Discover the Best of Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, also known as the Golden City, is the capital city of the Czech Republic and a very popular tourist destination in central Europe. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Prague is a must-visit for any traveler.

Here are some details you should know before you visit Prague.

The Czech language

Czech is the official language of the Czech Republic and is spoken by approximately 10 million people worldwide. It is a Slavic language closely related to Slovak and Polish. While it can be challenging to learn for non-native speakers, many Czechs are fluent in English and are happy to speak with visitors in their language.

The City Center is historic

The City Center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historic city centers in Europe. It is home to many important landmarks, such as the Old Town Square, the Charles Bridge, and the Prague Castle. The City Center is also known for its vibrant street life, with many street performers, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Prague is known as the Golden City

Prague is often referred to as the Golden City because of the many gold-tipped towers and spires that can be seen throughout the city. These include the towers of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Church of Our Lady before Tyn. The nickname also reflects the city's rich cultural heritage, as Prague was a major center of art, music, and literature during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Prague is the cultural center of the Holy Roman Emperor

Prague has been the seat of many important historical figures, including several Holy Roman Emperors. One of the most famous was Charles IV, who ruled over the Holy Roman Empire in the 14th century. Charles IV was responsible for many of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Charles Bridge and the St. Vitus Cathedral. He is still celebrated in Prague today, and visitors can see many monuments and statues dedicated to him throughout the city.

Prague has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Prague is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the City Center, the Prague Castle, and the Jewish Quarter. These sites are recognized for their outstanding cultural and historical significance and are protected by international law. The UNESCO designation has helped to preserve Prague's rich heritage and has made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

You’ll enjoy Czech Cuisine

Traditional Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting, with many meat-based dishes such as goulash, roast pork, and dumplings. Other traditional dishes include schnitzel, smažený sýr (fried cheese), and trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in cinnamon sugar. Visitors can sample traditional Czech cuisine at many restaurants throughout Prague, such as Lokál or U Pinkasů.

The Czechs love beer

The Czech Republic is renowned for its beer culture, with Prague being one of the best cities to sample traditional Czech beer. Czech beer is considered some of the best in the world, with Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar, and Staropramen being some of the most popular brands. Visitors can enjoy a cold pint of beer at one of Prague's many traditional pubs, such as U Fleku or U Medvídků.

Popular tourist destinations in Prague

Prague Castle

This magnificent castle complex is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague. The castle was founded in the 9th century and has been home to kings, emperors, and presidents. The castle complex includes several museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery and the Toy Museum. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle grounds.

Charles Bridge

This historic bridge spans the Vltava River and connects the Old Town to the Lesser Town. The bridge was built in the 14th century and is lined with 30 baroque statues. The bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it offers beautiful views of Prague Castle and the river.

Old Town Square

This bustling square is located in the heart of the Old Town and is home to several iconic landmarks, such as the astronomical clock, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Tyn Church. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings, and it is a great place to enjoy street performances, cafes, and souvenir shops.

St. Vitus Cathedral

This stunning Gothic cathedral is located within the Prague Castle complex and is one of the most impressive buildings in Prague. It took over 600 years to complete, and it features stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a beautiful chapel. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral or attend a concert in the cathedral's crypt.

Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter in Prague is one of the best-preserved Jewish ghettos in Europe. It is home to several synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Prague's Jewish past.

Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall is one of the most infamous landmarks in Prague. Located in the Old Town Square, the Old Town Hall dates back to the 14th century and features a beautiful Gothic tower with a famous astronomical clock. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Old Town Hall, climb the tower for stunning views of the city, and even attend a classical music concert in the hall.

Do you need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic?

Depending on your country of origin, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay, the entry requirements for the Czech Republic may vary. While some visitors from certain countries can enter without a visa, citizens from other countries must obtain a Czech Republic Schengen Visa.

Residents of the 62 visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before entering the Czech Republic.

If you are looking for advice on planning your trip or finding activities to do, check out our Czechia Travel Guide.