Prague at a glance
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, blends a rich historical heritage with vibrant modern culture. Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” its skyline is dominated by Gothic churches, Baroque buildings, and medieval structures.
History
Prague Castle’s origins date back to the late 9th century. Charles Bridge was built in 1357, and the Astronomical Clock was installed in 1410; it is the oldest operational astronomical clock in the world. The John Lennon Wall was first painted to commemorate John Lennon’s death in 1980. The Žižkov TV Tower was constructed in the late 1980s.
What to see
Prague Castle
Spanning over 110 acres, Prague Castle is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest medieval castle complex in the world. Visitors can explore the Czech crown jewels and St. Vitus Cathedral, which took over 600 years to complete. For a more immersive experience, consider booking a personalized guided tour of Prague Castle.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge connects the Castle District to the Old Town and offers picturesque views of the Vltava River. It is a bustling hub for street performers, musicians, and entertainers. For a deeper understanding of the bridge’s history, visit the Charles Bridge Museum or take a scenic boat ride.
Old Town Square
Old Town Square is surrounded by historic landmarks, including the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of Our Lady, and the Old Town Hall. Its Astronomical Clock is a highlight: visit just before the hour to see the procession of the Twelve Apostles. Tickets can also be purchased to see the procession from inside the tower’s chapel and hear a short introduction to the square’s history (source).
The Žižkov TV Tower
At 216 meters, the Žižkov TV Tower is the tallest building in Prague. It features sculptures of babies crawling up its pillars, created by artist David Černý, and offers a 360-degree view of the city. The tower also has a restaurant, café, and one-room hotel. It stands out among Prague’s Gothic spires and is an unusual attraction (source).
John Lennon Wall
Located across from the French embassy, the John Lennon Wall has become a symbol of freedom of speech and non-violent resistance. It remains the only place in Prague where graffiti is legal. Street performers often play Beatles songs nearby (source).
The Dancing House
Designed by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry, the Dancing House resembles a pair of dancers and is nicknamed “Fred and Ginger.” It offers views of the Vltava River and includes a restaurant and gallery space.
Practical visiting information
Visiting hours, tickets, and accessibility
- Prague Castle Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM. Tickets: adults 250 CZK, students 125 CZK. Wheelchair accessible.
- Charles Bridge Open 24 hours. Free entry.
- Old Town Square Open 24 hours. Free entry. Wheelchair accessible.
- The Žižkov TV Tower Daily, 9:00 AM–11:00 PM. Tickets: adults 250 CZK, children 150 CZK. Wheelchair accessible.
- John Lennon Wall Open 24 hours. Free entry.
- The Dancing House Visiting hours vary by establishment. Exterior access is free; tickets for internal attractions vary. Wheelchair accessible.
General information
- Time zone GMT+2
- Country code +420
- Socket type E
- Weather in August Average high of 24°C (75°F) and low of 13°C (55°F). August is generally dry, with occasional rain (Headout).
Tips for visiting Prague
Best time to visit
Prague is a year-round destination. July and August are ideal for warm weather and longer days, but they are also peak tourist season, with larger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter visit, consider spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is still pleasant and the city is less crowded (My Suitcase Journeys).
Language and communication
The official language is Czech. Many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas, but learning a few Czech phrases can be helpful and appreciated:
- Hello: Ahoj (informal) / Dobrý den (formal)
- Please: Prosím
- Thank you: Děkuji
- Yes: Ano
- No: Ne
Currency and payments
The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union but uses the Czech Koruna (CZK), not the Euro. Most establishments in Prague accept credit cards and mobile payments such as Apple Pay. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips. A meal in Prague typically costs around 200-300 CZK, approximately $10-$15 USD (My Suitcase Journeys).
Getting around
Prague’s main attractions are concentrated in Prague 1, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation includes trams, buses, and the metro, all of which can be used with a unified transport ticket. The metro is the fastest way to get around, while trams offer a more scenic route (Headout).
Accommodation
Accommodation can be challenging to find during peak tourist seasons. Recommended hotels include:
- Luxury Andaz Prague
- Mid-range Allure Hotel
- Budget Malostranská Residence
Booking in advance is advisable, especially for visits during the summer months (Miss Tourist).
Events and festivals
Prague Pride is an annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, usually held in early August. It features a parade, concerts, and cultural activities, and attracts participants from around the world (Headout).
Let It Roll, the world’s largest drum and bass festival, is held annually in early August. It attracts fans from around the globe and features performances by top artists in the genre (Headout).
Dining and cuisine
Prague offers traditional Czech cuisine as well as international fare. Dishes and treats to try include:
- Guláš A Czech version of Hungarian goulash, this hearty stew is made with beef, vegetables, and bread dumplings. It is a popular choice in cooler weather (Headout).
- Trdelník A street food made from rolled dough, grilled, and topped with sugar and walnuts. It is often filled with ice cream or Nutella.
Safety and health
Prague is generally a safe city, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas and be cautious of pickpockets, particularly at tourist hotspots such as Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. Avoid unlicensed taxis; use reputable companies or ride-sharing apps.
In a medical emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Prague has hospitals and clinics that cater to tourists. Travel insurance that covers medical expenses is advisable.
Packing for August
Pack light clothing for the day and a jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential because many of Prague’s streets are cobblestoned. Bring an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers.
Local etiquette
Czech people value politeness and respect. Greet people with a handshake, and address them by their titles and last names unless invited to use first names. Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10%.
Nearby places
- Charles Bridge is near Old Town Square and Prague Castle.
- The John Lennon Wall is near Charles Bridge and Kampa Park.
FAQ
What are the visiting hours for Charles Bridge?
Charles Bridge is open 24 hours a day.
How much do tickets to St. Vitus Cathedral cost?
Tickets to St. Vitus Cathedral are included with Prague Castle entry, which costs approximately 350 CZK.
