Ask anyone who has visited Prague and they'll tell you it's one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, maybe in the world. You'll love meandering through the narrow, winding streets of this capital of Bohemia. Basically, it's like you've stepped inside a fairytale world. It's steeped in history, the beer is amazing, the architecture is world class, and the prices... well, continue reading.
Prague is good to visit through the year and you can enjoy all the seasons. Winters are cold but the city looks charming under the magic of snow. Spring and autumn are the best months to visit because Prague looks very colorful, the weather is not too cold and the city is not extremely crowded.
By the way, Prague is called “Praha” in the Czech Republic and is also called the City of a Hundred Spires.
Warning
Not “Eastern Europe” Cheap. Prices in Prague are rising so don't expect things to be as cheap as places like Budapest or Krakow. Luckily, prices aren't quite at Western European levels so you can still find cheap meals, beer, and hostels.
Lots of tourists mean there are probably lots of scammers. Also, Prague is known for its crooked taxi drivers so make sure you only use legit taxis. I recommend having a hotel call you a taxi and make sure they use the meter — although, some even have meters that still overcharge. Or, you can use Uber or Liftago for example. Also have in mind, that Prague is not so big, you can visit all attractions by foot and use public transport for some stops.
Currency in the Czech Republic
No, the currency of the Czech Republic isn't Euro but is Czech Crown. Yes, it is basic info but I was surprised to see so many travelers who didn't know when they arrived here. The locals mostly say “Koruna” instead of “Crowns”. The abbreviation is CZK or Kč.
Prague currency
Currency Exchange Scams in Prague
There are a few exchange offices that claim “0% commission” but charge an exorbitant “exchange fee” when you exchange with them. Make sure you not only ask the exchange rate but the final amount that you will get for your money.
Another horrible currency exchange scam in Prague is that many touts walk around exchange offices and catch a hold of tourists. They offer a rate that's too good to be true but give out old currency that's not accepted anywhere. Check Czech National Bank website to see which notes are currently in circulation.
There are some really good currency exchange offices that actually charge no commission, so I recommend you head to a few of them, ask and then exchange.
Prague accommodation
You can find nice hotel in Prague Old Town for 100 € per night. It all depends if you want luxury hotels or budget accommodation. Prague has a large number of hostels and many of them are quite good. You should budget around 7 €-25 €/night per person for a decent hostel, although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend or during holidays. Remember, these prices are for bed in a shared dorm room. If you want a private room expect to pay 40 €-70 €. Some hostels are known for being “party” hostels, especially in Prague, so be sure to read the reviews before you book.
Public Transport in Prague
Prague metro is well spread out and will get you just about anywhere you want in the city. The metro system is not confusing at all and most likely you won't need to take any other mode of transport at all. There are just 3 metro lines in Prague – A (Green), B (Yellow) and C (red).
Public transport in Prague
The best part is that you can get a combined ticket for the metro train, tram, and even buses. A 30-minute ticket is for 1 € and a 90-minute one is for 1.5 €. You won't need the 90 minutes one in 90% of the cases. A full day ticket is for 4 €, which only makes sense if you're making more than 4 journeys.
The metro ticket machines in Prague CAN BE confusing and will ONLY accept coins. On the left are the normal fares and on the right are child fares. The first button is for a 30-minute ride and you need to put coins after pressing the button so that you can get your ticket. Wait, it doesn't end here. You HAVE to stamp and validate your ticket before entering the platform. The ticket validator machines are generally yellow or orange in color. You may just miss them because the locals don't stop there since they have a monthly or annual pass. If you get caught traveling in the metro without stamping your ticket then you will have to pay an expensive fine.
Public transport in Prague
Probably the most important stops are: Museum (Wenceslas Square), Staromestská (Old Town Square), Karlovy Lázně (Charles Bridge), Prague Castle, Zoological Garden, Letenské náměstí (Technical Museum) and Újezd (Petřín).
Food and drink
Traditional Czech food is hearty, filling and usually pretty meaty, with dishes like goulash, schnitzel, roast pork, dumplings, potato soup and fried cheese on the menu. You can save money by eating your main meal at lunchtime, with many restaurants offering a lunch special. This is limited menu, targeted at local workers who would be given food vouchers for discounted lunches, but you'll find them on offer in some of the city's top restaurants too. And leave room for something sweet, like fruit dumplings (ovocné knedlíky), sweet yeast dough buns (buchty) or chimney cakes (trdelnik), which are made from pastry which is wrapped around a spit, grilled and covered with syrup and walnuts. If you're self-catering, Prague's main supermarkets are Albert, Billa and Tesco.
Food amd drink
Fast food is at every step, but take it as an emergency solution. You're in the region of the best candlelight and premium beer, aren't you? Prague has been rated one of the cheapest places in Europe to drink beer. I was especially helped in the choice of restaurant by the recommendations from my friends, and I will pass them on to you as well. Výtopna is a restaurant right on Wenceslas Square, where you can eat at reasonable prices. But the best part is the way you get drinks on the table. Electric trains are used for distribution. The whole restaurant is interwoven with tracks - an experience not only for small children, believe me. The gastronomic goal of the trip is, of course, real Czech sirloin steak. Do not hesitate and go for this goodness to the Sedm Konšelů restaurant near the Old Town Square. Folk price, epic taste.
What definitely not to miss?
Charles bridge
A Prague classic, which you can find in every photo of Prague. But get ready for the crowds that make this bridge a promenade. Even so, this place is a must for every tourist and you will definitely not regret visiting it. The oldest bridge in Prague has a few tales to tell from its long history. You can find some tales on my Instagram profile. When you cross the bridge towards Prague Castle, the beautiful Lesser Town Square with the Church of St. Nicholas. Worth to see!
Charles Bridge
Old Town Square
Subjectively the most beautiful and objectively the most famous square in Prague. There is more than 600 years old Astronomical Clock, beautiful historic streets and much more. The famous Jewish Quarter is also nearby. You can spend a few hours just around the Old Town Square. Street artists of various kinds also have a place here, and some of them are really good. I recommend going to the Astronomical Clock tower, you won't soon forget the view. I promise!
Old Town Square
Prague Castle
One of the largest castle complexes in the world consists of historic palaces, church buildings, gardens and beautiful narrow streets. There is a que going inside the castle due to security check, but it was a fast moving. Most important: changing of the guard at 12 noon daily is a must see, but get there a little early. The Golden Lane is also a part of Prague Castle. Once the residence of craftsmen and merchants. Today, a tourist attraction full of masses of tourists. Still, be sure to include it in your plans.
Prague Castle
Wenceslas Square
Who wouldn't know the famous Václavák? The busiest square in Prague. The boulevard where it lives day and night. Expect dozens of smaller or larger shops, cafes and restaurants, thanks to which Václavák is an attraction for thousands of tourists, but also locals. A walk along this 750 m long square is worth it, even if you do not plan to spend. The far side of the square is the thriving nightclubs in the side streets. You definitely won't miss the huge National Museum. It offers much more than just a nice historic facade!
Wenceslass Square
Letná Park
This park, across the river from the Jewish Quarter, features several walking trails, a café, and expansive views of the city. You'll see a lot of art students painting the cityscape. Crossover to Chotkovy sady for beautiful gardens and rear views of the Prague Castle. It's quiet, with secluded paths that make for an intimate romantic stroll and panoramatic views of the city.
Letna Park
Technical Museum
A detailed description of this museum would need its own blog. So, count on the program for a few hours. You will find here, for example, exhibitions of architecture, design, astronomy, transport, printing, photography, chemistry, timekeeping and a large, really large amount of more. Some exhibitions are also presented in the form of a game, so children will also get their money's worth. Include him in your plans and you will not regret it. The museum is closed on Mondays. Don't make the same mistake as me.
Technical Museum
Madame Tussauds is not just a museum in London. Prague can also be proud of it. So, you can capture your favorite celebrities as much as you want. At least their wax replicas. These are, by the way, almost indistinguishable from living twins. You will find here, for example, George Clooney, the divine Kája Gott, Lady Gaga, Jarda Jágr or Princess Diana. Everyone can find their favorite here. Near the Old Town Square there is also the second museum of wax figures - Musée Grévin. It is said to be one of the largest in Europe, but this will be reflected in the price. According to promotional materials, however, the experience is taken care of first-class. So, I'll leave the choice to you.
Wax figures
So, did I help you? Or do you know other places that would be great to see in Prague? Let me know! Prague is more beautiful, better and more interesting than you think, believe me. Let me know if you want to know more about Prague.
