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Guide to Prague, Czech Republic
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Prague
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PragueUndoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Prague is a testament to architecture, history, and the essence of the regions cultural make-up. Walk through the old citys cobblestone streets to one of many squares where youll be greeted by the facades of cafes, restaurants, and pubs; hike up Petrin Hill to find yourself among a number of parks and obtaining some of the best views of Prague while youre at it. Though a sizeable amount of the city has been plagued with poverty, and some areas are ignored by visitors, Prague still attracts travelers from around the world. This is, of course, in part because of its great many sites, architectural gems, and monuments, but try to blend into the social crowds huddled inside bars, and youll see why Prague is much more than a city of visual sensations; it takes all five senses on an adventure never to be forgotten!
When to go:
The capital of the Czech Republic can see gray, rainy, and/or foggy days and it still shines through for nearly every visitor. However, if youre curious as to what is typically the ideal time to visit the city, well give you a few pointers. Avoid widely celebrated holidays such as Easter and Christmas and New Years. The city is usually packed with locals and visitors (mostly fellow Czech citizens) alike, and youll see hotel and restaurant prices shoot up like a beanstalk in monsoon season. Also avoid the early summer months of May and June if you dont want crowded buses and similar prices as those near the holidays. Late-summer to autumn is really the best time to visit Prague; most locals are vacationing elsewhere, and prices are down to a tight-budget-friendly level.
Getting there and around:
The only airport that will get you into Prague from an international city is Ruzyne Airport. In fact, it is the only international airport in the entire Czech Republic, so we think its safe to say youll be coming across some long lines in the terminal. Never fear, the staff at the airport run a friendly and efficient service, so you may be outside decided on your transit options sooner than you thought. To cover the 10km (6mi) to Prague, youll either have to take a bus or a taxi. Taxis are more expensive, of course, but if youre carrying more than a few small bags, allow yourself the luxury of a taxicabs back seat.
If youre spending a lot of time in Pragues center, youll find no need for transportation other than your own two feet. But if youre in need of something a bit faster, taxis are your best bet. They are the most numerous, and if you get the chance, call for one instead of hailing down a passing car, youll save yourself quite a bit of cash.
Attractions:
When visitors arrive in Prague, no matter if they are seasoned travelers of this city or first-time explorers, they almost immediately flock to its main attraction, Prague Castle.
The Castles history dates back about 1,000 years, and is so grand (the largest ancient castle in the world), that youll need a large part of your day just to get through it. The views you get atop the cliff overlooking the city and its surrounding hills are just magnificent, and on a foggy day, theres something quite mystical about the way the city below looks. Most of Prague Castle is open to the public throughout the year, though a few sections (Spanish Hall, Rudolf Gallery, etc.) are off-limits, albeit for one day out of the year. If youre patient, instead of sprint to the Castle grounds, take a detour through the surrounding district of homes, shops, and restaurants; think of the stroll as a kind of appetizer before the full course.
Another hill that offers a great view of Prague is Petrin Hill. This was once the site of a number of vineyards, but is now home to eight parks and remnants of a stone quarry.
Mala Strana is an interesting district of beautiful architecture. Its most important street is known as Nerudova Ulice, and youll find the St Nicholas Church nearby. The outside is quite wonderful, but the interior holds something of much greater value: a fresco by Johann Kracker, known as /Life of St Nicholas/ (largest fresco in Europe).
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