Prague Visitors Guide: Explore the Captivating City of a Hundred Spires
Located in central Europe, Prague is often referred to as the ‘Golden City’, which is the capital of the Czech Republic. The city has been called the city of a hundred towers, and indeed, this is one of the most significant cities with an amazing history, unique architecture, and a colorful cultural program. This short but detailed visitors guide includes important tips to enable you plan effectively for your weekend or any other duration of your trip in this beautiful city of Prague.
1. Getting to Prague
Prague is in a strategic position when it comes to a train, bus or air connection to other cities in the world. It can be accessed by flight from several destinations by air and by train or bus from some of the neighboring towns and cities. For the international flight, vaclav havel airport prague is the biggest international airport present in the country. They are however easily accessible from the airport by public transport of by hiring a taxi if you prefer so.
2. Getting Around Prague
Public transport in Prague comprises of trams, buses, and the metro and the system is regarded to be one of the best of its kind in the region. This transportation system is the most effective in the city since it has a network of three lines that connects most of the areas in the city. A single ticket is with a certain validity, through which a commuter can use any mode of transport during the validity period of the ticket.
However, walking round Prague is also pleasant and free of charge. The old town is fairly small, so it is recommendable to walk around as this gives one a feeling of the beauty of the city. And, of course, the rewarding destinations will be accompanied by beautiful scenery and routes that are not easily noticeable at first glance.
3. Must-See Attractions
3.1 Prague Castle
It is unimaginable to visit Prague and meet the sights without getting to this historic place referred to as Prague Castle. This remarkable structure is the largest ancient castle which took pride of place as the holder of the Guinness World Record. In Prague visit Royal Palace, admire the St Vitus Cathedral and also get a chance to walk down the famous Golden Lane. There is always a change of guard on the hour and it’s quite popular because of its lavish display.
3.2 Charles Bridge
It is a very important icon in the city of Prague; it is a bridge that crosses the Vltava River and is one of the most architecturally impressive bridges. It will be most comfortable to walk with people and pay attention to the marvelous statues featured along the bridge. It is recommended to visit early in the morning or in the evening so as to avoid other people who have the same intentions of taking photos of the city skyline on the bridge.
3.3 Old Town Square
In the centre of the capital of the Czech Republic, there is Old Town Square with numerous buildings, pavements, the most popular attraction – the Astronomical Clock. Street performers, markets stalls, and several cafes and restaurants, where one can taste the real Czech food are always filled with people in this square.
4. Exploring Prague’s Neighborhoods
The geographical area is divided into discernible districts and localized quarters that possess their sales and attributes. Here is the list of some important neighborhoods that can be visited:
4.1 Lesser Town (Mala Strana)
- Lesser Town situated in the area below the castle is filled with baroque buildings and small streets.
- Visit and delight in the beautify cultivated Wallenstein Garden and beautiful sceneries of Prague from atop Petrin hill.
4.2 Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
- When in Prague do go to visit the beautiful synagogues and the quite old and eerie Old Jewish Cemetery.
- One should not fail to visit the Jewish Museum which will give one a clear view of Jewish background of the city.
4.3 Vinohrady
- A popular route through thes charming and rather quiet district with the major part of elegant Art Nouveau houses.
- Stay at Riegrovy Sady, a favored park with a vantage view of some parts of the city of Prague.
5. Cuisine and Nightlife
Cuisine in Prague is also extremely varied and group favourites are definitely easy to satisfy in this city. Try out such foods as gulyás, svíčková (marinated meat) and trdelník (a sweet confectionery). It is recommended to have it with a glass of popular Czech beer to make your meal more authentic.
The nightlife in Prague can be described as saturated and rather differentiated. Whether you want to catch a sunset at one of the woody rooftop lounge bar or dance the night away at one of the underground clubs, the event has all your bases covered. You should not miss beer gardens during the summer season in Prague.
6. Essential Tips for Visitors
Here are some important tips which would help one to have a good experience in Prague.
- Some popular Czech destinations do not accept credit cards as a form of payment; it is therefore advisable to have some Czech koruna (CZK) in cash.
- General tips on avoiding pick pocketing are applicable especially if the place is populated with numerous tourists.
- Refrain from touching the heads of the people especially the women since that is regarded as a taboo in many cultural practices You should respect cultural practices most especially when it comes to religious beliefs and practices.
- Master some simple Czech expressions so as to demonstrate your respect for the destination’s traditions.
- Some attractions are open for visiting at specific times, therefore check out opening hours in advance.
Consequently, Prague is an extraordinary city, which draws attention of numberless guests with respective architecture, historical traditions, and an intriguing cultural life. This, the latter composing of this all encompassing visitors guide, is all that is required to help one discover the charming city of a hundred spires.
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