Prague the capital city of Czech Republic is the hotspot of art, architecture, history and beer. If you know me, then you know I fell in love with Prague from day one. So, I have all good things to say about this charming city. Home to the most famous Charles Bridge, Astronomical clock, Jewish quarters, Prague castle, Charles university and numerous other UNESCO world heritage sites. Here is a comprehensive guide to Prague.
Prague happens to be the fourth most visited city in Europe. The city is full of life. And I would urge you to spend anything between 5 days to a week to experience this city.
Things to do in Prague
Charles bridge: A beautiful stone bridge that connects the old town with the lesser town. Construction of this gothic style bridge began in 1357. At the either ends of Charles bridge are two towers, from top of these towers you get a beautiful view of the city. Charles bridge also happens to be the perfect place to admire some Czech artists and musicians.
Prague astronomical clock: A 600 year old clock, that rests in the heart of Prague old town square. It displays time, date, position of celestial bodies, astronomical cycles and Christian holidays. Everyday at 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM the procession of the twelve Apostles sets in motion. It is said that Prague astronomical clock is a one of a kind in the world, you wouldn't want to miss the sight of something so unique.
Prague castle: Prague castle is known to be the largest castle area of the world! With 3 courtyards and numerous magnificent buildings the castle is a UNESCO world heritage sight. You can choose to visit the free areas or purchase one of the ticket packages depending on what you wish to see. I recommend package B.
Lennon wall: The wall isn't just a beautiful backdrop for photos, it also has rich history. It was first used to protest against the communists, and was covered with text. Later on artists and poets used the wall to protest, though it was always painted over by officials. On murder of John Lennon, some mourning artists painted his face on the wall. Since then John Lennon wall remains the only legal place to show graffiti by artists. Old town square: Probably the most beautiful square in Europe. You can see magnificent artists, historical buildings, amazing statues to name the least! It sure is where most of the action is happening and you just can't miss this on your trip to Prague.
Dancing house: One of Pragues modern architectural marvels, the dancing house was inspired by the dancing duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The building is open for visitors and houses a gallery, bar and a restaurant.
Beer tasting: You can not visit Czech Republic and not taste its mosts loved beverage! Beer tourism is only increasing in Prague right from beer spa to beer tasting there is a bunch of activities to choose from.
Day trip to Cesky Krumlov: Wish to travel back in time? Just take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, or better yet stay there. A beautiful castle, river side picnic spots, lively bars, water sports and architectural gems what more do you need?
Cost
Cost of accommodation: Prague is brimming with all kinds of accommodation.You can easily find hostels in Prague district 1 ranging from 11 EUR to 20 EUR for a bed in a dorm. I highly recommend Little Quarter Hostel, it is walking distance from Prague castle. Price of staying in a 3-4 star hotel would cost you anywhere between 80 EUR to 150 EUR a night. And airbnbs would cost you about 30 EUR to 45 EUR a night for a room. All the places raise their prices on the weekend, so keep an eye on the rates.
Cost of internal transportation: Prague is very well connected with a network of trams, metro and buses. Try and avoid taking cabs in the city. 30-minute ticket: 24 CZK, 90-minute ticket: 32 CZK, 24-hour pass: 110 CZK, 3-day pass (72 hours): 310 CZK, Ticket (via Bus + Subway) Between Airport and City: 70 CZK.
Cost of food and drinks: First thing first! Beer is extremely cheap in Prague, it averages to about 2 EUR in a non tourist bar and can go upto 4 EUR in a tourist bar. Average price of a cappuccino at a touristy cafe is about 3-4 EUR where as a cappuccino at a supermarket will cost you about 2 EUR, you would pay a similar price for coffee at McCafe. A cup of hot chocolate would cost you 3-4 EUR so will a mug of mulled wine. Budget meal will be anywhere between 3-7 EUR, a meal at a sit down restaurant will cost you 9 EUR and upwards. Portion sizes all across Europe are quite big, so order accordingly.
Money saving tips
Take a free walking tour: It helps you know the city better. You can always come back to the monuments that interests you and spend more time there. Guides of such tours give out local recommendations, places that do not have "tourist prices".
Cook your own meal: Most of the hostels are equipped with proper kitchen, it always help save the cost. Cost of 1 weeks grocery in Prague would be an average of 20 EUR.
Take a public transport pass: Public transport is possibly the best way of seeing any city, especially when it is well connected as in the case of Prague. You can also choose to walk from one place to another, this doesn't only give you more time to soak in the vibe but also saves you that extra buck!
Take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov: Cesky Krumlov being a UNESCO world heritage site is high on the tourist radar. You can easily visit the city on your own, avoid going there via tour operators. You would end up paying twice as much to them. Also avoid staying over at Cesky Krumlov, the town is small enough to relax for a day and the cost of accommodation is far more than that of Prague's.
Don't change your money: Majority of the places except card, please swipe it wherever you can to avoid paying extra. If you need to withdraw money do not use Euronet ATM they are a big scam! Please use only and only bank ATM. Also, do not convert money off the streets, CZK is a confusing currency there are enough con-artists who would exchange EUR for some other useless currency.
Avoid historical cars: For starters they are not historical at all and they cost a lot of money for a distance you could have easily walked. Use student ID card: If you are a student use your ID card to get discounts at various attractions.
Hope my Prague guide helps you plan your trip. If you have any questions comment below! if you have visited Prague, what was your highlight and whats that one tip you would give fellow travellers?
This travel guide to Prague was original published on Of Miles and Musings