A port city in French Guiana where French, Caribbean, and South American cultures intersect. Home to 80,000 people, local markets, and a major space center.
Start your visit at Prague Castle, where you can walk through courtyards dating back to the 9th century and see the stained-glass windows of St. Vitus Cathedral. Cross the Vltava River on Charles Bridge, a stone structure completed in 1402 with 30 baroque statues lining its sides. In Old Town Square, watch the hourly display of the Astronomical Clock, a mechanical marvel installed in 1410. The Jewish Quarter holds six synagogues, including the Spanish Synagogue with its gold-leaf interior, and the Old Jewish Cemetery with layered tombstones. For fresh air, climb Petrin Hill’s 299 steps to the observation tower or stroll through its orchards and rose gardens.
Top Attractions in Prague Prague Castle spans 70,000 square meters and includes palaces, churches, and gardens. Entry to the castle grounds costs 250 CZK, while a full-access ticket to all buildings is 350 CZK. The Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral inside the castle houses the tombs of Bohemian kings and saints. Charles Bridge is free to visit, but go early to avoid crowds; street musicians and artists often gather here after sunrise. The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square draws visitors every hour from 9 AM to 11 PM for its brief animated show featuring apostles and a skeleton ringing a bell.
Local Food and Drink Try svĂÄŤková, braised beef served with bread dumplings and cream sauce, at traditional pubs like Lokál. TrdelnĂk, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon, is sold at street stalls throughout the city. Pilsner Urquell, a pale lager brewed since 1842, pairs well with hearty dishes like roasted pork. Farmers’ markets, such as the one at Náplavka along the river, sell seasonal produce and homemade cheeses on weekends. For coffee, visit independent cafes in the Vinohrady district, where baristas roast beans onsite.
Getting Around the City Prague’s metro system has three lines connecting major districts, with trains running every 2–4 minutes during peak hours. Trams operate 24/7; routes 9 and 22 pass key landmarks like the National Theatre and Prague Castle. Purchase a 24-hour public transport pass for 120 CZK to use buses, trams, and metros without limits. Most central areas are walkable, but wear sturdy shoes—cobblestone streets are common in Old Town. Taxis are reliable but confirm the fare before entering; Uber and Bolt operate here at lower rates.
Day Trips Near Prague Kutná Hora, a 75-minute train ride east, has the Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with human bones. Karlštejn Castle, 40 minutes southwest by train, was built in 1348 to safeguard royal treasures. TerezĂn Memorial, a former Nazi concentration camp, offers guided tours of barracks and museums in a 50-minute drive north. For hiking, Bohemian Switzerland National Park features sandstone cliffs and forest trails, accessible by a 2-hour bus ride.
Practical Tips for Visitors English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Czech phrases like “dobrý den” (good day) is appreciated. Carry cash for small purchases at markets or older establishments. Summers are warm but busy; April and September provide mild weather with fewer visitors. Public restrooms often charge 10–20 CZK, so keep coins handy. Validate train and tram tickets immediately after boarding to avoid fines.
