Prague
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires” for its stunning skyline filled with historic towers, spires, and red-roofed buildings. Renowned for its medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene, Prague has long been a center of art, politics, and learning in Central Europe.
The city’s heart is the Old Town (Staré Město), where the Old Town Square features the famous Astronomical Clock, which dates back to the 15th century and delights visitors with its hourly show. Crossing the Charles Bridge, adorned with baroque statues, connects the Old Town to the historic Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world, which houses the St. Vitus Cathedral and royal palaces.
Prague’s architectural beauty spans Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, creating a cityscape that feels both timeless and magical. The Jewish Quarter (Josefov) offers insight into the city’s history and culture, including synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery. Beyond history, Prague is famous for its cafés, traditional Czech cuisine, and world-class beer, making it a delight for both culture lovers and foodies.
The city also has a thriving arts and music scene, with theaters, opera houses, and classical concerts in historic venues. With its romantic bridges, scenic riverbanks along the Vltava River, and lively squares, Prague offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, making it one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. 🏰🌉🍺
🗓️ 5-Day Prague Tour Plan
Day 1 – Arrival & Old Town Exploration
Morning:
- Arrive in Prague and check into your hotel (recommended areas: Old Town, Lesser Town, or near Charles Bridge).
- Enjoy breakfast at a local café with traditional pastries like koláče.
Afternoon:
- Explore Old Town Square, admire the Astronomical Clock, and stroll through the surrounding cobblestone streets.
- Visit Týn Church and Old Town Hall.
Evening:
- Dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant, such as U Medvídků or Lokál Dlouhááá.
- Optional evening stroll along the Vltava River to see city lights and the Charles Bridge.
Day 2 – Prague Castle & Lesser Town
Morning:
- Visit Prague Castle, including St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and Old Royal Palace.
- Walk down to Lesser Town (Malá Strana), exploring its quaint streets and historical buildings.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a café in Lesser Town.
- Explore St. Nicholas Church and Kampa Island, enjoying scenic views of the river.
Evening:
- Take a classical music or concert performance at Rudolfinum or a local venue.
- Dinner in Malá Strana with traditional Czech cuisine.
Day 3 – Charles Bridge & Jewish Quarter
Morning:
- Walk across the iconic Charles Bridge early to avoid crowds.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), including Old-New Synagogue and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
Afternoon:
- Lunch near the Old Town.
- Visit the Klementinum Library or the National Museum for cultural immersion.
Evening:
- Enjoy a river cruise on the Vltava, with views of Prague Castle and city landmarks.
- Dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 4 – Vyšehrad & Parks
Morning:
- Visit Vyšehrad, a historic fort offering panoramic views of Prague and peaceful gardens.
- Explore the Vyšehrad Cemetery and basilica.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in a local café.
- Spend the afternoon in Petřín Hill & Gardens, take the funicular up, and enjoy the lookout tower (resembling a mini Eiffel Tower).
Evening:
- Walk through Wenceslas Square and explore shops and cafés.
- Dinner at a modern Czech or international restaurant.
Day 5 – Markets, Shopping & Departure
Morning:
- Visit local markets such as Havelské tržiště for souvenirs.
- Optional visit to Dancing House (Tančící dům) for modern architecture photography.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a nearby café or bistro.
Pack and head to the airport or train station for departure.
Total Estimated Cost: $1,900–$2,950 CAD per person
Good to Know
Country
Czech Republic
Visa Requirements
Visa in not needed for EU citizens. Everyone else needs a visa.
Languages spoken
Czech
Currency used
Czech Koruna (CZK)
Area (km2)
359.96 km2
Municipalities
Visiting Prague comes with numerous perks that make it a highly appealing destination for travelers. The city is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, with landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square offering a glimpse into centuries of European heritage. Compared to other major European cities, Prague is relatively affordable, with budget-friendly accommodation, dining, and attractions, making it easier to enjoy a full cultural experience without overspending. The city center is compact and walkable, allowing visitors to explore historic streets, bridges, and squares on foot, while reliable public transport makes getting around simple. Prague also boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene, from classical music concerts and opera performances to galleries and local festivals. The city is highly photogenic, offering scenic river views, charming cobblestone streets, and panoramic vantage points from locations like Petřín Hill. Food and drink are additional highlights, with traditional Czech cuisine and world-famous beers available at reasonable prices. Moreover, Prague is generally safe and tourist-friendly, with helpful signage and guided tours widely available. Each season adds its own charm, whether it’s the lively outdoor cafés and river cruises of summer, the colorful fall foliage, or the festive Christmas markets in winter. Overall, Prague combines history, culture, affordability, and convenience, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, its central location in Europe makes it easily accessible from other major cities, and its hilly terrain provides many picturesque viewpoints, such as Petřín Hill and the Prague Castle grounds. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, Prague is renowned for its well-preserved architecture, including Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Romanesque styles, and is home to landmarks like Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world. The city boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene, featuring theaters, opera houses, galleries, and museums such as the National Museum, Klementinum Library, and Mucha Museum, as well as annual festivals like the Prague Spring Music Festival and Signal Festival. Transportation is convenient, with the city being highly walkable and supported by an efficient tram, bus, and metro system, while Václav Havel Airport connects Prague internationally. Visitors can enjoy traditional Czech cuisine, including goulash, svíčková, dumplings, and pastries like trdelník, along with world-famous local beers. Shopping highlights include Havelské tržiště and Palladium Mall, where travelers can purchase Bohemian crystal, garnet jewelry, and hand-painted ceramics. Practical tips for visitors include carrying Czech koruna (CZK) for small purchases, wearing comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets, and booking popular attractions in advance to avoid long lines. Overall, Prague combines history, culture, gastronomy, and scenic charm, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.
English
French