Plan Your Trip to Prague: Best of Prague Tourism
Prague, Czech Republic
Essential Prague
Things to do
Food & drink
The best places to drink beer in Prague
- Dva kohouti49The residential neighbourhood of Karlín is hipster central—and mostly devoid of tourists. Whenever I walk the streets (and dream about buying an apartment here), I pop into this industrial-style craft brewer for a glass or two. It has excellent sours, American ales, IPAs, and Czech-style light lagers—you’re spoiled for choice. Join the locals in the relaxing beer garden, but a heads-up, the mood turns raucous at night.
- U Hrocha474I’ll admit, I’m biased—this might be my favourite Czech pub. The Pilsner Urquell beer on tap is said to be the purest in Prague. The vaulted ceilings give the place a snug, slightly upscale feel, which explains its popularity with the diplomats from the nearby British Embassy. Don’t let that fool you, this is a true everyman’s pub. The only issue is getting a table. To be safe, arrive after it opens at noon (really).
- Restaurace U Fleku11,614I used to avoid this centuries-old pub—founded in 1499—because it was too touristy for my taste. I’ve warmed up to it, though, for one reason: the exceptional quality of its dark lager, a rarity in a country where lighter, amber-coloured lagers are preferred. The dark beer here—crafted from water, hops, yeast, and barley—may be the best you’ll ever try. It also pairs beautifully with the pub’s roast pork and sauerkraut.
- Klášterní Šenk535Hop on Tram 22 to get to this 1,000-year-old monastery. Here, you can sample some off-the-beaten-path beers. The monastery’s microbrewery produces a highly rated standard lager, Benedict 12°, and dabbles in rarer brews like its (very good) stout. You can tour the brewery or simply down a few pints over a plate of pork knee, served at one of two bars on the grounds.
- Hostinec U Černého vola21Sure, the staff at The Black Ox can be gruff. The small tavern, with its long, well-worn oak tables, hasn’t been prettied up for the benefit of visitors. But that’s not the point. The beers they serve—a standard lager, a perfectly poured Pilsner Urquell, and a dark lager from Czech brewer Velkopopovický Kozel—are as much a part of the fabric of the city as Prague Castle, just down the street.
- BeerGeek Bar411At this popular watering hole in Vinohrady, the 30-plus taps highlight local Czech craft brewers, like Clock or Sibeeria, as well as harder-to-find German- and Belgian-style beers. Expect a different assortment on each visit and a helpful bartender to guide you in your choice. Most people, naturally, come for the beer, but I love the BBQ chicken wings the kitchen turns out, too.
Browse collections
- Kid-friendly eatsDiscover the magic of a kids' corner
- Winter in PragueSee what makes this place so magical at this time of year
- Pints for daysPubs, crawls, and brewery tours
- Hit the marketLocal markets perfect for souvenir shopping
- At the operaClassical music venues and historic opera houses
- Live your fairytaleFamous castles and estates to explore
- For classic Czech foodWhere to find the best local dishes
More cities with fairytale charm
Prague travel advice
Bus and Metro Connections
According to forum posts, the primary public transportation options to navigate from Prague Airport to the city include buses and the metro. Bus 119 is frequently mentioned as a connector to the Nadrazi Veleslavin metro station, from where passengers can transfer to various metro lines depending on their destination. Another option is bus 100, connecting to the Zlicin metro station.
Specific Routes and Recommendations
Travelers have called out specific routes for reaching central locations. For instance, to reach the Michelangelo Grand Hotel, taking bus 119 to the metro green line and alighting at Mustek station has been suggested. Another viable route includes taking bus 100 to the metro yellow line, exiting at Narodni Trida.
Alternative Public Transportation and Tips
For many users, alternative public transport options include trams, with tram 22 being frequently used around central Prague. Travelers have advised using mobile apps like PID Lítačka for ticket purchases, which provide convenience, although there is a noted two-minute delay in ticket activation that may affect timing when catching a bus or tram.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Train Travel Overview
According to forum posts, train travel from Prague to Munich is a common option, but experiences vary in terms of reliability. Some travelers have mentioned disruptions such as necessary train changes due to line works or strikes, particularly affecting Deutsche Bahn (DB) services.
Service Options
Travelers have called out that České dráhy (ČD) and Die Länderbahn operate trains on this route. ČD offers direct train services, which are generally preferred for their reliability over DB. Some posts indicated that RegioJet also operates bus services on this route, which some travelers prefer due to past train unreliabilities.
Class and Comfort
For many users, second-class seating on ČD trains is preferred due to the configuration and comfort compared to first-class compartments. The posts suggest that second-class offers open carriage seating, which is more spacious and preferable for longer journeys.
Travel Recommendations
Travelers have recommended checking current train schedules and booking in advance, particularly during periods of potential strikes or when track work is expected. Seat reservations are advisable, especially during tourist seasons, to ensure seat availability.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Hotel Recommendations in Old Town
Some travelers have recommended the Hotel U Tri Bubnu due to its good service and location, with a link to their website for more details. The Old Town Square Hotel is also highly praised for its location and quality, with a user review linked for more insight.
Hotel Alternatives
For those considering slightly different options, the Grandior Hotel is noted for its excellent breakfast and proximity to amenities. Hotel Jerome House, now known as Hotel Adler, has been highlighted for its convenient location near all major attractions and recent renovations enhancing its appeal.
General Advice
According to forum posts, hotels within Prague 1 are generally well-regarded due to their central location, ensuring they are close to major tourist sites and activities.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Official Currency
According to forum posts, the official currency used in Prague is the Czech koruna (CZK), also referred to as the Czech crown. Some travelers have highlighted that while euros may be accepted in some tourist-oriented places, the exchange rate is often unfavorable.
Currency Exchange Advice
Travelers have called out that it's best to exchange money at reputable offices within Prague rather than at the airport or hotels due to better exchange rates. Several posts advise using ATMs to withdraw korunas directly, recommending that any transactions should be charged in koruna to avoid poor exchange rates.
Use of Cards
For many users, debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Prague, particularly in restaurants, shops, and for public transportation tickets. It's suggested to have some cash in korunas for smaller purchases or where cards might not be accepted.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?First Time Travelers
Some travelers suggested starting with a walking tour from Republic Square and exploring major attractions like Charles Bridge and St. Cyril and St. Methodius Cathedral. Evening activities could include dining out in Prague, where live music and beer are popular.
Three-Day Itinerary
For a three-day visit, users recommended covering the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter, and Prague Castle. They also suggested visiting Vysehrad and taking a tour of the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock. To get a deeper understanding of the city, climbing the towers for panoramic views and exploring lesser-known neighborhoods like Vinohrady and Zizkov was also advised.
Off-Beat Attractions
Travelers looking for less touristy activities mentioned exploring the Vysehrad area, attending an organ concert at St. James Basilica, and visiting local parks like Stromovka for relaxation and people-watching. Other suggestions included discovering unique architecture and historical sites around Prague that are not typically crowded with tourists.
Day Trips
For day trips from Prague, popular destinations among forum users included Kutna Hora for its historical significance, Karlstejn Castle for its majestic architecture, and the nearby town of Cesky Krumlov for a scenic getaway.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Popular Music Venues
According to forum posts, Prague offers a variety of live music venues that are highly recommended by travelers. Famous spots include Vagon with tribute bands, Reduta Jazz Club, Jazz Dock, and Jazz Republic. These venues cater to lovers of jazz and live performances, providing a lively atmosphere for evening entertainment.
Bars and Nightclubs
Some travelers have highlighted specific bars and nightclubs for a vibrant nightlife experience. Lucerna Music Club is noted for its 80s and 90s video night, which occurs every Friday and Saturday. Additionally, the Cuban bar is mentioned as a lively spot, and reservations are suggested wherever you go.
Alternative Nightlife Options
For those looking for a different nightlife experience, the Prague Beer Museum is suggested for its regular live music sessions. This venue combines the enjoyment of crafted beers with musical entertainment, offering a unique night out in the city.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Fireworks Viewing
According to forum posts, watching the fireworks from various vantage points such as bridges, hotel windows, or hills is a major New Year's event in Prague. Several travelers recommended viewing the fireworks away from the city center to avoid unregulated fireworks and crowded streets.
Restaurant Celebrations
Some users suggested dining in restaurants with music and views of the river to enjoy the fireworks. However, they noted that prices are generally higher during New Year’s Eve.
Alternative Celebrations
For a different experience, a traveler mentioned the option of celebrating on January 1st instead, watching family-friendly fireworks in a more relaxed setting. This suggestion came from a user looking for a quieter celebration compared to the bustling New Year's Eve.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Variety and Atmosphere
According to forum posts, the Christmas markets in Prague are highly regarded for their magical atmosphere. Travelers have especially praised the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets for their lively ambiance. The markets are noted for their beautiful settings and are filled with festive decorations, which contribute to their overall appeal.
Local and Traditional Markets
Some travelers mentioned smaller, more traditional markets that offer a local experience, such as the markets at Namesti Miru and Jiřího z Poděbrad. These markets are described as less touristy and provide a quaint, neighborly atmosphere, making them popular among those looking for an authentic experience.
Culinary Offerings
The Prague Christmas markets are also celebrated for their unique food and drink offerings. Posts highlighted that these markets serve traditional Czech Christmas treats, which differ from those found in German or Austrian markets. This includes a variety of hot beverages like mulled wine, which is a favorite among visitors.
Additional Recommendations
For those looking to explore beyond Prague, some forum users recommended visiting nearby cities such as Dresden for its historic market, described as one of the oldest in Europe, providing a nice contrast and extended experience to the Prague markets.
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