Prague is a fairy tale. The City of a Hundred Spires is home to an ancient castle on a hill, a magical clock tower, absinthe and a storied history of famous astronomers.
From the airport, one option is to take the Airport Express bus to the Prague Main Station and then walk 10-15 minutes into the Old Town. The bus takes about 35 minutes and runs from 6:30am to 10:00pm every 30 minutes. Alternatively, a cab or Uber will take 20-25 minutes.
The euro is not widely used in the Czech Republic. Upon arrival take out Czech crowns (also known as krones).
EAT
Ferdinanda Traditional Czech cuisine and beer in a cozy setting in Mala Strana. Recommended by a friend
Mansson’s Bakery Delicious Danish bakery just north of Old Town.
Las Adelitas When you need a break from the local cuisine, check out this friendly, authentic Mexican spot for delicious tacos & margs.
Piknik Park An Italian enoteca located on a quiet side street in Mala Strana. Outdoor seating, live music, great pizza and wine!
DRINK
The Czechs invented the Pilsner in 1842 and there is no better spot to try this light, golden-colored beer than straight from the source. Ask for a Pilsner Urquell, the original Bohemian beer. If you needed any more convincing, beer is literally cheaper than water here.
Double Trouble This cassic “cave-bar” and underground nightclub is a great spot to start the night.
Fat Cat Brewery & Pub Hip, contemporary bar and restaurant serving local brews in Old Town.
Hemingway Bar Cocktails.
Mecca Dance club for deep-house and techno lovers.
Strahov Monastery Brewery Beer has been brewed on this site near the Prague Castle since the medieval ages, but the current building dates back to the 17th century. Recommended by a friend.
PLAY
Charles Bridge This 15th century bridge connects the heart of the city and is lined with statutes of saints, artists, performers and musicians.
John Lennon Wall This colorful memorial pays homage to John Lennon and his ideals of peace and free speech.
Karlstejn Castle This beautiful, gothic castle was founded in 1348 by the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV. It is an easy half day trip by train from Prague, and one of the most admired castles in Bohemia.
Mala Strana Prague’s Lesser Town is slightly less touristy than Old Town but just as magical. This neighborhood lines the left river bank and is just south of the Castle. Several good pubs and restaurants are located here.
Old Town Square A must visit.
The Powder Tower One of the original city gates to the Old Town, this gothic tower’s construction began in the fifteenth century.
Prague Castle largest castle (area) in the world dating back to the 9th century.
Prague Astronomical Clock This 600 year old clock face is the heart and soul of the Old Town and puts on a show every hour.
Day trips
Terezín Take a day trip one hour outside the city to this former ghetto, concentration camp and Gestapo prison. A sobering but educational experience to learn about the Czech-Jewish history, World War II, and the Holocaust.
STAY
Stay near the Old Town or Mala Strana to be within walking distance of the main sites and nightlife. Mala Strana is perhaps a bit less touristy and quieter in the evening. We, however, enjoyed the four star Hotel Caruso, just north of the Old Town Square.