Prague, Czech Republic

Ultimate Travel Guide to Prague, Czech Republic

Overview

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a fairytale city nestled along the Vltava River. Known for its Old Town Square, historic buildings, and vibrant culture, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. This guide will take you through the best places to visit, activities, where to eat, stay, transportation, tips, and more!

Places to Visit

  1. Charles Bridge (Karlův most): One of Prague’s most iconic sites, this Gothic bridge offers stunning views of the city and is adorned with 30 statues of saints.
  2. Prague Castle (Pražský hrad): The largest ancient castle in the world, it houses several palaces, churches, and museums, including St. Vitus Cathedral.
  3. Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí): Home to the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, and Old Town Hall.
  4. Jewish Quarter (Josefov): Explore the six synagogues, including the Spanish Synagogue, and the Jewish Museum.
  5. Petřín Hill: Visit Petřín Tower, Mirror Maze, and Petřín Observatory.
  6. Vyšehrad: A historic fortress overlooking the city with beautiful gardens, churches, and museums.
  7. John Lennon Wall: A tribute to the late Beatles singer covered in colorful graffiti and lyrics.

Activities

  1. Boat Tour on Vltava River: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river with stunning views of Prague’s landmarks.
  2. Prague Beer Tour: Discover the city’s rich beer tradition by visiting historic breweries and tasting local beers.
  3. Astronomical Clock Show: Witness the intricate mechanical clock’s hourly performance in Old Town Square.
  4. Visit a Traditional Czech Spa (Lázně): Relax in natural hot springs and enjoy various spa treatments.
  5. Attend a Concert at St. Salvator Church: Listen to classical music performances in this beautiful Baroque church.

Where to Eat

  1. Mlýnec: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Czech cuisine in a historic setting.
  2. La Degustation Boheme Bourgeoise: Offers a multi-course tasting menu showcasing creative interpretations of traditional Czech dishes.
  3. U Kroka: A popular spot for hearty Czech meals, especially its goulash and dumplings.
  4. Lokál Dlouhááá: A modern eatery serving traditional Czech food in a lively atmosphere.
  5. Maso a kobliha: Famous for its meat dishes and the best place to try the traditional Prague ham.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Riverside: Located on the riverbank, this hotel offers modern rooms with stunning views of Prague Castle.
  2. Hotel U Prince: A historic boutique hotel in Old Town Square with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace.
  3. Hotel Josef: A stylish design hotel in the trendy Žižkov district, offering contemporary rooms and a rooftop bar.
  4. Aria Hotel Prague: A luxury hotel featuring themed wings dedicated to music genres, with live performances every evening.
  5. Hostel Downtown: Affordable yet comfortable accommodation in the heart of Prague, perfect for budget travelers.

Things to Know

  1. Currency: The official currency is the Czech Crown (CZK). Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  2. Language: The official language is Czech, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  3. Tipping: It’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants. Rounding up the bill is common practice in cafes and bars.
  4. Public Transportation: Prague has an extensive public transport network, including trams, buses, and metro. A travel pass can be purchased for unlimited travel within designated zones.
  5. Operating Hours: Shops usually open from 9 am to 6 pm, Mondays to Saturdays, with extended hours on Thursdays. Many shops close on Sundays.
  6. Safety: Prague is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and at tourist attractions.

Tips

  1. Buy a Travel Pass: Save money by purchasing a travel pass for unlimited use of public transportation during your stay.
  2. Visit Off-Peak: To avoid the crowds, plan to visit popular attractions early in the morning or late afternoon.
  3. Try Traditional Czech Foods: Don’t leave Prague without trying goulash, dumplings, and trdelník (a sweet pastry).
  4. Explore Beyond the City: Day trips to Kutná Hora, Karlštejn Castle, or Český Krumlov are worth considering for a unique Czech experience.