Fast Facts:
- Country: Czech Republic
- Capital: Prague
- Location: The country is bordered by Poland to the northeast, Slovakia to the east, Germany to the west, and Austria to the south.
- Language: Czech
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)
For this trip:
- Month of Travel: August
- Weather: 25deg C
- What to Wear: Never underestimate European summer. It can get really hot although it’s still of course a lot more bearable compared to our base – Dubai. Like anywhere else in Europe, expect to walk on cobblestoned streets so wear super comfortable footwear.
More than being the “city of a hundred spires”, Prague allowed us to effortlessly Czech three of our favorite things to do when we travel – Eat, Explore and Escape!
Eat
While the bar (and the beer) culture in Prague is definitely to be indulged in, we had bigger plans for our tummies. The list of cafés that make Prague’s coffee scene one of the most vibrant in the world is long, but we chose two that were consistently shortlisted in most travel reviews.
First, we had whatever Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka and Karel Capek were having at Café Louvre. It is said these geniuses used to hang out in this spot built in 1902. We couldn’t guarantee your IQ would shoot up but your happiness would with the rich traditional food and baked goods on offer.
We also tried Café Savoy, where Tim really enjoyed his Savoy platter that consists of slow-roasted duck leg, Prague ham, rabbit, and spatzle.
When you get hungry in between your day of exploration, do not even attempt to resist a helping of pork knuckles or trdelink, a rolled pastry usually served warm and topped with a dusting of sugar, cinnamon or nuts. For the sweet tooth, this tastes even better with a scoop of ice cream.
Explore
Make sure you Czech out these sites too!
Wenceslas Square (which looks more like a rectangle) is known for being the center for public gatherings, celebrations and shopping. We got a taste of just how bustling it could get on our first evening when they had a concert that packed the whole area making it almost impossible to stroll.
Just between Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge is the Old Town Square, where you’ll also find Tyn Church, St. Nicholas Church and the Astronomical Clock built on top of the Town Hall.
Charles Bridge is another popular destination so try to visit early to avoid crowds and have enough space to admire it. It crosses the river Vltava to the Prague Castle and once was an important bridge for commerce.
After crossing the cobblestoned Charles Bridge, you’ll reach Mala Strana which literally means the little side because of its position on the left bank of the river Vltava as opposed to the larger towns on the right bank.
From here, you’re in the right direction towards Prague Castle. Set on a hilltop, expect a gentle hike on the stairs that lead to its vast complex of architectural masterpieces, which includes our favorite, St. Vitus Cathedral. You can literally spend half or even a full day here discovering the rest of the buildings.
GALLERY:
Do not leave Mala Strana without seeing the Lennon Wall filled with John Lennon inspired graffiti, art and Beatles song lyrics. His songs of freedom and independence inspired a number of Czech youth who created and recreated the wall even after authorities painted over it.
GALLERY:
Escape
One of the more delightful parts of our Prague trip is how easily we could escape the touristy spots to breathe better and appreciate the city’s charm from afar.
Letna Park gave us a fantastic view of most of the historical center of Prague.
Hillside park, Petrin is best reached, especially if you’re already tired from all the walking, using the funicular. It’s romantic, peaceful and features some activities for the whole family.
Finally, Strelecky ostrov is a little island on the river Vltava that is a favorite hangout for locals. It gives a view of the Charles Bridge and allows people to enjoy the tranquility of the waters under the shade of its lush trees.
Prague was the first stop of our Eastern Europe adventure that includes Vienna, Salzburg, Budapest and Bratislava. It did set the tone for what would be one of our favorite trips ever and for that, dekuji Czech Republic!
GALLERY:
Check out our video!