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Prague, Czech Republic

In and Out of Ruzyne Airport (PRG) or Prague Airport:

  1. Taxi: Most convenient and what we recommend to you, taxis offer the most expensive transport into town.  However, the cost is not that high (about 400 Crown or just over $20) and it will take you to your hotel’s door.
  2. Cedaz Minibus: This is cheaper method of getting into town.  At about 100 Crown per person, these buses leave every half hour and go to namesti Rupubliky, a square in the center of the city adjacent to many hotels.
  3. Bus and Metro: If you yearn to travel the world’s public transportation, go right ahead.  At least it’s cheap (less than $1 or 20 Crown).  Take Bus 119 from the airport to Dejvicka Station and then catch the Metro A Line to the Centrum Station.

Neighborhoods:

While smaller that Paris and London in area, one side of Prague is built on a hill so have your comfortable walking shoes ready.  That being said, a fit person can walk this city easily.  Enjoy the many Gothic structures throughout the city!

  1. Stare Mesto (Old Town): On the right bank of the Vltava River, get lost within its winding cobblestone streets and alleys.  Stay here if you can, though it is the most expensive.
  2. Hradcany: On the left bank, is a large hill with Prague Castle at the top and many nice hotels and embassies between it and the river.  Another nice place to stay!
  3. Josefov: Just North of Old Town, this area is more modern but still has its history as the old Jewish Quarter.  Not a bad place to stay, but not our favorite.
  4. Nove Mesto (New Town): Just south of Old Town is this area.  Also more modern, this is a good place to stay if you can’t be in Old Town or Hradcany (stay as close to Old Town as possible).
  5. Malastrana: Home to many hotels, this area can be a cheaper place to stay for bargain hunters while staying relatively close to the sights.

Top 10 Prague Sights:

  1. Charles Bridge: Everything about this bridge is simply spectacular (except for the crowds): location, design, artwork in the form of statues and more all come together for a picturesque experience.  Come early to experience lesser crowds and don’t forget to touch the plaque to the right and below St John of Nepomuk depicting the Saint being tossed off of the bridge.  The one on the left with the dog means nothing so don’t worry about that one!
  2. Prague Castle: There’s a lot to see in this castle.  In fact, it’s not too much of a castle at all, but an old palace, St. Vitus’ Cathedral (must see) and governmental offices.  Don’t miss the changing of the guard!
  3. Surrounding Gardens: In the area around the castle, there are gardens to the south overlooking the city and gardens to the north that include the new Presidential Palace.
  4. Old Town Square: Assuming you’ve heard of the Astronomical Clock, this is the place to see it.  But don’t ever say we didn’t warn you that it’s nothing to write home about.  We know you’ll huddle around the clock with the rest of the crowds to see it because you “have to” but there’s much more interesting things to see here like the St. Nicholas and Tyn Churches.
  5. Golden Lane: Behind the castle in the northeast corner starts an alley that is one of the most beautiful walks in the city going downhill away from the castle.
  6. Beer: Yes, a true sight to behold!  Our favorite beer to drink in the world is Czech beer, known for their Pilsners made the right way.  Make sure to enjoy your beer at a good beer-hall like U Fleku.  Good luck, and remember, “its medicine”!
  7. Strahov Monestary: In Malastrana, this has two of the most beautiful libraries in the world.  A unique experience.
  8. Josefov: The old Jewish Quarter still holds an amazingly beautiful cemetery and two breath-taking Synagogues: Staronova and Pinkasova.
  9. Wenceslas Square: The center of Modern Prague, the extending boulevards are home to the best shopping in Prague.
  10. Vltava Embankment: On the Right side of the River in New Town, this area resembles Paris along the Seine.  Along this walk you’ll see the National Theatre, a sight within itself.