The Ultimate Prague Travel Guide

Prague is filled with medieval charm, boasting a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. St. Vitus Cathedral soars into the sky, its spires and stained-glass windows showcasing the austere mystery of Gothic style. The Old Town Hall's facade, with its intricate carvings and exquisite decorations, is a magnificent display of Baroque style. The red-tiled, yellow-walled houses along the streets are elegant examples of Renaissance style, together outlining the city's unique aesthetic profile. Here's a guide to exploring Prague: 1. Must-See Attractions • Charles Bridge: Prague's landmark, built in 1357, features 30 statues and is known as the "open-air Baroque sculpture gallery of Europe." Early morning or evening offers fewer crowds, better photo opportunities, and stunning views of the Vltava River. • Prague Castle: One of the largest ancient castles in the world, it includes St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, and other attractions. The Gothic architecture and exquisite stained glass of St. Vitus Cathedral are breathtaking. The colorful cottages of Golden Lane exude a fairytale atmosphere and were once said to be home to alchemists. • Old Town Square: This medieval-style square is home to the Gothic Tyn Church and the Baroque St. Nicholas Church, as well as the famous Prague Astronomical Clock. Every hour, the clock's figurines perform, attracting crowds of tourists. • St. Vitus Cathedral: Located within Prague Castle, it is the largest and most important church in the Czech Republic. The architecture is magnificent, the interior is ornate, and it houses numerous religious artworks and relics. • Lesser Town: Filled with quaint Baroque buildings and winding alleys, it's perfect for strolling and exploring. You'll discover many unique shops and cafes along the way. • Lennon Wall: Covered in John Lennon and peace-themed graffiti, it's full of art and free spirit, making it a great spot for photos. Street musicians often perform Beatles songs nearby. 2. Food Recommendations • Czech Roast Pork Knuckle: A traditional dish, the pork knuckle is roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. Paired with sauerkraut and local Czech beer, it's a perfect match. • Czech Beef Stew: A classic dish, the beef is stewed until tender and flavorful. Served with sour cream, cranberry sauce, and traditional dumplings, it's rich and satisfying. • Trdelník (Chimney Cake): Sweet dough coated in cinnamon sugar and baked until crispy. You can add ice cream or chocolate inside for a delicious dessert. • Czech Beer: The Czech Republic is known as the "Kingdom of Beer." In Prague's bars, you can sample a variety of Czech beers, such as Pilsner and dark beer, known for their rich flavor. 3. Shopping Recommendations • Wenceslas Square: A bustling commercial street with various shops, shopping malls, and brand stores, catering to all your shopping needs. • Havelsky Trh (Havel Market): A historic traditional market offering a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, fresh produce, and local snacks. It's a great place to find gifts. 4. Accommodation Book through platforms like Trip.com. If you want to stay near the attractions, choose hotels around Old Town Square, such as Hotel Kings Court, which boasts a prime location and luxurious decor. For budget travelers, consider Mosaic House Design Hotel, close to Charles Bridge and reasonably priced.