Growing up, my mom had this little watercolor painting of the skyline of Prague in her office, which now hangs in our living room. I’ve always loved looking at it for both the artist’s talent, but also for the beauty of the city.
While I was there I couldn’t get over the fact that I was essentially in that painting. And let me tell you, the city met (and exceeded) all of my expectations from that painting!
I sincerely hope you love it as much as I do, happy planning!
Before You Leave
- Summary: Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, located in Central Europe. The city’s nickname is “the City of a Hundred Spires” because of all of the church spires, though there are an estimated 500. Running through the middle of the city is the Vltava river, which is often the forefront of popular pictures in Prague. The Czech Republic has been part of the European Union since 2004, but separated and became independent from Czechoslovakia in 1993. For reference, Praha is translated as Prague in English so just know they mean the same thing!
- How to get there: Like most places in Europe, the most common way is to enter by Eurorail. If you do, you’ll likely arrive at Praha hlavní nádraží (translates to Praha main railway station, abbreviated as Praha hl). This drops you essentially at the center! If you fly, you’ll fly into Vaclav Havel Airport Prague. It’s about 18 km/ 11 miles from the city center and you can get to the center by taxi, UBER, or city bus #119.
- Language: Czech
- Currency: Koruna (Kč) – pronounced ‘corona’
- Religion: mostly undeclared or Catholic
- Politics: Unitary Parliamentary Constitutional Republic (meaning the Prime Minister is head of government and President is head of state).
- Side they drive: Right
- Culture: Check out Hofstede’s culture comparison.
- Fun fact: Prague has the largest castle in the world (the Prague Castle)!
Transportation
- Metro, there is a Metro in Prague that is often supplemented with the bus. It’s the best option if you want to get from one side of the city to the other. Trams are also available for shorter distances throughout the city.
- Bus, this is the most popular way to travel around besides walking. The bus system is incredibly easy to figure out and a cheap option! You can purchase a transportation pass for individual trips or for increments such as one day or one week. Click here to find the link for fare prices!
- Walking, Prague, though large, is fairly compact making it convenient to walk just about anywhere! This is arguably the best way to see the city, but if you prefer less walking, focus on public transportation (it’s great).
- Uber, it is available, but not as popular as the US. It’s a decent option for foreigners (as the rate is fixed), but again for convenience, for the environment, and for your wallet’s sake, check into public transportation first!
- Taxi, available, but expensive, especially for foreigners!
What to See
Astronomical Clock: The clock is located at the south side of the Old Town Hall Tower and at the top of every hour from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., the procession of the Twelve Apostles begins. The clock is originally from 1410, making it the third oldest in the world. However, it is the only one that still works! There are three main parts: a calendar dial, the twelve apostles, and the sundial. There is a local legend that believes the city will be in peril if the operation of the clock stops. They believe the ghost on the clock supposedly nods its head to confirm this myth and the only hope is for a boy to be born on New Years’ Eve.
Prague Castle: It’s currently the largest castle in the world, around 750,000 square feet! In the past, it has been the place of power for the kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, Czechoslovakia Presidents, and currently the President of the Czech Republic. Currently, the Bohemian Crown Jewels are still there! The castle itself feels very much like its own city, you won’t believe it’s all one place! Admission is around $20 and is well worth the visit!
St. Vitus Cathedral: This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen. It is the most important in Prague due to the many coronations of kings and queens held here and for the religious ceremonies still held here. The stained glass windows are spectacular and the cathedral itself is a beautiful representation of Gothic architecture. Its located in the courtyard of the Prague Castle, so be sure to see it!
Charles Bridge: The bridge stretches across the Vltava river and connects Lesser Town (Mala Strana) to Oldtown. It was built in 1357 by Czech King (and Holy Roman Emperor), Charles IV. The major significance for the bridge is the job it held at one time: its connection of the Prague Castle to Old Town. If you can, check out the bridge from multiple different spots both on the bridge and from the riverfront, it offers so many amazing views of the bridge and the city!
Old Town Square: This is where you can find the Astronomical Clock (on the southern side!). It’s on the opposite side of Prague Castle! You’ll get a great feel for the city, some great shopping, and street food!
Lennon Wall: Originally, a portrait and song lyrics were anonymously pained on the wall as a response to John Lennon’s assassination. Since, it has collected layers of tribute connecting people to the late singer, offering an expression of western thought and emotions for the singer.
Communism Museum: Remember, Czech Republic (and Slovakia) has only been independent since 1993 when the dissolvent of Czechoslovakia occurred. Previously, from WWII to the Velvet Revolution in 1989, the Soviet Union (as a communist party) maintained control of Czechoslovakia. Again, it wasn’t until 1993 that it was fully dissolved and the countries became independent. Learning this history is important for understanding where things used to be, why they are where they are, and what the future looks like.
Check out this map with all of that info!
Where to Stay
Top Rated Upscale Hotels
Augustine (a Marriott Collection Hotel)
Top Rated Affordable Hotels
Cosmopolitan Hotel (Use WELCOME to get 10% off)
Top Rated Hostels
What to Eat
There are MANY great local things to try while in Prague and lucky for you many of them can be found on the streets of Old Town! Some may sound a little more appealing than others, but all worth a try!
Chimney Cake: It resembles the flavors of a Churro, but is wrapped to take the form of a tube (hence a chimney), which then can be filled with all sorts of goodies. Trust me, you can’t miss this!
Grilované klobásy: (AKA grilled sausage) Just like chimney cakes, you’ll see these everywhere (you’ll smell them too). It’s a fantastic option to eat while strolling the city.
Nakládaný hermelín: (AKA pickled cheese) You’d be surprised by this one, but it truly is another ‘must’, especially if you like cheese!
Goulash: Generally, the Czech form of goulash has dumplings and is quite a bit thicker than other versions! The flavor is fantastic and you just need to try it after a long day of sightseeing!
Pivo: (beer) the Czech claim to have the best beer in the world and there’s no denying the opportunity to try it at just about every corner. Some local favorites include Staropramen and Budvar. Which for the record (though I can’t personal contest because I didn’t try them), supposedly most Czech beers are on the lighter side and a bit hoppy.
Chlebíčky: Open faced sandwiches, which are exactly what you think they’d be! Another great on-the-go snack option!
Pork Knuckle: If you google it or ask locals, this will be at the very TOP of any must try list. It’s a slow cooked, tender meat, that is seasoned with tons of herbs. What’s not to like?
If you’re looking for some specific restaurants here are some great options.
Black Bettie’s Grill: This is a super fun, electric, burger bar that serves some of the best burgers I’ve ever had! If you need a night of good ole-American comfort food in the heart of Prague, this is it!
U Kroka: Looking for a place for fantastic local cuisine and a great atmosphere? Look no further!
Be Bop Bar: This is a great option for a night out. With both classic and local bar food options, local beers, and signature craft cocktails!
Stredoveka Krcma: This restaurant is located underneath the Prague Castle, intertwined with the Catacombs. It truly feels like you’re stepping back in time with the Medieval cuisine and theme! We were there for lunch, but still got a chance to experience the creepiness of the catacombs and deliciousness of the food, but if you go at night they actually have a show (including a fire-breather!) that makes the experience that much better.
Where to go to Church
Heart Prague: this is where we went and truly it was incredible! It was a little further outside of the city than other options, but the community is second to none.
If you’re planning your trip to Prague, I hope this helps! Otherwise I hope it inspires you to travel to an incredible city!
Either way, let me know if you visit, what you’re most excited for!
Til next time,
Katelyn
If you’re going to prague I recommend checking out Vyšherad castle, it’s less crowded and honestly more interested than prague castle. Also I recommend taking trams (like the Twin cities light rail) if at all possible! they’re not nearly as bumpy as busses and you get a great view of the city unlike the metro 🙂
I’ll have to add that to my list for next time—thanks! And that’s so helpful, I’m surprised we never ventured to the metro, will have to check that out too!