TL;DR: Prague is a stunning, history-rich, and welcoming city. It’s incredibly affordable, with easy public transportation and plenty of walkable charm. Get to the Charles Bridge early, tour Prague Castle, and don’t miss the Museum of Communism
Introduction
Prague! A city where Gothic spires pierce the sky, centuries-old bridges span the Vltava River, and cozy cobblestone streets lead you through a living museum. But here’s the best part: Prague is one of Europe’s most affordable major cities, so you can enjoy its treasures without emptying your wallet.
Even though the Czech Republic is part of the European Union, they’ve held onto their local currency—the Czech Koruna. When I visited in April 2018, the exchange rate was about 20 Koruna to the dollar, making it a budget traveler’s dream.
Prague’s charm lies in its unique mix of old-world elegance and a dash of communist-era grit. Think red-roofed medieval buildings right next to Soviet-style block apartments. It’s like getting two sides of Europe in one postcard-perfect city.
Charles Bridge
Start your day at one of the city’s most iconic spots: the Charles Bridge. This medieval masterpiece stretches across the Vltava (Vol-ta-va), connecting Old Town to Prague Castle. If you want to soak in the bridge’s serene beauty, get there early—before the tourists arrive. The views of the city waking up, with the sun lighting up the river and the statues that line the bridge, are simply magical.
Our Airbnb was just a stone’s throw away, which made it easy to get there before the crowds. You’ll want to take your time wandering across the bridge, admiring the city from all angles.
Jewish Quarter
A short walk away is Prague’s Jewish Quarter, a neighborhood steeped in history. The Old Jewish Cemetery is particularly fascinating, with layers of tombstones piled on top of each other due to limited burial space. This area also boasts one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. It’s a sobering yet beautiful reminder of the city’s long, complex, and at times tragic past.
Giant Metronome
From Charles Bridge, look up and to the left—you’ll spot a quirky structure on the hill: the Giant Metronome. It’s a bit of an oddball, but it has an intriguing backstory. This hill once held a gigantic monument to Stalin, built by the Czechs during Soviet times. After Stalin’s fall from grace, the statue was blown up, and the metronome was placed here as a symbol of time moving on. Want to dig deeper into Prague’s communist history? Head to the Museum of Communism—it’s packed with fascinating exhibits that capture life under Soviet rule.
Easter Traditions
If you’re lucky enough to visit Prague around Easter, you’re in for a treat. We happened to be there during this festive time and watched Polish parishioners carrying their Easter baskets to church for a blessing. It was a lovely glimpse into local traditions and added even more charm to the Old Town.
Transportation
Prague is easily walkable, but its public transportation is a true gem. The metro, initially built by the Russians, is quick, efficient, and connects all the major sites. The city’s trolley system is also top-notch, taking you to hidden corners you might miss on foot. Hop on the trolley for a scenic ride up to Prague Castle.
Prague Castle
Once you reach Prague Castle, you’ll be greeted by one of the city’s most awe-inspiring sights: Saint Vitus Cathedral. This Gothic giant dominates the skyline and is every bit as impressive up close. After you’ve explored the castle, take a stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the castle district. The views over the city are spectacular, and there’s even a little market where you can pick up some souvenirs or snacks.
Prague is an enchanting city—historic, beautiful, affordable, and full of surprises. As you meander through its old streets and discover its many layers, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. So, lace up your walking shoes, get lost in Prague’s charming alleys, and enjoy the magic. And remember, happy Roaming the Planet!