Hotel Stays
Here are some budget and moderate hotels in Prague, along with their price ranges:Budget Hotels (approximately €20-€50 per night):
1. Hostel One Home (€15-€30 per night) - A modern hostel with dorms and private rooms, located in the heart of Prague.
2. Galerie Hostel (€15-€25 per night) - A small, intimate hostel with a relaxed atmosphere, located near Wenceslas Square.
3. MadHouse Youth Hostel (€20-€35 per night) - A bustling hostel with dorms and private rooms, located in the city center.
4. Mosaic House (€25-€40 per night) - A budget-friendly hotel with private rooms and dorms, located in the trendy Karlin district.
5. Pauza Hostel (€20-€35 per night) - A cozy hostel with private rooms and dorms, located in the Vinohrady neighborhood.
Moderate Hotels (approximately €50-€120 per night):
1. Hotel Century Old Town - Prague (€60-€100 per night) - A charming hotel with elegant rooms, located in the heart of Old Town.
2. Hotel Golden City (€50-€90 per night) - A comfortable hotel with modern rooms, located near the Wenceslas Square.
3. Hotel Opera (€60-€110 per night) - A stylish hotel with elegant rooms, located near the National Theatre.
4. Hotel Julian (€50-€90 per night) - A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, located in the Vinohrady neighborhood.
5. Hotel Pulentus (€50-€90 per night) - A cozy hotel with elegant rooms, located in the trendy Karlín district.
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the season and availability. It's always a good idea to check the official websites or a hotel booking website like Booking.com or Expedia for the most up-to-date prices.
Suggested Itinerary
Here's a suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit to Prague:Day 1:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at a local café or bakery.
* 10:00 AM: Visit the Charles Bridge (Karlův most), one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague. Take a stroll across the bridge and enjoy the views of the Vltava River and the city.
* 11:30 AM: Stop by the nearby St. Nicholas Church (Sv. Mikuláš) to admire its stunning Gothic architecture and ornate interior.
* 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at a traditional Czech pub, like Café Imperial or La Degustation. Try some classic Czech dishes like goulash, dumplings, or roasted pork.
* 2:30 PM: Visit the National Museum (Národní muzeum) to learn about Prague's history and culture.
* 4:30 PM: Take a walk through the charming Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the famous Astronomical Clock (Orloj).
* 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Czech dinner at a restaurant like Eska or Field.
* 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife in the Karlin district or the trendy Vinohrady neighborhood.
Day 2:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day with a trip to the Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), the largest and most impressive castle complex in the world. Be sure to explore the Castle's sprawling grounds, including the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
* 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a nearby café or restaurant.
* 2:30 PM: Visit the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) to explore the historic synagogues, including the Spanish Synagogue (Španělská synagoga) and the Pinkas Synagogue (Pinkasova synagoga).
* 4:00 PM: Take a stroll through the picturesque Petřín Hill (Petrín), with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.
* 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Czech dinner at a restaurant like Mlýnec or La Bodeguita.
* 9:00 PM: Enjoy a concert or show at one of Prague's many theaters or music venues.
Day 3:
* 9:00 AM: Start the day with a trip to the Petřín Tower (Petřínská rozhledna), for panoramic views of the city.
* 10:30 AM: Visit the Egon Schiele Museum (Muzeum Egonu Schieleho) to explore the life and works of the famous Austrian artist.
* 12:30 PM: Take a break for lunch at a nearby café or restaurant.
* 2:00 PM: Take a walking tour of the trendy Vinohrady neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of architecture, cafes, and shops.
* 4:00 PM: Visit the famous John Lennon Wall (Lennonova zeď) in the Mala Strana neighborhood.
* 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant like Sansho or Mlýnec.
Of course, this is just one possible itinerary, and you can always adjust it to fit your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in Prague!
Suggested Restaurants
Here are some highly-recommended restaurants in Prague, along with their price ranges:Fine Dining
1. Alcron ( Michelin-starred) - Average price: 2,500 CZK (around $100 USD) per person for a 3-course meal.
* Menu: Czech fusion cuisine, seasonal ingredients.
* Address: Alcron Hotel, Senovázné nám. 8, 110 00 Prague
2. La Degustation (Michelin-starred) - Average price: 2,000 CZK (around $80 USD) per person for a 4-course meal.
* Menu: French-inspired cuisine, farm-to-table ingredients.
* Address: Pachtelovský palác, Wenceslas Square 13, 110 00 Prague
3. Field (Michelin-starred) - Average price: 2,500 CZK (around $100 USD) per person for a 3-course meal.
* Menu: Modern Czech cuisine, seasonal ingredients.
* Address: Mánesova 8/110, 128 00 Prague
Casual Dining
1. Café Imperial - Average price: 500 CZK - 1,000 CZK (around $20 - $40 USD) per person.
* Menu: International cuisine, sandwiches, and salads. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
* Address: Na Poříčí 15, 110 00 Prague
2. Eska - Average price: 300 CZK - 600 CZK (around $12 - $25 USD) per person.
* Menu: Czech cuisine, meat and fish dishes, beer selection.
* Address: Široká 15, 110 00 Prague
3. Simpl - Average price: 200 CZK - 400 CZK (around $8 - $16 USD) per person.
* Menu: Modern Czech cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options, craft beer.
* Address: Karlova 16, 110 00 Prague
Traditional Czech Cuisine
1. La Bodeguita del Medio - Average price: 200 CZK - 400 CZK (around $8 - $16 USD) per person.
* Menu: Traditional Czech dishes, beer selection.
* Address: Národní 22, 110 00 Prague
2. U Medvídků - Average price: 200 CZK - 400 CZK (around $8 - $16 USD) per person.
* Menu: Traditional Czech dishes, beer selection.
* Address: Řetězová 14, 110 00 Prague
3. Grolsch Café & Bierhaus - Average price: 300 CZK - 600 CZK (around $12 - $25 USD) per person.
* Menu: Traditional Czech dishes, beer selection, and breakfast options.
* Address: Václavské náměstí 15/15, 110 00 Prague
Street Food/Cafés
1. Eska Café - Average price: 100 CZK - 200 CZK (around $4 - $8 USD) per person.
* Menu: Sandwiches, salads, pastries, and coffee.
* Address: Široká 15, 110 00 Prague
2. The Coffee Plant - Average price: 100 CZK - 200 CZK (around $4 - $8 USD) per person.
* Menu: Specialty coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals.
* Address: Dlouhá 31, 110 00 Prague
3. Food Truck Kühni - Average price: 100 CZK - 200 CZK (around $4 - $8 USD) per person.
* Menu: Street food, sandwiches, and snacks.
* Address: Nárovského 14, 110 00 Prague
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and other factors. It's always a good idea to check prices and menus before visiting a restaurant.
Local Food
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is known for its rich culinary history and traditional cuisine. Here are some delicious and iconic dishes to try when visiting Prague:1. Rožkový kulajda (Rožková soupa): A hearty beef goulash soup, often served with a side of rye bread.
2. Svíčková: A classic Czech dish made with marinated beef in cream sauce, typically served with dumplings and cranberries.
3. Kulajda ze špenátko: A variation of kulajda (goulash) made with wild mushrooms and served with bread or dumplings.
4. Trdelník: A sweet pastry made from rolled dough, typically topped with sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon.
5. Paštiky: Small meat pies filled with beef, pork, or chicken, often served as a snack or appetizer.
6. Chlebíčky: Open-faced sandwiches made with a variety of fillings, such as ham, cheese, eggs, or vegetables.
7. Cold pierogi (Chladné pierogy): Boiled or fried dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, often served with sour cream and fried onions.
8. Pilsner: A popular Czech lager beer, named after the city of Plzeň (Pilsen), which is brewed with the famous Pilsner Urquell beer.
9. Karlovarská krumlovská káva: A traditional coffee made with coffee, whipped cream, and spices, served in a cup made of glass or ceramic.
10. Tradiční česká koláč: A traditional Czech cake made with vanilla custard, chocolate, or fruit, often topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips.
Some popular food markets and restaurants to try these dishes include:
* Eska: A modern pizzeria serving traditional Czech dishes with a twist.
* La Degustation: A fine dining restaurant offering refined Czech cuisine.
* Café Imperial: A historic café serving traditional Czech coffee and pastries.
* Podolská 15: A cozy restaurant offering traditional Czech cuisine.
* Market Place: A food court with various stalls serving traditional Czech food, drinks, and sweets.
Remember to also try some of the delicious Czech pastries and desserts, such as ořechové mány (almond croissants) and krokaniky (small, crispy cookies). Bon appétit!
Shopping
Prague offers a wide range of shopping options, from traditional markets to modern shopping centers. Here are some suggestions:Traditional Markets:
1. Eska Market (Eska's Market): A modern market with a farm-to-table concept, offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
2. Grand Market Hall (Velké Tržiště): A historic market with stalls selling fresh goods, souvenirs, and Czech specialties.
3. Hala Truhlaré: A historical market hall with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, bread, and sweet treats.
Department Stores:
1. Galeria Václav: One of the largest shopping centers in Prague, with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
2. Westfield Letňany: A large shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
3. Nový Smíchov: A popular shopping center in the heart of Prague, with a mix of local and international brands.
Specialty Stores:
1. Baar's Chocolate Store (Baarsova cukrová dílna): A historic chocolate shop with a wide selection of chocolates and truffles.
2. Žába: A popular boutique offering handmade jewelry, accessories, and souvenirs.
3. Velen: A luxurious boutique selling high-end jewelry, watches, and luxury goods.
Vintage and Thrift Stores:
1. Velvet Underground: A vintage clothing store with a wide selection of retro and second-hand clothes.
2. Světec: A thrift store with a vast selection of donated clothing, accessories, and household items.
3. Retro Rock: A vintage clothing store with a focus on 60s and 70s fashion.
Souvenir Shops:
1. Czech Glass: A shop selling exclusive Czech glassware, souvenirs, and gifts.
2. Art Street: A market featuring local artisans selling handmade souvenirs, jewelry, and artwork.
3. Podnik: A souvenir shop located at Prague's main train station, offering a range of Czech specialties and gifts.
Remember to explore the charming streets and alleys of Prague's Old Town, as they often hide small, unique shops and boutiques waiting to be discovered!
Regional Wine
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, offers a rich wine culture with a variety of wine options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some wine options in Prague:1. Moravian Wine Region: Moravia is the largest wine-producing region in the Czech Republic, and many wineries offer wine tastings and tours. Some popular wineries include:
* Valtice Wine Region: Known for its white wines, particularly Riesling and Grüner Veltliner.
* Lednické Valley Wine Region: Features a mix of white and red wines, including Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
* Thayatal Wine Region: Offers a variety of wines, including Pinot Grigio and Merlot.
2. Czech Wine Bars:
* Wine Bar 108: Offers a wide selection of Czech and international wines in a cozy setting.
* Wine Bar U Zlatého Painter: Features a variety of wines, including some rare and exclusive bottles.
* Vinograf Wine Shop and Bar: A popular spot for wine enthusiasts, with a wide range of wines and knowledgeable staff.
3. Wine Courses and Tastings:
* The Czech Wine Institute: Offers wine courses, tastings, and workshops for wine enthusiasts.
* Vindepot: Provides wine courses and tastings, focusing on Czech wines and wine producers.
4. Wine and Food Pairing:
* La Degustation: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering wine pairing menus featuring Czech and international wines.
* Eska: A modern Czech restaurant offering wine pairing menus with a focus on local ingredients.
5. Wine Shops:
* Vinohradská 17: A charming wine shop with a wide selection of Czech and international wines.
* Vinograf Wine Shop: Offers a wide range of wines, including rare and exclusive bottles.
Remember to check the wine shops' and bars' opening hours, as they may vary. Enjoy your wine adventure in Prague!
Nearby places to explore
Prague is a great base for exploring the surrounding regions of the Czech Republic and beyond. Here are some other cities you might consider visiting:1. Kutná Hora (105 km / 1 hour from Prague): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kutná Hora is known for its stunning cathedral, the Sedlec Ossuary, made from the remains of over 40,000 people.
2. Český Krumlov (200 km / 3 hours from Prague): This picturesque town on the Vltava River is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Renaissance castle, and stunning views.
3. Karlovy Vary (130 km / 2 hours from Prague): This spa town is famous for its hot springs and stunning architecture. Take a stroll through the colonnaded square and enjoy the city's rich history.
4. Brno (210 km / 2.5 hours from Prague): The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno is known for its beautiful main square, cafes, and impressive clock tower.
5. Dresden (200 km / 3.5 hours from Prague): While not in the Czech Republic, Dresden is just across the border in Germany and offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque river views.
6. Braslavice (150 km / 2 hours from Prague): A charming town known for its traditional architecture, scenic views of the Beskydy Mountains, and ski resorts.
7. Olomouc (300 km / 4 hours from Prague): The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Olomouc is famous for its beautiful architecture, picturesque streets, and impressive castle.
8. Železný Brod (140 km / 2 hours from Prague): A charming town with a rich history, Železný Brod is known for its stunning architecture, picturesque streets, and beautiful surroundings.
9. Tábor (90 km / 1.5 hours from Prague): A historic city with significant ties to the Hussite Movement, Tábor is known for its castle, main square, and beautiful architecture.
10. Jiříkov (100 km / 1.5 hours from Prague): A charming town on the Vltava River, Jiříkov is known for its beautiful main square, scenic views, and picturesque streets.
These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that can complement your Prague visit. Enjoy your explorations!
Local Transport
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, has a well-developed public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are some public transportation options to consider:1. Metro (Subway): Prague has three metro lines (A, B, and C) that cover most areas of the city. The metro operates from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Friday, and from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekends and public holidays.
2. Bus (Tram and Trolleybus): Prague's bus network covers almost all areas of the city. You can find bus stops (called "autobusové zastávky") at regular intervals. Night buses („N“) operate on most routes. The bus operates from around 4:30 AM to 12:30 AM, Monday to Saturday, and from 6:00 AM to 12:30 AM on Sundays.
3. Funicular (Funiki): The Prague Funicular connects the top of Petřín Hill with a station near the city center. It's a fun and scenic way to travel.
4. Trams: Trams are a good way to explore Prague's historic center. Trams operate from around 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM on Sundays.
5. Train (Pražská Síť): Prague has a comprehensive network of commuter trains, which covers the surrounding region. You can also use the train to travel to other major cities in the Czech Republic.
6. Intercity Trains (Regiojet): Intercity trains connect Prague with other major cities in the Czech Republic, such as Brno, Olomouc, and Ostrava. Regiojet is a private company that operates high-speed trains, which offer a more comfortable travel experience.
Tickets and Prices:
* Single tickets (one-hour tickets): 24 CZK (approximately €0.96) for buses and trams, 32 CZK for the metro.
* 10-ticket strips: 110 CZK (approximately €4.40) for buses and trams, 140 CZK for the metro.
* Daily tickets: 90 CZK (approximately €3.60) for buses and trams, 110 CZK for the metro.
* Longer-term tickets and passes are also available.
Other Options:
* Taxi: You can hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance. Expect to pay around 150-200 CZK (approximately €6-8) for a short ride.
* Bicycle: Prague is a bike-friendly city, with many bike lanes and rental options available.
* Walking: Explore the city on foot to discover its hidden treasures and enjoy the scenic views.
Remember to always validate your public transportation ticket by punching it in the yellow machines at the buses, trams, or metro stations before you start your journey. This will ensure you're using a valid ticket or pass.