Prague, the Czech Republic’s magnificent city has experienced a surge in popularity as far as tourism is concerned in the last few decades, with several thousands, possibly tens of thousands of tourists flooding this beautiful city’s streets to partake in its wonder, culturally and historically.
Situated in central Bohemia, near the banks of river Vltava, the city has been home to a multitude of famous artists, including writers, poets and masterful directors in the film industry.
Prague, since the velvet revolution that saw it rise above its oppressive rule, has become one of Europe’s most popular cities to foreign visitors. The official language in the city is Czech though one might be able to make do with a few words in Serbian or Polish.
The locals do love their beer, so much so that it’s become tradition to sit customers in groups on tables when pubs fill up. So do not be alarmed to find some stranger walking up to your table and offering himself a seat.
Major Attractions
It is of little wonder that many make the choice to make the journey to Czech republic, undertaking day trips and several months long vacations in order to bask in the wonder of some of Europe’s most astounding attractions; and according to worldtotravel.com some of the top things to do in Prague are these following:
Municipal House
This art Nouveau structure, undergoing construction from 1906-1912, has gained global renown among foreign visitors for its stained glass windows and sculptures, with its normally frequented halls, popular restaurant and coffee rooms. This structure sits at the exact location that used to house the former royal court palace.
The Prague Castle
The largest castle in the world, the Prague castle along with its fortress and trio of courtyards is massive that it would take any tourist several hours to fully tour and drink in the sights that it has to offer.
Old Town Square
This square is a hub reminiscent of the city’s history, displaying a collection of old buildings that have been restored to their ancient glory, gothic spires, baroque architecture and more. The old square, a little ways across the Charles Bridge provides a gorgeous view of the surrounding lands through its old tower as well as a number of restaurants and cafes from where one can enjoy a meal.
Basilica of St. George
This church, constructed in roman architecture was brought to Prague by Prince Vratislav, making an offer of culture and history in its Premysl royalty tombs and its eerie wall crucifix.
National Museum
This museum, found in Wenceslas square, makes available not only historical collections but a myriad of other scientific exhibits, providing a glimpse into, not only the culture of Prague and its neighbors, but the world as a whole through its slew of prehistoric showings. The museum also includes a book store at the ground floor for all lovers of books and culture interested in digging deeper into the history of the city.
Even the foodies can rejoice, both carnivorous and vegetarian, with the advent of Prague from its former rustic culinary existence into a world of exquisite cuisine from a variety of cultures around Europe.
Where to eat
Allegro is home of Andrea Accordi
The best chef Prague has, though he mostly keeps out of the lime light. Known for his work at the four seasons, Andrea works in conjunction with a work force of professionals that work seamlessly to provide quality service in a timely manner; it also helps that, besides the pricey foods, the atmosphere is welcoming and the kid’s menu has attracted a unique set of customers.
Lokal
Is designed with the Czech pub atmosphere in mind with its local foods and diverse collection of beers alongside friendly services. The waiters are also helpful in translating the menus for foreigners. Lokal attempts to provide local more traditional dishes but with a modern twist to them.
Artisan
Is somewhat dark with its earthy colors and décor and indirect lighting, located near Ujezd; difficult to find for some, this spot is worth the trouble it takes to find it with a series of inspired and rather ambitious dishes on offer such as the crunchy and spicy chicken salad that isn’t sweet.
Shopping
Life in Prague does not get any more modern that the shopping centers that litter its winding streets, making available to tourists a wide variety of goods and items in a conducive atmosphere. Some of the more popular include:
Adidas
This store, located along the Na Prikop stretch is home to a variety of sports and athletics goodies, spacious in design and immensely popular among European visitors.
Alice Abraham
This store is home to the Czech national’s flashy clothing line, unique in its animalistic designs in an attempt to push the beyond the boundaries of fashion.
Antique Ujezd
This antique store is home to many a vintage item or accessory designed to add some luster to one’s chosen outfit, offering bejeweled purses, old pocketbooks, ring clusters, charms and so on, all at an affordable price.
Where to Have Fun
Of course not all of Prague is about shopping and seeing the sites. Those interested in experiencing culture through the night life can find themselves intrigued and fascinated by a variety of entertainment offerings such as:
4+4 Days in motion
This modern physical theater attracts performers from around the globe, usually staging its shows in the fall and bringing to itself attention via the strange and unorthodox locations it chooses to hold its shows.
The Agon Orchestra
Though classical in design, specializes in the area of contemporary music and can be found performing at the Archa Theater though they will make appearances in other venues.
Film freaks
Can find their way to the Aero Theater, camouflaged within a residential block and offering up to two or three movie each day, as well as making available special festival viewings organized by theme.
How to Get Around
Experienced visitors will suggest taking at least three days in the city of Prague to allow oneself time to fully enjoy all it has to offer before rushing off to the surrounding areas. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall as Prague can become an extremely cold city in the winter.
Whatever the time though, the city is endowed with a robust transport system that is more than affordable and more than capable of taking you from one tourist attraction to another no matter the weather in play.
Air is the fastest means of getting to the city, with the city center thirty minutes away from Vaclav Havel airport by car. Bus is the cheapest means of getting to the city, though tickets bought directly from the driver might prove to be more expensive. The airport express will transport travelers the nearest subway for transfer to anyone of the several spots one might wish to travel to in and around the city.
There are various hotels providing shuttle services to travelers at the airport and will transport visitors from the airport directly to the hotel of their choice.
Taxi though can be said by some to be the most comfortable, though depending on where you are going the fees will vary from cheap to expensive.
To travel from one tourist spot to another around the city though, the train is the best option offering cheap transport to anywhere you might wish to go.
Though ancient in its roots, this city is quickly accepting the temptations of modern times, which is probably why everyone speaks English, though you do have to watch out for inflation; which means that the city can be expensive, especially when dealing with hotels and restaurants depending on where you chose to stay and eat.
It is advisable to gain a basic understanding of the monetary system of the country before travelling to Prague. For most travelers, a visa is not necessary to access the country, though things change when one needs to stay for longer than ninety days or work.
