This article is archived. Take a look at our new website for the latest news from the Travel Massive community.
Community and Events, Europe

The Best of: Prague – Travel Tips from a Local

Our Travel Massive meet-up in Prague is coming up soon so we asked Prague expat and foodie Shannon Maroney for tips to discover “the best of Prague” from a local. Here are the best things to see, do, and eat in the golden city.

Best Local Activities

pivoGrab a beer at one of Prague’s outdoor gardens and stay for the views.

Ride the tram – #22 takes a magnificent route around the city from the Vinohrady neighborhood all the way up to the Prague castle (make sure you’ve got your ticket!).

Wander to a new district (some of our favorites are Karlín, Vinohrady, Letná and Holešovice) and get lost in the myriad of local cafés, parks and shops.

Visit an outdoor farmer’s market and sample all sorts of Czech goodies. Find the markets scattered throughout the city Mondays-Saturdays (April to October)

Take colorful photos and visit gritty history at the Lennon Wall, an icon of freedom and rebellion against the communist regime in the 1980´s. Find the love locks and the water goblin sitting on the mill wheel nearby.

Go on an Eating Prague Food Tour. You’ll get to try many of the traditional Czech foods listed below, guided by a local expert!

Best Local Food

Chlebíčky – These open-face sandwiches are a cornerstone of Czech cuisine. Find the traditional classics at Jan Paukert and the gourmet versions at Sisters Bistro.

Přeštice pig and Přeštice sausage – Tender and juicy pork from a local heritage breed. Nase maso has some of finest cuts in the city.

Best Cultural Tradition

A tradition unique to our country is on Easter Monday morning when the boys chase the girls with pomlázka (decorated and braided pussywillow twigs) and gently whip their legs, which is thought to bring good health and youth. In return, the girls give the boys decorated eggs. You can buy your own pomlázka at Prague’s Easter markets.

Best Architecture

Follow the narrow and windy cobble-stoned roads and step into the fairytale charm of Old Town Square. The Astronomical Clock is one of the most interesting sights in the square with hourly “performances” (daily 9am to 9pm).

V.Prague (30) (1)

The Prague Castle is the breathtaking focal point of the Czech capital towering above the Vltava River. It’s the ancient residence of Czech kings, the current seat of the Czech President and to no surprise, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Charles Bridge is the most well-known of Prague’s bridges. Up until 1841, it was the only way to cross the river from the Prague Castle to the Old Town. Visit the artists and vendors, admire the saintly statues and take in the stunning views. In high season, go early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds.

Malá Strana (the Lesser Town) is the neighborhood tucked next to the Prague Castle which was once home to a number of noble palaces and today retains its beautiful and regal charm.

The Jewish Quarter’s history dates back to the 13th century and is said to be the best preserved Jewish ghettos in all of Europe with six synagogues, the Jewish Town Hall and the Old Jewish Cemetery.

Best Parks and Green Spaces

The Petřín Watchtower

The Petřín Watchtower – also known as the “mini Eiffel Tour” at the top of Petřín Park offers a stunning view of Prague and the surrounding countryside.  To reach the tower, take the funicular (you’ll need a ticket) or head up the windy paths by foot.

Letenské sady (aka: Letná) – a favorite park for locals with beer gardens, grassy knolls and gorgeous views. Visit the huge metronome which was once the place of the largest statue of Stalin in Europe.

Stromovka – Prague’s largest park just a few blocks from Letna. Between the two parks is a quaint and lovely neighborhood worth exploring with cafes, shops and restaurants galore.

Riegrovy sady – home to the city’s largest and most popular outdoor beer garden, also offering top-notch views and sports on the outdoor screen.

vysehrad
Vyšehrad

Vyšehrad – 10th century historical fort atop the Vltava with a beautiful basilica, 11th century rotunda, cafes and a historic cemetery (visit the graves of famous Czechs such as Mucha, Dvořák and Smetana). Walk the stone wall perimeter and capture 360 degree-views of the city.

Kampa Island – tucked along the Vltava River and offering awesome views of the Prague Castle. The island is separated from Malá Strana by just a small artificial canal called Devil’s Stream, supposedly named after a sharp-tongued woman who lived in a place called the “Seven Devils”.

Best Time to Visit

Prague is stunning no matter the season though planning a visit around one of the seasonal markets – Christmas, Easter or the seasonal Farmer’s Markets – can make for a particularly special experience.

Best Czech Phrases to Have in your Back Pocket

Hello: “Dobrý den” / Hi: “Ahoj”

Please: “Prosím”

Thank you: “‘Děkuji”

Excuse me: “S dovolením” or “pardon”

Beer please: “pivo prosím”

I love the Czech Republic: “Miluji Českou Republiku”

Goodbye: “Na shledanou” / Bye: “Čau”

Shannon MaroneyShannon Maroney is currently one of the writers behind Eating Prague Food Tours. She splits her time between the golden spires of Prague and the green rolling hills of Wisconsin, USA. 

 


© 2011-2021 Travel Massive Global P.B.C.
👋 This article is archived. Take a look at our new website.