy top notes punch up the decor.

Want Help Booking a Room at Hotel Golden Key or Planning a Trip to Prague with Kids?

Our Family Vacation Consulting team can book accommodations, arrange for family-friendly guides, create a customized trip plan and more. Visit the CB! Vacation Consultants page to send us a request.

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Editor’s Note: Lisa was hosted by Hotel Golden Key in order to review the property. As always, our opinions are our own. Photos by Lisa Frederick.