Discovering Prague: Your Ultimate Guide to the City of a Hundred Spires

The Magic of Prague: A City of Timeless Beauty

Prague, affectionately known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” stands as one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. This UNESCO World Heritage site combines Gothic grandeur with Baroque elegance, creating a fairytale atmosphere that captivates millions of visitors annually. The city’s unique blend of medieval architecture, rich cultural heritage, and modern vibrancy makes it an unparalleled destination. The winding cobblestone streets, magnificent Charles Bridge, and the iconic Prague Castle – the largest ancient castle complex in the world – create an atmospheric journey through time, while the city’s renowned beer culture and innovative culinary scene offer contemporary delights.

Quick Essential Information

Language

Czech

Currency

Czech Crown (CZK)

Visa

Schengen visa for non-EU citizens

Power Plugs

Type C & E, 230V, 50Hz

Emergency Contacts

Medical Emergency: 155
Police: 158
Tourist Police: +420 974 851 730
Tourist Information Center: +420 221 714 444

Religion

Predominantly Roman Catholic and Atheist

Airport

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)

Climate

Temperate, with warm summers and cold winters

Useful Apps

Mapy.cz (local navigation)
PID Lítačka (public transport)
Bolt (ride-hailing)
Czech Language (translation)

Geographic Location

Prague sits in the heart of Central Europe, nestled in the northern part of the Czech Republic along the Vltava River. The city is strategically located at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, approximately 300km southeast of Berlin and 300km north of Vienna.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, beautiful blooming gardens
  • Summer (June-August): Peak season, warm weather, numerous festivals
  • Fall (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, stunning autumn colors
  • Winter (December-February): Magical Christmas markets, snow-covered spires

Transport

Airport Access: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) – 17km west of city center

Transport options from airport:

Airport Express Bus

    • Cost: 100 CZK ($4)
    • Duration: 30 minutes
    • Provider: Prague Public Transport (DPP)
    • Purchase: Airport terminals or online

Public Bus + Metro

    • Cost: 40 CZK ($1.60)
    • Duration: 45 minutes
    • Lines: Bus 119 to Nádraží Veleslavín (Metro A)
    • Purchase: Airport terminals or DPP mobile app

Taxi/Ride-share

    • Cost: 500-700 CZK ($20-28)
    • Duration: 20-30 minutes
    • Providers: AAA Taxi, Bolt, Uber
    • Book: Mobile apps or airport taxi stands

Accommodations

Booking platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com

Luxury Range

  • Four Seasons Prague
    • 15,000+ CZK ($600+) per night
  • Mandarin Oriental Prague
    • 12,500+ CZK ($500+) per night
  • Augustine Hotel
    • 10,000+ CZK ($400+) per night

Mid-Range

  • Mosaic House Design Hotel
    • 4,000-6,000 CZK ($160-240) per night
  • NYX Hotel Prague
    • 3,500-5,000 CZK ($140-200) per night
  • Hotel Josef
    • 3,000-4,500 CZK ($120-180) per night

Budget Range

  • Sophie’s Hostel
    • 800-1,500 CZK ($32-60) per night
  • Czech Inn
    • 600-1,200 CZK ($24-48) per night
  • Post Hostel Prague
    • 500-1,000 CZK ($20-40) per night

Foods

Prague’s culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Czech fare and modern gastronomy. Must-try dishes include:

  • Svíčková: Marinated sirloin in cream sauce with dumplings
  • Trdelník: Sweet pastry rolled in sugar and walnuts
  • Vepřo-knedlo-zelo: Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut
  • Kulajda: Creamy potato soup with mushrooms and poached egg
  • Guláš: Czech-style hearty beef goulash
  • Smažený Sýr: Fried cheese, a popular street food
  • Chlebíčky: Open-faced sandwiches
  • Kolache: Fruit-filled pastries

Tourist Attractions

Prague Castle Complex Dominating the city skyline, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest ancient castle complex. The magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral stands as its crown jewel, featuring stunning stained glass windows and the tomb of St. Wenceslas. Don’t miss the charming Golden Lane, where colorful historic houses tell tales of alchemists and castle guards. The daily changing of the guard ceremony at noon features a full fanfare, while hourly changes offer smaller displays. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.

Charles Bridge This iconic 14th-century marvel spans the Vltava River with majestic grace. Thirty baroque statues line the pedestrian bridge, each telling its own story of Prague’s rich history. The most famous is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk – touching it is said to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague. The bridge takes on different personalities throughout the day: serene and mystical at dawn, bustling with artists and musicians during the day, and romantically lit at night, offering stunning views of the illuminated castle.

Old Town Square The pulsing heart of Prague since the 11th century, this square showcases the city’s architectural evolution. The world-famous Astronomical Clock performs its hourly show of moving apostles and other figures, while the twin Gothic spires of Týn Church create a fairytale backdrop. The square comes alive during seasonal markets, especially the Christmas and Easter markets, where traditional crafts and foods transform the space into a festive wonderland.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov) A profound testament to Prague’s Jewish heritage, this district houses Europe’s oldest active synagogue, the Old-New Synagogue, built in 1270. The hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery, with layers of graves dating back to the 15th century, tells stories of centuries of Jewish life in Prague. The Spanish Synagogue‘s stunning Moorish interior and the compelling exhibitions at the Jewish Museum provide deep insights into Jewish history and culture.

Wenceslas Square More a grand boulevard than a square, this historic space has witnessed key moments in Czech history, from the proclamation of independence in 1918 to the Velvet Revolution in 1989. The square is bookended by the grand National Museum and the Art Nouveau Grand Hotel Europa. Today, it blends historical significance with modern urban life, featuring high-end shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Dancing House This contemporary architectural masterpiece, designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, represents the dancing figures of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The building’s unique design creates an illusion of movement, symbolizing the transition from communist rule to democracy. The rooftop restaurant offers not just exceptional cuisine but also panoramic views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle.

Letná Park Perched above the Vltava River, this sprawling park offers the most photographed views of Prague’s bridges and spires. The famous Beer Garden provides a perfect spot to enjoy Czech beer while watching the sunset over the city. The massive Metronome, which replaced a Stalin monument, serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s communist past while keeping time with the modern city’s rhythm.

Things to Do

Cultural Immersion

  • Experience world-class opera at the State Opera House, housed in a newly renovated neo-Renaissance building
  • Attend intimate chamber music concerts in historic churches like Nicholas Church
  • Join interactive workshops at the Museum of Communism to understand Czech history
  • Take part in traditional Czech craft workshops at Manufaktura
  • Visit the Czech Philharmonic at the stunning Rudolfinum
  • Experience black light theater, a unique Prague art form, at Image Theater

Historical Exploration

  • Discover hidden passages on the Underground Prague Tour, exploring medieval tunnels and cellars
  • Join themed walking tours focusing on Art Nouveau architecture
  • Visit Vyšehrad, the original settlement of Prague, with its beautiful basilica and cemetery
  • Explore the Strahov Library, home to rare medieval manuscripts
  • Take a World War II History Tour to understand Prague’s role during the occupation
  • Visit the Heydrich Terror Memorial in the Church of St. Cyril and Methodius

Local Experiences

  • Learn Czech beer brewing traditions at U Fleků, brewing continuously since 1499
  • Join local families for home-cooked meals through EatWith platforms
  • Explore the Karlín district for modern Czech life and emerging art scenes
  • Visit the Naplavka Farmers Market on Saturday mornings
  • Take part in seasonal festivals like the Prague Spring Music Festival
  • Experience traditional puppet making at local workshops

Unique Adventures

  • Take a vintage car tour in a Škoda or Praga vehicle
  • Join a photography workshop focusing on Prague’s Gothic architecture
  • Experience medieval banquets at Středověká Krčma
  • Take a sunset cruise with jazz music on the Vltava
  • Join a Czech beer spa experience
  • Explore the city’s renowned astronomical sites

Modern Prague

  • Visit DOX Centre for contemporary art installations
  • Experience the vibrant café culture in Vinohrady
  • Explore the emerging food scene in Smíchov
  • Shop at local designer boutiques in Nové Město
  • Join tech meetups in Prague’s startup hub
  • Experience modern Czech cuisine at innovative restaurants

Getting Around

Public Transport

  • 24-hour ticket: 120 CZK ($4.80)
  • 72-hour ticket: 330 CZK ($13.20)
  • Covers metro, trams, and buses
  • Download PID Lítačka app for mobile tickets

Taxis/Ride-share

  • Base fare: 40 CZK ($1.60)
  • Per km: 28 CZK ($1.12)
  • Recommended apps: Bolt, Uber

Walking

  • Most attractions within walking distance
  • Free walking tours available

Budget (Daily Expenses in USD)

CategoryBackpackerMid-RangeLuxury
Accommodation$20-40$100-200$300+
Food$15-30$40-80$100+
Transportation$5-10$15-25$50+
Attractions$10-20$30-50$100+
Total/Day$50-100$185-355$550+

Travel Insurance

We recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and theft.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Purchase a Prague Card for free entry to attractions
  • Use public transportation instead of taxis
  • Eat lunch at local restaurants offering daily specials
  • Stay in hostels or apartments outside the city center
  • Visit free attractions and walking tours
  • Travel during shoulder season (March-May or September-November)

Seasonal Recommendations

  • Summer: Book accommodations well in advance
  • Winter: Pack warm clothing and waterproof boots
  • Spring/Fall: Bring layers for variable weather
  • Christmas season: Don’t miss the famous markets
  • Festival season (May-September): Check event calendars

Safety Precautions

  • Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas
  • Use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps
  • Keep copies of important documents
  • Avoid currency exchange offices in tourist areas
  • Stay aware in crowded nightlife districts
  • Register with your embassy
  • Keep emergency numbers handy

Prague is more than just a beautiful city; it’s a living museum where every cobblestone tells a story, and every spire reaches toward dreams. From the musical chimes of the Astronomical Clock to the clinking of beer steins in historic pubs, the city orchestrates a perfect harmony of past and present. Whether you’re wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Old Town, contemplating art in hidden galleries, or watching the sunset paint the castle in golden hues, Prague offers moments that linger in memory long after departure.

The city rewards those who venture beyond the typical tourist paths, revealing intimate cafés where Kafka once wrote, quiet gardens where nobles once strolled, and vibrant neighborhoods where Czech culture continues to evolve. With its blend of medieval mystery, baroque grandeur, and modern energy, Prague doesn’t just meet expectations – it transforms them into something magical.

As you plan your visit, remember that Prague is best experienced rather than simply seen. Take time to savor the local rhythms, engage with its traditions, and allow yourself to be surprised by unexpected discoveries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture seeker, foodie, or casual traveler, Prague’s endless layers of beauty and authenticity will capture your heart and spark your imagination, making every visit uniquely memorable.

Note: The travel package prices provided are estimates based on current market rates. Actual costs may fluctuate due to factors such as peak tourist seasons and other circumstances beyond our control.