Prague Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
What’s the best time of year to visit Prague?
Travelers suggest spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season and can be very crowded and hot. The Christmas markets are also a popular time to visit.
Is it worth visiting in the winter for Christmas markets?
Yes, many people love the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets, but be prepared for cold weather.
How many days should I spend in Prague?
3 to 4 days is a common recommendation for covering the main sights. For a more relaxed trip or to include day trips, 5-7 days is even better.
Is Prague a safe city?
Yes, Prague is considered a very safe city, with a very low risk of violent crime. However, be vigilant for pickpockets and scams, especially in touristy areas.
Should I learn Czech before I go?
It’s not necessary, especially in the city center where most people in the tourism industry speak English. However, learning a few basic phrases like “Dobrý den” (hello), “Děkuji” (thank you), and “Prosím” (please) is appreciated by locals.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Public transport is highly praised by travelers as excellent, reliable, and cheap. The PID app (PID Lítačka) is recommended for buying tickets.
Do I need cash or is a credit card sufficient?
Most places, especially in the city center, accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have some Czech crowns (CZK) on hand for small purchases, public toilets, or places that only accept cash.
What about exchanging money?
Avoid street money changers. Look for reputable exchange offices, but note that many have terrible rates. A popular tip is to just use a bank ATM (KB, Fio Banka) that doesn’t charge high fees and use your card for most payments.
Are taxis safe?
Taxis are known to scam tourists. Use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Uber for a better experience and upfront pricing.
What’s a good budget for a trip to Prague?
Prague can be very affordable. Travelers suggest that you can get by on a student budget, with good quality meals costing 200-500 CZK per person.
How much should I tip?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 10% for good service. Some restaurants may try to add a tip to the bill, but this is illegal without your consent.
What’s the best area to stay in?
Staying near a tram or metro stop is a good idea. Karlín, Žižkov, or Vinohrady are often mentioned as good neighborhoods that are outside the most touristy zones but still well-connected.
Is the public WiFi fast enough for work calls?
WiFi in hostels can be unreliable. It’s recommended to purchase a local eSIM for a better 5G connection if you need to rely on the internet for work.
Main Sights & Attractions
What are the absolute must-sees for a first-time visitor?
Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and the Astronomical Clock are the main highlights.
How can I avoid the crowds at the Charles Bridge?
Go very early in the morning (sunrise is recommended) or late at night.
Is it worth paying to go inside Prague Castle?
Yes, if you want to see the interiors of the buildings, such as St. Vitus Cathedral. However, many travelers suggest that you can get a good feel for the place by just walking around the grounds, which is free.
What’s a good alternative to the Astronomical Clock?
The clock’s main event is the hourly procession of apostles, which can be underwhelming. Many suggest climbing the Old Town Hall Tower for excellent views of the square and the clock itself.
Is the Lennon Wall worth seeing?
It’s a tourist attraction, but many travelers consider it overrated. It’s just a graffiti wall.
What are some less touristy places to visit?
Vyšehrad, Letná Park, Divoká Šárka, and the National Gallery Trade Fair Palace are often recommended.
Are there any good museums to visit?
The Museum of Communism is highly recommended. The National Technical Museum and the Aviation Museum are also mentioned as cool spots.
Are the “sex” and “torture” museums worth it?
No. Travelers agree these are tourist traps with low-quality, overpriced exhibits.
What’s the deal with the “beer spa”?
Yes, they exist. They can be a fun and unique activity, but they are a tourist-oriented experience.
What about the city’s parks?
Prague has amazing parks. Recommended spots include Stromovka Park, Petřín Hill, and Riegrovy sady.
Where can I get the best views of the city?
Petřín Tower, Letná Park beer garden, and Vyšehrad offer excellent panoramic views.
Is it a good idea to do a walking tour?
Many free or paid walking tours are available. Travelers suggest they can be a great way to get an overview of the city and its history.
Food & Drink
What is a Trdelník and should I try it?
Trdelník is a hollow, sugar-coated pastry. Travelers debunking the myth that it’s a traditional Czech food—it’s actually more of a tourist novelty. Many still say it’s tasty, but it’s not a local staple.
What are some authentic Czech dishes I should try?
Goulash, roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, schnitzel, and koláče (a type of pastry) are all good options.
Is it true that beer is cheaper than water?
Yes, it often is. Water is generally not free in restaurants.
Where can I find good, authentic Czech food?
Avoid restaurants with picture menus and hosts outside trying to lure you in. Venture a few blocks away from the main squares. Look for places where locals are eating.
What are some restaurant recommendations?
Havelská Koruna (canteen-style), Kantýna (a butcher’s shop/restaurant), and Výčep are frequently mentioned. For a high-end experience, some recommend trying a gourmet version of Czech food at a place like U Matěje.
What about Czech beer?
The Czech Republic is famous for its beer. Try pilsner at a local pub. Travelers recommend places with “tank beer” for the freshest brew.
Are there any good local breweries to visit?
Dva Kohouti and the Strahov Monastery Brewery are popular suggestions.
What are some good non-Czech restaurants?
Travelers recommend Chi Xiao Mian (Chinese noodles), Chilli & Lime (Vietnamese), and BON Fresh Ramen & Soba.
Where can I get good coffee?
Cafes like Café Imperial, Café Louvre, and Myšák are famous for their beautiful interiors. For an architectural gem that’s less crowded, check out Caffe Adria.
Are there good options for vegetarians or those who eat chicken and fish?
Traditional Czech food is very meat-heavy (pork and beef). However, chicken schnitzel is a common dish. You will also find many international restaurants with a wider variety of options.
Tourist Traps & Scams
What’s the biggest tourist trap in Prague?
The “Prague ham” stands, where vendors charge an exorbitant amount for a small serving of ham. The Trdelník is also seen as a tourist trap.
How can I avoid being scammed by a taxi driver?
Use a ride-hailing app like Bolt or Uber.
Are exchange offices a scam?
Many of them, especially in the main tourist areas, have terrible exchange rates and high fees. It’s better to use your bank card at an ATM or for direct payments.
What about “free” tours?
They are not actually free and rely on tips. Many are still good, but be aware of the expectation to tip the guide at the end.
How can I tell if a restaurant is a tourist trap?
Signs include: multi-language menus with pictures, a host trying to get you to come inside, and location right on a main square.
What about the “cannabis shops”?
These shops often sell overpriced and low-quality products.
Are the “Bohemian Crystal Glass” shops a scam?
Some of these stores sell cheap, mass-produced glass from China, not authentic Czech crystal.
Is it true that restaurants might add a tip to the bill without asking?
Yes, this is a known scam. If you feel it’s happening, you can ask for a receipt and insist on paying only the food cost.
Activities & Experiences
What are some unique things to do?
Visit the David Černý sculptures, such as the Babies on Kampa Island or the giant Kafka Head. Attend an opera or ballet at a historic theater.
Are there good places for a day trip from Prague?
Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora (for the Bone Church), and Karlovy Vary are all popular day trip destinations.
What’s the best way to get to day trip locations?
The train or bus is a reliable and affordable way to travel. Use the IDOS app for train tickets.
Is it possible to visit without doing any paid tours?
Absolutely. Prague’s city center is very walkable, and you can explore many of the historical sites on your own.
What about nightlife?
Travelers mention Duplex and Karlovy Lazne as big nightclubs. For a more local experience, try a traditional pub in the Žižkov district.
Are there any good places for a solo female traveler to go at night?
The city is very safe, but exercising general caution is always a good idea. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
What’s the deal with the “John Lennon Wall”?
It’s a wall of graffiti. It’s often crowded and not as impressive as its reputation suggests.
Practical Advice
Is it okay to use Google Translate?
Yes, it’s a useful tool, especially in places where English isn’t widely spoken.
What’s the public transport ticket system like?
You buy tickets for a specific duration (e.g., 30 or 90 minutes) and validate them only once upon your first use. Fines for an unvalidated ticket are high. The PID Lítačka app makes this easy.
What is a “Lítačka” card?
It’s a city-wide transport pass. It’s useful for longer stays. You can also get a free pass if you’re over 65 (with a passport).
What are the public toilets like?
They are generally not free, so it’s a good idea to have some small change.
Where can I find a decent, cheap pub?
Look for pubs in neighborhoods outside the main tourist drag.
What about Czech cinema?
Travelers recommend visiting some of the city’s cinemas, like Aero or Lucerna, for a unique experience.
Are there any good food markets?
Yes, the food market in Anděl is mentioned as a good spot.
What’s the deal with the beer garden at Letná Park?
It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering great views of the city.
Is Prague a good city for walking?
Yes, the city center is very compact and walkable. Many of the best experiences come from just wandering around.
Is there anything unique I should look out for?
Look for the David Černý sculptures and other interesting pieces of public art.
Where can I go to get a good breakfast?
Kavárna co hledá jméno is a popular brunch spot.
What are the best thrift shops?
Fifty-fifty and Fashion Shop Parazit are mentioned by travelers.
Where can I find a good park for a picnic?
Stromovka Park, Divoká Šárka, and the Franciscan Garden are all good options.
Are there any good places for hiking?
Yes, Divoká Šárka is a popular spot for hiking.
Are there any cool museums that are free to enter?
The Rudolfinum often has free art galleries.
What’s a good place to listen to live music?
Jazz Republic is a popular spot for live jazz.
What’s a good way to meet locals?
Spend time in neighborhoods outside the tourist center and frequent local pubs.
What’s the best way to get to Prague from another country?
Trains and buses are common and affordable options from nearby cities.
How much money should I bring for a 10-day trip?
This varies, but travelers suggest that you can get by on a reasonable budget if you eat at local places and avoid tourist traps.
Are there good places to eat if I’m on a student budget?
Yes, look for menu (lunch) specials, which are a great way to eat well and cheaply. Supermarket restaurants like Globus are also surprisingly good and cheap.
What’s the deal with the “beer bikes” and Segways?
These are now banned in the city center.
What’s a good spot to go for a nightcap?
Parlour is a great cocktail bar.
Is it worth buying the Prague Card?
Travelers are mixed on this. It depends on how many attractions you plan to visit. Do the math to see if it’s worth the cost for your itinerary.
What’s the best time to visit Prague Castle?
Go before it opens to explore the grounds without the crowds.
Are the city’s gardens worth visiting?
Yes, the Vrtba Garden and the Wallenstein Garden are beautiful and worth a visit.
Hidden Gems
Are there any truly hidden gems?
Vitkov Monument Hill is a very quiet spot with great views. Franciscan Garden is a small, peaceful courtyard right off Wenceslas Square.
What are some local spots I should check out?
U Černého vola is a traditional pub with a great atmosphere. Dva Kohouti brewery is in a less touristy part of town.
Any lesser-known viewpoints?
The viewpoint from Vrch Svateho Krize offers a nice view of the Žižkov TV Tower.
What about a non-touristy area to walk around?
Prague 6 and 7 are mentioned as good residential neighborhoods to explore.
Any unique food experiences?
The Globus supermarket restaurant is a fun, authentic experience for cheap Czech food.
What’s an underrated museum?
The National Gallery Trade Fair Palace Museum (Veletržní palác) is a hidden gem for modern art fans.
Any cool bars or cafes that are off the beaten path?
Scout Institute is a bar located right next to Old Town Square but feels hidden. Q Cafe is a popular gay-friendly spot.
What’s a good place to find local artists and designers?
The DOX Centre for Contemporary Art and Vnitroblock are good places to start.
What’s a unique thing to see outside the city center?
The Stará čistírna (old water-treatment plant) is recommended for fans of Victorian industrial architecture.
Where can I see a different side of Prague?
Take a walk along the river at Náplavka, especially in the evening.
Is there a good place to go for a run?
Stromovka Park is a great spot for a jog.
Any cool murals or street art?
Look for the David Černý sculptures, which are all over the city.
Where can I go for a quiet meal?
Head to the Žižkov district and look for a local pub.
What’s a good place for a quiet afternoon?
The Wallenstein Garden is a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds.
Is there anything for fans of specific media?
The city was a filming location for Blade 2 and the video game Deus Ex. You can find these locations using a site like Filmová místa.
What about a place to buy local souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced?
Travelers suggest looking for local design shops and galleries rather than the generic tourist shops.
Culture & Etiquette
How do I deal with rude or impersonal service in restaurants?
Many travelers note that Czech restaurant service can be less effusive than in other countries. Don’t take it personally; they are not required to check on you every few minutes.
Is it okay to use my phone to take photos in churches and museums?
Most places allow it, but some may have restrictions, so be aware of signs.
What are some cultural nuances to be aware of?
Stand on the right on escalators, as the left side is for passing. Public restrooms often have a fee.
Are Czech people friendly to tourists?
Generally, yes. Being polite and trying a few Czech words will be appreciated.
Is Prague a good place for a “digital detox”?
It can be. The city is full of beautiful architecture and parks that are best enjoyed without looking at a screen.
What’s a good way to enjoy the city without feeling overwhelmed by tourism?
Spend time in neighborhoods outside of Prague 1. Go on a weekday instead of the weekend if possible.
Is it true that the city is getting more “tourist-plagued”?
Some locals express frustration with over-tourism, but also note that the city is taking steps to curb some of the worst aspects, like banning Segways and beer bikes.
Is it rude to speak English everywhere?
No, it’s not rude. Most people in the service industry are used to it, and many appreciate the effort to speak their language, even if you can only manage a few words.
What’s the best way to get a local perspective on the city?
Read the monthly recommendation posts, which often feature tips from locals and expats.