A former U.S. naval base turned commercial hub on Luzon's west coast, with duty-free shopping zones, clean beaches, and hiking trails in the rainforest.
Start your visit at Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world. Walk across Charles Bridge in the early morning to avoid crowds and see statues of saints lining its sides. The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square draws visitors every hour with its moving figures and golden details. Head to PetĹ™Ăn Hill for views of red rooftops and the Vltava River winding through the city. Save time to explore the Jewish Quarter, where synagogues and a cemetery tell stories of Prague’s past.
Explore Prague Castle and Its Surroundings Prague Castle spans over 70,000 square meters and includes palaces, gardens, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Enter the cathedral to see stained-glass windows designed by Czech artists and climb the tower for panoramic views. The Golden Lane, a row of small colorful houses, once housed castle guards and goldsmiths. Check the castle schedule for hourly guard changes at the main gates. Plan at least three hours here, as the complex includes multiple ticket options covering different areas.
Walk Through Old Town and Lesser Town Old Town Square is surrounded by buildings with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance facades. Climb the Old Town Hall tower for a bird’s-eye view of the square’s layout. Cross Charles Bridge to reach Lesser Town, known for its narrow streets and walled gardens. Visit St. Nicholas Church in Lesser Town to see frescoes covering its dome. Many cafes here serve trdelnĂk, a rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon.
Visit Museums and Cultural Sites The National Museum at the top of Wenceslas Square displays artifacts from Czech history and natural science. The Mucha Museum near Charles Bridge focuses on Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha’s posters and paintings. Learn about Franz Kafka’s life at the museum dedicated to him in Malá Strana. The DOX Centre for Contemporary Art in Holešovice hosts rotating exhibitions of modern works. Most museums charge between 200-300 CZK for entry, with discounts for students.
Relax in Parks and Along the River Letná Park has shaded walking paths and a beer garden with views of the city’s bridges. Rent a paddleboat on the Vltava River in summer or stroll the embankment paths year-round. Vyšehrad, a historic fort south of the center, includes a cemetery where famous Czech writers and artists are buried. In warmer months, locals picnic on the grassy slopes below the fort’s walls. Public ferries run between several stops along the river, offering a different perspective of the city.
Try Czech Dishes and Local Beer Order svĂÄŤková, beef in cream sauce with bread dumplings, at traditional pubs like Lokál. Sample fried cheese or grilled sausages at street stands near major attractions. Czech breweries like Pilsner Urquell and Budvar produce widely exported lagers, but smaller pubs often serve lesser-known regional beers. Many restaurants offer daily lunch menus with soup, a main dish, and salad for around 150 CZK. Avoid tourist-heavy areas for meals—walk a few blocks away to find lower prices and more authentic options.