33 Tried and Tested Travel Tips for Exploring Prague like a Local
Prague is an enchanting city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. If you’re planning to visit, you’ll want to make the most of your time there. Here are 33 tried and tested tips to help you explore Prague like a local.
1. Take a Walking Tour
Walking tours are a great way to explore the city and learn more about its history and culture. There are many different walking tours available in Prague, and they cover a range of themes, from history and architecture to food and beer.
2. Rent a Bike
If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels? Prague has a great network of bike paths, and there are several bike rental companies in the city.
3. Visit the Top Attractions Early in the Day
Prague’s top attractions, such as the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, can get very crowded during the day. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning.
4. Take a Boat Tour
A boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are several boat tour companies operating in Prague, and they offer a range of tours, from short sightseeing cruises to longer dinner cruises.
5. Explore Hidden Gems
Prague is full of hidden gems, from quiet gardens and parks to off-the-beaten-track museums and galleries. Keep your eyes open as you explore the city, and you’re sure to discover something new and unexpected.
6. Visit the Markets
Prague has several markets throughout the city where you can browse local crafts, sample traditional Czech food and drinks, and pick up souvenirs to take home.
7. Try the Local Beer
Prague is famous for its beer, and there are many local breweries and pubs where you can sample the city’s best brews. Be sure to try a Pilsner Urquell, the original Czech beer.
8. Eat Like a Local
Prague has a rich culinary heritage, and there are many local dishes worth trying, such as goulash, knedlíky (dumplings), and trdelník (chimney cakes).
9. Take in a Show
Prague has a thriving arts scene, and there are many theaters, concert halls, and cinemas throughout the city where you can take in a show.
10. Visit the Theaters
Prague has several historic theaters, such as the National Theatre and the State Opera, where you can see world-class performances.
11. Visit the Museums
Prague has many museums, from the National Museum to smaller, more specialized museums, such as the Museum of Communism and the Museum of Miniatures.
12. Take a Day Trip
If you have some extra time, why not take a day trip outside of Prague? There are many beautiful and historic towns and cities within easy reach of the city, such as Český Krumlov and Kutná Hora.
13. Take a Segway Tour
If you want to cover more ground in less time, a Segway tour is a fun and efficient way to explore the city. There are several Segway tour companies in Prague, and they offer a range of tours to suit all interests.
14. Visit the Parks
Prague has many parks and green spaces, such as Petřín Hill and Letná Park, where you can relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
15. Go Shopping
Prague has many shopping options, from high-end designer stores to local boutiques and markets. Be sure to check out Pařížská Street, Prague’s version of Fifth Avenue.
16. Visit the Zoo
Prague Zoo is one of the best in Europe and is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. It’s a great family-friendly activity.
17. Take a Food Tour
If you’re a foodie, a food tour is a great way to discover the city’s culinary delights, from traditional Czech dishes to international cuisine.
18. Visit the Beer Spas
Yes, you read that right. Prague is home to several beer spas where you can soak in a tub filled with beer and enjoy a cold brew while you relax.
19. Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique perspective on the city, why not take a hot-air balloon ride over Prague? You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
20. Visit the Ice Bar
The Ice Pub is a unique experience where everything, from the walls to the glassware, is made of ice. Be sure to bundle up!
21. Learn Some Czech
Learning a few basic Czech phrases can go a long way towards making your visit to Prague more enjoyable. Locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language.
22. Take a Photography Tour
Prague is a photographer’s dream, with beautiful architecture, stunning views, and colorful street scenes. A photography tour is a great way to improve your skills and capture some amazing images.
23. Visit the Theaters
Prague has several historic theaters, such as the National Theatre and the State Opera, where you can see world-class performances.
24. Visit the Churches
Prague has many beautiful churches that are worth a visit, such as St. Vitus Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady before Týn.
25. Go Kayaking
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a kayaking tour of the city? You’ll get a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and history.
26. Visit the Dance Clubs
Prague has a thriving nightlife scene, with many dance clubs and bars catering to all musical tastes.
27. Take a Ghost Tour
Prague has a haunted history, and there are many ghost tours available that will take you to the city’s most spooky and haunted locations.
28. Visit the Art Galleries
Prague has many art galleries and museums, such as the National Gallery and the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art.
29. Listen to Some Live Music
Prague has a great live music scene, with many bars and clubs hosting local and international musicians.
30. Go Ice Skating
In the winter months, Prague has several outdoor ice skating rinks where you can enjoy some winter fun.
31. Take a Cooking Class
If you’re a foodie, why not take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Czech dishes such as goulash and knedlíky?
32. Explore the Architecture
Prague has a wide variety of architectural styles, from Gothic and Baroque to Art Nouveau and Modernist. Be sure to explore the city’s architecture and learn more about its history and culture.
33. Attend a Festival
Prague hosts many festivals throughout the year, from the Prague Spring International Music Festival to the Prague Christmas Markets. Be sure to check out the calendar of events to see what’s happening during your visit.
In conclusion, Prague is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, there are many ways to explore the city like a local. Use these tips to make the most of your visit and create lasting memories of this beautiful and enchanting city.