About Place
- "The City of a Hundred Spires"
- "Architectural Gem of Europe"
- "Cultural Heart of Europe"
Reasons to Visit
- Architectural Splendor : Prague boasts an unparalleled blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. Its iconic structures like the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Prague Castle reflect centuries of history and artistry. The astronomical clock in the Old Town Hall, operational since 1410, is a marvel of medieval engineering.
- Cultural Richness : Prague is a cultural hotspot with a thriving arts scene. The National Theatre, the Prague Symphony Orchestra, and a plethora of art galleries and museums, including the Franz Kafka Museum, showcase its deep-rooted cultural heritage. The city's vibrant festivals, like the Prague Spring International Music Festival, attract artists and audiences from around the globe.
- Enchanting Atmosphere : The city's cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and historic alleys create a magical ambiance. Walking through the labyrinthine lanes of Malá Strana or cruising on the Vltava River provides an immersive experience of Prague's unique charm. The city's numerous parks and gardens, like the Wallenstein Garden and Letná Park, offer serene escapes with stunning views.
Visa
- EU Citizens : No visa required for stays up to 90 days.
- US Citizens : Visa-free for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- UK Citizens : Visa-free for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Australian Citizens : Visa-free for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Indian Citizens : Schengen visa required. Apply through the Czech Embassy or Consulate.
- Other Countries : Check specific requirements on the Czech Republic's embassy website for up-to-date information.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from destination :
- Estimated cost for flights from major metro cities (e.g., New York to Prague) for two people : $1,200.
2. Hotel cost :
- Average cost per night : $150.
- Total cost for 3 nights for a couple : $450.
3. Food cost :
- Average cost per meal per person : $20.
- Total cost for 3 days (lunch and dinner for two people) : $240.
4. Activity cost :
- Entrance fees and activities (castle, museums, boat cruise) : $100.
5. Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental and local transport : $150.
Total estimated travel expenses : $2,140.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive in Prague and check into your hotel. Start your day at 10:00 AM with a visit to the Old Town Square, where you can marvel at the Astronomical Clock. Explore the Týn Church and the surrounding medieval architecture until noon. For lunch, try traditional Czech cuisine at Mlejnice Restaurant. In the afternoon, head to the Jewish Quarter from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM to visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Spanish Synagogue. Dinner at 7:00 PM at Lokál Dlouhááá, known for its authentic Czech dishes. Spend the evening strolling along the Charles Bridge, soaking in the city's enchanting night views.
Day 2 : Begin your day with a visit to Prague Castle at 9:00 AM. Explore the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane until 1:00 PM. Lunch at the castle's restaurant, Terasa U Zlaté Studně, offering stunning city views. In the afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, visit the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and see the Lennon Wall. Enjoy dinner at 7:00 PM at Kampa Park, a riverside restaurant. End the day with a night tour of the city, highlighting Prague's illuminated landmarks.
Day 3 : Start your day at 10:00 AM with a visit to the National Museum, where you can explore Czech history and culture until 1:00 PM. Have lunch at Café Louvre, a historic café frequented by famous figures like Kafka and Einstein. In the afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, take a boat cruise on the Vltava River for unique views of the city. For dinner at 7:00 PM, head to U Modré Kachničky for a fine dining experience. Spend your last evening at the Letná Park, enjoying panoramic views of Prague.
Safety Tips
- Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.
- Avoid unlicensed taxis; use registered services.
- Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist hotspots.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Learn a few basic Czech phrases for emergencies.
- Use reputable sources for currency exchange.
- Follow local laws and customs.
- Stay informed about any travel advisories.
- Have travel insurance for medical emergencies.
Flights
- Lufthansa, British Airways, and KLM offer direct flights to Prague. Estimated round trip cost: $600 per person.
- Flight duration : Approximately 8-10 hours from major US cities.
Hotels
- Hotel Kings Court
- Art Deco Imperial Hotel
- Grandior Hotel Prague
- Hotel Questenberk
- Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +420 257 533 490
- Police : 112 (emergency number)
- Ambulance : 155
- Firefighters : 150
Country
Closet Airport
- Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Nearest City
- Berlin
- Germany
Heritage Sites
- Historic Centre of Prague (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- Lufthansa
- British Airways
- KLM
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
Currency
- Czech koruna (CZK)
Languages Spoken
- Czech
Real Story
The Defenestration of Prague : The Defenestration of Prague refers to two incidents in the history of Bohemia in which multiple people were defenestrated (thrown out of a window). The first defenestration occurred on July 30, 1419, when a crowd of radical Czech Hussites, led by the priest Jan Želivský, stormed the New Town Hall in Prague and threw seven members of the city council from the windows. This event marked the beginning of the Hussite Wars.
The second defenestration took place on May 23, 1618, and it is more widely known due to its significant impact on European history. The Protestant nobles of Bohemia were unhappy with the Catholic Habsburgs, who ruled over them and were infringing upon their religious freedoms. In an act of defiance, the Protestant leaders convened a meeting at the Prague Castle and, after a heated argument, threw two Catholic officials, Jaroslav Borzita of Martinice and Vilém Slavata of Chlum, along with their secretary, out of a window of the Bohemian Chancellery.
Amazingly, the three men survived the 70-foot fall, reportedly landing in a pile of manure. This incident escalated the conflict between Protestants and Catholics, leading to the Thirty Years' War, a devastating series of wars in Central Europe that lasted from 1618 to 1648.
The defenestration symbolized the deep-seated religious and political tensions of the time and had long-lasting consequences for the region. It is remembered as a pivotal moment in Czech history and a dramatic demonstration of resistance against oppression.
Cuisine
Prague’s cuisine is a delightful mix of traditional Czech dishes and modern culinary innovations. A must-try is Svíčková, a marinated beef sirloin with a creamy vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings. Another favorite is Vepřo knedlo zelo, a hearty dish of roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut. For dessert, Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and nuts, is a popular treat. Don’t miss tasting Czech beer, renowned worldwide for its quality and variety, with Pilsner and Budvar being the most famous brands.
Culture and History
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city deeply steeped in history and culture. Renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant arts scene, it has been a cultural and political center of Europe for centuries. The city’s cultural heritage is reflected in its well-preserved medieval buildings, historical monuments, and the thriving arts community.
Prague’s architecture is a testament to its rich history. The cityscape is dominated by Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, and Romanesque chapels. The Charles Bridge, a historic stone bridge with statues lining its edges, connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town and is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. The Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, has been the seat of Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over a thousand years.
The city’s artistic heritage is equally impressive. Prague has a vibrant music scene, with numerous concert halls, jazz clubs, and opera houses. The National Theatre and the Estates Theatre are famous for their opera, ballet, and drama performances. The city also hosts several music festivals, including the Prague Spring International Music Festival, which attracts performers and audiences from around the world.
Literature has a special place in Prague’s cultural fabric. The city was home to Franz Kafka, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. The Franz Kafka Museum offers a deep dive into the life and works of the enigmatic author. Prague’s literary cafes, such as Café Slavia and Café Louvre, were frequented by many writers, poets, and intellectuals.
Prague’s cultural richness extends to its traditions and festivals. The Czech Beer Festival, held annually, celebrates the country’s renowned brewing tradition. The Christmas markets, with their festive decorations and traditional crafts, are a highlight of the winter season. The Easter markets, folk festivals, and classical music concerts throughout the year reflect the city’s vibrant cultural life.
In essence, Prague is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. Its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and contemporary charm.