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Prague Airport: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Prague Airport: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

How often do we travel through airports without really considering what goes on behind the scenes? I never really consider these inner-workings unless I’m endlessly frustrated by a lost bag or seemingly useless flight delay. Well, thanks to the kindness of the communications team at Prague Airport, I was able to see exactly what it takes to fly me to my favorite destinations. As a Prague inhabitant, I fly out of Prague Airport quite often, so I was thrilled to explore this particular airport- it’s almost like a second home!

Arriving to Prague? Check out my guides to Hotels and Restaurants in Prague!

The Start of Your Journey at Prague Airport

When you first arrive to Prague Airport, the first logical step is checking in and dropping off your bags. If you’re departing from Terminal 2, which is the terminal for all Schengen area flights, you have the benefit of adding Private Check-In to your airport experience. In almost all cases, this is the kind of thing I would recommend skipping, but what Prague Airport offers is well worth the 999 CZK in value. With this service, you will drop your bags and travel documents at the VIP check-in desk and proceed to the Raiffeisen Bank lounge. There, you’ll have access to typical lounge amenities including drinks and snacks. While you wait, your travel documents, boarding pass, and checked-in baggage tag will be delivered to you in time for you to go through a private security screening just before your flight boards.

I have access to this lounge as a Raiffeisen Bank customer, so I was already familiar with its services even prior to this tour of Prague Airport; the lounge and amenities it offers are fantastic, especially the private security screening. Seriously, I loath having to go through “regular” security screenings at all now that I’ve lived in the lap of luxury at Prague Airport.

60% of Prague Airport’s flights department from Terminal 2, so it’s likely you’ll have the chance to use this service. If not, unfortunately there is no similar service in Terminal 1, although there is still a Raifeissen Lounge after immigration control that you can utilize.

After Check-In

While you’re lounging away at the Raiffeisen Lounge, or in the departures area, there is loads happening to get you from Prague to your destination on time and with all of your baggage. First, your baggage moves through an absolutely massive baggage sorting area to go through a security check and to be loaded onto the correct plane. Honestly, this is one piece of Prague Airport that I had never really thought about before, but I was stunned to see just how large this sorting and processing area was. Think Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, but with no chocolate and loads of suitcases. It was just never-ending belts, scanners, and x-ray machines with the occasional airport staff member moving things along.

While your baggage is moving right along, there is still the aircraft to consider. Prague Airport is a Coordinated Airport that uses the A-CDM (Airport Coordinated Decision Making) method of airport coordination. This means that all flights are scheduled into very specific time slots, and all processes regarding the arrival, turn-around, pre-departure, and take-off of flights are highly predictable based on sequencing processes. This all sounds very complicated, but in fact, it’s very logical, and it explains why a small delay can turn into a much bigger delay if a flight misses its window for take-off. Currently, Prague Airport uses one runway for all major take offs and landings, so it is crucial that all aircraft maintain tight schedules. The Command Operations Center is carefully controlling this while you stroll through the airport sipping your second cappuccino to ensure that all flights take off and land safely and efficiently.

Prague Airport does technically operate 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, but because of noise restrictions, its overnight flights are very limited which leads to even tighter controls of flight times during the day. One small delay can really uproot the entire system, so the room for error is limited.

In Case of Emergency

Prague Airport is well-prepared to handle any type of emergency that may occur on or off the runway. After 2001, security in the airport increased tenfold, like it did internationally. Fortunately, Prague Airport’s security is incredibly efficient, even if you’re not using the private security screening. In Terminal 1, security takes place as you enter your gate, which means each gate has its own security checkpoint. Once you pass the immigration desks, you’re free to roam security checkpoint-free until your gate opens! In Terminal 2, there is a more traditional centralized security, but the lines move at impressive speed. I still prefer my Raifeissen personal screening, because who needs to rush when you can be the only person at security?

Security concerns are not the only types of potential emergencies that airports face. Another which is less-often considered, but still vital for staff to consider, is the potential of fire somewhere at the airport, on a plane, or on a runway. Prague Airport has invested heavily into its fire brigade, and now owns 4 Panther vehicles, which are quite easily the coolest emergency vehicles I’ve ever seen. I’m a former EMT, so I’ve seen my fair share of emergency vehicles, but these really top the cake. Imagine a firetruck that needs only one person to operate the entire thing including the water and foam hoses? These vehicles (worth more than $1 million each) do just that. In fact, the Prague Airport Fire Brigade is well known to be the best fire company in the entire country, and is sometimes called to the nearby highway for large-scale emergencies- who knew!

Time for Take Off!

As I mentioned, there is just one runway for all commercial take offs and landings at Prague Airport. There is also a smaller runway for Terminal 3 where the fancy planes (ie. private charters) take off, but us regulars don’t tend to use that one too often! This runway is carefully managed, however, to prevent any kind of back-up so there really aren’t too many lines of planes waiting around to take off or circling around waiting to land.

Right now, the largest type of plane servicing Prague Airport is the Airbus A380, with Emirates Airlines running flights to and from Dubai daily. These big planes are a bit few and far between, however. You’re more likely to see standard-sized planes used to shuttle passengers from Prague Airport to transfer hubs in Europe. Every once in a while, you’ll catch a smaller charter flight- ranging from private jets to the Cessna 206 I got to take a spin in from Terminal 3!

Prague Airport is such an incredible organizational achievement. I fly internationally quite regularly almost always out of Prague Airport, and I’ve never been disappointed by the level of service provided by all staff members. Everything always seems to run very smoothly, and I find it’s one of the few airports I fly from where I have no pre-flight stress from security lines, long check-in lines, or flight delays that threaten my travel plans.

If you’re interested in seeing a back-stage look at Prague Airport, check out these guided tours! Not all stops I’ve mentioned are included in the public tour (like the Command Ops, for example), but these tours will still be an excellent way for any aviation fan to get an inside-look into one of Europe’s fastest growing airports.

This tour of Prague Airport was provided to me free of charge. As always, all opinions are honest and based on my own experiences.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Prague Airport, the largest airport in the Czech Republic. Prague is the largest and most beautiful city in the Czech Republic, with loads of architecture, history, and culture to explore! #prague #czechrepublic #pragueairport

 

Interested in visiting Prague, but don’t know where to start? Book a travel consultation with me, and I’ll help you to plan your perfect trip from A to Z!

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A Local’s Guide to Hotels & Hostels in Prague

A Local’s Guide to Hotels & Hostels in Prague

With more than 3,000 hotels in Prague listed on Booking.com, it’s no wonder why one of my most frequently asked questions is for hotel recommendations. In a city as popular as Prague, there is no shortage of accommodation options. Some travelers prefer the privacy of an Airbnb apartment, but depending on the time of year, this may not be the best option. After several years of living in Prague, I’ve had experiences with several hotels of varying price-points, and certainly now have a few to recommend. I’ve categorized my hotel recommendations by hotel category: High-End Luxury, Mid-Range Extravagance, and Hostel Charm.

Looking for good places to eat while you’re in Prague? Check out my Expat’s Guide to Restaurants in Prague!

Please note that some links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book using the link on my website, I’ll be paid a percentage of your booking fee at absolutely no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog by using these links! As always, all opinions are my own, and all recommendations are based on my own personal experience. This post was not sponsored by any hotel or hotel group.

High-End Luxury

There are many high-end hotels throughout the city of Prague, and fortunately, many don’t carry the price tags of luxury hotels in other European capitals. If you’d like to treat yourself to an indulgent hotel stay, Prague is an excellent city to visit!

BoHo Hotel Prague

The BoHo Hotel is situated right in down town Prague, only minutes away from both Náměstí Republiky and Vaclavské Náměstí (Wenceslas Square). Tucked on to a side street and unassuming from the sidewalk, I was amazed at how large and elegant the hotel is once inside. When guests arrive, they are greeted with a welcome drink at the beautiful lobby bar while their rooms are prepared. Once in their rooms, each guest is given a photo book of Prague created especially for the hotel- and guests are even provided with a city tour to learn more about the artist and photos, which decorate all of the rooms!

Hotel in Prague

After a long day of exploring Prague, guests can participate in a daily Moravian wine tasting in the stunning restaurant/breakfast room, or unwind in the library. This hotel even offers a spa with a beautiful jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna for guests to use.

Hotel in Prague

I was so impressed by the attention to detail throughout all of the rooms and common spaces in this hotel. It’s truly a spot to pamper yourself while enjoying a visit to Prague.

Price range:

  • Off-season- €240/night in a standard room, breakfast included
  • High season- €300/night in a standard room, breakfast included

Carlo IV, The Dedica Anthology Hotel

The Carlo IV Hotel is located just a few minutes from the main train station (hlavní nádraží) and Wenceslas Square in the city center of Prague. Part of the Dedica Anthology of Italian-owned hotels, it’s no surprise that this hotel drips in opulence. The lobby is outfitted with gorgeous chandeliers, and the rooms are beautiful, comfortable, and charming. The best part of this hotel, however, is its spa located in the basement of the hotel. Guests have access to a large pool with lounge areas, a steam room and sauna, and a wide range of lovely spa treatments to choose from.

Price range:

  • Off-season- €150/night in a standard room, breakfast included
  • High season- €185/night in a standard room, breakfast included

Mid-Range Extravagance

If luxury hotels in Prague are overwhelming to choose from, mid-range options are even more vast. It’s hard to know which hotels will provide you with what you need, with just that little bit of extra comfort, without having visited before.

Miss Sophie’s

Miss Sophie’s is located in Prague 2 in between I.P. Pavlova and Karlovo Náměstí. It’s just a short tram ride (5 minutes) away from the historic city center of Prague, and is in one of the most popular residential neighborhoods of the city. Miss Sophie’s is a small, boutique hotel that is just oozing with charm.

Double Room at Miss Sophie's in Prague

At Miss Sophie’s, guests are treated to simple, elegantly decorated rooms with loads of natural light. Each room is stylish and inviting, and each is slightly different which gives the hotel a very unique atmosphere. There is a lovely garden just behind reception that is available for guests to use, and the hotel has recently installed a small spa for its guests. Breakfast is served across the street at Sophie’s Hostel, which offers 24-hour reception and bar, and a lovely hot or cold breakfast selection.

Hotels in Prague

Miss Sophie’s gives every impression of being a high-end hotel without the staggering price point. You’ll be treated to every comfort and convenience during your stay, I can’t imagine a better place from which to explore Prague.

Price range:

  • Off-season- €80/night in a standard double room (breakfast for an additional €7)
  • High season- €120/night in a standard double room (breakfast for an additional €7)

Hostel Charm

There is nothing like the experience of staying in a hostel, and Prague has an absolute wealth of hostel choices available with some of the lowest prices for a capital city in Europe. So, how do you know which one will give you bed bugs, and which one will allow you to meet the best traveling friends you could imagine? As a traveler who was stayed in many hostels over the years, I like to think that I’ve gained a knack for picking decent hostels, but it’s so hard to choose when you’ve never visited a city before.

Sophie’s Hostel

A sister property of the aforementioned Miss Sophie’s, Sophie’s Hostel is easily the most beautiful hostel I’ve ever seen. With apartments, private rooms, and dorm rooms available, Sophie’s Hostel offers everything that any type of traveler could possibly want. The private rooms and apartments are separated from the shared dormitory spaces, giving those rooms the essence of a true hotel- you really wouldn’t know that you were even in a hostel (except for the price)!

Hotels in Prague

The dormitory rooms, on the other hand, are clean, safe, and well-kept with beautiful common facilities. Each bed has its own reading light, small locker near the bed, and outlet (!), as well as a larger rolling locker under the bed. Bring your own locks, and you will never need to worry about your things going missing here. Sheets are included at no additional cost- you don’t even need to unmake your bed at the end of your stay!

Dorm Room in Sophie's Hostel in Prague

Breakfast for both Miss Sophie’s and Sophie’s Hostel is served in the lobby of the hostel, with both hot and cold buffet options available depending on your preferences and budget. Sophie’s Hostel guests also have access to a common kitchen, in case they would prefer to prepare their own meals.

The prices in the private rooms and apartments in high season are comparable to the double standard rooms in Miss Sophie’s in off season, so staying at Sophie’s Hostel is a great option if you’re on a budget when visiting Prague in the summer months.

Price range:

  • Off-season- €10-20/night in a dorm room, depending on the size of the dorm (breakfast for an additional €7)
  • High season- €20-30/night in a dorm room, depending on the size of the dorm (breakfast for an additional €7)

Sophie’s Hostel is admittedly not the cheapest hostel option in Prague. Fortunately, the same hotel group that runs Sophie’s Hostel to such a high standard has a few other properties in the city! For lower budget options, check out the Czech Inn Hostel or Sir Toby’s Hostel.

If you’re planning to visit Prague and need some help planning your trip, book a travel consultation with me! I’ll be happy to plan out your itinerary to ensure that you get the most out of this beautiful city.

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A Local's Guide to Hotels and Hostels in Prague. Plan your next European vacation to travel in the Czech Republic and find the best accommodation. Prague is a beautiful city with amazing architecture and history in the middle of Europe. Prague is the best city from which to explore Europe. #travel #Prague #CzechRepublic

A Day Trip from Prague: Karlovy Vary

A Day Trip from Prague: Karlovy Vary

I have lived in Prague for over 2 years, and there are so many places that I always say I want to visit, and somehow never manage to actually visit. I travel a lot for work to cities around the Czech Republic, like Plzen or Cesky Krumlov, but the ones outside of my bubble have so far evaded me. The weather last weekend was meant to be beautiful, and I couldn’t let such a nice Saturday go waste. I decided that it was time to take a day trip I’ve been meaning to take- literally for years!

The town of Karlovy Vary is about 2 hours west of Prague on the Czech/German border. The town is a bit notorious for its Russian influence, and many of my Czech acquaintances mentioned that they didn’t understand why I wanted to go. I had heard, however, that the town was absolutely beautiful, and with it being only 300 CZK for a return ticket from Prague, I had no excuse! I headed out on a Student Agency bus in the morning, and 2 hours later I was standing in Prague’s most famous spa town. The architecture certainly did not disappoint, and I’m so glad I made the trip!

I can certainly understand the reticence that many Czechs have to go to this town given its history and current demographics, but I actually think that the blending of cultures here was really incredible. It was so interesting to see how Czech, German, and Russian cultures all blend in this one small city, offering a multitude of cuisines, languages, and customs. Karlovy Vary offers thermal springs and spas, which I have every intention of going back to visit. This city is also home to the world-famous Czech liquor, Becharovka, which tastes exactly like Christmas.

After this adventure in such a beautiful town so close to Prague, I’m definitely going to make more of an effort in the coming months to get out in the Czech Republic and see everything that this awesome country has to offer. Perhaps I see a vlog series in my future? We’ll see!

Check out the recap of my day trip to Karlovy Vary in my latest vlog:

Like this video? Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay updated with my latest content! Interested in learning more about what to see and do in Karlovy Vary? Check out The Travelling Chili’s post with 11 Unique Things to Do!

My Top 5 Things to do in Prague!

My Top 5 Things to do in Prague!

Prague is an absolutely amazing city that I’ve been lucky enough to call my home for over 2 years. I am constantly amazed by the history and beauty that seems to be around every single corner. It seems, however, that the world has caught on to the charms of this Bohemian city, and tourists certainly do infiltrate every year, particularly in the summer and just before Christmas (Christmas markets, anyone?). I get as frustrated by rogue selfie sticks as the next girl, so I’ve spent my time in Prague looking for the best places to experience the city and Czech culture without being mowed down by a Segway in Old Town Square.

I’m proud to say that after 2 years of dedicated research, I’ve landed on my top 5 favorite places in this magical city. I can understand a traveler’s reluctance to visit such a city that can be overrun by tourists, but Prague is not that city at all! A walk over Charles Bridge at 11 am on a Saturday in June may tell a different story, but take a trip to Riegrovy Sady or Naplavka on any given summer evening, and be prepared to be amazed at the chilled out vibe, local atmosphere, and awesome beverages permeating the area. I’ve grown to love my current “home” city, and I’m excited to share it with you!

I recently made a travel video detailing my 5 favorite off-the-beaten-path spots in Prague on my YouTube Channel, “Czech” it out!

1-Day Tour of Prague: Instagram Takeover @VisitCZ

1-Day Tour of Prague: Instagram Takeover @VisitCZ

I spent a day taking myself on a one-day tour of Prague while behind the wheel of the official Czech tourism Instagram account: Visit Czech Republic.  I like to go on these adventures in my “home city” every once in a while to remind myself how truly incredible Prague is- and this was a great excuse to do it!  I decided that I wanted to give the followers of the Visit Czech Republic account a 1-day tour of Prague.  Specifically, I wanted to show what I would suggest someone do if they had only one day in this beautiful city, and then show what that day would look like in real time!  So, as a summary of my day exploring Prague, here is my 1-day guide:

I started my day at Narodni divadlo (the National Theater) so that I could take my favorite walk across the Vltava River on my way to breakfast (more on that later!).  I love this area of Prague because the architecture there is incredible in every direction, if not a little obscure with the Nova Scena theatre sitting next to the regal National Theatre.  I also think this bridge gives you one of the most beautiful views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, and with a relatively tourist-free experience.  Walking from the theatre side to the castle side of the river will point you in the direction of Petrin Hill and a beautiful walk in one of Prague’s natural getaways.

After this nice little river walk, I stopped for breakfast at the famous Café Savoy.

Café Savoy is just one of Prague’s many lavish cafés that have historically been meeting places for Prague’s great artists and thinkers.  Today, this café is known for its incredible breakfast selection, and more importantly, for its pastry selection.  While it isn’t the cheapest option in Prague (of which there are quite a few), I certainly think that a breakfast stop here is worth it for anyone looking to experience a little of Prague’s high culture and beautiful architecture to start their day in the city.

Once finished with breakfast, I took a walk along the river through the neighborhood of Kampa.  Famously the home of the Kampa Museum and the David Černý crawling babies statues, I absolutely love strolling through the beautiful park and waterfront nooks in this part of the city.  I never fail to get lost here when I stray from the river’s edge, and that’s one of the things that I love most- no matter how many times you visit, you will always find something new and beautiful.  On that note, sorry to my cousin Ryan, who never actually got to see the John Lennon Wall when he visited Prague because of how miserably lost I get in these windy streets!  In any case, my journey took me to the foot of Charles Bridge, one of the most iconic pieces of architecture in Prague.

I love this view of Charles Bridge and Old Town behind it because along the edge of the water, the city is so peaceful despite the chaos blooming on top of the bridge.  I love sitting on the edge of the river in Kampa and watching the swans and boats float by with Prague’s beautiful skyline behind; it is a serene experience not to be missed!

But of course, a stroll atop Charles Bridge should also be on the agenda for any 1-day tour of Prague.

This bridge connects Old Town (Staromestka) with Mala Strana (Lesser Town), and is a beautiful place to walk- especially in the early morning before the tourists descend upon in such force that you can no longer see the bridge.  Walking from Old Town to Mala Strana will bring you to Malastranské namesti, now a pedestrian square that’s home to some of Prague’s most beautiful rooftops.  I took my walk from Kampa to the top of the bridge, and then through to Mala Strana where I took the 22 tram up to Prazky Hrad (Prague Castle).  For the more enthusiastic among you, you might also walk to Prague Castle- but just be aware that it is quite a hill.  I usually opt for the tram up, walk down route.

My next stop is one of my favorite places in Prague: the South Garden at Prague Castle.  This incredibly beautiful garden sits just below the St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and the castle rooms, but is far less crowded than those areas tend to be.  Plus, the views from these gardens are spectacular, and they’re free to enter!

I like to pop up here with a book, find a quiet spot, and admire the Bohemian orange rooftops while relaxing in the sun or shade.  Keep in mind that these gardens are open only in the summer, so you’ll have to save you visit for these beautiful, sunny months to enjoy these views.

*Pro tip: If you do visit Prague when these gardens are closed, there is a Starbucks just outside the gates of the castle that has similar views and an outdoor terrace.  While I typically do not encourage visits to Starbucks outside of the USA (especially when there are such great local coffee shops in Prague), I do recommend a visit here just to enjoy the view- and it will only cost you the price of a coffee!

After sunbathing in the castle gardens, I made my way down the hill towards the Vltava River for one of the most “local” things that you might do in Prague: have a beer at Naplavka!  Naplavka, roughly translated to “along the river” is an area below the Vyton tram stop on the Old Town side of the river where you’ll find a farmer’s market, floating bars, swans, bikes, and locals enjoying the local refreshment with their feet dangling above the water.  Naplavka actually runs a bit bigger than this- there’s a Naplavka area on the Prague Castle side of the river, too- but this area below Vyton is usually the most active day & night.  During the day, this is the place to go with some friends and a camera to capture some of the local beauty.  By night, this is a great place to start your night with a group of friends on one of the many boat bars.  The prices are local, the beer is delicious, and the scenery is incredible- who could ask for more?

After an afternoon spent enjoying Naplavka, I began making my way back to my own neighborhood- Zizkov.  Zizkov is known as one of the many up-and-coming neighborhoods in Prague, and as a New Yorker, I like to think of it as the Brooklyn of Prague.  In Zizkov, you’ll find amazing cafés, bars, restaurants, and very unique architecture.  Although many consider it an eyesore, one of my favorite examples of Zizkov architecture is the Zizkov Television Tower located near namesti Jiriho z Podebrad.

I’ve grown fond of this somewhat strange tower that dominates the Prague skyline, as its strange qualities really demonstrate exactly what Zizkov is about.  The great thing about the TV Tower is that it’s now the home of a mini-golf course in the summer and ice skating rink in the winter, both located just below the tower’s entrance.  You might also choose to ride the elevator to the top of the tower for some incredible views of the city beyond.

And finally, a visit to Prague would not be complete without watching the sun set behind the castle from Riegrovy sady.  This park, located between Zizkov and Vinohrady (about 10-minutes’ walk from the TV Tower), is home to two beer gardens and beautiful green space in the middle of the city.  From the hill in Riegrovy sady, you have views over Old Town, Mala Strana, and Prague Castle that not many tourists get the chance to see.  At sunset, these views are even more incredible as the sky changes color and the silhouette of the Prague Castle emerges.

In the summer, you’ll see young people drinking beers, playing guitar, and enjoying the ambiance of this young and vibrant neighborhood.  After the sun sets, you’ll see everyone move to the nearby beer gardens to watch the evening football match, or to simply enjoy some more of Prague’s famous brews.

So, I hope that you enjoyed my one-day visit of Prague, and thank you for following along!  If you’re planning to visit Prague, and would like a longer guide, check out my 3-day Guide to Prague, available for download here.  If you’d like me to plan your perfect Prague or Czech vacation, check out my travel consultation packages– I’d be happy to work with you!

For updates on all of my adventures, check out my Facebook page and Instagram, or sign up for the Study Hard Travel Smart newsletter by dropping your e-mail in the box on the top right side of this page.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic

Where to stay: Where you stay in Prague really depends on how involved you want to be involved in the local culture versus tourist culture.  If you’re looking for a more local experience, I highly recommend the neighborhoods of Zizkov or Vinohrady (Prague 3 or 2), as they’re full of great pubs and cafes, and there are often markets and festivals in that area.  You’ll be able to find both Airbnb and hostel options in these neighborhoods, it’ll just take some research to determine what’s best for you.  The most important thing when choosing a location is that you be close to a metro station, as the metro is really convenient for helping you to get around the city.  Alternatively, you can look in the Old Town, as this will put you very close to almost all of the tourist sites, and also close to almost all major public transit routes.  I once stayed at Hostel Orange on Wenceslas Square, and despite the fact that this particular square can get a little sketchy at night, I would recommend staying there.  Prague is generally a safe city, so it’s nothing to be afraid of, but because Wenceslas Square is so touristy, it brings out some of the crazy that you’ll find in any city.

Where to eat: Prague is a great city because it certainly has its own authentic flavor, but it also offers options for food from around the world.  In terms of Czech food, my favorite is definitely beef goulash and dumplings- it’s a classic, and almost anywhere you get it it’ll be good.  I absolutely recommend staying far from the city center, and particularly Old Town Square.  Anywhere that advertises “Authentic Czech Food” probably sells over-priced and potentially not actual authentic Czech food.  Instead, head to U Sadu near the Jiriho z Podebrad metro station/TV Tower, and you’ll have a much cheaper and authentic Czech meal.  If you’re looking for something cheap for lunch, go to Kolonial near the Old Synagogue and Jewish Cemetery, and order off the lunch menu (the white papers laying on the tables, not the regular menu).  If they don’t give it to you in English, you can ask for it, but the meals around just over 100 CZK, and they’re quite good!  For a great breakfast, you should definitely try Cafe Louvre near Narodni Trida.  It’s an absolutely stunning building with a fabulous history (both Kafka and Einstein were regulars) and delicious brunch menu items.  You might also try the Bakeshop in the Jewish Quarter for some tasty treats, although it is slightly more touristy than the previously mentioned suggestions.

For more suggestions where to eat, check out my detailed guide to restaurants in Prague!

What to do: Prague offers a multitude of things to see and do for people with many widespread interests.  The one thing that is particularly striking about Prague is its architecture, particularly in the Staromestska and Mala Strana neighborhoods.  I certainly recommend spending an afternoon wandering through these neighborhoods down side streets and such to explore the most beautiful areas of Prague.  Prague has many tour options, so it’s hard to choose which to take, but I have had wonderful experience with Discover Prague Tours free walking tour- they meet quite close to Old Town Square, and offer a wonderful insight into the city.  Of course, a visit to Prague would be incomplete without a stop at Prague Castle, but while you’re up there, you might also consider a visit to the Strahov Monastery, just up the hill from the castle, where you can visit a gorgeous and historic library, as well as a restaurant where they brew their own beers.  Despite how touristy the area is, I also recommend a stop to the Lennon Wall, simply because it’s a cool place to be, but also because the neighborhood is really beautiful and there are some great museums around that really showcase Czech art.  You might also consider getting tickets to see an opera or a ballet, as the tickets can be really inexpensive, particularly for students, and they’re always incredible.  Seeing Don Giovanni at the Estate’s Theatre is a particularly special experience, as this is the theatre where the opera first premiered with Mozart himself conducting.

If you’re visiting Prague in the summer, you should definitely check out the area called Naplavka along the river, where you can buy beer and snack and sit along the water- it’s a gorgeous place to be.  If you’re looking for a great market area, Jiriho z Podebrad Namesti has a beautiful farmer’s market every Wednesday and Saturday, plus special other occasional markets and festivals throughout the week which are definitely worth checking out.  While you’re in that neighborhood, a ride up to the top of the TV Tower will give you a great view of the city.  Near the Namesti Miru metro station, there is a gorgeous park with a chateau and winery which is essentially unvisited by tourists, so if you’re looking for a bit of an escape, certainly check out the Vinicni Altan winery for their tasting schedule.  For great views of Prague, head over to Petrin or Letna parks, or up to Vysehrad, as these are the best places to view all of Prague for free!

There are so many great things to see and do, so I’ve included them all in a vlog!

Overall Opinion: I have really fallen in love with Prague, and truly enjoy living in this gorgeous city.  There is so much to see, do, and explore, that walking around the city never gets old.  One of the best things about Prague is how often special events like markets and festivals are held, so it’s certainly worth doing some Googling to see what’s going on while you’re visiting.  I also love the emphasis that this city places on the arts and culture- there are so many great cultural activities to participate in, whether it be art museums, operas, art galleries, plays, etc., there is always something interesting going on, and almost always something to suit everyone’s taste.  I definitely recommend spending a few days in Prague to explore, and then perhaps getting out of the city to visit places like Cesky Krumlov, Terezin, Pilsen, or Kutna Hora, as these also offer a great insight into Czech history and culture.

Need some more Prague-spiration? Head over to Damon and Melissa’s blog to read about their love of Prague!