Prague Travel Guide - Your Complete Guide to the Golden City

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Prague by Martin Krchnacek on Unsplash.

Travel Notes: Destinations: Czechia - Prague Travel Guide.

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Travel Guide For Visitors to Prague

Prague consistently ranks among the most captivating capitals in Europe, thanks to fairytale architecture, legendary beer culture and vibrant nightlife scene. Share on Facebook

Planning a Trip to Prague

This Czech Republic gem offers medieval charm without the eye-watering prices of Western European capitals, making it perfect for both budget-conscious backpackers and luxury travellers seeking exceptional value.

Driving Distances in Europe

Driving to Prague.

Visiting Prague

City of a Hundred Spires

Prague isn't called the 'City of a Hundred Spires' for nothing.

This UNESCO World Heritage site survived both World Wars relatively unscathed, leaving visitors with one of Europe's best-preserved medieval city centres.

Add world-class beer, hearty cuisine, and prices that won't require a second mortgage, and you'll understand why Prague attracts over eight million visitors annually.

Best Time to Visit Prague

Spring (April-May)

Spring offers mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring Prague Castle and wandering the cobblestone streets without the summer masses.

Summer (June-August)

Summer brings peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours.

Expect higher prices and busier attractions, but also outdoor festivals and beer garden season.

Autumn (September-October)

Autumn in Prague delivers crisp air, golden foliage, and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Many consider this Prague's most photogenic season.

Winter (November-March)

Winter transforms the city into a winter wonderland, especially during the famous Christmas markets.

Pack warm clothes but enjoy rock-bottom accommodation prices.

Top Prague Attractions

Charles Bridge

This 14th-century stone bridge connects Old Town with Lesser Town and offers stunning views of Prague Castle.

Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds and capture that perfect Instagram shot without dodging tour groups.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Explore Europe's best-preserved Jewish quarter, including the haunting Old Jewish Cemetery and several historic synagogues that tell Prague's complex Jewish history.

Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

The heart of medieval Prague features the famous Orloj astronomical clock, which performs its mechanical show every hour.

Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic city views.

Prague Castle Complex

Europe's largest ancient castle complex dominates the city skyline and houses St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and charming Golden Lane.

Book tickets online to skip queues, and allow at least half a day for exploration.

Wenceslas Square

Despite its name, this bustling boulevard serves as Prague's commercial centre.

Browse shops, sample street food, and admire the National Museum's impressive façade.

Prague Neighbourhoods Guide

Lesser Town (Malá Strana)

Baroque palaces and quiet streets create a romantic atmosphere beneath Prague Castle.

Perfect for evening strolls and intimate dining.

New Town (Nové Město)

Less touristy but still central, offering better value accommodation and authentic local restaurants.

Wenceslas Square forms its centrepiece.

Old Town (Staré Město)

The tourist epicentre houses major attractions, upscale restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Expect premium prices but unparalleled historical atmosphere.

Vinohrady

Prague's trendy neighbourhood attracts young professionals and expats.

Discover excellent restaurants, craft beer bars, and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.

Žižkov

The bohemian quarter offers Prague's best nightlife, alternative culture, and budget-friendly options.

Home to more pubs per square metre than anywhere else in Europe.

Prague Food and Drink

Czech Beer Culture

Czech Republic consumes more beer per capita than anywhere else globally.

Try Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar, or Staropramen at traditional beer halls like historic U Fleků (Křemencova 11) or Lokál, for an authentic Czech pub atmosphere.

Traditional Czech Cuisine

Goulash (guláš) - Hearty beef stew served with bread dumplings.

Roast pork with sauerkraut and dumplings - The ultimate comfort food combination.

Schnitzel (řízek) - Breaded and fried meat cutlets.

Trdelník  - Sweet pastry that's not ctually traditionally Czech, despite tourist claims.

Where to Eat

Café Savoy

 Elegant coffeehouse serving Austrian-influenced cuisine.

Havelské Tržiště Market

Street food and local produce.

Lokál

Modern take on traditional Czech cuisine with excellent beer.

U Modré Kachničky

Upscale game and duck specialities.

Prague Nightlife

Prague's nightlife scene rivals Amsterdam or Berlin but costs significantly less.

Start with traditional beer halls, progress to cocktail bars in Vinohrady, then dance until dawn in Žižkov's underground clubs.

Hemingway Bar (Opatovická 1737/3) serves world-class cocktails in intimate surroundings.

Karlovy Lázně (Smetanovo nábř. 198/1) offers five floors of different music genres.

Uniquely Prague

For something uniquely Prague, try Beer Spa Bernard.

A very old and unique spa therapy that uses natural ingredients in the form of hops, yeast and other natural substances that have a beneficial effect on your body.

Yes, you can literally bathe in beer while tapping in to an unlimited consumtion.

Getting Around Prague

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), formerly known as Prague Ruzyně International Airport, is the main international airport serving Prague and is the largest airport in the country.

The airport is located in the Ruzyně area, 12km to the north-west. To get to Prague city centre the fastest, by public transport, it is recommended to take Bus 59 (Terminal 1 / Terminal 2) to Veleslavín train station (Nádraží Veleslavín) and change to Metro Line A.

Public Transport

Prague's efficient public transport system includes metro, trams, and buses.

Purchase tickets from machines or tobacco shops - €1.20 for 90 minutes of unlimited travel.

The metro runs from 5am to midnight, with limited night services.

Taxis and Ride-sharing

If using traditional taxis, ensure the meter runs or agree on prices beforehand.

Use Uber or Bolt to avoid overcharging.

Walking

Prague's compact city centre makes walking the best option for sightseeing.

Wear comfortable shoes. Those medieval cobblestones aren't forgiving to feet or high heels.

Prague Shopping

Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě offer international brands and department stores.

For unique finds, explore Havelské Tržiště Market for crafts and souvenirs, or browse Palác Akropolisfor vintage clothing and records.

Czech crystal, garnets, and wooden toys make excellent souvenirs.

Avoid overpriced tourist shops near major attractions though and venture into residential areas for better prices and authentic products.

Day Trips from Prague

Český Krumlov

This UNESCO World Heritage medieval town sits 2.5 hours south of Prague.

Its fairytale castle and winding Vltava River create picture-perfect scenery.

Karlovy Vary

Czech Republic's most famous spa town offers thermal springs, elegant architecture, and the annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.

Kutná Hora

Visit the macabre Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara's Cathedral in this former silver-mining town, just one hour from Prague.

Prague Accommodation

Budget Options (€15-30/night)

Czech Inn - Modern hostel in Vinohrady.

Hostel One Home - Social atmosphere in New Town.

Sir Toby's Hostel - Relaxed vibe in residential Holešovice.

Mid-range Hotels (€50-100/night)

Design Hotel Jewel Prague - Boutique style near Wenceslas Square.

Hotel Golden Key - Historic Lesser Town location.

Hotel Metamorphis - Unique themed rooms in Old Town.

Luxury Accommodation (€150+/night)

Augustine Prague - Converted monastery with spa.

Four Seasons Prague - Riverside luxury with impeccable service.

Golden Well Hotel - Castle views and Michelin-starred dining.

Popular Hotels in Prague

Practical Prague Travel Tips

Language

Czech is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Learn basic phrases like "Děkuji" (thank you) and "Prosím" (please/you're welcome) to charm locals.

Money Matters

Czech Republic uses Czech Crowns (CZK), not Euros.

Exchange money at banks or legitimate exchange offices and avoid tourist area money changers offering suspiciously good rates.

Safety

Prague ranks among Europe's safest capitals.

Standard precautions do apply though. Watch belongings in crowded areas and be cautious of pickpockets on public transport.

Tipping

Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated.

Round up restaurant bills or add 10% for good service.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Bring layers for unpredictable weather, and pack a universal adapter for Czech electrical outlets.

Prague Delivers

Prague delivers medieval magic without medieval prices, combining stunning architecture, rich history, world-class beer, and warm hospitality.

Book accommodation well in advance during peak season (May-September) and major holidays.

Consider purchasing a Prague Castle ticket online to skip entrance queues, and don't overschedule; Prague's greatest pleasure often lies in wandering its atmospheric streets and discovering hidden courtyards and cosy pubs.

Whether you're interested in castle-hopping, pub-crawling, or simply soaking up centuries of European history, this Golden City promises memories that will last far longer than your holiday photos.

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