Prague & Czech Republic
Prague is one of those cities that makes you stop on a bridge, look around, and wonder how a place this beautiful actually exists. The skyline is a forest of Gothic spires, baroque domes, and Art Nouveau facades reflected in the Vltava River. Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world, presides over the city from a hilltop. Charles Bridge, lined with 30 baroque statues and usually filled with musicians and artists, connects the castle quarter to the medieval Old Town. It is one of the most visually stunning cities in Europe, and it costs a fraction of what Paris, London, or Rome charges.
The Czech Republic beyond Prague is a countryside of castles, spa towns, and Bohemian villages that most tourists never see. Cesky Krumlov, a medieval town built around a bend in the Vltava River, is so perfectly preserved it looks like a film set. The Moravian wine region in the east has rolling hills, cellars, and a wine culture that surprises visitors who associate the country only with beer.
Where to Go
Prague Old Town Square is the natural starting point. The Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world and performs an hourly show of apostle figures, a crowing rooster, and tolling bells. The surrounding square is flanked by the twin spired Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the baroque St. Nicholas Church, and rows of colorful merchant houses.
Prague Castle is not a single building but a complex covering 18 acres, containing St. Vitus Cathedral (whose stained glass windows are breathtaking), the Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane (a row of tiny, colorful 16th century houses), and several gardens. The views of the city from the castle grounds are among the best in Europe.
Charles Bridge is best experienced at sunrise before the crowds arrive. The 14th century stone bridge spans the Vltava with 16 arches and 30 statues lining its balustrades. The Lesser Town (Mala Strana) on the castle side of the bridge is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Prague, with cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and excellent restaurants.
The Jewish Quarter (Josefov) contains some of the most important Jewish heritage sites in Europe, including the Old Jewish Cemetery where gravestones are stacked in layers, and the Pinkas Synagogue, whose walls are inscribed with the names of 77,297 Czech Jewish Holocaust victims.
Cesky Krumlov, about two and a half hours south of Prague, is a UNESCO World Heritage town with a castle, a riverside setting, and an old town that feels frozen in the 16th century. It is one of the best day trips or overnight excursions from Prague.
Where to Stay
The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, occupies a 13th century Augustinian monastery in Mala Strana with a brewery bar and views of the castle. Aria Hotel Prague is a music themed boutique property near the castle with a rooftop terrace. Four Seasons Hotel Prague has a riverside location with views of Charles Bridge. For budget travelers, the city has excellent hostels and apartment rentals that keep costs remarkably low.
Food and Drink
Czech food is hearty and satisfying. Svickova (marinated beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) is the national dish. Trdelnik, a rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon and sold at street stalls throughout the old town, is the go to snack. Roast duck with cabbage and dumplings is another classic. And the beer, always the beer. Czech pilsner, the original, is served fresh at beer halls like U Fleku (operating since 1499) and Lokal, where a half liter rarely costs more than two dollars.
Let Us Plan Your Prague Trip
Prague is one of the best value destinations in Europe and one of the most beautiful. It pairs perfectly with Vienna, Budapest, or a Bohemian countryside road trip. We will help you build an itinerary that captures the history, the architecture, the beer, and the magic of this extraordinary city.
