If you're thinking about a Prague getaway, then consider heading just a bit further out of town and parking your bags at the Chateau Mcely. You won't find a stag do or tourist shop selling bad art deco reproductions in sight. This fully restored manor home was the former residence of the Thurn-Taxis aristocracy, and is perfect if all you want to do is hole up and pamper yourself. The Chateau lies in the heart of the St. George Forest, and is next to the 12,000 acre Jabkenice Game Park- and yet only one hour away from Prague. Guests can spend their days taking walks through the park, indulging in a spa treatment or a picnic, or playing golf at a nearby course. Or if you are feeling adventurous, Chateau Mcely can organize a boat hire, to explore the nearby River Elbe. For bookings and more information, call Mason Rose on 020 7235 3245.

After the Velvet Revolution of 1989, Prague was dubbed the “Paris of Eastern Europe” or “the new Paris”.

We reveal Prague's stand out stores from the best Czech crystal to affordable garnet jewellery and contemporary homewares.

Tucked away in the back streets of Old Town, La Scene is a new French restaurant in Prague. There's also a lounge area, ideal for pre-dinner or after shopping drinks. Menu highlights include foie gras terrine with prunes and armagnac and a lightly toasted brioche; red mullet soufflé with baby spinach and a tapenade sauce, or warm chocolate cake topped with a white chocolate sauce. Yum. www.lascene.cz

The latest hotel trend is to have an expert for every aspect of a stay, including a pillow concierge, a bath butler, a tea sommelier and even a bow-wow butler to cater to canine needs.