Bisected by the Vlatava River, Prague will amaze even seasoned travelers with its Gothic grace and Renaissance architecture. Indulge in baroque churches and the best museums, and explore one of Europe's most popular capitals.
The Czech capital, also known as the "city of a thousand towers", rewards you at every turn. Lovely domed churches and tall old towers, magnificent church buildings and the precious architecture of the city center are factors that place Prague at the very top of European architectural pearls. Everywhere you look, you are rewarded with examples of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles that provide a dramatic contrast to the rugged old Prague Castle. The narrow streets of the beautiful old town open onto spectacular squares, each lined with well-preserved historic buildings waiting for tourists to discover them.
When to Prague?
The best months to visit Prague are May and September. At that time, the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowd is much less noticeable than in the summer months. Accommodations are much more affordable in winter than in spring or summer. The cooling starts at the beginning of November and lasts until March, and before the end of the year the streets are usually covered with snow.
Photo: Unsplash/Nastya DulhierWhat should I see in Prague?
The stone Charles Bridge from the 14th century, which connects the old town of Prague with Malá Strana neighborhood, surrounded by statues of thirty saints. This route used to take kings from the Old Town to Prague Castle during their coronation, but today it is filled with stalls and street artists. Wenceslas Square in the heart of New Town is distinguished by the statue of St. Vaclav, the patron saint of Bohemia.
Public protests and celebrations are still held here today, and it was here that Jan Palach set himself on fire in 1968 as a sign of protest against the communist regime. Three years later, the inhabitants of Prague gathered in this very place to celebrate Czech independence. Towering above Prague is the mighty Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world, where the Czech president has his seat.
Photo: Unsplash/Morgane Le BretonAbove the silhouette Prague Castle dominated by the Gothic cathedral of St. Vida, whose stained glass windows are worthy of all admiration. The Roman Catholic Cathedral, located inside Prague Castle, is the largest and most important Christian church in the Czech Republic. Here are also the seat of the Archbishop of Prague, the tombs of many saints and three Czech kings. While exploring the complex, you come across the small houses of Golden Lane, the Romanesque Basilica of St. George and the well-kept southern gardens, and you can even attend the changing of the castle guards at noon. The heart of Prague's Old Town, which is under the auspices of UNESCO, is also a real feast for the eyes.
Market "Old Town Square" it is featured on many postcards and on the covers of tourist guides. Here you will find two mighty church buildings, along with beautiful architecture dating back to the 11th century. The highlight is the Old Town Hall (Staromestská radnice), which houses a fascinating astronomical clock from the early 15th century. Each hour comes to life as the 12 apostles and other figures appear and parade in procession around the clock face.
Photo: Unsplash/Fredy MartinezAlso a neo-Renaissance symphony hall from the late 19th century Rudolfinum is a real feast for the eyes. Sculptures of renowned composers watch over the facade, and the rounded walls of the Dvořák Hall provide perfect acoustics for the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. The smaller Suk Hall hosts more intimate concerts, private events and occasional film screenings under a glittering chandelier. It is also worth visiting Prague's National Gallery, home to some of the most important European art collections.
Although there is a strong emphasis on Czech artists, foreign artists such as Monet and Picasso are also included, as well as other artistic forms of expression, from fashion to photography. When you get tired of living inside four walls, head outside. Giant park, known by the name of the locals Letenské sady, is located on the banks of the Vltava. The labyrinth of paths and flower patches stretches from Prague Castle to the Holešovice neighborhood and attracts dog walkers, runners, families and couples all year round.
Photo: Unsplash/Frederic BarriolHow to explore Prague?
The best way to explore the city is by public transport, but for shorter distances we recommend that you cover them on foot. Buses, trams, metros, trains, as well as the rare ferry service, are usually punctual and the tickets are reasonably priced. More than a million people use the Prague subway every day, making it one of the busiest underground systems in the world.
How much does a plane ticket to Prague cost?
If the several-hour drive to Prague doesn't tempt you, you can fly from Venice to the Czech capital starting from 56 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Zsombor ButtyanCovid-19 restrictions in the Czech Republic
There are no special restrictions upon arrival in the country. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Prague
COSMOPOLITAN Hotel Prague
The accommodation is located on a quiet street in the center of Prague, a short walk away from the Old Town Square. In the building from 1889, they arranged a boutique hotel that combines historical elements and modern design. All rooms are equipped with all the amenities that modern travelers need, from television to internet access. The trendy bistro restaurant Next Door, which has an open kitchen and original ceiling frescoes from 1889, is run by celebrity chef Zdenek Pohlreich.
Hotel Leon D'Oro
Hotel Leon D´Oro is located in a recently renovated old Prague house in the city center, just a five-minute walk away from the main city square. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a hairdryer and TV, and in the morning you are spoiled with a delicious breakfast.
