The largest ancient castle in the world, dating from the 9th century

Prague Castle is a historic complex at the heart of Prague. It is the official office of the President of the Czech Republic. The castle was a seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. /n The Guinness Book of Records lists Prague Castle as the largest ancient castle in the world. It occupies an area of almost 70,000 m².

Prague Castle is a historic complex at the heart of Prague.

Cathedral situated within the Prague Castle complex

St. Vitus Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Prague, and the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. The full name of the cathedral is St. Vitus, St. Wenceslas and St. Adalbert Cathedral. /n This cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and is the biggest and most important church in the country.

St. Vitus Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Prague.

A palace complex of Czech kings, it is part of the Prague Castle complex.

The Old Royal Palace is part of the Prague Castle complex and dates back to the 12th century. It was the seat of Czech rulers for centuries. /n The palace's Vladislav Hall is one of the best-preserved Renaissance interiors in the world.

The Old Royal Palace is part of the Prague Castle complex.

A historic street situated in Prague Castle with colorful 16th-century houses, now filled with souvenir shops and museums.

Golden Lane, named after the goldsmiths that once lived there, is one of the most charming parts of the Prague Castle complex. /n The lane is lined with 11 historic houses, painted in bright colors. These houses were built in the 16th century and were home to the castle's guards and marksmen. Later, goldsmiths moved in, giving the lane its name. Today, the houses serve as exhibition spaces, showcasing medieval armory and textiles, as well as the living conditions in the 16th century. One of the houses is famously known as the residence of Franz Kafka, the renowned writer, who lived there from 1916 to 1917.

Golden Lane is a historic and picturesque street in Prague Castle.

Historic district of Prague, known for its beautiful baroque and renaissance buildings

Lesser Town, or Malá Strana, is a district in Prague that's steeped in history. /n It's located on the left bank of the Vltava River, just under the Prague Castle. The district is characterized by beautiful baroque buildings, narrow, winding streets, and charming squares. The most notable landmark in the area is the St. Nicholas Church, a stunning example of High Baroque architecture. Lesser Town is also home to a number of embassies, galleries, and restaurants. It's a wonderful place to explore on foot, with plenty of hidden gems to discover.

Lesser Town is a historic district in Prague, known for its beautiful baroque buildings.

Historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague

Charles Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague. It is a stone Gothic bridge that connects the Old Town and Lesser Town. It was commissioned by Czech king and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and construction started in 1357. /n The bridge is decorated by a continuous alley of 30 statues and statuaries, most of them baroque-style, originally erected around 1700 but now all replaced by replicas.

Charles Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague.

Josefov is a historic neighborhood in Prague, known for its old Jewish quarter which includes the Jewish Museum and the Old Jewish Cemetery. It's a place of deep historical and cultural significance, with beautiful architecture.

Josefov, the Jewish Quarter in Prague, is a place of deep historical and cultural significance. /n The quarter is home to six synagogues, including the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe. There's also the Jewish Town Hall, with its unique clock tower, and the Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in the world. The quarter was named after Emperor Joseph II, who emancipated Jews in the late 18th century. Today, Josefov is a poignant reminder of the Jewish community's history in Prague, with its well-preserved sites offering a glimpse into the past.

Josefov is Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, rich in history and culture.

The Old Jewish Cemetery in Josefov, Prague is one of the most significant Jewish historical monuments in Prague. It served its purpose from the first half of 15th century till 1786. With an estimated 12,000 tombstones, it's a poignant site of remembrance.

The Jewish Cemetery in Prague is one of the oldest in the world, with the oldest tombstone dating back to 1439. /n The cemetery is a significant site in the city's Jewish Quarter, Josefov. Despite its small size, it's believed to hold around 100,000 bodies, layered in several levels due to lack of space. The cemetery is a poignant reminder of the Jewish community's history in Prague, with its densely packed, uneven tombstones each telling a story of its own.

The Jewish Cemetery in Prague is one of the oldest in the world.

The Jewish Museum in Prague is a collection of historic Jewish sites, including synagogues and the Jewish Cemetery. It houses a vast collection of artifacts related to Jewish history in the Czech Republic.

The Jewish Museum in Prague is a significant cultural institution, housing a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks related to Jewish history, culture, and religion. /n The museum's collection is spread across six sites in the city's Jewish Quarter, Josefov. These include four synagogues, the Ceremonial Hall, and the Old Jewish Cemetery. The museum's exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Jewish life, traditions, and history in the region, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Jewish culture or history.

The Jewish Museum in Prague houses a vast collection of artifacts related to Jewish history.

One of the main city squares and the centre of the business and cultural communities

Wenceslas Square is a vibrant hub of activity in Prague, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. /n It is also a significant historical site, having been the scene of many of the country's most important events.

Wenceslas Square is a vibrant hub of activity in Prague.

The National Museum is the largest museum in the Czech Republic, housing millions of items from natural history, history, arts, music, and librarianship. /n It is housed in a magnificent neo-Renaissance building on Wenceslas Square and provides a fascinating insight into the rich history and culture of the country.

The National Museum is the largest museum in the Czech Republic.

The Prague State Opera is a prominent opera and ballet house, known for its stunning neo-Renaissance architecture. It offers a rich program of classical opera and ballet performances.

The Prague State Opera is a prominent venue for opera and ballet performances in the city. /n The opera house is housed in a stunning neo-Renaissance building, which dates back to 1888. Over the years, it has hosted numerous world-class performances, featuring both Czech and international artists. The opera house underwent a major renovation in recent years, restoring it to its original glory. Today, it continues to be a vital part of Prague's cultural scene, attracting both locals and tourists with its high-quality performances and beautiful architecture.

The Prague State Opera is a prominent venue for opera and ballet performances.

Known as the alma mater of Czech opera, and as the national monument of Czech history and art

The National Theatre in Prague is a stunning architectural masterpiece and a cultural institution of great significance. /n It hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and drama, and is a symbol of Czech national identity.

The National Theatre is a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Experience the magic of Prague, the heart of Europe, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Explore the iconic Prague Castle, stroll across the picturesque Charles Bridge, and marvel at the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square. Enjoy a river cruise on the Vltava, savor traditional Czech cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's thriving arts scene. From the cobblestone streets of the Jewish Quarter to the lively nightlife in Wenceslas Square, Prague offers a unique blend of past and present. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or art lover, this enchanting city promises an unforgettable journey.

Prague Castle

St. Vitus Cathedral

Old Royal Palace

Golden Lane

Lesser Town

Charles Bridge

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the city. Explore the castle complex, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.

Enjoy a traditional Czech lunch in a cozy restaurant in the Lesser Town, known for its charming, narrow streets and Baroque architecture.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll across the Charles Bridge, one of Prague's most famous landmarks. Admire the 30 statues and statuaries that line the bridge, and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by the street musicians and artists.

Have dinner in the Old Town, where you can find a variety of restaurants serving both Czech and international cuisine. After dinner, take a walk around the Old Town Square and admire the beautiful architecture.

End your day with a classical music concert in one of the many churches in the Old Town, or enjoy a river cruise on the Vltava River for a different perspective of the city.

Exploring the Historic Heart of Prague

Josefov

Jewish Cemetery

Jewish Museum

Wenceslas Square

National Museum

Prague State Opera

National Theatre

Visit the Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov. Explore the historic synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum, which provides a poignant insight into the history of Jews in Prague.

Have lunch in a trendy café in the New Town, where you can enjoy a variety of modern Czech and international dishes.

Spend the afternoon exploring Wenceslas Square and the National Museum. The square is one of the main city squares and the center of the business and cultural communities in the New Town of Prague.

Enjoy a hearty Czech dinner in a traditional pub in the Vinohrady district, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene.

End your trip with a visit to the Prague State Opera or the National Theatre for a memorable cultural experience.

Discovering the Modern Side of Prague

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Prague has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that includes the metro, trams, and buses. The metro is the fastest way to travel long distances across the city, while the trams and buses provide service to areas not covered by the metro. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, newsstands, and some convenience stores, and must be validated upon boarding.

Taxis are readily available throughout Prague, but it's recommended to use a reputable company or have your hotel call one for you to avoid overcharging. Always ensure the taxi is metered.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in Prague. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Renting a car in Prague is an option, but not recommended for most visitors due to the city's narrow streets, heavy traffic, and expensive and limited parking. It's often easier and more convenient to use public transportation or taxis.

Prague is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike rental shops. Biking can be a fun and active way to explore the city, but be aware that the city's hilly terrain can be challenging.

Prague's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore the city. Many of the city's top attractions, including the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle, are within walking distance of each other.

River boats operate on the Vltava River, offering a unique perspective of the city. Regularly scheduled boats and dinner cruises are available.

Segway tours are a popular way to see the city, especially for those who prefer not to walk long distances. However, note that Segways are banned in the city center and other areas, so these tours are limited to certain parts of the city.

A marinated beef dish cooked with creamy sauce, often served with dumplings, cranberries, and a slice of lemon. It's one of the most popular dishes in Prague.

Svíčková

A traditional Slovak rolled pastry originating from the Hungarian-speaking region of Transylvania. The pastry is wrapped around a stick, then grilled and topped with sugar and walnut mix.

Trdelník

The first pilsner in the world and a symbol of Czech Republic's long-standing beer brewing tradition. It's a must-try for beer lovers visiting Prague.

Pilsner Urquell

A hearty stew made from meat (usually beef or pork), onions, and spices. It's a common dish in Czech cuisine, often served with bread dumplings.

Guláš

Czech bread dumplings that are often served as a side dish with meat and sauce-based dishes. They are a staple in Czech cuisine.

Knedlíky

A traditional Czech dish consisting of roast pork, bread dumplings, and stewed cabbage. It's a common meal in Prague and showcases the hearty nature of Czech cuisine.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Open-faced sandwiches that are a popular part of Czech cuisine. They can be topped with a variety of ingredients, including ham, egg, pickles, and mayonnaise.

Chlebíčky

A honey cake that is a popular dessert in Prague. It's made with layers of honey-infused dough and sweet cream filling.

Medovník

A herbal liqueur from the Czech Republic. It's often used as a digestive aid and is a popular drink in Prague.

Becherovka

A Czechoslovak carbonated soft drink produced in Czech Republic and Slovakia. It's a unique alternative to other cola drinks and is a popular choice in Prague.

Kofola

Also known as 'Moravian Sparrow', it's a pork dish cooked with garlic and onions, often served with dumplings and cabbage. Despite the name, no birds are used in the recipe.

Moravský vrabec

A garlic soup that is a common part of Czech cuisine. It's known for its strong flavor and is often eaten with bread.

Česnečka

Restoration of the Czech Independence Day

New Year's Day

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

Victory in Europe Day

Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius

Jan Hus Day

St. Wenceslas Day

Independent Czechoslovak State Day

Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

St. Stephen's Day

Historic town known for its silver mines and Gothic St. Barbara's Church.

Kutná Hora

Large Gothic castle founded in 1348 by Charles IV.

Karlštejn Castle

A UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning castle and old town.

Český Krumlov

Famous for Pilsner Urquell Brewery and the Great Synagogue, the second largest in Europe.

Plzeň

Known for its historic old town, Frauenkirche, and Semperoper.

Dresden

The second largest city in the Czech Republic, known for its modernist architecture.

Brno

A former military fortress and concentration camp during WWII.

Terezín

A former residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria.

Konopiště Castle

Home to Budweiser Budvar Brewery and a beautiful old town square.

České Budějovice

Austrian capital known for its imperial palaces and rich cultural history.

Vienna

Karlovy Vary

Prague Castle, Hradcany reflecting in Vltava river

Old Town pier architecture and Charles Bridge over Vltava river

The official language is Czech, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and younger generations.

The official currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK), not the Euro. However, many places do accept Euros.

Prague is generally safe, but like any major city, beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Public transportation is reliable and extensive. It includes trams, buses, and the metro.

Tipping is customary in Prague. It's common to round up the bill or tip 10-15% in restaurants.

Prague is a walkable city, but it's also quite hilly. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants.

The drinking age is 18, and Czech Republic is famous for its beer. Try the local brews.

Prague has a continental climate. Summers (June to August) can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 70-80°F (21-27°C), while winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often below freezing.

Prague is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

Czech cuisine is hearty, featuring dishes like goulash, dumplings, and pork knuckles.

Prague has a vibrant nightlife, with many clubs and bars open until the early hours.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Public restrooms may charge a small fee, so keep some coins handy.

Prague is a very cultural city, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Most shops are open from 9am to 6pm, with shorter hours on weekends.

Pharmacies are widely available, but keep in mind that not all over-the-counter drugs available in your home country may be available in the Czech Republic.

Emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency), 158 (police), 155 (ambulance), 150 (fire).

If you're planning to drive, remember that Czechs drive on the right side of the road.

January is the coldest month in Prague, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow is common, making it a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy winter landscapes.

February is still quite cold in Prague, with a chance of snow. However, the days start to get a bit longer.

March sees the beginning of spring in Prague. The weather can be unpredictable, with both sunny and rainy days.

April is a pleasant month to visit Prague. The weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom.

May is a great time to visit Prague. The weather is warm, and the city is full of life with numerous outdoor events.

June is the start of the summer season in Prague. The days are long and warm, perfect for exploring the city.

July is the warmest month in Prague. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

August is similar to July in terms of weather. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals in Prague.

September is a beautiful month to visit Prague. The weather is still warm, but the summer crowds have started to thin out.

October sees the arrival of autumn in Prague. The weather is cooler, and the city is adorned with beautiful fall colors.

November is a chilly month in Prague. The weather can be unpredictable, with both sunny and rainy days.

December is a festive time to visit Prague. The city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, but it can be quite cold, so pack warm clothes.

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, experiences a mix of both continental and oceanic climate. This means that the weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for various conditions.

Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Prague. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 68°F (8°C to 20°C). However, spring showers are common, so don't forget to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella.

Summer (June to August) in Prague can be quite warm, with temperatures often reaching up to 77°F (25°C). However, it can also get as hot as 86°F (30°C), so make sure to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Also, keep in mind that summer is the peak tourist season, so the city can be crowded.

Autumn (September to November) is another beautiful time to visit Prague. The temperatures range from 45°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C) and the city is adorned with fall colors. However, the weather can be quite unpredictable, with sudden rain showers, so pack a mix of light and warm clothing.

Winter (December to February) in Prague is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging between 26°F and 37°F (-3°C to 3°C). Snowfall is common, making the city look like a winter wonderland. If you're planning to visit during this time, make sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.

Regardless of when you visit, remember that the weather can change quickly in Prague. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, keep in mind that the cobblestone streets can be slippery when wet or icy, so comfortable, non-slip shoes are a must.

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2-Day Exploratory Adventure in Prague, Czech Republic

About Prague, Czech Republic