When you structure all your travel planning around airfare costs rather than your immediate desire to visit a specific destination, you often find yourself at the mercy of the airlines. This has been my travel strategy for over a decade now and it’s enabled me to see so much of the world at a price point I can afford. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that when you see a great fare, you have to snap it up—because it might not come around again.
Prague is one destination I’ve seen pop up with sub-$700 fares several times over the years, but only recently did I consider saying yes. Not because I didn’t want to visit, but because I assumed the language barrier would make the city difficult to navigate.
This post is not sponsored but may contain commissionable links. Some photographs in this post were taken by Ľudmila.
A decade ago, I might have been right. But technology has revolutionized the way we travel—from booking flights to building itineraries and mapping out routes (remember when we had to print directions?). It’s also made communicating across languages easier than ever.
Looking back, I regret waiting so long to visit Prague. The city is achingly beautiful, with a rich local culture and a lifetime of things to see and do. If I could go back in time, I’d have made the trip ten years ago, printed out maps and all. But time isn’t elastic, and there are no do-overs. What I do have, however, is this website and the opportunity to encourage you not to make the same mistake I did.
Looking for more of the best of Prague? Find all my Prague guides in one place!
So, whether you’ve stumbled upon a cheap fare or already have tickets in hand, I’m thrilled to be your guide to Prague today. I promise you won’t regret visiting this magical city—only that you didn’t visit sooner.
ABOUT PRAGUE
If Prague were a person, you’d say they’d lived many, many different lives. The Czech capital, often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” has a rich and complex history that dates back over a thousand years. Once the seat of Bohemian kings and later a jewel of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Prague crops up at pivotal times throughout European history, from the medieval Holy Roman Empire to the Velvet Revolution that peacefully ended communist rule in 1989. This layered past is reflected in the city’s architecture, blending Gothic cathedrals, Baroque palaces, and Art Nouveau facades with Soviet-era remnants and contemporary designs.
Geographically, Prague is bisected by the Vltava River, and the city sprawls across both banks. The iconic Charles Bridge links the medieval Old Town with the castle-topped district of Hradčany to form Prague 1, and the twenty-one other administrative districts spiral organically outward. Most visitors, however, will stick close to the city’s heart.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT PRAGUE
It’s not a secret or a “hidden gem” destination—Prague is known. And once you visit, it’s easy to see why Prague is so alluring. It’s the kind of city that feels like you’ve stepped into a storybook, but it has all the buzzing energy of a modern European capital. To me, Prague’s charm lies in the contrasts—it’s a city where centuries-old spires rise above cobblestone streets, while trendy cafés and beer halls pulse with contemporary life.
Whether you’re wandering through the historic Old Town Square, marveling at the views from Prague Castle, or soaking up the local culture in its personality-filled neighborhoods, this city is endlessly captivating. But in order to return again and again to steep in the city’s atmosphere, you have to be properly introduced. So, I invite you to meet Prague through my first-timers guide:
THINGS TO DO IN PRAGUE
Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj)
Every hour between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m., crowds gather in Old Town Square to witness the procession of the twelve apostles as they emerge from the Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj) at Old Town Hall. Admittedly, you might overhear some in the crowd mutter “That’s it?” when the little figures appear in the windows. But if you step back to take in the whole scene—the intricate clock face, the setting, and the fact that we’re all still here to gaze upon it 600 years later—it’s a moment worth pausing for.
This is a masterpiece of medieval engineering, with dials marking the position of the sun, the phase of the moon, the zodiac signs, and, of course, the current time. But what’s perhaps even more extraordinary is its history. Since its first strike of the hour in 1410, the clock has endured centuries of wear, repairs, and total destruction during the Prague Uprising in 1945. Restored to its former glory, the clock is both a timekeeper and a storyteller, offering us a glimpse into the ingenuity of another era.
Note: while the crowds are thick during the hourly procession, they tend to disperse quickly, leaving you free to admire the clock unobscured. For an even closer look, you can purchase tickets to enter the tower to see the clock’s inner workings.
→Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj) // Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
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Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
For nearly 500 years, the Charles Bridge (Karlův most) was the only dry way to cross the Vltava River, connecting Prague’s Old Town with the castle district. Today, this picturesque pedestrian-only bridge is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and crossing it is an essential part of the visitor experience.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning when the bridge is bathed in soft light and the crowds are minimal. As you stroll, take your time to admire the thirty statues and sculptures of saints that line the bridge. Each has its own story, though years of wear (and eager hands) mean many are now replicas. Just remember: if you touch any of the statues for luck, you might want to keep some hand sanitizer handy!
→Charles Bridge (Karlův most) // Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia
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Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
Things don’t always go my way when I travel, but Lady Luck was on my side in Prague when the interiors of Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) opened for a rare free public entry day. Even better, areas normally reserved for ceremonial events and special occasions were also made accessible to all, offering a glimpse into spaces most visitors never see.
That said, a visit to Prague Castle on any day is worth it. The main circuit includes stops at St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the charming Golden Lane, where you can see how castle workers once lived. If you don’t particularly feel like shelling out admission for yet another thing (I get it!), the castle grounds are free to explore and still offer breathtaking views of the city. Plus, Golden Lane opens to all visitors for free after 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., depending on the season—a great option for those on a budget (just expect some crowds).
Travelers short on time may need to move on to the next sight after this, but with more time, you might consider exploring the gardens and the Deer Moat tunnel, or adding on a journey up the cathedral tower for another perspective on Prague.
→Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) // Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
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Kulaťák Street Market (Trhy na Kulaťáku)
I confess I felt a bit emotional as I strolled Kulaťák Street Market (Trhy na Kulaťáku). The emotions? 1) Hunger, and 2) Envy. (Is hunger an emotion? Science says no, but I beg to differ.) The stands at this sprawling market are piled high with colorful produce, mouthwatering prepared foods, and other locally made goods. I couldn’t help but wish I could pack it all up and take it home with me to make this market my weekly ritual. Or at the very least, I wanted to fit as much as I could into my belly while I was there.
As weekend travelers, we often have to pass on the beautiful fruits and vegetables at local markets since we have no way to prepare them. But Kulaťák offers plenty of quick bites to enjoy, making it easy to turn your Saturday morning visit into a picnic. Whether you’re savoring a flaky local pastry or sampling an international dish, this market is a window into the vibrant food culture and community spirit of Prague and an experience to savor.
→Kulatak Street Market (Trhy na Kulaťáku) // Vítězné nám., 160 00 Praha 6, Czechia
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DOX Centre for Contemporary Art
For a glimpse into the state of art in the Czech Republic today, make your way to Holešovice to visit the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art. As the largest independent institution dedicated to contemporary art in the country, this is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Housed in a repurposed factory, DOX constantly rotates its exhibitions, so while the pieces you see may differ from those I encountered, the experience will undoubtedly be just as thought-provoking. Above it all floats the Gulliver Airship, a stunning architectural structure inspired by the massive airships of a century ago. While it primarily functions as an event space, visitors are welcome to board it during regular museum hours for a unique perspective on the museum and its neighborhood.
To round out your visit, refuel at the on-site café or browse the museum shop for something inspiring to take home.
→DOX Centre for Contemporary Art // Poupětova 1, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice, Czechia
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Public Art + Architecture
You could spend your entire trip wandering Prague’s streets, marveling at its layered history through its architecture. Even the patterned cobblestone streets and medieval house signs offer a unique glimpse into the city’s design heritage. But if that isn’t in the cards, at least make time for these three iconic stops:
Dancing House (Tančící dům) | You’ve probably seen so many photos of the character-filled, deconstructivist Dancing House by Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry that it’s almost surprising that it was only completed in 1996. Combining both rigid lines and flowing curves, it’s certainly an eye-catching silhouette on Prague’s riverfront. For the best view, head across the street to take it all in, or get up close by purchasing a ticket to its lookout for panoramic city views.
Žižkov Television Tower (Žižkovská televizní věž) | Another one of Prague’s structures in stark contrast with its surroundings is the Žižkov Television Tower, a communist-era structure frequently touted as one of the world’s ugliest buildings. But don’t let its reputation stop you from visiting—this striking structure is also Prague’s tallest, offering incredible views from its observation deck. Once you’ve gawked at it from below, join Czech artist David Černý’s Babies and take a look at Prague from above.
Head of Franz Kafka (Hlava Franze Kafky) | Finally, no design-focused visit to Prague would be complete without seeing the Head of Franz Kafka sculpture, another creation by Černý. Made from more than 40 individually rotating metallic layers, this kinetic artwork aligns to form the head of one of Prague’s most famous literary figures. At the start of every hour between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., the sculpture comes to life in a mesmerizing display; arrive early to grab a good spot.
→Dancing House (Tančící dům) // Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
→Head of Franz Kafka (Hlava Franze Kafky) // Charvátova, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
→Žižkov Television Tower (Žižkovská televizní věž) // Mahlerovy sady 1, 130 00 Praha 3-Žižkov, Czechia
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Prague Shops + Boutiques
Packing light for this trip (hello, carry-on limit of 8 kg!), I wasn’t expecting to dive too deep into Prague’s shopping scene. But even with limited luggage space, I couldn’t resist browsing—and I found three standout spots worth breaking the baggage rules for.
CZECHDESIGN Shop in New Town is perfect for unique souvenirs that celebrate Czech creativity. The shop, curated by the team behind the country’s top online magazine dedicated to Czech design, offers jewelry, housewares, and art pieces that are so stylish you’ll want to keep them on display at home.
In the Old Town, BACKYARD design concept store is a must for locally-made clothing, accessories, and gifts. A local designer is on hand to help you find something special, meaning that shopping here is a fantastic way to fully grasp not just how unique your purchase is, but the impact of it as well.
Lastly, the slow fashion girlie in me fell head over heels for Nila. This ethical shop has three locations in Prague, so chances are you’ll find yourself near one at some point during your stay. While here, you can shop sustainably made clothes, shoes, and accessories from an impressive roster of brands—and leave feeling good about your purchase.
→BACKYARD design concept store // U Obecního dvora 2, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
→CZECHDESIGN Shop // Myslíkova 209/5, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
→Nila // Multiple Locations
PRAGUE’S BEST RESTAURANTS
Jídelna Světozor
For an old-school-style Prague lunch experience, look no further than Jídelna Světozor. This cafeteria is a pleasant surprise in tourist-filled Prague 1, with down-to-earth Czech fare at a price that can’t be beat. While you can check the menu out on their website before your visit, they’ll have helpfully listed the day’s offerings in English on a bulletin board inside. Grab a tray, point to the dish you want, and you’ll soon have a warm, filling meal.
Michael and I kept greedily stealing swipes of goulash and filled potato dumplings from each other’s plates, eagerly enjoying the opportunity to warm up over a quick and tasty meal. This cafeteria is cozy, comforting, and cash only—so don’t forget your korunas!
→Jídelna Světozor // 39 Vodičkova, Pasáž Světozor 791, Nové Město, 110 00 Praha, Czechia
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Polévkárna
I can’t be the only one who loves a good soup restaurant, right? Polévkárna is a charming local spot for a quick and affordable weekday lunch in Karlín, and it feels like a hug in a bowl. With soups and stews rotating daily, you can decide to time your visit based on their regularly updated Facebook page, or you can wait and be surprised by the day’s offerings.
Don’t forget to add a little bread alongside! While it is lovely to swipe their focaccia in your soup, the rich, tangy, cheesy chačapuri steals the show. Grab a slice if you see it! With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, there’s something here for everyone.
→Polévkárna // Sokolovská 86, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia
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Výčep
While classic restaurants are always a must, I also think there’s immense value in finding restaurants that put a contemporary twist on local flavors. In Prague, Výčep nails this balance between traditional cooking and modern Czech cuisine beautifully.
This spot puts “local” at the forefront, with ingredients sourced regionally and their journey thoughtfully traced from field to fork. Most of the tables around us opted for the tasting menu, and we delighted in watching the parade of dishes making their way out of the kitchen—both through the dining room and on the live TV screens. Michael and I made a game of guessing each dish on the screen (spoiler: I won! Feel free to bring this up next time you see him).
Tempted as we were by the tasting menu, we went à la carte and ordered three standouts: the puff pastry roll stuffed with smoked carp (a fitting choice just before Christmas), the Šumava Forest deer steak tartare, and the pork knuckle. Every dish was rich, delicious, and perfectly complemented by a glass of Dalešické beer to balance the flavors. Reservations are recommended.
→Výčep // Korunní 1304/92, 101 00 Vinohrady, Czechia
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Šodó
Even though our hotel offered a fantastic breakfast (more on that later!), we couldn’t resist a brunch outing to Šodó. This airy bistro in Dejvice offers a wonderfully curated menu of local specialties and breakfast and lunch favorites, including its namesake dish, buchtičky se šodó.
This local dish is a must-try: three ethereal buns floating in a creamy, dreamy custard. Perfectly shareable, though I wouldn’t blame you if you kept it all to yourself. Pair it with the Šodó breakfast, and you have an impeccable sweet and savory breakfast to start your day.
→Šodó // Wuchterlova 1, 160 00 Praha 6-Dejvice, Czechia
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Etapa
My bowl was nearly empty when I realized that the hearty meals Michael and I were just finishing enjoying from Etapa were both meat-free. I suppose you’d expect that for his dish, a grilled cheese (though pumped up by kimchi and watermelon radishes), but guláš? That’s a dish that’s usually all about the meat. Instead, Etapa’s version was full of umami-rich mushrooms and earthy-sweet root vegetables, served with ever essential dumplings.
To round out an already delightful meal, I headed over to the dessert table where I was given a helpful tour of all the goodies available. It was the sweetest way to end an already wonderful meal of fresh, local fare. As an anytime spot serving inventive, locally sourced dishes, Etapa is a winner.
→Etapa // Urxova 479/6, 186 00 Karlín, Czechia
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Mon House Restaurant
If you, like me, find yourself hitting a meat-and-dumpling wall partway through your trip to Prague, may I suggest switching things up with a visit to Mon House Restaurant? With a jam-packed menu of Chinese, Japanese, and Mongolian specialties, it’s the perfect palate cleanser.
Judging by the constant stream of to-go boxes heading out the door, Mon House is a neighborhood favorite for takeaway, but dining in has its perks. A sweet welcome gift of plum wine, cozy-chic interiors, and piping hot bowls of impeccably flavorful noodle and rice dishes served with equally warm service. Just be sure to stop by an ATM on the way—Mon House Restaurant is cash only.
→Mon House Restaurant // Letenské nám. 76/3, 170 00 Praha 7-Bubeneč, Czechia
PRAGUE TREATS + BAKERIES
Eska Restaurant and Bakery (Eska Karlín)
While many head to Eska Restaurant and Bakery (Eska Karlín) for its acclaimed breakfasts and lunches, my visit was all about their breads and pastries. With hearty sourdough breads, flavorful tarts, and local favorite buns, it’s absolutely worth a visit even for just a little afternoon treat.
→Eska Restaurant and Bakery (Eska Karlín) // Pernerova 49, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia
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Supernova Bakehouse
A friendly reminder to close your mouth while ogling the display pastries at Supernova Bakehouse, because your jaw certainly dropped. Colorful spirals of beautifully laminated dough sit perched on an equally colorful terrazzo countertop, begging to be chosen.
I trust you’ll make the right choice (spoiler alert: they’re all the right choice), but if you need a little encouragement, I suggest choosing a pistachio croissant if available. Filled with a beautifully nutty, super-concentrated pistachio cream, it may just ruin all other croissants for you. You’ve been warned.
→Supernova Bakehouse // Na Zátorách 3, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice, Czechia
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Cukrář Skála
Are you a treasure hunter? Because if you can venture your way down the alley near Náměstí Republiky, you’ll be rewarded with the gems in the pastry case at Cukrář Skála. Find mousses, eclairs, cakes, and so much more here.
Regrettably, I could not justify sampling everything in the case, but chose something seasonally appropriate this time: an eggnog-filled chocolate creation. Decadent and rich, even just half of it was satisfying. No matter what you choose, you’ll discover something special here.
→Cukrář Skála // Multiple Locations
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Cukrárna Myšák
Cukrárna Myšák honors the legacy of František Myšák, who opened a pastry shop in this location in 1911 (you can read more about the confectionery’s history here). Today, it offers a modern take on creative pastries in its downstairs cafe and takeaway case upstairs.
With limited time, I skipped the café queue and opted for several two-bite delights from the case. These beautifully crafted pastries are perfect for sharing with your travel companions—or keeping all to yourself.
→Cukrárna Myšák // 710/31, Vodičkova, Nové Město, 110 00 Praha, Czechia
PRAGUE COFFEE SHOPS
Můj šálek kávy
Můj šálek kávy (that’s “my cup of coffee” if your Czech is a little rusty), is a beloved roastery and coffee shop in Karlín, and the perfect place to reset and recharge in the middle of a busy travel day. With multiple styles of filter coffee and espresso, you really can design your ideal cup.
If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a full café menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and bowls, alongside an irresistible pastry case. My only regret in Prague? Not having enough meals in the day to try it all. If you get the chance to eat here, leave a comment and let us know what you think!
→Můj šálek kávy // Křižíkova 386/105, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia
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Kavárna Tika
Prefer your coffee served with a side of blooms? Kavárna Tika combines a charming café atmosphere with the beauty of fresh bouquets. While my short stay in Prague didn’t allow me to take home flowers, they’d make the perfect addition to a hotel room for a longer visit. Either way, enjoy a coffee here—it’s as delightful as the setting.
→Kavárna Tika // Vnitroblok Karolina Plazza, Křižíkova 703, 186 00 Karlín, Czechia
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EMA espresso bar
With three locations in Prague, you’re never too far from a great cup of coffee from EMA espresso bar. I visited the airy Karlín location one afternoon and found a mix of families winding down after school and coffee lovers savoring expertly crafted drinks. My cortado? Perfection.
I also love their commitment to sustainability—single-use paper cups are a no-go here. While I’m not quite ready to travel with a reusable coffee cup (my water bottle is plenty to carry!), it’s a great excuse to sit, relax, and enjoy your coffee on-site.
→EMA espresso bar // Multiple Locations
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Coffee and Riot
Thankfully, my visit to Coffee and Riot only delivered on the first half of its name and not the second. This hip spot in Prague’s New Town delivers on great coffee and vibes, as evidenced by the extremely occupied tables throughout. With limited time, we took our brews to-go, but perhaps a future visit will bring enough time for brunch.
→Coffee and Riot // Opatovická 159/17, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
PRAGUE BARS + BREWERIES
Dva kohouti
While a classic Czech pilsner is available just about everywhere in Prague, sometimes you want to try something a little different. Enter Dva kohouti, a local brewery and taproom that offers not only an excellent pilsner but also a range of experimental brews worth sampling.
Even on a chilly evening, locals spilled out from the taproom and into the night, gathering around picnic tables to swap stories between swigs. It’s the perfect last stop on a relaxed evening outing in Prague.
→Dva kohouti // Sokolovská 81/55, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia
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Lokál
For local pub culture, head to an outpost of Lokál. This regional chain is widely known and accessible for visitors, and each location has its own personality. As we were staying in Karlín, Lokál Hamburk was our location of choice, and we found both a crowd and a convivial atmosphere on a Friday night.
Though the spirits list is long, beer (specifically Pilsner Urquell) is the drink of choice here. Staff will keep track of your pours on a little card, and tally them up when you tell them you’ve had enough. If you’re planning on having multiple beers, it’s probably a good idea to eat something as well. Thankfully, Lokál has a menu of local specialties ready to help fill your belly. Note: Lokál can get quite busy at peak times, and reservations are recommended.
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Scout Institute (Skautský institut)
In the heart of the old town and just around the corner from the astronomical clock, you’ll find the Scout Institute (Skautský institut). This unique cultural center embodies the spirit of the Czech Scouting movement to bring free lectures, debates, and cultural programs to the community with the goal to leave the world a better place.
As a community center, you can imagine that there are always people around—and sometimes those people get hungry or thirsty. The Scout Institute’s cafe is a unique place to retreat in the city center for a beer (or a coffee, if it’s early), and take a small part in the movement.
→Scout Institute (Skautský institut) // Staroměstské nám. 4/1, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
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Vezmi pivo na klobásu
You just have to love a business that is upfront about what it offers, and Vezmi pivo na klobásu (“Take a beer and a sausage”) makes it pretty clear. This bar in Holešovice is led by the founders of Prague Beer Fest, and brings unique beers to the city year round. Not only that, but they import sausages from all over Europe to serve alongside in the perfect pairing.
Michael and I both agreed that not having room in our stomachs for a sausage from here was one of our deepest regrets from this trip, but you’ll have an extra one for us, won’t you?
→Vezmi pivo na klobásu // Heřmanova 744/37, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice, Czechia
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Vino Cibulka
A cold evening with extra time on our hands led us to Vino Cibulka, and what a find it was! Tucked away in Vinohrady, this cozy wine bar offers an impressive selection of Czech wines by the glass, making it the perfect place to unwind with a drink.
In an ideal world—and a warmer season—I’d love to visit their tasting room near the Austrian border. For now, though, their Prague location was a dreamy spot to curl up together to catch up on our day and savor a glass.
→Vino Cibulka // Laubova 1689/4, 130 00 Praha 3-Vinohrady, Czechia
WHERE TO STAY IN PRAGUE
Pentahotel Prague
With easy access to public transportation, all the essentials a traveler could need, and an abundance of trendy bars and coffee shops, the Karlín neighborhood offers an inviting, local vibe perfect for visitors looking to experience a livable side of Prague. At the center of it all is Pentahotel Prague, a modern hotel that emphasizes both comfort and creating memorable experiences.
You might initially mistake the lively lobby for a chic neighborhood bar—and that’s no accident, as it doubles as one. Despite the buzz downstairs, the energy doesn’t carry over to the rooms. Upstairs, you’ll find spacious accommodations with plush beds and oversized bathrooms, offering a peaceful retreat from the city. Add in the hearty breakfast buffet, and Pentahotel Prague makes for the perfect place to start and end your Prague adventures.
Still on the fence? You can find my full review of Pentahotel Prague here on the blog.
→Pentahotel Prague // Sokolovská 112, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia
WITH MORE TIME IN PRAGUE
For a city like Prague, my list of to-dos is always going to be longer than my have-dones, because there is so much to see, do, and eat (!) here. At the end of each guide, I like to assemble a list of places I haven’t personally visited and vetted, but think might be worth your time if you are lucky enough to have an extended vacation. And also, if we’re being honest, I like to use these lists as a jumping-off point for planning my return trips!
More Prague Sights
From museums to cultural landmarks to beautiful outdoor parks, Prague has way more to offer than a weekend’s worth of activities. Here are a few items on my list for next time (there will be a next time—I’m sure of it!):
- National Museum
- Petřín Tower
- National Library of the Czech Republic
- Vyšehrad
- Jewish Museum
- National Technical Museum
- City Parks and Gardens
More Local Restaurants in Prague
Restaurants on my list for next time are largely influenced by local cuisine and include:
- Semmering restaurace
- Masaryčka
- Restaurace Záležitost
- Vinohradský Parlament Restaurant
- Restaurace U Bansethů
- Plavecká Polévka
- Polévkárna paní Mančo
- Kantýna
- U modré kachničky
- Restaurace Mincovna
More Bars + Breweries in Prague
In addition to ordering a beer at lunch or dinner (or breakfast, if that’s your thing), there are so many great bars and breweries serving more than the classic Pilsners. Here are a few I’m eyeing:
More Prague Coffee Shops + Cafés
Of course, these adventures require a little fuel. Thankfully, Prague’s coffee scene is buzzing with creative ventures:
Day Trips from Prague
What I’d really love to do on my next visit is spend some time exploring more of the country. With more time in the Czech Republic, I’d set my sights on these destinations:
As always, if you make it to any of these places before I do, be sure to leave a comment and let us know if it is worth our time!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: TRAVEL TIPS FOR PRAGUE
Arriving to Prague
Arriving by train? Lucky you! Prague Main Station (Praha hlavní nádraží) is right in the center of the city and is easily connected to local public transit routes to get you to your final destination.
For those arriving by plane, Václav Havel Airport Prague is located about 15km from the city center. Public transit may be a great option for visitors staying in certain neighborhoods, but for the time, hassle, and money, I found it easier to take a ridehailing service. Taxis and Ubers have a bit of a reputation for ripping people off in Prague, so I recommend using the Bolt app instead (that’s my referral for 100 Kč off your first two trips, making it even more economical).
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Getting Around Prague
For most of the places visitors will want to go, Prague is extremely well connected by public transit. However, there are some practices that might feel unfamiliar to travelers from other regions.
The most important thing you should know is that instead of scanning your ticket or pass for each journey, it simply needs to be validated once before use—and it needs to be validated at least two minutes before boarding (or one minute before boarding for people using the app). This is to prevent people from riding for free and only validating when spotting a fare checker. You should also know that if you validate your paper ticket twice, you actually end up invalidating it—and leaving yourself open to receiving a fine.
To save yourself a headache (and potentially saving yourself lots of money!), I recommend solely using the PID Lítačka app and loading a multi-day or 24 hour pass, which will be be valid from the time you activate it (and ready to show a fare checker) until it expires for peace of mind.
For route planning, I found that Google Maps worked quite well for showing you how to get to your destination based on the current schedule. Once onboard, follow your little blue dot along the map to know when it’s time to exit or transfer—or listen out for the announcement. First you’ll hear the name of the current stop, and then you’ll hear the name of the following stop. Don’t make the same mistake I did—on our first day, I made us get off one stop early because I heard the name of our stop and assumed we’d arrived. Whoops!
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Language + Culture
As an English speaker who has primarily studied Romance languages, the task of learning enough Czech to get by was a challenging one. While almost everyone we interacted with graciously put me out of my misery by switching to English, I still think it’s immensely important to learn at least a few niceties before you visit Prague.
The greeting I most often encountered is one you may already be familiar with, dobry den. On occasion I heard ahoj (which can also be used as goodbye), but most often I used and heard dobry den when interacting with people. It doesn’t feel as imperative to instantly greet a shopkeeper in Prague as it does, say, in Paris, but if the person behind the counter pays you any mind upon entering, I do think a quick dobry den will put you in their favor.
You may be surprised that the two most challenging words for visitors aren’t please (prosím) and thank you (děkuju), but rather the words for yes and no. In Czech, “yes” is ano, and “no” is ne (it’s easy to see how that can cause some confusion!). No matter what, though, you should learn the most important Czech word of all: pivo, which means beer.
While I know people from my country have a reputation for being warm and friendly (perhaps too warm and friendly at times), I could say the same thing about nearly everyone I encountered in Prague. I found locals quick to strike up a conversation and always very helpful, though I should note that I felt like people are more direct than they are in the U.S. (which might seem rude if you’re not accustomed to it, though that’s most certainly not the intention). While it is intimidating to ask questions sometimes, there’s no need to worry here.
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Money
Bring your debit card with you, so you can head to a local bank as soon as you arrive to withdraw the local currency, Czech Koruna (abbreviated as CZK). Unless your home bank has an agreement with a local Czech bank for fee-free withdrawls, I’d recommend visiting a Raiffeisen Bank ATM as it will typically allow you to choose your denominations (small bills are easier to spend!).
This goes for just about every destination, but bears repeating: Only get money at an ATM attached to a reputable bank, don’t exchange money with strangers on the streets (you’ll probably get scammed), or convert currency at exchange booths (you’ll wind up with a poor conversion rate).
I was a little surprised that my American credit card didn’t work with the local tap-to-pay systems, but was happy to find that using mobile wallets (Apple Pay/Google Pay) was seamless. As my card has no foreign transaction fees, I tried to pay with my card as much as possible—but it’s worth noting that many places in Prague are still cash only.
As for tipping, most locals will tell you that rounding up to the nearest 10 CZK is normal for adequate service, and tipping 10% is a nice gesture for great service. However, if you hail from a country with a strong tipping culture (*points finger at self*), you may find yourself directly asked to leave a tip because they know you’re used to it. It’s awkward, and chances are, the staff would never do that to a local, but that’s just part of the traveler experience in Prague.
But typically, once it’s time to pay, you’ll pass along the cash including gratuity, or tell your server the total including tip to pay by credit card (although the machines at a handful places offered a button to add a tip). If you’re paying by card, always make sure to choose to pay in Koruna instead of your home currency for the best exchange rate. No matter what, money shouldn’t be left on the table as a tip after the fact; it’s simply not how things are done here.
So—is Prague a “cheap” destination? Coming from a major city in the U.S., I would say no. While some things were cheaper compared to Charlotte (beer in particular, which cost between $2-4 most of the time, versus $7-9 back home), other things were just about as expensive as back home, like medicine and some meals. I’d recommend budgeting like you would for visiting almost any other major European city, and then be pleasantly surprised in those instances when you save money.
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Food + Drink
In a word? Czech food is hearty.
If I had to conjure up a mental image of a traditional Czech dish, it would consist of an oversized portion of meat, a pile of starchy, starchy dumplings, and a sauce to swipe all it through. But I also know that the food scene is so much more diverse than that.
As a world capital, you can find all kinds of cuisine in Prague, and at every price point. Dining options range from fast food to cafeteria to sit-down restaurants to fine dining. But for those who are here for the local options, you should be warned that most traditional dishes are not vegan or vegetarian (and even then, if you order a vegetarian dish you’ll likely get Smažený sýr, a fried cheese dish), but there are plenty of veggie-friendly options in the city if you seek them out.
Some typical local favorites you should look for include:
- Guláš, a stewed beef dish with dumplings in gravy
- Smažený sýr, a slab of cheese that’s been coated and fried
- Kolache, a yeasted dough filled with cheese, fruit preserves, or poppyseeds
- Tartare, raw beef, typically served as an appetizer
- Vepřové koleno, roasted pork knuckle in a dark beer gravy
- Knedlíky, dumplings made of potato or bread and served alongside savory dishes
- Buchtičky, a soft sweet dumpling served in custard
Although my usual advice is to skip restaurants that have menus in English or multiple languages, the truth is that nearly all restaurants in Prague have an English menu available (even places you might not expect!). In the rare cases that a menu wasn’t offered in English, staff were quick to help provide translation or we could easily skim the offerings with the help of Google Translate.
The traditional advice is that you seat yourself at casual restaurants and pubs in the Czech Republic, but I only found that to be the case once, at Lokál. My advice if you’re unsure? It’s best to ask for a little help in this instance. Sure, it might be awkward or you may feel silly, but I’d take that over accidentally sitting somewhere I shouldn’t. And while you may have also heard that pubs have their own culture, it seems like many (at least in the city core) are phasing out some of the practices that tend to trip visitors up, such as bringing a beer to you without ordering.
Beer is big in Prague (that might be the understatement of the century!), but typically you’ll spot just a few options on the menu. Unless the place you’re visiting brews their own beer or has some craft offerings, Pilsner Urquell largely is seen as the “best choice” and it’s easy enough to order. What arrives to your table will be a big mug with a large, foamy head. Unlike the beers in my home city, which skew hop-heavy (and alcohol-heavy, too), the beers here have a lower ABV and it’s not uncommon to order more than one.
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Safety
Scout’s honor, I can truly say I never felt unsafe during my time in Prague. But that doesn’t mean you should wander the city with your guard down.
The most common “threats” one might encounter in Prague are scams and pickpockets. By only obtaining cash and making purchases at legitimate businesses, avoiding situations that feel “off,” keeping your belongings secure, and using your city smarts, you’re well on your way to enjoying your vacation without hiccups.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING PRAGUE
I feel like a weekend is only enough time to scratch the surface of Prague, allowing enough of the city into your heart so that it always stays with you. With so much charm and character, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite of many.
If you’re like me and have hesitated to book a trip in the past, let this be your sign to stop waiting to visit Prague. The language barrier? Almost non-existent. The logistics? Easier than ever, thanks to modern travel tools. The memories? Absolutely priceless.
I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared to dive into all that Prague has to offer. Trust me—this city will capture your heart, and you’ll be wondering, like I did, why you didn’t visit sooner. Now go make those memories, and please don’t forget to share your favorites when you get back!
About the photos in this post…
Despite being a travel blogger and taking thousands of photos at every destination, the truth is that Michael and I rarely manage to take photos together. For our visit to Prague, we decided to do something new: we hired a local photographer for the morning. As you can see in some of the photos in today’s post, Ľudmila (also on Airbnb Experiences) managed to capture us against the backdrop of beautiful Prague, fully putting us at ease. It was a remarkably wonderful experience, and I highly recommend carving out a little time during your trip for this experience with her as your photographer.
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Questions for you
What dish are you most looking forward to trying in Prague?
Have you ever arranged a photoshoot during a trip?
Where to next? Why not give one of these posts a read:
- 10 Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets in Prague
- Checking In: A Review of Pentahotel Prague
- A First-Timers Long Weekend Guide to Vienna, Austria
- What You Should Know Before Visiting the Vienna Christmas Markets + My Favorite Markets
- Checking In: A Review of magdas HOTEL in Vienna, Austria
- Prague Instagram Stories Highlight
- How to Find Cheap Flights
- 10 Tips for Overcoming Museum Fatigue
- 20 Questions You Should Ask a Potential Travel Partner Before You Leave Home
- How I Approach Travel Differently in My Thirties
- All Travel Guides by Destination
- Checking In: Boutique Hotel Reviews
- Shop My Closet
- Exclusive Promo Codes + Discounts
