Welcome in Cloister Inn Hotel

The Cloister Inn Hotel is located  in the heart of the Old Town, in a side lane almost free of traffic only an inch to the major tourist attractions.

3-min walk            National Theatre

7-min walk            Charles Bridge

5-min walk            Old Town Square

10-min walk          Jewish Quarter with Cemetery

5-min walk            Wenceslas Square

15-min by tram     Prague Castle

The building lies on the premises of a medieval convent and offers good-quality services and family atmosphere in a quiet location in Prague´s oldest historical quarter.

After a whole day of walking you definitely appreciate the immediacy of the Cloister Inn location and complimentary refreshing cup of coffee or tea in the lobby.

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A quick guide to Prague's drinking water quality and safety

Welcome to the historic charm of the Old Town of Prague, where the Cloister Inn Hotel serves as your comfortable home base near the magnificent National Theatre. As you explore the cobblestone streets and sip on traditional Czech cuisine, one of the most frequent questions guests ask is whether the tap water is safe to drink. The short answer is a resounding yes; Prague's municipal water supply is rigorously monitored, treated to international standards, and is completely potable, making it a safe and refreshing choice for daily consumption throughout your stay.

Understanding the Local Supply

The water flowing from the taps in Prague is sourced from underground aquifers and surface reservoirs,经过 extensive purification processes before it reaches your room at the Cloister Inn. The city's water management system is among the most advanced in Europe, ensuring that every drop meets strict health regulations. You will find that the water taste may vary slightly depending on the age of the pipes in your specific building, with some older structures potentially having a mineral character, while modern apartments offer a cleaner, softer flow. Despite these minor variations, the water is chemically pure and free from harmful contaminants, allowing you to drink, cook with, or even use it for bathing without any worry.

Why Tap Water is Safe to Drink

It is important to understand the rigorous testing protocols that govern the city's water quality. The Czech Republic, under EU directives, enforces comprehensive checks on water composition, including levels of chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria, and other potential impurities. These tests are conducted regularly, and any deviation from safety standards would result in immediate intervention. Furthermore, many hotels in Prague, including our own, do not provide bottled water for free simply because tap water is abundant, safe, and preferred by locals. Drinking locally sourced water supports the local infrastructure and reduces plastic waste, aligning with the eco-conscious values of many modern travelers.

How to Identify Safe Water Sources

Not every water source in a European city is automatically safe, though in Prague, the tap is generally reliable. To ensure you are getting the best quality water, especially if you are unsure about the plumbing in a specific area, consider the following guidelines:

  • Check the age of the building: Newer constructions and buildings renovated in the last decade have newer pipework that minimizes the risk of sediment buildup, whereas very old stone buildings might require a run of the tap for a minute or two before the water is fully clear.
  • Look for the water symbol: In public fountains, be sure to check for the official water quality symbol, which indicates that the water has been tested and is safe for drinking.
  • Observe local habits: If the residents around you are openly drinking from the tap or using it for cooking, it is almost certainly safe for you to do the same.
  • Avoid stagnant water: Always ensure the tap is turned on and the water is flowing before consuming it to prevent potential contamination from dust or debris in the pipe.
  • Bring a filter if needed: If you have specific sensitivities or concerns, you can purchase a simple travel filter or purification tablets at any pharmacy, though this is usually unnecessary for most travelers.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Choosing tap water over bottled alternatives has significant benefits for both the environment and your wallet. The production and disposal of millions of plastic bottles annually create a substantial ecological footprint, whereas utilizing the local supply is a zero-waste solution. For budget-conscious travelers, the cost difference is immediate; a bottle of water can cost several euros, whereas tap water is free. By embracing the local habit of drinking tap water, you join the millions of Czechs who find it to be a delightful part of their daily routine, often enhanced by the distinct mineral taste that characterizes the region's natural resources.

Practical Tips for Your Stay at the Cloister Inn

At the Cloister Inn Hotel, we have ensured that our guests have easy access to high-quality water. Our rooms are equipped with standard taps that provide clean, safe water for your daily needs. Whether you are preparing a simple breakfast in your room, refilling your travel mug while walking through the Old Town, or enjoying a glass after a night of exploring the National Theatre area, you can rely on the quality of our municipal supply. If you encounter any issues with the water quality in your specific accommodation, please do not hesitate to contact our front desk immediately, as we take your comfort and safety as our top priority. By trusting the local water system, you contribute to a greener stay and support the sustainable practices of Prague's hospitality industry.

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