Travel Guide: Prague

This July marks 10 years since I traveled to Prague, Budapest and Salzburg. This Eastern European tour is still fresh in my mind and, thanks to the incredible planning by Tenon Tours, I still talk about it. Just the other day someone asked me about Prague and so I figured since I didn’t have this outlet at the time, that I should share my trip now for anyone thinking about heading to Eastern Europe. Here is my Travel Guide to Prague: where to stay, when to go, what to eat and see and I’m even sharing an interesting story or two along the way!

Why Go

Prague is a charming city full of rich history and culture. It has something for everyone! Known as the world’s capital of architecture, in Prague you’ll see Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau, Cubist and Communist Era buildings and monuments. It is such a unique destination, that the historical center of Prague became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.

If you love theater or music events, you will find it all in Prague, nicknamed the Paris of the East for it’s array of artistic offerings. If you’re a foodie, the local cuisine is second to none and many of the cafes in the city were favorite meeting places for intellectuals, artists and writers such as Franz Kafka.

Prague is very family friendly and many of the restaurants and attractions cater to kids as well as adults. You’ll also find a great beer anywhere you go in the city and everything from accomodations to souvenirs are very reasonable. I will just note that taxi service can err on the expensive side but it’s a very walkable city so you really shouldn’t need one except to travel to and from the airport. 

When to Go

Prague is beautiful in the summer, but just be warned that it can be a bit busier like any destination during school vacation. Especially in the touristy areas like Old Town Square, you’re bound to encounter a festival of some sorts during the warmer months. 

Next time I go to Prague, I hope it will be during the holidays as I’ve heard that the Christmas Market is amazing. It starts at the end of November and is open until the end of the year. You’ll find Christmas Market locations around the city including Old Town Square, Wenceslas’ Square and Prague Castle.

Where to Stay

While Old Prague Hotel is not one of those “Instagrammable hotels,” it’s located about five minutes away from Old Town Square and is close to other landmarks. It’s reasonably priced, clean and your room includes a hot breakfast that is pretty good. Next time I go I’d be tempted to stay at the Grand Hotel Praha. It’s located right in the center of Old Town Square and you can get a room with a view of the Astronomical Clock.

What to See

I’ve already mentioned a few of these sites but the must sees of the city are Old Town Square and the Astronimical Clock, known as Prague Orloj, Prague Castle (where King Wenceslas is buried), Wenceslas Square, The Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague, and the stunning St. Charles Bridge

Where to Eat

As I was newly out of grad school and had just started my first fulltime job, I was operating on a strict budget. Most of the time we ate at McDonald’s and Starbucks which, if you’ve ever been abroad you’ll know this, have so much more to offer than in the United States. There is actually a Starbucks right in Old Town Square where you can sip your coffee with a view of the Astronomical Clock. Next time I go I’d love to check out Kampa Park, overlooking the beautiful Charles Bridge. Also, you must try a Czech beer which you can drink out on the street, and trdelnik (pronounced tre-del-nik, pictured above), a unique cinnamon sugar pastry found throughout Prague. This sweet treat is often filled with whipped cream and Nutella. 

What to Bring Home

Prague is known for its garnet jewelry and you can find some beautiful pieces for a good price. Bohemian lavender and crystal as well as hand-painted silk scarves are luxe reminders of your time abroad. I wish I had picked up one of the adorable hand-carved wooden toys for Arielle – even though she wasn’t a thought yet! Absinthe is a popular souvenir, just check with your country’s import laws. 

My Favorite Memories

On the first night of our trip, we were lucky to score tickets to an organ concert at one of the local churches and it was magnificent!

Because Old Town Square is so picturesque, we saw many brides and grooms having their wedding photos taken around the area. I loved seeing the beautiful brides in their gowns. It made the city that much more romantic. 

Before we had left for Prague, my aunt had told us how she had gotten lost looking for The Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague and then stumbled upon it accidentally. Strangely, we had the exact same thing happen to us – almost as if something lead us right to the church door in time for mass!

Next up, Salzburg so stay tuned for that!