Hotel Sax

Funky 60s-style design hotel with friendly service in the heart of Mala Strana

If you're looking for a characterful, central hotel with a huge dose of fun and friendliness, Hotel Sax can't be bettered. Situated just off the picture-postcard Nerudova Street (also known as Kings Road or Royal Way), Sax is in a plum location between Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, in the centre of the capital's historic Lesser District or Mala Strana.

Once the doors have closed on the Renaissance and Baroque facades, you find yourself in a colourful, geometric world of funky 1960s and 1970s influenced decor, courtesy of local architects Nadi Sádovská and Jaromír Pitzinger. The atrium - a converted courtyard which floods the four storeys beneath with natural light - is dominated by a giant pop-art painting of a watermelon.

Head into the lobby bar and you're surrounded by Bridget-Riley-esque prints of distorted chequers, and all manner of chairs and stools, from orange leatherette sofas to white moulded bar stools to classic bubble chairs and Eames easy chairs.

Highs

• Funky, fun lobby where you can plan your evenings out over a cocktail
• Views out over the Strahov Monastery, Prague Castle and St Nicolas' Church
• Quiet spot at the centre of Prague's hubbub
• Funky bedrooms with good amenities

Lows

• Since the refurb, prices have taken a hike
• Not for lovers of historic splendour: plump for The Iron Gate or Hotel Aria instead