Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, which makes it a popular tourist destination.
However, with so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to decide what to prioritize. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and recommendations for what not to miss when visiting Prague.
The Old Town Square
The Old Town Square is the heart of Prague and is a must-visit for any tourist. It is surrounded by historical buildings, including the Old Town Hall, the Tyn Church, and the St. Nicholas Church.
Be sure to check out the Astronomical Clock, which puts on a show every hour.
The Charles Bridge
The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague. It is a pedestrian bridge that connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town (Mala Strana).
Take a walk across the bridge to see the stunning views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is a massive complex that houses several buildings, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
It is one of the largest castles in the world, and you can easily spend several hours exploring the grounds.
The Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, is a historic neighborhood that is home to many synagogues, museums, and monuments. It is a great place to learn about Jewish culture and history in Prague.
Petrin Hill
Petrin Hill is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. It is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the stunning views of Prague.
You can take a funicular railway to the top or climb the hill on foot.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is a bustling commercial and cultural hub in Prague. It is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and theaters, making it a great place to explore and people-watch.
Local Cuisine
Prague has a rich culinary tradition that combines Czech, German, and Austrian influences. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as goulash, dumplings, and roast pork.
You can also wash it down with a cold Czech beer, which is some of the best in the world.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes Prague is a city best explored on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Use public transportation Prague has an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a metro. You can buy tickets at vending machines or kiosks and validate them before boarding.
- Learn a few Czech phrases While many people in Prague speak English, it is always polite to learn a few Czech phrases, such as hello (dobrý den) and thank you (děkuji).
- Watch out for pickpockets Like any tourist destination, Prague has its fair share of pickpockets. Be sure to keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.
- Visit in the off-season Prague can get very crowded in the summer months, so consider visiting in the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the crowds and enjoy more pleasant weather.
7 Interesting Facts about Prague
- The Charles Bridge is said to be the most haunted spot in Prague, with ghost sightings reported by locals and tourists alike.
- Prague has more than ten major museums, including the National Museum, the Jewish Museum, and the Prague City Museum.
- The famous Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world, dating back to 1410.
- The Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, covering an area of 70,000 square meters.
- Prague is known for its beer culture, with the first brewery in the city opening in 993 AD and today it is home to some of the best breweries in the world.
- The Lennon Wall, located near the Charles Bridge, became a symbol of freedom and rebellion during the communist era, and today it is covered in colorful graffiti.
- Prague is nicknamed the “City of a Hundred Spires” because of its many historic buildings with spires and towers, giving the city an enchanting skyline.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Prague is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone.
By prioritizing the Old Town Square, the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the Jewish Quarter, Petrin Hill, Wenceslas Square, and local cuisine, you will have a fantastic time exploring this charming city.
Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, use public transportation, and learn a few Czech phrases.
For more texts about capitals from the same area, please check under the category Europe. Thank you for reading and have a nice day.