Budget Scale: 1-5
1-least expensive; 5-most expensive
3 – Gone are the days when Prague was dirt cheap to visit. However, the prices are quite similar to what you’d find in Budapest. You can easily find dorm beds costing less than US$20 per night but if you want to be pampered you’ll pay for that.
Indie Travel Scale: 1-5
1-not a good Indie Travel destination; 5-a great Indie Travel destination
3 – The city has become very touristy – and many travelers have started to complain about the artificial feel – and there are hardly any months when you won’t bump into fellow travelers. However, the prices are moderate, there are plenty of low-cost carriers flying from Western Europe and the public transportation options are good.
Indie Travel Tips
Getting off the beaten path a bit may be difficult in a capital city like Prague. But it is still possible to get an indie experience here.
- Instead of visiting the famous Prague Castle, make plans to visit Vysehrad Castle, sitting on the top of a hill. It’s been left to fall into ruin and all you can see the ruins of a former fortification of the castle. Oh and the stunning views of the city!
- The Botanical Gardens are a lovely place to escape the touristy spots. In winter, you can warm up in the green house, while in the summer you can hide from the sun under the trees.
- Visit a vineyard. Within the city, you can find Vinični Altan, which is easily reached by tram. Taste the locally produced wine.
- If you feel like to need to work out a bit – after all that good food and wine – head to Stromovka Park. Rent a pair of rollerblades or just take a long walk on the alleys.
- Visit the Medieval town of Cesky Krumlov. It is located on the Vltava River and is well known for the 13th century castle.
>>Check out these off the beaten path experiences in Prague .
Why you should add Prague to your RTW travel list
Of course Prague wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of the sites that makes it famous. Here are some ideas on what to do if you’ve never been there or plan on staying for a while.
- Visit Prague Castle, the biggest ancient castle in the world.
- Walk on Charles Bridge. For the best views of the Castle, plan your visit at sunset (or sunrise, if you can wake up early).
- Visit the Old Town, with its Astronomical Clock, Gothic Týn Church and other historical buildings.
- If you plan to be in Prague for the Christmas Market, don’t leave without souvenirs. You can find anything , from hand made jewelry to interesting tree ornaments. And let’s not forget the food and the mulled wine.
- Take a walk in the Lesser Town (Malá strana). It is known for the beautiful streets and the Venetian-like canal with water wheel. The Lesser Town is located across the Vltava River from the city centre, leading to the castle.
- Eat in a local pub. Don’t expect the bartenders to speak English – so bring a phrasebook – but do enjoy the food and beer.
Why you should not add Prague to your RTW travel list
- Prague was very cheap, but over the years that has changed. Still, it’s not as expensive as London, Paris or Rome, but it’s not very cheap either.
- The low season only brings cheaper room rates but , otherwise, the city is busy with tourists year-round. The Christmas Market is very popular so December is packed with shoppers; and the sites are filled with tourists during the entire summer.
- If you want to visit other Central-European countries while you are in Prague, your best bet is to take the train (and most likely go via Budapest). Don’t expect any low-cost flights within the area.
- Going off the beaten path is amazing, but you need some knowledge of the local language. A phrasebook is a good start, always.
Prague, Czech Republic – What do you need to do?