Prague Travel Guide: What to See in 2023
Gothic towers, sprawling castles, world-class beer, and reasonable prices are just some of the reasons Prague is one of Europe's most popular destinations.
It was the 6th most-visited city in Europe in 2019, attracting more than nine million tourists.
And after the hiatus of Covid-19, the city is well and truly back in business.
If you haven't visited yet, check out our guide to this unique central European city.
Entering the city from Václav Havel Airport Prague
The airport is 16km west of the city centre. By far the least costly way to enter Prague’s centre is by bus, costing just 30CZK. (just over £1)
The next-cheapest way into the city is by shuttle bus, costing about 135 CZK (£4.66). But this only drops you off in the centre - not at your hotel.
To be dropped off at your accommodation, choose the shuttle transfer option. This is an 8-seater car and costs just over 365CZK (£12.67).
However, if you are travelling in a group of two or more, you might as well take the private pickup for around £26 (750 CZK).
You can also get picked up by an Uber for around £19 (537 CZK).
Prague: key locations
Prague is both the capital and the largest city in the Czech Republic, occupying both sides of the river Vltavar.
Charles Bridge
This iconic 14th-century bridge is a great place to start exploring Prague. The crossing is notable for the dramatic Gothic tower on its east end.
Klementinum Complex
The Klementinum Complex has a wonderfully ornate, baroque library, as well as the famous astronomical tower.
You can't visit all the rooms, but guided tours are available (300 CZK for adults, around £10.40) - and the grounds are free to enjoy.
Old Town Hall
Further east you'll find the Old Town Square with its Old Town Hall - and one of the city's best loved attractions, the astronomical clock.
Hundreds of visitors gather here to watch the clockwork figures appear.
Here you'll also find the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, Prague Meridian, and numerous other attractions.
Powder Tower
Yet further east you'll come across the 15th-century Powder Tower, one of the original gates that demarcates the Old Town and the New Town.
Don’t miss the exhibition on the history of the Castle Guard. 70 CZK for adults (around £2.50).
Manifesto Market Florence
One of the area's more modern attractions is the Manifesto Market Florence, billed as an industrial-chic dining and drinking hub.
Enjoy local and international cuisines.
Jewish Quarter
Alongside a number of Jewish cemeteries, the Jewish Quarter is also home to the Jewish Museum and surreal Kafka statue.
Speculum Alchemiae
Prague’s answer to the Harry Potter universe is rather more spooky than JK Rowling's creation: don’t miss this 16th-century underground laboratory.
Wenceslas Square
Near the main railway station you'll find the city’s main public gathering place, Wenceslas Square, home to the National Museum and many cafes.
Credit: franz12 - stock.adobe.com
The 'other' Kafka Statue
A more modern Franz Kafka statue can be enjoyed outside the OC Quadrio shopping centre.
Prague's most famous son is rendered in shiny plates that rotate.
Vysehrad Fort
To the south of the city centre is the 11th-century Vysehrad fort, complete with mediaeval basilica.
Malá Strana
Cross one of the many stunning bridges and you'll find yourself in Malá Strana, which roughly translates as ‘Little Side District’.
Key attractions are Wallenstein Palace, beautifully landscaped gardens, and some off-beat sculptures.
To the west of this area lies Stahov Monastery and Hradcany Square, both notable for their splendid architecture.
Prague Castle
The centre-piece of Malá Strana is arguably Prague Castle - the largest mediaeval castle complex on the planet.
This 9th-century wonder boosts St Vitus Cathedral and the picturesque Golden Lane.
Petrin Lookout Tower
For one of the best views of the city, head to Petrin Lookout Tower.
Erected in 1891, this 59-metre tower costs 150 Czech crowns (about £5) to enjoy.
Prague Zoo
The city's zoo is highly regarded thanks to the generously-sized habitats afforded to the animals - which include kangaroos (don’t miss the Kangaroo Trail if visiting with children), crocodiles, elephants and numerous primates.
Due to its size, you'll need a full day to explore this award-winning zoo. Adults: CZK 250. (Just under £9)
Getting around Prague
The city centre is very walkable, with many routes as quick to complete by foot as by public transport.
For example, walking from Prague Castle to the Old Town takes the same time as catching a bus.
If your hotel is outside the centre, it's a good idea to get around on the city’s very affordable public transport system.
Different ways to explore:
- On foot
- Metro
- Tram
- Bus
- Uber/taxi
- Hop-on, hop-off bus
- Electric scooter
- Bicycles
- Horse-drawn carriage
- Riverboat
Weather in Prague
Prague is an enticing city year-round.
Winter temperatures hover around zero, while summers in Prague are hot and humid, with highs of 35 degrees celsius.
Like the UK, springtime in Prague is changeable.
When is the best time to visit Prague?
The best time to visit Prague is in May and June, before it gets too hot and before tourist levels peak.
September and October are also good months to visit for the same reasons.
Where to stay in Prague?
Stay in the Old Town to be in the heart of the action. Here you'll find a superb selection of restaurants and bars.
However, if you plan to go out on the tiles, consider staying in Žižkov, to the east of the Old Town. Many of the city's best-loved night spots are located here, near Žižkov Television Tower.
For those on a budget, the New Town is a good option. Despite its name, there are many historic buildings in this zone.
Families might prefer the relative quiet of Malá Strana.
How much are Prague hotels?
A double room in a mid-range hotel costs between 1,000 and 3,000 Czech Krona (35 - 105 GBP).
A budget hotel room in Prague costs around 1,800, while hostels - the most affordable option - are just 400 CZK (14 GBP).
AirBnBs are also available - these could make sense if you're travelling in a group.
As you might expect, accommodation prices rise in the high season (July and August).
Food and prices
In common with many other tourist cities, restaurants located near key attractions will cost considerably more than other parts of the city.
Venture further afield for cheaper prices (without a loss of quality).
A regular, inexpensive meal costs from 100 to 400 CZK. (£3.50 - £14)
The cost rises to 700 CZK for a mid-range meal. (Around £24).
Must-try dishes
Vepro knedlo is a delicious Czech dish comprising roast pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut (150 CZK / £5.20).
A cheaper yet filling option is traditional Czech soup, which costs as little as 50 CZK. (Under £2)
Famous Czech beer
Prague was once a paradise for beer-lovers-on-a-budget, but prices have since risen in line with the city’s popularity.
A pint of lager now costs between 45 and 85 CZK (£1.50 to £3), although you can still find it for 20 CZK (70p!) away from the tourist areas.
Stag and hen dos
While Prague is well-known as a stag party destination, it’s also popular for hen-dos.
A superb choice of bars and clubs, affordable drinks and good hotels - make it a winner.
Then there’s the low-cost flights arriving from the UK, further reducing costs.
But best of all, you can shake off the previous night’s excesses by admiring the inspiring architecture, exploring the museums - and enjoying the hearty Czech cuisine.