History: Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a city steeped in history. Founded in the 9th century, it has witnessed significant events that have shaped Europe. From being the seat of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors to surviving wars and revolutions, Prague's architecture and landmarks are a testament to its rich past. It played a crucial role during the Velvet Revolution in 1989, leading to the fall of communism in the country.
Transportation: Prague offers an efficient and well-connected public transportation system. The metro, trams, and buses cover the entire city and are the best ways to get around. Consider purchasing a Prague Card, which provides unlimited access to public transportation and entry to various attractions. We purchased ours through an app called "pid litacka", so we have our unlimited month pass on our phones. DO NOT get on public transport without a ticket, because we have seen many people get fined 50 euros without tickets. Taxis are available but can be expensive, so it's recommended to use official taxi services and apps.
Safety: Prague is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's essential to remain cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. Avoid poorly lit or secluded areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.
Neighborhood Guide:
Old Town (Staré Město): The heart of Prague, home to the iconic Old Town Square and the astronomical clock. Here you'll find historic buildings, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Mala Strana: A charming district with narrow streets, Baroque architecture, and the majestic Prague Castle.
Josefov: The Jewish Quarter with significant historical landmarks like the Old Jewish Cemetery and synagogues.
Vinohrady: A trendy area with beautiful parks, trendy cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Letna: Offers stunning views of the city from Letna Park and is known for its art galleries and alternative culture.
Must-See Places:
Prague Castle: A magnificent castle complex with stunning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
Charles Bridge: An iconic 14th-century bridge adorned with statues and a favorite spot for artists and musicians.
St. Vitus Cathedral: Located within Prague Castle, this stunning cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.
Old Town Square: The heart of the city, featuring the astronomical clock, churches, and colorful facades.
Josefov: Explore the rich history of the Jewish Quarter and visit the historical synagogues and museums.
Food: Prague's cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like goulash, roast pork with dumplings, and svíčková (marinated beef sirloin). Sample delicious Czech beers and be sure to indulge in sweet treats like trdelník (chimney cake) and fruit-filled dumplings. Visit local restaurants and pubs for an authentic dining experience.
Nearby Attractions: Take day trips from Prague to explore nearby attractions such as:
Karlštejn Castle: A medieval castle located about 30 km southwest of Prague, known for its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings.
Český Krumlov: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this picturesque town boasts a well-preserved castle and charming medieval streets.
Kutná Hora: Known for its Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara's Church, both UNESCO-listed sites.
Language: The official language is Czech, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Czech phrases is appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience. Here are a few helpful expressions along with their pronunciations:
Hello: Dobrý den (DOH-bree den)
Thank you: Děkuji (DYEH-koo-yee)
Yes: Ano (AH-noh)
No: Ne (neh)
Excuse me / I'm sorry: Promiňte (proh-MEEN-teh)
Please: Prosím (PROH-seem)
Goodbye: Na shledanou (nah SKHLEH-dah-noh)
Cheers!: Na zdraví (nah ZDRA-vee)
How much is this?: Kolik to stojí? (KO-lik toh STO-yee)
Where is...?: Kde je...? (K-deh yeh...?)
I don't understand: Nerozumím (neh-ROH-zoo-meem)
Help!: Pomoc! (POH-mohts)
Tipping Customs: Tipping in Prague is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip for good service. For taxis and other services, you can round up the fare or offer a small tip as a token of appreciation.
Currency: The local currency is the Czech Crown (CZK). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and public transportation.
Is the Water Safe to Drink? Yes, the tap water in Prague is safe to drink. The city's water supply is of high quality and meets all EU standards.
Number of Days Needed to Explore the City: To get a good feel for Prague's main attractions and experience its unique atmosphere, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days in the city. This should allow you to visit the key sights, enjoy the local cuisine, and explore some of the neighborhoods.
Average Cost of a Hotel Room: The average cost of a hotel room in Prague varies depending on the location and the level of comfort. Budget travelers can find decent accommodation starting from around 50 to 80 EUR per night, while more luxurious options can cost upwards of 150 EUR per night.
Average Cost of a Beer: Beer is a significant part of Czech culture, and it's relatively affordable. In local pubs and restaurants, a pint of beer can cost around 1.50 to 3 EUR, making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe to enjoy a cold brew.
Enjoy your trip to Prague, a city that seamlessly blends its fascinating history with a vibrant modern culture!
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