Prague, Czech Republic

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture. This guide will help you navigate the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and transport yourself around this beautiful city.

Places to Visit

Historical Landmarks

  • Prague Castle: A must-visit attraction in Prague, this castle complex includes St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and Basilica of St. George.
  • Charles Bridge: This iconic bridge is lined with statues and offers stunning views of the Vltava River.
  • Old Town Square: Admire the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, and St. Nicholas Church in this vibrant square.

Museums and Galleries

  • National Museum: Learn about Czech history, art, and science at this comprehensive museum.
  • Mucha Museum: Dedicated to the life and work of Alphonse Mucha, a famous Czech artist.
  • Prague City Museum: Explore the city’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.

Parks and Gardens

  • Petřín Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this hill, which also features a mirror maze and a miniature Eiffel Tower.
  • Wallenstein Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring fountains, statues, and a beautiful palace.
  • Royal Gardens: Stroll through these gardens, which feature several ponds, fountains, and walking paths.

Neighborhoods to Explore

  • Lesser Town: This charming neighborhood is known for its Baroque architecture, quaint streets, and upscale restaurants.
  • Karlovy Vary District: Visit this trendy district for its art nouveau architecture, boutique shops, and lively nightlife.
  • Žižkov District: Explore this up-and-coming neighborhood, which features street art, independent cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Activities

Guided Tours

  • Walking Tours: Join a guided walking tour to explore Prague’s hidden gems and learn about its history and culture.
  • River Cruises: Take a romantic river cruise along the Vltava River and admire the city’s landmarks from a different perspective.
  • Food Tours: Sample traditional Czech cuisine and drinks on a guided food tour.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: Explore the surrounding countryside and go hiking in the nearby hills and forests.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and ride along the Vltava River or explore the city’s bike-friendly streets.
  • Kayaking: Paddle down the Vltava River and enjoy Prague from a different perspective.

Cultural Events

  • Prague Spring Festival: Attend this annual festival, which features classical music performances by world-renowned artists.
  • United Islands of Prague: Enjoy live music, food, and drinks at this popular summer festival.
  • Christmas Markets: Visit Prague’s festive Christmas markets for traditional food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Where to Eat

Traditional Czech Cuisine

  • La Degustation: Savor traditional Czech dishes in a cozy, upscale atmosphere.
  • Mlýnec: Enjoy classic Czech cuisine with a modern twist at this popular restaurant.
  • Eska: Try traditional Czech pub food and drinks at this lively spot.

International Cuisine

  • Field: Sample farm-to-table international cuisine at this trendy restaurant.
  • Bistrot 104: Enjoy French-inspired bistro cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Miyabi: Savor Japanese cuisine with a modern twist at this stylish restaurant.

Cafes and Bakeries

  • Café Imperial: Admire the stunning interior of this historic cafe while enjoying coffee and pastries.
  • Bajerovsky Pivovar: Visit this popular bakery for traditional Czech pastries and sandwiches.
  • Espresso Bar: Get your caffeine fix at this modern, specialty coffee shop.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Four Seasons Hotel Prague: Enjoy luxurious amenities and stunning views of the city at this 5-star hotel.
  • Mandarin Oriental Prague: Relax in style at this modern, upscale hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
  • Hotel Paris Prague: Experience luxury and elegance at this historic hotel with a prime location.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Hostel One Home: Enjoy a social atmosphere and affordable prices at this popular hostel.
  • Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square: Stay in the heart of the city at this budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities.
  • Airbnb Apartments: Rent a cozy apartment through Airbnb for a more home-like experience.

Things to Know

Language

  • Czech is the official language, but many Prague residents speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Currency

  • The Czech koruna (CZK) is the local currency, although euros are widely accepted.
  • Credit cards are also widely accepted in most tourist-friendly establishments.

Weather

  • Prague experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly!

Safety

  • Prague is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

Getting There

  • Václav Havel Airport Prague: The city’s international airport is located about 15 km from the city center.
  • Bus and Train Stations: Prague has several bus and train stations that connect to other European cities.

Getting Around

  • Metro: Prague’s efficient metro system features three lines that cover most areas of the city.
  • Trams: Use trams to get around the city, especially in areas where the metro doesn’t reach.
  • Buses: Take buses for shorter trips or to explore the surrounding countryside.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing

  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to use licensed services to avoid scams.
  • Uber: Uber is also available in Prague, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Tips and Tricks

Save Money

  • Buy food and drinks at local markets or supermarkets instead of touristy restaurants.
  • Take advantage of happy hour deals or discounts at bars and restaurants.

Learn Some Czech

  • Learn basic Czech phrases like “hello” (ahoj), “thank you” (děkuji), and “excuse me” (prominte).
  • Show respect for the local culture by attempting to speak the language.

Respect Local Customs

  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional Czech restaurant.
  • Avoid loud noise and rowdy behavior, especially in residential areas.

Stay Informed

  • Follow local news and event calendars to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Prague.
  • Download useful apps like Google Maps or Prague’s official tourist app to navigate the city.

Other Things of Interest

Day Trips

  • Kutná Hora: Visit this UNESCO-listed town with its stunning Gothic cathedral and silver mining history.
  • Český Krumlov: Explore this picturesque medieval town with its castle, gardens, and winding streets.
  • Karlštejn Castle: Discover this stunning Gothic castle, a popular day trip from Prague.

Shopping

  • Pařížská Street: Find high-end boutiques and designer shops on this luxurious shopping street.
  • Wenceslas Square: Visit this bustling square for souvenir shops, department stores, and local markets.
  • Flea Markets: Explore Prague’s various flea markets for vintage finds, antiques, and souvenirs.

Nightlife

  • Rooftop Bars: Enjoy stunning views of the city at rooftop bars like Cloud 9 or Duplex.
  • Clubs: Dance the night away at popular clubs like Karlovy Lokal or SaSaZu.
  • Jazz Clubs: Experience Prague’s vibrant jazz scene at clubs like Reduta Jazz Club or Agharta.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Prague!