Michelle Cacija

Step into the enchanting city of Prague, where history whispers through the cobblestone streets, guiding you through a journey back in time. The aroma of freshly baked chimney cakes dances in the air while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Prague’s past, where every building tells a story of centuries gone by. Don’t miss the chance to cruise along the Vltava River, soaking in the city’s beauty from a unique perspective. Are you ready for a new adventure? If yes, then servus and welcome to my four-day trip to Czech’s capital city.

As always, I want to remind you, that this blog isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Prague
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medical insurance
4. Itinerary
5. Summary of activities
6. Where to eat

The Basics about Prague

When to visit

Prague is a fantastic city to visit throughout the year. However, if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider going in spring, from March to May, or autumn, from September to November, when temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). These seasons offer a pleasant atmosphere for exploring the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

Time period

Regarding the time period, I think three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Prague as you’ll have the opportunity to discover the old historic town and explore some of the nearby attractions. However, in the end, it really depends on what you want to see and do in the Czech capital.

Getting There

When it comes to getting there, you can reach Prague by car, bus, train or plane depending on where you’re coming from. Since we had been in Vienna before, we came by train, which took around four/four and a half hours.

Where to stay

If you’re planning a trip to Prague, I suggest staying in the Old Town area. It’s the charming and historic part of the city and beautiful architecture decorated with cobblestone streets and plenty of restaurants and cafés to explore. From here, it’s very easy to walk to most of Prague’s main attractions.

Getting around

When it comes to getting around, Prague is a very walkable city, you can easily walk to all the major sights. To see more in a shorter time, you could always use the public transport.

What to pack

Regarding what to pack, it obvisiouly depends on when you go, but if you go in late July as I did, I recommend packing lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, including shorts, t-shirts and dresses. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking through the city, I suggest brining a few comfortable enclosed shoes. Sun protection essentials like sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen are fundamental. Additionaly, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, aftersun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter.

Cost of Traveling

As for the expenses, the amount you’re going to spend depends on several factors, including your choice of accommodation, your travel style, and the activities you’ll be doing. In general, Prague is still one of the more affordable cities in Europe, especially when compared to bigger cities like London or Rome.

Things you need to be aware of

Water in Czech Republic. You can safely drink tap water as it’s clean.

Toilet situation. Unfortunately, public restrooms typically cost around 50 Cent to a euro in Czech Republic (and many other European countries). So, make sure to carry a few coins with you and always use the restroom before leaving your accommondation, a restaurant, or a café.

Tipping. In Czech Republic, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10 to 15 % at restaurants if you receive good service. Tipping is also appreciated in cafes, bars, and for other services.

Currency. The currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK). While the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, they have not adopted the euros as their main currency. However, many shops, restaurants and cafes accept payment in euros as well. It’s recommend to exchange your euros for Czech koruna though. Furthermore, it’s also always a good idea to check the current exhange rate. Prague is still very cash-oriented and not every place accept card-payments. So it’s still advisable to bring some cash with you.

Medical insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinerary

Day 1

On the first day, my partner and I arrived by train in the early afternoon. After checking in at our hotel, we explored the area and had lunch at VietFood ^{(unpaid ad)}, where we enjoyed delicious Vietnamese cuisine at very decent prices. Later, we strolled past the Divadlo Hybernia theater ^{(unpaid ad)}, known for its impressive architecture and cultural significance. The theater hosts various performances, including concerts and theater shows. While admiring the theater from the outside, a staff member approchaed us and promoted an evening concert, which we decided to attend. Enjoying a concert at the theater is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Prague’s vibrant music scene and end the day on a delightful note.

Afterwards, we continued our stroll through the city center and stumbled upon the beautiful historical St. Jakob’s church. The basilica is a popular attraction for visitors to admire. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area, and the entry is free.

Then, we walked to the famous Old Town Square, which was bustling with people. Be cautions and keep an eye on your belongings as it’s a well-known spot for pickpockets. The Square is renowned for its exquisite architecture, colorful buildings, and lively restaurants. It’s a must-visit for tourists, featuring iconic landmarks like the Astronomical Clock and St. Nicholas Church nearby.

The Astronomical Clock is a captivating medieval clock located in the Old Town Square. It’s one of the oldest astronomical clocks still in operation, dating back to the 15th century. The clock bell chimes every hour from 9 am to 9 pm. The figures on the clock come to life, drawing crowds to witness the spectacle. This unique and charming tradition adds a touch of magic to the square.

The St. Nicholas Church is a magnificent Baroque church situated in the Old Town Square. Its grand architecture, impressive dome, and beautiful interior make it a must-see attraction for those exploring Prague’s old town. The entry is free.

After that, we headed to the famous Charles Bridge, a historic and iconic bridge that crosses the Vltava River, connecting the Old Town of Prague with the Lesser Town. Enchanted by the aroma of chimney cake, we couldn’t resist trying one. The bridge is adorned with statues of saints and offers stunning views of the river, city, and the Prague Castle. Crossing the bridge on foot and admiring the artists showcasing their talent on the bridge, is an essential experience when exploring Prague.

While walking back to our hotel to rest a little and get ready for the concert in the evening, we passed through Wenceslas Square, or Václavské náměstí in Czech. It’s a vibrant and bustling area with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. At the end of the street stands the National Museum, showcasing a wide range of exhibitions related to natural history, arts, and sciences. It’s a prominent landmark in the city and impressive with stunning architecture, offering visitors an insight into Czech history and culture.

In the evening, we went to the concert at Divadlo Hybernia, which lasted one hour and was definitely worth a visit. We enjyoed the orchestra and singer performing well-known songs by artists like ABBA, Titanic, and Adele. They offer different seats depending on where you want to sit and how much you want to spend. Also, if you happen to be a student, ask for a student discount to pay around 100 Czech koruna less. We chose the most basic and cheapest seats, which were around 27€.

Day 2

We began our second day by walking to the Prague castle, situated on the other side of the Vltava River, in the district Lesser Town. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes on foot from the Old Town, depending on your starting point. If you prefer not to walk, you can also take one of the trams up there. Along the way to the castle, we walked past lively restaurants, cute cafés, beautiful architecture, and visited three churches, St. Giles Church and St. Salvator.

St. Giles Church, also known as St. Jilji Church, is a beautiful Baroque church located in the historic center of Prague. It showcases stunning architecture and intricate decorations, making it a must-see for those interested in Prague’s cultural history. Admission is free, and the church also holds regular services and concerts.

St. Clement’s Church is an Anglican Episcopoal Church and a beautiful place to explore. Entry is free.

St. Salvator is a Renaissance church with an altar in Rococo style and intricate statues which was restored in the 17th century and located right next to the Charles Bridge. The entry is free as well.

After visiting the churches, we crossed the Charles Bridge and explored the other side of Prague, Lesser Town, while making our way up the hill to Prague Castle.

We arrived at Prague Castle quite early and purchased our tickets there. If you plan to visit the castle, make sure to prebook your tickets or arrive early in the morning to buy them at the counter as they sell out quickly. We chose to buy our tickets in person to avoid a small online fee. The castle is a magnificent historical complex and one of the largest in the world, making it a must-visit attraction in Prague. You can explore the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Golden Lane, along with other fascinating sites within the castle grounds. We spent about three hours at the castle and would highly recommend coming here.

Visitor information: For more information such as opening hours, ticket packages, and prices, it’s best to check the official Prague Castle website ^{(unpaid ad)} for the most current details!

The St. Vitus Cathedral, also known as Katedrála Svateho Víta, is a magnificent church located within Prague Castle. It’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture and houses many important tombs and artworks. If you’re in Prague, visiting St. Vitus Cathedral is a must for its historical and architectural significance! You can visit the outside of the church for free. For the inside you’ll need a ticket which you can purchase online or at the ticket counter at the castle.

Just a short walk away from the church is the Golden Lane, a picturesque street lined with colorful houses that used to be home to castle guards and artisans. Today, it’s a charming spot with small shops selling souvenirs, historical displays, a museum, and a glimpse into Prague’s past. It’s a delightful place to wander and soak up the medieval atmosphere! You can only enter that area with a valid ticket, so ensure, that your ticket includes the entry to the Golden Lane.

Afterwards, we made our way back to the Old Town and crossed Mánes Bridge, where we stumbled upon the Rudolfinum, a renowned concert hall and art gallery. It’s a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building that hosts various concerts, including classical music performances.

After our lunch, we strolled around the city center and discovered the vibrant Havelské tržiště market. The market offers a range of products, from fresh produce to souvenirs, creating a bustling and lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and buy items to take back home. Keep in mind, that vendors at the market only take cash, most in Czech koruna.

Before heading to our next activity, a boat ride on the Vltava River, we returned to the hotel to escape the heat for a little bit. On our way, we stopped at the Old Town Square, which was, like always, bustling with people, and watched the clock strike. Later, we went to the Vltava River for a 50-minute boat ride. In my opinion, a boat ride in Prague is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, passing by iconic landmarks and learning more about them. During the boat ride, you’ll glide past landmarks like the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, among others. Remember to book your preferred time a few days in advance to secure a spot on the boat.

Afterwards, we strolled along the river while enjoying an ice cream. You can walk along the riverbanks, savor the scenic views of the city, cross the charming bridges, or simply sit on a bench and watch the boats pass by on the river. It’s a lovely way to take in the beauty of Prague, especially as the sun is about to set.

Day 3

We began our third day by walking quite early to the Clementinum, a historical building renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and rich history. It houses the National Library of the Czech Republic and stands as one of the most significant buildings in Prague. When visiting the Clementinum, it’s essential to know that only guided tours are available for visitors. These tours offer insights into the history and architecture of the Clementinum, including its impressive National Library and a climb up to the tower for an amazing view of the city. The tours are held every hour and takes around one hour. Upon our arrival, the next two hours were fully booked, so we secured a spot on the next available tour and decided to explore more of the other side of Prague, Lesser Town while we wait. It’s recommended to check the official website for updated information on tour schedules and any visitor guidelines. Tickets can be purchased either online or in person. In my opinion, it’s a must-visit for those visiting Prague which are interested in exploring the cultural and architectural heritage of the city.

When we walked across the Mánes Bridge to explore Lesser Town, we noticed people standing very close to the river. Curious as we are, we decided to join them and see what had captured their interest. Upon arrival, we discovered they had spotted four beavers. We observed the beavers for a while before continuing our stroll through Lesser Town. If you plan on checking out, if you can spot them, remember to respect their natural habitat and not to disturb them. While they may approach you out of curiosity, it’s best to keep your distance and avoid touching them to ensure their well-being. Enjoy observing these friendly creatures from a distance! Before returning to the Clementinum, we sat on a bench and savored the view of the river, its boats, and the picturesque scenery.

Before we visited the Clementinum, we walked past the Municipal Library, also known as Mariánské náměstí, which we wanted to check out. Unfortunately, it wasn’t open yet, so we decided to have lunch first. We went to the restaurant Pizzeria Ristorante Giovanni ^{(unpaid ad)}, which offers Italian and Czech cuisine. Here, I had one of the best Goulash dishes I had ever tasted. After our meal, we returned to the Library and were surprised to see a long line outside the building. Inside, we spotted a tall book tower in the entry hall, a famous photo spot. The tower is designed with an innovative concept where books are arranged to create a visually striking and artistic display, making it a must-see attraction for anyone who enjoys cool photo spot or books. We decided not to wait in line and admired it from the side, taking a few pictures from the back while others queued at the front.

Afterwards, we visited the Banksy Museum, an immersive exhibition dedicated to the renowned English street artist Banksy. His identity remains unknown, which makes the exhibition unique. It offers an opportunity to explore the world of Banksy’s art and messages. The exhibition features a large collection of Banksy’s works, providing insight into his thought-provoking pieces and artistic vision. If you’re interested in art, it’s definitely worth a visit. Towards the end of the exhibition, there is a shop where you can purchase souvenirs. I bought a poster of the “Girl with Ballloon” picture (picture on the left). For the rest of the day we just strolled through the Old Town of Prague.

Day 4

On our last day in Prague, which was going to end at 2 pm as we had to catch our train back home, we decided to explore the Petřín Park, a beautiful, spacious green area offering stunning views of the city. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, visit the iconic Petřín Tower, navigate your way through the Mirror Maze, or relax in the peaceful surroundings of the park. It’s the perfect place to unwind and appreciate Prague’s natural beauty away from the bustling city.

The Petřín Tower is an iconic landmark resembling the Eiffel Tower in Paris, providing panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. To reach the tower, you can walk through Petřín Park from the city center, a scenic route with beautiful views along the way. Alternatively, you can take the railway up the hill, offering a convenient and enjoyable journey to the tower. The Mirror Maze near the tower is a fun attraction where you can get lost in a maze of mirrors. We chose to admire the walk up to the park, enjoy the view, and stroll around the lovely flower gardens. Before heading back to the hotel to collect our luggage, we went out for lunch once more. Now it was time to bid farewell and hopefully meet again – Prague, you were lovely! I’m sure, you’ll enjoy Prague as much as we did!

Summary of activities

• Charles Bridge
• Old Town Square
• Prague Castle
• Prague Astronomical Clock
• Clementinum
• Boat cruise
• Go to a classic music concert oder movie hits orcestra
• Havelské tržiště (food and souvenir market)
• Petřín Tower and Mirror Maze in Petřin Park
• St. Vitus Cathedral
• St. Nicholas Church
• Jewish Prague Church
• National Museum
• Banksy Museum
• Sex Museum
• Madames Tussauds Museum
• Prague Zoo
• Eat a Trdelnik (chimney cake)

Where to eat

• VietFood – Vietnamese cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Mikes Cafeteria – czech cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Pizzeria Ristorante Giovanni – italian cuisine with czech options ^{(unpaid ad)}
• La Scala – italian cuisine with czech options ^{(unpaid ad)}