By Shannon Skeels
Few destinations balance old-world grandeur with contemporary style quite like Prague, and a recent FAM trip brought that contrast to life. From 5 to 8 June, a group of UK-based event professionals were invited to explore the city’s potential through a thoughtfully curated itinerary hosted by DMC Advantage, Hotel Republic, OREA Hotels, and Wise Bohemian River.
The group included representatives from agencies such as Freshly Squeezed Events, Muster, and Hire Space. Over the course of a few days, we explored a city where centuries-old castles and cobbled streets sit comfortably alongside rooftop bars, high-spec meeting spaces, and modern riverside venues. It was a trip that showed how Prague doesn’t make planners choose between heritage and innovation, it delivers both, often at the same time.
After arriving late on Thursday night, we checked into the OREA Hotel Pyramida Prague, a well-equipped and welcoming base just a short walk from Prague Castle. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, each with a touch of character (including a quirky giraffe mural), and the location offered quick access to the city centre while still feeling calm and quiet.
Day 1
Friday began with a presentation and site inspection, giving us a closer look at the Pyramida’s impressive MICE credentials. With 340 guest rooms, 12 meeting spaces for up to 1,000 delegates, and the distinctive Dlabačov Cinema Hall offering theatre-style seating for 377, it’s a property that easily accommodates larger groups. Two on-site restaurants, a pool, sauna and gym round out the offering, balancing function with comfort for both work and downtime.
In a quick jump from boardrooms to cobblestones, we boarded a private vintage tram and headed into the heart of the city, a scenic and nostalgic way to take in Prague for the first time. Catching the first glimpse of its famous skyline of spires was a poignant moment, and the ride perfectly captured the city’s romantic side and made me eager to begin exploring all it has to offer.
Lunch was hosted at Mlýnec Restaurant, part of the renowned Zátiší Group, whose venues and catering services are known for their creativity and quality. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Charles Bridge and a menu blending traditional flavours with modern flair, it was the perfect example of how Prague does classic with a contemporary twist, and an ideal setting for VIP dinners or incentive groups.
A short stroll across the bridge took us to Žofín Palace, one of Prague’s most prestigious historic venues. Set on its own island and surrounded by river views, the palace is dripping in elegance. Walking in, we were treated to marble interiors, arched windows, and a showstopping ballroom. For planners looking for a venue that is ideal for gala dinners or award shows, Žofín Palace is set to impress on all fronts.
As evening fell, we suited up for a Great Gatsby–inspired black-tie dinner. Collected in vintage Prague cars, we were chauffeured through the city to the iconic Municipal House. There’s something special about dressing up and arriving in style to such a stunning venue, and it really set the tone for an evening that felt like stepping into another time. Before dinner, we toured some of the venue’s most celebrated spaces, each carrying its own historic charm, but all offer the scale and flexibility to support modern production needs.
Dinner was served in the Municipal House Restaurant, where a beautifully curated three-course menu was paired with seamless service. Our table was placed in an alcove at the end of the restaurant, allowing our group a feeling of privacy whilst still being able to enjoy the space and décor of the main restaurant. We ended the evening at Tretter’s Bar, tucked into the ground floor of the building. With moody lighting, sharp 1920’s speak-easy themed interiors, and expertly crafted cocktails, it provided a sleek contrast to the ornate rooms upstairs.
Day 2
Saturday began with a visit to OREA Hotel Angelo Praha, located close to the vibrant Anděl district. With its bold colour palette, clean lines and corporate energy, the Angelo offers a different flavour entirely. With 168 guest rooms and five meeting rooms for up to 370 guests, it’s a solid choice for business travellers or planners seeking a more contemporary, city-centre setting.
Next, we took the metro to the Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience, a newer addition to the city’s incentive-friendly offerings. Immersive, interactive, and full of character, the experience dives into Czech beer heritage with modern flair. We wrapped up the tour with a private session where we learned how to pour the perfect pint and sampled different styles, a skill which is both culturally enriching and dangerously transferrable to a UK summer BBQ. All of this was followed by a traditional Czech lunch in the on-site bar. Informal, fun and easy to customise, it’s an ideal fit for incentive groups.
The afternoon delivered one of the most creative city tours I’ve come across. Structured like a secret agent mission, complete with clues, costumed actors and the overwhelming desire to take it far too seriously. It quickly became apparent that some of us were very ready for our spy debut. It was a clever blend of team-building and sightseeing, a great idea for groups that want more than a standard guided tour.
Day 3
Sunday morning started with a private river cruise along the Vltava, a calm and elegant way to take in more of the city’s skyline. As we sailed past bridges, palaces and modern developments, our guide shared stories that added context to the architecture and connected the dots between past and present. Lunch followed at SenSa Bistro Praha, an Asian fusion spot with stylish interiors and bold flavours. The restaurant is connected to OREA Place Seno, a modern aparthotel offering fully equipped studios and apartments for up to five guests at a time. We managed to fit in a quick look at some of the apartments, each one offered plenty of space with beautifully designed interiors. They’d make a great choice for longer stays or groups who want the flexibility of apartment living without compromising on design.
Our final stop before heading home was Gabriel Loci, a former Benedictine monastery turned creative event space. Built in the late 1800s in Neo-Romanesque style, the venue is rich in both history and detail. At its heart is the beautiful Church of the Annunciation, but the real magic lies in the mix of spaces: from grand halls to raw industrial corners and tucked-away artistic nooks. It’s the kind of place that could turn its hand to a fashion show, a product launch or a gala dinner.
Across every stop on the itinerary, one message came through clearly, Prague is a city built on contrast, and that’s what makes it so powerful for events. You can open your day in a sleek conference space, break for lunch overlooking a centuries-old bridge, host a gala in a palace and end with cocktails in a cutting-edge venue. For planners looking to create programmes that are layered, unexpected and flexible, Prague proves you don’t have to pick a side, you can have both.