A prosperous and bustling city, Prague now attracts more tourists than ever. But its picturesque downtown veils both a dark legacy and a resilient past; in its 1,100 years, Prague has withstood numerous overthrows, invasions, fires and floods. It's this reputation for survival and perseverance that has made the Czech capital so fascinating. Today, its storied churches, narrow streets, daunting hilltop castle and statue-lined bridges create the scene of an urban fairy tale. Even the most jaded traveler would have trouble resisting this city's charms.
Prague was once a hidden gem, overshadowed by its flashier neighbors to the west. But the city couldn't keep its marvels a secret for too long -- now, it's a haven for travelers wanting for an awe-inspiring experience at an affordable price. You can still find all of that today, with many top attractions -- including the famous Charles Bridge and the historic Prague Castle -- offering entry free of charge and many hotels offering rooms at a fraction of the cost of other major European cities. But this bargain-hunting legacy has a ticking clock on it -- recently prices have been on the rise. If you're hoping to find a fire-sale price, now's the time to do so.
The Charles Bridge connects Old Town (Staré Mesto) and Lesser Town (Malá Strana). It's a marvel to behold, but beware the oppressive afternoon crowds
While the Dancing House is closed to the public, visitors still come by to take a shot of its strange exterior.
Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square
The Astronomical Clock doesn't display the time of day.but rather phases of the moon.
Worth a visit if only just because it makes for a nice photo.
Monument to Jan Hus
Prague is Ranked...
#1in Best Affordable Destinations in Europe
#6in Best Affordable European Honeymoon Destinations
#8in Best Winter Vacations in Europe
#8in Best Romantic European Getaways
How To Save Money in Prague
- Summer somewhere elseWarm sunny weather draws thousands of tourists. And as the number of visitors rises, so do hotel prices. Plan to visit during the cooler months.
- Breakfast is the most important mealMany Prague hotels offer complimentary breakfasts. Consider this when making reservations.
- Dodge cabsSince price regulations were nixed in the late 1990s, taxi drivers have been known to prey on tourists' unsuspecting wallets. If you need to take a cab, call one in advance and ask your concierge how much you should expect to pay.
Prague Culture & Customs
The Czech Republic is a Parliamentary Republic that was established in 1993 following the Cold War. But Prague and the Czech state have been important centers of business, government and commerce for centuries. Czech citizens are known for being reserved yet friendly, too. In many Prague bars and restaurants, groups can share tables if there is room, even if they don't know each other. After eating, be sure to place your fork and knife side by side on your plate if you want the waiter to take your plate away.Tipping 10 to 15 percent is common practice for good service. Like many European destinations, local Prague citizens respond kindly to travelers who try the local Czech language, so buy a phrase book before traveling.
Prague Dining
The typical Czech meal is pork, cabbage and dumplings and is almost always accompanied by a finely brewed pilsner. Most meals are fairly mild and meat-based, and oftentimes the best -- and cheapest -- meals can be found in the local pubs during lunchtime. Prague also has several cafés and small eateries that are perfect for a small breakfast or a quick snack, especially in Staré Mesto (Old Town) and Lesser Town (Malá Strana).-
Prague's historic district is reason enough to visit the city. Its towering steeples, charming old square and antiquated bridges make the city seem like a fairy tale landscape. But if you're done sightseeing, Prague still has a lot more to offer. Some of the best nightclubs and bars in Europe are here, and the city's arts and culture scene is one of the most extensive and affordable in Europe. Prague is loaded with several musical venues, opera houses and concert halls, which provide extraordinary glimpses into the city's rich culture. There are so many interesting and random sites in Prague that you may even want to consider opting for a walking tour.
- Old Town and New Town Prague are connected by Charles Bridge. You can shop for traditional Czech souvenirs in Old Town Prague (think garnets, puppets, and antiques) and cross Charles Bridge into New Town. New Town contains many modern shopping malls and department stores that offer fashionable clothing, electronics, shoes, cosmetics, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment." --About.com
- For sightseeing, must-sees include the famous Astronomical Clock escape the huge crowd and watch it from a table at the Grand Cafe Praha right across the street and the Prague Castle. Although it isn't well-advertised, you can see several of the castles for free. The kids will enjoy the Toy Museum, the world's second-largest exhibition of toys, located within the Prague Castle complex." -- AOL Travel
Nightlife
Prague has an array of nightlife options, from a host of pubs and bars to many clubs and music venues. The beer in Prague is among the best and cheapest in Europe, so be sure to enjoy a pint at a crowded local pub before hitting the streets for a night of club-hopping.- Prague has a vibrant nightlife with many clubs and dance halls both in its center and in the suburbs. It has now become a regular spot on the pop/rock concert circuit, with most major artists having performed in Prague at one time or another. The area around Wenceslas Square is the hub of club entertainment including places like the extremely popular Lucerna on Vodickova." -- Travel Channel
Sightseeing
Prague's fine arts and culture is among the most affordable and accessible in Europe. In Prague you can attend operas and symphonies for reasonable prices, and many of the museums, including the arts collection in Prague Castle, are among the finest in the world.- Prague is rich with cultural activity. Art fans delight in the Mucha Museum and the fine arts collections at Prague Castle, while theatre-goers head to the ballet or opera at one of the city's old-fashioned performing arts venues. Prague's cathedrals, Jewish quarter, Communist Museum, and ample green spaces draw crowds all year round." -- Sherman's Travel
Historic Attractions
Among Prague's rich historic sites are the sprawling Prague Castle, which is known for its artistry and its excellent views of the city, and the Charles Bridge, a 14th century bridge covered in religious statues. You'll also enjoy touring Old Town Prague's square narrow streets, as well as the old Astronomical Clock, a tourist's favorite.- Prague's most important historical sights are almost all in Prague 1, the historical center that includes Old Town (or Staré Mesto) and Malá Strana (sometimes referred to as the Lesser Quarter). The tourist trail runs from Prague Castle and St. Vitus's Cathedral, across the Charles Bridge to the Old Town Square, then on to Wenceslas Square and the old Jewish ghetto of Josefov." -- Concierge.com
- On a sunny summer weekend, Old Town Square will be so packed with revelers you might think a rock concert was coming up. The 15th-century astronomical clock, which is on one side of the town hall, has a procession of 12 apostles that make their rounds when certain hours strike." -- Fodor's
Beer
Prague is proud of its beer, and with good reason. Some of the best beers in the world were first created here, including the legendary pilsner draft. Prague's many pubs and beer halls offer visitors a chance to taste local culture at its finest. Because beer is so abundant, drinking in Prague is very affordable. Be sure to try local Prague drafts like Pilsner Urquell, Budvar and Staropramen. - As well as its cultural treasures, Prague offers another precious commodity -- the liquid gold of Bohemian beer. The Czechs have been brewing since at least the 9th century -- they invented Pilsner, the world's first clear, golden lager, in 1842 -- and Czech breweries still produce some of the world's finest beers." -- Lonely Planet
- While some Czech pubs do serve a hearty plate of food alongside the suds, it's the brew, uncommonly cheap at usually less than 30Kc ($1.45/70p) a pint, that keeps people sitting for hours." -- Frommer's
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