I visited Prague in late November 2014 with my mum. Here’s a quick list of what we did there…
WHAT TO SEE
Prague castle, Hrad
This UNESCO World Heritage site, consists of palaces and a collection of interesting buildings of various architectural styles. The location provides wonderful views of the city below.
Open 7.00 to 20.00 in the summer season.
Open 7.00 to 18.00 in the winter season.
The Medieval Tavern
– Near St. Nicolas cathedral and the castle, you would walk straight past it.
– Rowdy lads made an authentic atmosphere.
– The bar man kept hitting me with his whip…I have no idea why!?!
– Make sure you go downstairs and see the authentic tavern.
St. Nicolas Cathedral, Mala Strana
Charles Bridge
– Make a wish!
– Go really early/late to avoid crowds for a good picture, or you can buy a postcard/print of the bridge without the tourists!
John Lennon wall
– This brightly coloured wall isn’t as easy to find as you might think. Ask for directions and follow the crowds.
Astronomical clock and view tower
– Go to the top for beautiful views of the city.
– Wait for the hourly chime of the clock and watch the show.
Old town square
The Jewish Quarter
– The memorial for Jewish lives lost is moving. The names are written on the walls in alphabetical order. The children’s drawings will bring you to tears.
– The synagogues we didn’t enjoy as much. We didn’t understand the significance of the items on display. A lot of spoons in glass display case.
– My sister informed me that the Jewish Quarter in Prague was specifically kept by Adolf Hitler to create a museum for the distinct race to be.
– You can walk around the cemetery, which is poignantly full.
Sex museum
The dancing House
St. Wenseles Square
Petrin hill and lookout tower
The State Opera House
The Vltava River
The Vltava is the longest river within the Czech Republic.
THINGS I LEARNT
- Mulled wine on every corner. I found it was the best way to warm up!
- Outdoor heated seating areas are everywhere and they provide furs and blankets. Very cosy!
- We didn’t think much of the food, but the beer is really great.
- The food/restaurants are dearer near the astronomical clock.
- The Christmas markets start at the end of November and December until Christmas.
- The airport food leaves a lot to be desired. Eat before you go.
- The locals are grumpy looking people but they are pleasant. Just don’t expect your smiles to be returned.
- The currency in Prague is the Czech Crown (CZK). Some restaurants, hotels and shops take Euros as well, but most accept only Czech Crowns. You will get ripped off when you use euros. £1.00 = approx. 38 Czech koruna.
- You will need this adaptor…
- Layer up! We were there in November and it was pretty cold.
- The tram system is good. We used the trams every day. You can buy tickets in newsagents.
WHERE I STAYED
https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/3381419?s=vWax
The building itself looks (and smells) horrible, and if I’m honest we were worried when we first arrived. But we were pleasantly surprised to find a stunning top floor apartment with two floors, two living areas, two terraces and two bathrooms. I liked the quirky split levels and the large open plan space. The walk in cupboard would make any woman jealous! I personally loved the huge tree in the bedroom. The Jacuzzi bath fits about 3 people, and it was wonderful after a day out in the cold. Our only criticism was the creepy china doll in the living room that we hid in a drawer.
The apartment isn’t city centre but it’s only a five minute walk to the tram stop, which takes you into city centre. I can honestly say I would recommend it. I use Air BnB with every trip now!
FAVOURITE PICTURES
Always fond of travel quotes. (John Lennon wall)
Strange interior decorators. (Medieval tavern)
Prague is full of beautiful big willow trees.
Walking beneath the beautiful arches. (Old town square)
Everyone was touching this man’s willy for good luck, so we had to do it too! (Castle district)
That fake door! Not the best cover up!
I will never understand why they would let someone build a boring building in front of a beautiful cathedral (Old town square).
Enjoying the beer and the authentic atmosphere of the medieval tavern by candlelight.
Photo-bombed by a bubble (Old town square).
I loved the huge tree in our bedroom.
Pinterest is one of my favourite methods of learning about a place. Take a look at my ‘Prague’ board for some images and blogs about Prague that I have accumulated. Follow ‘thewanderingboomerang’ board and keep updated with my upcoming travel blogs and other travel blogs I like.
I also really enjoy reading the Lonely Planet guide books before my trips to avoid missing anything really special. Follow the link below for the Prague and the Czech Republic Lonely Planet Guide book.
BLOGS TO READ
I hope this has been useful and helps you make the most of your trip to Prague.
If I have left out any great spots, please comment and let me know!
Enjoy the adventure and return safely,
The wandering boomerang 🙂