The Fairytale of Prague: Exploring the Heart of Bohemia
Prague has become firmly embedded in the world’s imagination as the “fairytale city”. Located in the centre of Bohemia, the capital city of Prague is noted for its gorgeous baroque, gothic and renaissance architecture, cobblestone streets, lush green parks, and mouthwatering cuisine. Throughout its long history, the city has influenced the Czech Republic, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage and numerous historical sites. Visiting Prague is the perfect opportunity to explore and appreciate a fascinating fairy tale-like atmosphere.
From ancient castles to vibrant nightlife, Prague is full of many attractions to explore. Its vibrant arts and music scene sparkles with classical concerts and contemporary art galleries, while its unique natural landscape provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful city that one could spend months in Prague without feeling bored.
To get the most out of your stay in Prague, read on to find out the essentials about where to stay, what to see and do and tips to make the most of this unforgettable city.
Where to Stay in Prague
Prague is a bustling metropolis with an extensive range of accommodation options. There is something to suit all budgets and travelers, from luxury 5-star hotels to cozy Airbnb apartment rentals.
If you are looking for a modern hotel experience, there are plenty of established international chains throughout the city. Many of these offer unique cultural activities as well as comfortable and stylish interiors. The Hilton Prague, Four Seasons Hotel Prague, and InterContinental Praha are some of the top-rated properties.
For those who want to explore the culture of Prague in a more traditional way, there are a number of small family run bed-and-breakfast accommodations. These properties are often cheaper and offer a warm and hospitable experience. Bed & Breakfast U Jemnych Andelu and U Razu City apartments are two popular options that have received great reviews from guests.
For those who want to save money on accommodation, there are many hostels scattered throughout the city. These offer basic but comfortable rooms, dorms and private apartments. Some hostels even include unique activities such as beer tasting and outdoor movies, making for a more interactive and social experience. Hostel One Home, Hostel Mrs. Koko, and Hostel Orange Bubble are all well-rated hostels to consider.
No matter your budget or preference, Prague has something for everyone when it comes to finding a place to stay.
Cultural Attractions
Prague, the city of a thousand spires, is teeming with cultural attractions to explore! With such a rich history, it’s not wonder the city has so much to offer. From its stately bridges and castle, to the bustling squares, Prague is home to many unique attractions.
- The Charles Bridge: The iconic Charles Bridge was constructed in 1357 and is one of the oldest existing bridges in Europe. Spanning the Vltava river, it’s lined with 30 statues of saints and provides a spectacular view of the city.
- Prague Castle: A stunning complex of palaces and churches, Prague Castle is the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic and the largest ancient castle in the world, standing proudly atop Hradcany Hill .
- Old Town Square: Adventurers will love perusing the picturesque Old Town Square. The square is surrounded by iconic buildings, such as the historic Old Town Hall Tower, and boasts a lively atmosphere throughout the year.
When in Prague, visitors should also check out incredible landmarks like St. Vitus Cathedral and Petrin Hill for breathtaking views of the city, as well as the Loreta and the Wallenstein Gardens – an ideal spot for a peaceful walk.
Day Trips from Prague
If you are looking to explore further afield outside of Prague, there are plenty of interesting day trips to consider. One great option is Karlstejn Castle, a stunning Gothic fortress located about 30 minutes outside the city center by train. Here you can take a guided tour around the castle and learn about its rich history as well as see the breathtaking views it offers.
Another well-known destination just outside of Prague is Kutna Hora. Known for its former silver mining industry, this city is full of different beautiful churches and palaces to explore. You can also visit the Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel with a creepy yet fascinating story.
Konopiste Castle is another great option for a day trip from Prague. Located about an hour’s drive from the city, the castle was once the home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. You can tour the castle grounds and admire the grand interiors, as well as relax in the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
A few other potential destinations for day trips from Prague include Cesky Krumlov, Marianske Lazne, and Terezin Concentration Camp. All of these locations offer something unique to discover and explore on a day trip away from the city.
Unique Experiences
The city of Prague is full of special little secrets that can only be unlocked by those willing to explore a little further. From hidden underground tours to secret entrances to attractions, the possibilities for unique experiences are truly endless.
Why not take a guided tour of the old sewers, deep within the city? Not only is this an unforgettable experience, but a great way to see some of the most historic places in Prague. Be sure to bring a torch and a good pair of shoes!
Visitors can also surprise themselves with a range of secret entrances to many of the popular attractions in Prague. For example, the Charles Bridge has a secret entrance located through a small side street nearby. From here you can walk across the bridge and explore it to your heart’s content.
Exploring the secret corners of Prague is a great way to learn about its culture and history, while getting to know the locals who share their stories, music and food with you along the way. So don’t forget to get off the beaten track and uncover some of Prague’s hidden gems!
Shopping & Dining
From local eateries to Michelin Star restaurants, Prague has something to offer for everyone’s palates. Tired of traditional Czech cuisine? Try out some of the city’s best international dishes! Lining the cobblestoned streets are hidden souvenir shops and designer boutiques, making shopping in Prague a real treat.
For traditional treats, head over to Parížská Street, or Pařížská, for the designer stores. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Havelské tržiště open-air market, which runs daily and features a variety of handicrafts, clothes and food. Other areas to explore are Na Příkopě and Myslbek Shopping Center, two popular shopping districts that specialize in modern fashion.
Hungry? Prague is full of delectable restaurants, from rustic taverns to chic cafes. Café Imperial is the perfect place to try Czech specialties, while Portfolio Restaurant offers mouth-watering modern European dishes. Looking for a quick, tasty bite? Try the potato pancakes at Cafe Louvre or the hearty goulash at U Fleku.
Nightlife in Prague
Prague is widely renowned for its vibrant and diverse nightlife; perhaps more than any other city in Central Europe. Whether you’re looking for a German-style beer hall, a swanky jazz bar or an underground nightclub, there’s something for everyone in this fairytale city.
Start your evening with a trip to Chapeau Rouge; one of the city’s most popular dance clubs. The venue is split into two floors with different music playing on each. The ground floor plays mainly drum and bass, while the second floor offers electro-swing tunes.
If beer is more your thing, head to U Medvídků; one of the oldest breweries in the city. It’s right in the heart of Prague’s bustling Old Town and serves the legendary speciality brew, X-Beer 33. If you like experimental beers, this is the place for you with an extensive list of new concoctions to try.
For a livelier atmosphere, make your way to Karlovy Lázně; the biggest club in Prague. There are several areas with different music styles, from dance and techno to 80s and pop, so expect some serious dancing and great people watching.
Finally, we can’t forget Prague’s jazz bars; some of the best of their kind. Jazz Dock is one of the most popular; a stylish boat set alongside the river with stunning views. For a more intimate atmosphere, visit Agharta Jazz Centrum; a modern jazz club in New Town with live music every day of the week.
From the swanky clubs to the hidden gems, Prague’s nightlife is as varied and unique as its people. So get ready to explore and dance the night away – you won’t be disappointed!
Art and Music Scene
Prague is renowned for its vibrant art and music scene, which can be found throughout the city. From world-class galleries to impressive graffiti murals, there’s something to inspire every art buff. You can find art galleries such as the Cubic Ink Gallery, Off Space Gallery, and Art Wall Gallery, all of which showcase the latest artwork from local artists.
For those looking to enjoy some live music, Prague is home to a variety of venues that offer big-name acts as well as local bands. Popular places to visit include Lucerna Music Bar, Rock Cafe, and Palac Akropolis. There are also plenty of smaller, more intimate clubs around the city that host regular performances from indie and Jazz musicians.
Exploring Nature in Prague
In addition to its stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, the beauty of Prague lies in its natural surroundings. The Czech Republic is surrounded by lush green hills and vast forests, making it an incredible location for nature lovers to explore. Just 13 km from the city centre of Prague is the Divoka Sarka Nature Reserve, a stunning area of woodland with impressive sandstone ridges, sand dunes and serene ponds. Along with the park, there are plenty of trails and cycling routes for visitors to embark on.
If you’re looking to escape city life further, then just a few hours away you can visit larger national parks such as the Bohemian and Sumava National Parks. Both boast breathtaking landscapes of mountains, meadows and rivers, perfect for spotting native wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for day trips or weekend getaways, this Bohemian paradise allows for all kinds of outdoor activities – from skiing and snowboarding in the winter months to swimming, hiking and kayaking in the summer months. Escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and discover the calming beauty of Prague’s nature reserves.
Events in Prague
Prague is known for its vibrant events and festivals that bring people from far and wide to celebrate in its streets. Among the regular events that take place each year, there are also seasonal holidays to be celebrated, with each having their own unique customs.
The Easter Market in the Old Town Square is a big draw for visitors every April. The market celebrates spring and features a wide array of traditional Czech food and handmade crafts. During June, the festival Letní Letná takes place in Letná Park. This modern circus spectacle showcases some of the world’s top performers, while displaying spectacular visuals on the park’s walls.
Prague boasts a number of beer festivals throughout the summer months, including Pilsner Fest in July and August’s Czech Beer Festival which draws one million visitors. For culture probes, the annual Signal Festival is an unmissable event, with art installations and projections illuminating the night sky. There are also musical performances across the city during this event.
If you’re visiting Prague during the colder months, there are still plenty of events to enjoy. In December, Christmas markets fill the city’s squares while classical concerts and performances take place at Prague Castle.
Whether you’re looking for lively music events or cultural celebrations, Prague can offer you the perfect getaway.
Travel Tips for Exploring Bohemia
When visiting Prague, you want to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Having the right information about transportation, safety, and other helpful tips can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know when travelling around Prague to ensure an enjoyable journey.
Transportation
Prague is serviced by the metro, trams, and buses, which makes getting around the city easy. You can purchase a ticket at any station or on board trams and buses to cover all forms of public transport. The city is also very walkable, making it easy to explore key attractions on foot.
Safety
Prague is generally a safe city, however it is advisable to take precautionary measures as you would in any major city. Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in popular tourist spots. It is also recommended not to leave any valuables in your car or in plain view if walking around, as there have been incidents of vehicle theft.
Mobile Networks
If you’re visiting from abroad, be sure to check with your mobile provider regarding connection in Czech Republic. Many international providers offer packages that provide coverage for data and call usage abroad.
Currency
The currency in Prague is the Czech Crown (KC). You can find currency exchange locations throughout the city, as well as ATMs for withdrawing the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants, however be aware that some may have a minimum amount required to use them.
Climate
Prague experiences hot summers and cold winters, making it best to avoid visits during December and January. April to October are ideal months to visit and take advantage of the pleasant temperatures and sunshine.
Concluding Remarks
Prague is a fairytale city with magical charm—an explorer’s dream destination. It has a wealth of history, culture, architecture, shopping, and dining options, as well as exciting nightlife and music performances. Visitors to Prague can choose from an eclectic range of events, attractions, and experiences that will amaze them.
Just outside of the city are numerous opportunities to explore the beauty of Czech nature, or take a day trip to experience more of what Bohemia has to offer. With its accessible public transportation and well-connected network, Prague is easy to get around. Travellers just need to remember to take sensible precautions while exploring the city.
The diverse sights, sounds, and smells of Prague will leave any adventurer with memories to last a lifetime. From its cobblestoned streets and unique cuisine, to the vast array of art galleries, there is something for everyone in the fairytale city of Prague.
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