Prague is a vibrant and exciting urban centre that provides travellers with a unique and charming mix of the old and the new. The variety of things to see and do in this city is staggering, and regardless of the length of their stay visitors will never run out of new things to experience.
As the capital of the Czech Republic, more than a million people call Prague home. If you decide to spend some time there, you can see Prague's variety of great food, great entertainment, great sights, and great nightlife!
Prague Accommodation
If you are looking for a great place to stay, most of the hotels in Prague are situated on the western side of town, towards to Vltava River. These hotels vary widely in both the amenities they provide as well as how much they cost. Both the budget traveller and the lavish jetsetter will be able to find something that suits their needs. Business travellers will also find a wide range of hotels that cater specifically to their requirements.
Travellers who intend to stay in Prague for an extended period of time, groups travelling together, and larger families, will find that there is a large selection of self-catering apartments ranging from studios to three and four-bedroom units available throughout the city.
Top Things to do in Prague
There are many intriguing attractions in Prague that will appeal to a wide variety of interests. Here is a short list of some of the most popular things to do in the city.
Ride the Funicular Railway - Riding the Funicular Railway, which links the Mala Strana district to the top of Petrin Hill, is something that every traveller to Prague should experience. The top of Petrin Hill offers the best views of Prague to be found. It is also home to the beautiful Petrin Gardens.
Old Town Square - If you want to spend some time “stepping back in time", head to the Old Town Square. It is actually right in the middle of the city - you can't miss it! The Old Town Square has been around since the 12th century, and it still looks very much the same today as it did back then. The Square is home to the Town Hall, the beautiful Church of our Lady of Tyn, and the Astronomical Clock.
Prague Castle - Prague is also a fabulous place to get in touch with your “regal" side. The city is home to several castles, the biggest being the Prague Castle - which has been around for more than 1,200 years. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the Prague Castle is also the largest coherent castle complex in the world. And, if you swing by at noon, you can catch the changing of the guard. .
Petrin Tower - To get one of the best views of the city, make your way over to Petrin Tower. This tower is referred to as the Little Eiffel Tower by the locals, thanks to its resemblance to the more famous structure. A 60-metre high tower, this tourist attraction is the place for great photo opportunities.
Charles Bridge - To get in touch with the spirit of the city, take a trip to the Charles Bridge. Constructed in the 14th century, this pedestrian bridge provides a breathtaking view of Prague Castle as well as the rest of the Prague skyline. The bridge is also home to 75 statues, the oldest of which is the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, which has stood there since the late 17th century.
Arts and Entertainment
Travellers who want to take in some music or performance art while they are in Prague will find many options open to them. The world renowned Prague Symphony Orchestra is devoted to playing the classics from all over the world, as well as contemporary pieces by Czech composers. A variety of ticket packages can be purchased through the symphony website.
Prague is also home to some of the world's best opera. If you take in a show, you get the added benefit of sitting in one of the world's most historic opera houses. The Prague Opera House has been open since the 1800's! The city is host to both the National Opera Company and the State Opera Company. The former specializes in experimental and Czech pieces, while the latter has more of an international repertoire. The State Opera Company includes a ballet group, which has been in existence since 2003.
The two most popular concert halls in Prague are Dvorak Hall and Smetana Hall. Both of these concert halls are named after the two famous composers who grew up in the city. It is worth noting that many classical music concerts also take place in the churches and parks of Prague.
Nightlife
Travellers who are looking for a vibrant, thriving nightlife will find what they are looking for in Prague. The Lavka Bar & Club is a popular choice in the city, and offers club goers a large dance floor and music from the 80s onwards; these records are presented and played by professional DJs. For those with particularly strong constitutions, the Nebe Wenceslas Square Bar & Restaurant offers visitors the opportunity to dance until five in the morning.
For a combination of rock 'n roll and dance music, the Lucerna 80's Club is the place to go. This establishment plays host to several of the most popular bands in the Czech Republic during the week, and then becomes a 80s/90s disco club once the weekend starts.
Prague also plays host to a variety of jazz clubs, as well as a wide selection of more intimate bars and pubs.
Beer and Wine
Along with its many historical attractions and dining options, Prague and the surrounding area in the Czech Republic are noted for a wide selection of excellent beers and wines.
There are several world famous beers that are brewed in Prague, including Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, and Velvet. The breweries for all three of these beers are located in the city itself, and tours can be arranged by contacting the companies directly. While learning about its history, beer can be sampled at the Prague Beer Museum and there is an extensive menu of brews available.
Several wine festivals, including the Prague Wine Festival, are held every autumn in the city. Hundreds of national and international wines can be tasted during the festival, which is usually held in the middle of September. There are also many wine bars in the city, such as House of Wine U Zavoje, and the Lacave Restaurant - Wine Shop Armorica.
There are a number of wineries located in the area around Prague, and many of these offer tours and tastings.
Eating
As one might expect from the importance the city places on beer and wine, there is also a thriving food culture in Prague, and there is a wide selection of international cuisines available in the city. The Bily Konicek Restaurant & Jazz Club specializes in local cuisine, but also serves a number of international dishes. The same is true of the Lary Fary Restaurant.
For a more contemporary take on Czech food, you can go to the Sherwood Restaurant & Bar, which is located in New Town. For those looking for a unique dining experience, the Medieval Tavern offers a meal done Medieval Czech banquet style. Asian food can be procured at the Made in Japan Sushi Restaurant, as well as the Buddha Bar Restaurant, both of which are located in Old Town.
Offering a large variety of food and drink, nightlife and attractions, and accommodation to suit every taste and budget, Prague is a city that has something to offer every traveller.