Prague holidays

How to reach Prague

Reaching Prague from the UK is quite straightforward, with direct flight times averaging around 2 hours. Upon arrival at Václav Havel Airport Prague, transferring to the city centre can take approximately 30 minutes by taxi or 45 minutes via public transport, including buses and the metro. The price for transport varies, with taxis generally costing around CZK 600-800 to the city centre, while public transport tickets cost CZK 32 for a 90-minute ride.

Best time to visit Prague

The best time to visit Prague truly "depends on your expectations." Each season in Prague has its charm and potential drawbacks:

• Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures (8°C to 18°C), less rainfall, and the city in bloom, though it's the start of the tourist season.

• Summer (June to August) brings the warmest weather (16°C to 25°C) and the most tourists, ideal for outdoor dining and festivals, but expect higher prices and crowded sights.

• Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures (4°C to 19°C) and fewer tourists, with beautiful fall colours in the city's parks.

• Winter (December to February) is cold (-2°C to 2°C) with potential snow, perfect for Christmas markets, though days are shorter.

High season coincides with summer and the Christmas markets, while low season falls in late autumn and early spring.

Practical information for Prague holidays

• Spoken Languages: Czech is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local Habits and Customs: Politeness is valued; say "Dobrý den" (Good day) when entering shops. Tipping is customary, about 10% in restaurants.

• Tips: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so stay vigilant. Tap water is safe to drink.

• Security: Prague is generally safe, but like any major city, keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

• Health: No special vaccinations are required. Pharmacies are well-stocked, but travel insurance is recommended.

• Papers and Visa: UK citizens can visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. A valid passport is required.

• Currency: The Czech crown (CZK) is the currency. Euros are accepted in some places, but it's better to use local currency.

• Getting Around: Prague has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Tickets are valid across all types and can be purchased from machines and kiosks.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 230 V with type E sockets. UK visitors will need an adapter.

This guide should help you plan your Prague holiday, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience in one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Best things to do in Prague

Located in the heart of Europe, Prague, on the banks of the Vltava River has become one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. Known primarily for its architecture, beer, nightlife and cultural offerings, it is one of the continent’s most magnetic cities.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Petrín Hill: Accessible by funicular or a none-too-demanding hike, Petrín Hill offers some of the best views of the city.

• Letná Park: A favourite with locals, this park boasts sweeping views of Prague’s bridges spanning the Vltava River.

• Old Town Hall Tower: Climb to the top of this historic structure and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Prague’s iconic red rooftops.

The best districts

• Staré Město (Old Town): Explore the maze of narrow streets lined with Gothic and Baroque architecture and smart cafés; highlights include the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn.

• Malá Strana (Lesser Town): Nestled below Prague Castle, this district is packed cheek-by-jowl with narrow alleyways, historic churches and lots of delightful riverside spots.

• Vinohrady: Foodies and wine lovers will enjoy this cosmopolitan district dotted with upmarket eateries and wine bars, all of which offer a more local feel.

Museums

• Museum of Communism: Head here for an insight into life in Czechoslovakia under Soviet rule. Various mock-ups of interiors contain period objects, though most disturbing are the sections on the secret police and the Iron Curtain.

• Schwarzenberg Palace: Home to the National Gallery’s superb collection of Old Masters, which features works by two of the most important Czech painters of the era, Petr Brandl (1668–1735) and Jan Kupecký (1667–1740).

• Museum of Decorative Arts: A showcase for all types of decorative art, at which the inhabitants of Bohemia have consistently excelled. The museum holds one of the world’s largest collections of antique glass, as well as displays relating to ceramics, tapestries, costumes and clocks.

Parks and gardens

• Castle Gardens: The small, interlinking Castle Gardens are among the city’s loveliest parks, with wonderful views to boot.

• Wallenstein Garden: The gardens here feature a superb loggia, clipped hedges, fountains and statuary by the celebrated sculptor Adriaen de Vries.

• Stromovka Park: Once a royal hunting ground, Stromovka is now a tranquil green space beloved by the natives.

Historical monuments

• Charles Bridge: A Gothic masterpiece lined with beautiful sculptures and atmospheric at any time of day, though it’s best visited early in the morning or at dusk to avoid the crowds.

• Prague Castle: Pride of place must go to Prague Castle, the seat of royal power throughout the Middle Ages. Sitting on the top of a low ridge, casting a watchful eye over the city, there are few more spectacular sights in all of Europe.

• St Vitus Cathedral: Prepare to be dazzled by its awe-inspiring facade; soaring towers and spires dwarf the surrounding buildings.

• Church of Our Lady before Týn: An immense Gothic edifice whose cloud-raking spires rise to 80m above the surrounding medieval streets, shaping the city’s skyline.

Day trips in the area

• Kutná Hora: One of the most popular day trips from the capital, this charming town’s outstanding monument is St Barbara’s Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Central European Gothic architecture.

• Karlštejn Castle: Rising high above the treetops of the winding valley of the River Berounka like a medieval vision come true, Karlštejn Castle is one of the country’s greatest attractions and an easy day trip from the capital.

• Pilsen: Only an hour away by train from the capital, Bohemia’s second city has a couple of major attractions, though top billing goes to the Prazdroj (Urquell) Brewery where a fascinating tour tells the story of the world’s first and finest Pils beer.

Activities for families in Prague

From interactive museums to theatre trips, there are quite a few fun activities to keep kids happy and maybe even amuse parents.

• Local transport: This can be hugely entertaining: boat trips on the Vltava are fun, a simple ride on a tram can be a great experience in itself and taking the funicular railway up to Petřín Hill thrills young ones.

• Theatre: A well-chosen theatre trip can be a stimulating experience even for small children. The Lanterna Magika features dance, mime and lighting effects, while The National Marionette Theatre stages shows for all ages, including a puppet version of Don Giovanni.

• Interactive museums: Child-friendly museums include the National Technical Museum, with plenty of interactive displays and The National Museum, which has collections of tropical insects and animal bones – children might be particularly enthralled by the giant insects.

Free things to do in Prague

Although fairly expensive by central/eastern European standards, Prague offers plenty of opportunities to experience its charms without spending a fortune.

• Kampa Island and the Lennon Wall: This pretty square and parkland can be explored for free, and you can even feed the resident swans. Just off Kampa, on Velkopřevorské náměstí is the famous Lennon Wall, one of Eastern Europe’s most-visited pieces of graffiti.

• City centre walks: One of the planet’s most walkable cities, you can amble across the centre in an hour through a maze of traffic-free streets; around the edge of the densely built-up historical core are sweeping green spaces where you can sit and enjoy the sunshine and birdsong - all without spending a penny.

• Free events: From open-air concerts in summer to traditional Christmas markets in winter, Prague’s calendar is filled with free cultural happenings.

Nature and outdoor activities in Prague

Prague may be known for its urban charm, but it also offers numerous outdoor escapes and adventures catering to all sensibilities.

• Hiking: From Divoká Šárka, a red-marked Czech Hiking Club trail runs 7.5km to Baba on the Vltava. This is an easy walk along the Šárecké Valley with its rock formations and forests. The Czech map app Mapy.cz will guide you through the gorge. Afterwards, catch tram No 8 or No 18 back to the centre.

• Water sports: Boat rides aside, the Vltava has become something of a hotspot for paddleboarders and kayakers. There are several rental spots along the riverbanks, catering to beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.

• Bird-watching and wildlife: For an escape from the urban bustle, and to reconnect with nature, head to Milíčovský Forest or Hostivař Reservoir, both of which present opportunities to spot a variety of bird species.

Local dishes in Prague

One of the great joys of holidays to Prague is sampling traditional Czech cooking. Although typically heavy with pork, dumplings, pickles and cream, lighter versions of classic Czech recipes can often be found. Beware though, portion sizes are usually huge...

Some typical dishes

• Svíčková: Czech sirloin roast drizzled with an almost-sweet vegetable sauce and paired with a generous serving of dumplings, whipped cream and cranberry sauce.

• Bramborová polévka s houbami: Potato soup with mushrooms, flavoured with onion, bacon, carrots, cabbage, parsley and spices – almost a meal in itself.

• Koleno: Slow-roasted pork knuckle served with horseradish, mustard and pickled vegetables.

Meat dishes

• Smažený řízek: For a taste of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, you should order Wiener schnitzel, a delicious breaded veal escalope.

• Vepřo knedlo zelo: Classic Czech meal starring roast pork, sauerkraut and soft bread dumplings.

Street food

• Bramborák: An oily, garlicky potato pancake, delicious and filling despite the greasy fingers.

• Pečená klobása: Roasted sausage with a slice of rye bread and a squirt of mild mustard is a great way to stave off the munchies at 4 am.

Sweets and desserts

Desserts usually figure in the heavyweight category, for example, the tasty jablkový závin (apple strudel), topped with whipped cream. Svestkové knedlíky (plum dumplings) are sprinkled with cheese curd and sugar, and then doused in melted butter. A firm favourite is palačinka, ice cream or cream and fruit enveloped in a pancake.

Local drinks

• Czech Beer: Czech beer (pivo) has a reputation to be envied. The most famous beers are Pilsner Urquell from Plzeň, Budweiser Budvar from České Budějovice (Budweis) and Staropramen from Prague.

• Slivovice: After-dinner drinks generally take the form of fruit brandies, especially slivovice, a potent spirit made from plums.

Local sports events in Prague

Prague's passion for sports can be seen in its enthusiastic local events and modern stadiums. To live it like a local, catch a football match at the Generali Česká pojišťovna Arena, home to AC Sparta Prague, or experience the atmospheric Eden Arena, where SK Slavia Prague plays. Ice hockey fans should not miss a game at the O2 Arena, showcasing the best of Czech hockey. For a truly local experience, join the fans in one of the many sports bars in the city to watch a match, where the camaraderie is palpable.

Sports facilities for travellers in Prague

Travellers looking to stay active will find Prague accommodating with its variety of sports facilities. The city boasts numerous swimming pools, such as Podolí Swimming Pool, offering both indoor and outdoor pools. For yoga, fitness, dancing, and tennis, many gyms and studios like Holmes Place and World Class offer day passes for travellers. These facilities provide a great way to unwind or keep up with your fitness routine while exploring Prague.

Cycling in Prague

Exploring Prague by bike is not only eco-friendly but also offers a unique perspective of the city. Bike rental services are widely available, with providers like Rekola offering easy-to-use bike-sharing options. Popular cycling routes include rides along the Vltava River, through the expansive Letná Park, or a scenic trip to the Prague Castle. These routes offer a mix of urban exploration and natural beauty.

Hiking around Prague

Prague is surrounded by lush countryside, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The Prokopské and Divoká Šárka valleys offer trails with stunning views of the city and its verdant outskirts. For a more leisurely walk, the Petřín Hill provides a gentle hike with the reward of panoramic views at the top.

Water sports in Prague

The Vltava River running through Prague is a hub for water sports, offering activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The Hostivař Reservoir is another spot for swimming and sunbathing, making for a refreshing break from the city's hustle and bustle.

Winter sports near Prague

During the winter months, the areas around Prague offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, with resorts like Monínec situated just a short drive away. These locations provide well-maintained slopes suitable for all skill levels, ensuring a fun day out in the snow.

Golf courses in Prague

Golf enthusiasts will find several beautifully designed golf courses around Prague, such as the Albatross Golf Resort, which is ranked among the best in the Czech Republic. These courses offer not only challenging plays but also stunning views of the Czech countryside, making for a perfect day of leisure and sport.

Seasonal events in Prague

Prague's calendar is dotted with vibrant seasonal events that offer a glimpse into the city's rich traditions and contemporary culture, making any visit truly special.

• New Year: Celebrate with spectacular fireworks over the Vltava River and joyous street parties.

• Xmas Shopping & Markets: From late November, the city transforms with festive markets, notably in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, perfect for Xmas shopping and tasting traditional Czech treats.

• Easter: Markets spring up again, with beautifully decorated eggs and regional handicrafts. The Easter Monday tradition is a unique cultural experience.

• Gay Events: Prague Pride, usually in August, is a vibrant celebration of love and diversity, with a parade and numerous events around the city.

• Carnival: The Bohemian Carnevale in February or March brings masked balls, parades, and street performances, reviving historical traditions.

Festivals in Prague

Prague's festival scene is as diverse as its history, with events that cater to every interest:

• Prague Spring International Music Festival: A classical music event in May that draws world-renowned performers.

• Prague International Film Festival - Febiofest: Showcasing global cinema every March.

• Prague Fringe Festival: Inspired by Edinburgh's famous fringe, this May festival offers theatre, comedy, and music.

• Bohemian Carnevale: A traditional celebration with masks and parades before Lent.

• Prague Christmas Markets: From late November, these markets fill the city with festive spirit, offering crafts, food, and mulled wine.

• Signal Festival: In October, Prague turns into a futuristic city with light installations and digital art.

• Prague Pride: A week-long celebration of LGBTQ+ culture in August, culminating in a colourful parade.

• St. Nicholas Day: On December 5th, streets fill with figures of St. Nicholas, angels, and devils, a unique sight for visitors.

These events and festivals are just a taste of what Prague has to offer throughout the year, each providing visitors with unique experiences and insights into Czech culture.