About Prague, Czech Republic

4.4 (20 reviews)
Prague, often dubbed the "City of a Hundred Spires," captivates visitors with its storybook beauty, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and a distinctly magical atmosphere. Set along the Vltava River, it's a place where pastel facades, medieval streets, and the grandeur of centuries-old castles all come together to create one of Europe's most photogenic capitals. Whether you're a history lover, artist, foodie, or casual wanderer, Prague always has something unique up its sleeve.

Main attractions include the iconic Charles Bridge, a lively crossing adorned with 30 statues and typically filled with musicians and painters. The enormous Prague Castle dominates the city skyline, housing treasures like St. Vitus Cathedral and the historic Golden Lane. Don't miss the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square, which draws crowds every hour with its figurine show, or the enchanting Jewish Quarter and its centuries-old synagogues. Museum lovers and architecture buffs will find endless delights woven throughout the city's neighborhoods.

Prague’s local culture is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Beer halls buzz with friendly chatter over crisp Czech lagers, while trendy cafes and food markets draw a younger crowd. In the evenings, live jazz drifts from intimate clubs, and riverside parks fill with people enjoying picnics or impromptu outdoor performances. Just beyond the city center, you'll find inviting neighborhoods where locals shop, work, and go about daily life away from the main tourist hubs.

Getting around Prague is easy thanks to its reliable, affordable public transportation network of trams, buses, and metro lines. The city is compact and walkable, with most major sights within comfortable reach. Accommodation ranges from atmospheric boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern hostels and family-run pensions. Foodies will appreciate everything from traditional Czech fare like svíčková and goulash to up-and-coming international cuisine and vegetarian options at local bistros.

The best time to visit Prague is late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds thinner. Winters are cold but bring a magical ambiance, especially with seasonal markets and festive lights. Insider tip: wake up early to stroll Charles Bridge at sunrise or head to Letná Park for sweeping city views without the crowds.

Expected Weekly Budget

$800-$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)

Known For

Things to Do

  • Stroll across Charles Bridge at sunrise
  • Tour Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Experience the Astronomical Clock’s show in Old Town Square
  • Sample local beer in a traditional Czech pub
  • Wander the winding lanes of the Jewish Quarter
  • Relax in Letná Park with city views
  • Join a river cruise on the Vltava
  • Explore the museums in the Lesser Town

Notable Sites

  • Charles Bridge
  • Prague Castle
  • St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Old Town Square
  • Astronomical Clock
  • Jewish Quarter
  • Wenceslas Square
  • Letná Park

General Advice

Plan for plenty of walking, as Prague’s historic heart is best explored on foot. Invest in a travel pass if you plan to use public transport, and book accommodations in advance during peak seasons. Many locals speak English in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Czech phrases enhances your experience, especially in neighborhood cafes and shops. Respect local customs and be mindful that some smaller businesses may only accept cash.

Security & Safety

Prague is considered a very safe city for visitors, but petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially around major attractions, trams, and metro stations. Keep your belongings secure and be discreet with valuables. ATMs are generally safe, but use those attached to banks or inside hotels if possible. Be cautious of street scams (such as fake charity collectors or unofficial exchange offices) and always check restaurant bills before paying.

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for navigating cobblestone streets.
  • Purchase public transport tickets in advance and validate them before riding.
  • Try local dishes such as svíčková, goulash, and trdelník.
  • Early mornings offer quieter experiences at popular landmarks.
  • Use a currency converter and withdraw Czech koruna from reputable ATMs.
  • Book castle visits and walking tours ahead during busy months.
  • Tipping in restaurants is customary (about 10%).
  • Weather can change quickly – pack an umbrella and layers.

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Traveler Comments

Sarah M. 4.5
Visited in May 2024
Prague is like something out of a fairy tale! I loved roaming the Old Town, especially in the early morning when it was still quiet. We found the public transit super easy to use, but some museums got really crowded by lunchtime.
Andreas L. 5.0
Traveled here in October 2023
Fantastic city for architecture lovers. The view from Prague Castle is unforgettable, and we found a jazz club in the Lesser Town that made our night. Definitely one of the prettiest cities I’ve seen in Europe.
Elena P. 4.0
Visited in August 2023
Prague was great but pretty packed with tourists, especially in Old Town Square. Still, walking across Charles Bridge at sunset was beautiful. The local food was heavier than I expected, but there's lots of variety if you look around.
Rajeev S. 4.5
Stayed in April 2024
Came for a conference and stayed an extra weekend. The Jewish Quarter is fascinating, and the beer here is next-level. I appreciated how safe I felt wandering at night, even solo.
Isabelle D. 4.5
Traveled here in December 2023
Magical during the holidays! The Christmas markets in the main square were charming, and the lights made the whole city glow. Just be prepared for chilly weather and lots of walking.
Omar H. 5.0
Visited in September 2023
My family and I spent four days in Prague and loved every minute. Our kids were fascinated by the Astronomical Clock and enjoyed climbing the towers. We found some great playgrounds in Letná Park too.
Lisa B. 3.5
Stayed in July 2023
Beautiful city but way busier than I expected. Charles Bridge was almost impossible to cross at midday with all the crowds. I did love the street musicians and artists—wish I had more time to discover the less touristy neighborhoods.
Jose A. 4.0
Traveled here in February 2024
Cold but magical in winter! The snow made Prague Castle look straight out of a movie. Cafes were super cozy and the local pastries were a nice surprise.
Hana K. 4.5
Visited in June 2024
Loved the mix of history and hip culture—there are so many cool cafes and bars! Public transport was reliable, and English signs were everywhere in the city center. It rained one day, but museums kept us busy.
Tariq N. 5.0
Traveled here in January 2024
The local beer culture impressed me—I joined a brewery tour and met so many locals. The castle complex is huge; plan for several hours if you want to see everything. Friendly people and beautiful plazas.
Marta S. 4.0
Visited in March 2024
Solo traveler here! Walked the city for hours each day and still didn't see it all. I struggled a bit to find vegetarian meals outside tourist spots, but otherwise felt very welcomed.
Liam F. 4.5
Stayed in November 2023
My partner and I enjoyed the romantic vibe—especially evening walks along the river. Would recommend getting up early to beat the main crowds at the popular sites!
Saori T. 4.0
Visited in April 2024
The art scene is underrated! Check out the museums in Mala Strana and the local galleries. The weather was a bit unpredictable during my trip, so layers are key.
Markus P. 5.0
Traveled here in December 2023
Came with my parents and we loved every minute. The Old Town is a history lover’s dream, and we spent hours people-watching in Wenceslas Square. One of our favorite European trips so far.
Leah J. 4.5
Visited in May 2024
I was surprised by how affordable everything was compared to Western Europe. We took a river cruise at sunset and it was magical. Would absolutely return in another season.
Giulia R. 4.5
Traveled here in February 2023
Felt safe and welcome as a solo female traveler. Loved the quirky shops near the castle and the scenic views from Petrin Hill. The city has a warm, festive energy even in winter.
Lukasz W. 4.0
Visited in October 2023
We focused on the local food scene – dumplings and roast pork everywhere! Used public transport nonstop, which was reliable and clean. Wish I’d spent more time in the parks around Prague.
Emma L. 5.0
Traveled here in March 2024
Traveled for a long weekend with friends and had a blast. Loved exploring the medieval lanes and ending our day in a classic beer garden. Bring comfy shoes—the cobblestones are no joke!
Yuval F. 4.5
Visited in September 2023
A highlight for me was stumbling across a street market near Old Town. The energy and music were infectious. Sightseeing can get pricey, but there are plenty of free parks and views.
Nina C. 4.0
Stayed in April 2024
Prague’s tram system made it really convenient to hop around the city. The main tourist spots are stunning, but we also took time to explore quieter neighborhoods which felt more authentic.