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Dinner on The River Cruise
Enjoy very nice Prague river cruise. Pickup from your hotel from 6.20 to 6.40pm. Including a buffet dinner, aperitif and live music on board.
0 PER PERSON. NORMAL PRICE CZK 109 L PA Y JUST 740 CZK SPECIAL DEA Y PICKUP PLUS GET A FREE ONE-WA IN PRAGUE. FROM YOUR HOTEL
Although Prague is a beautiful city no matter what time of day, its especially enchanting by night. When the sun goes down, twinkling lights illuminate the citys ancient buildings, which are best seen from the Vltava River running through the citys centre. On our Prague river cruise, youll travel down the Vltava, passing famous sights like the Charles Bridge, the Lesser Town, the Church of St Nicolas, Prague Castle and the National Theatre - all while enjoying dinner and live music on board. Dinner is a buffet of both hot and cold dishes, and youll also get a welcome drink included in the cruise price. Upon entering the boat you will be welcomed by our hostess who will care for you during the cruise. The hostess does not substitute for a tourist guide; nevertheless, she will provide you with at least basic information on the cruise programme and assist you if you have any inquiries and problems. There will also be professional barkeepers and catering staff looking after you. A cruise complete with dinner are very much in demand and very pleasant, and they could be compared to service at a 3-star hotel, as well as having a similar price. If you are very demanding and want to take such a cruise, for example, to celebrate an important anniversary, birthday etc., please bear in mind that these are not luxury cruises such as you may know, for instance, from Paris. In spite of this, we believe that you will enjoy a cruise on a Prague evening, and that this will be a unique experience during your visit. Do I need to pre-book this tour? Yes, please call us toll-free on: 800 870 888 or +420 222 554 211, send a text to +420 777 777 237 or book online at www.prague-airport-transfers.co.uk.
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CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................2 3 BEST TIME TO VISIT ...................................................................................................................................4 HISTORY OF PRAGUE.................................................................................................................................5 ANNUAL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS................................................................................................6 7 TRIP PLANNING....................................................................................................................................8 9 SAFETY .............................................................................................................................................. 10 11 SUGGESTED ITINERARIES ......................................................................................................... 12 15 ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................................... 16 17 ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN ....................................................................... 18 19 TRANSPORTATION ........................................................................................................................ 20 25 SHOPPING ........................................................................................................................................ 26 29 EATING / RESTAURANTS ............................................................................................................ 30 39 Cheap Restaurants, Restaurants Picks, Expensive Restaurants, Czech Traditional Restaurants, Vegetarian Restaurants, Famous Cafs PUBS AND BARS............................................................................................................................ 40 45 Good places to have a beer in Prague, Typical beer snacks, Best bars ENTERTAINMENT / NIGHTLIFE ................................................................................................. 46 57 Cocktail bars, Tasting Czech Beer, Discos, Rock Clubs, Blues and Jazz, Adult Clubs, Casinos, Massage, Cinema, The Performing Arts, Tickets and reservations, Best Theatres in Prague, Best Museums in Prague, Galleries ATTRACTIONS THE BEST TO SEE ....................................................................................... 58 90 Prague Castle, Loreta, Strahov Monastery, Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, Municipal House, Old Jewish Quarter Josefov, Franz Kafkas Birthplace, Petn Hill, Church of Our Lady Victorious, St. Nicholas Church, Dancing House, Vyehrad CITY TOURS ..................................................................................................................................... 90 95 DAY TRIPS ......................................................................................................................................96 107 WHERE, WHEN AND HOW TO JOIN US ............................................................................ 108 109 THE CZECH LANGUAGE ......................................................................................................... 110 111 DISCLAIMER ............................................................................................................................................ 112
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INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
To enjoy the city to the fullest, regardless if you are visiting Prague just for a short time or for a full week, our guide will be there to help you discover the best of it. Our simple travel guide, pack with essential information, is here to make your visit to Prague enjoyable by suggesting where to go, what to see, how to get there, what to avoid and where to drink famous Czech beer and sample Bohemian traditional local food. But, be also prepared to abandon our suggested sightseeing itineraries and wander wherever your mood takes you. Just take our guide and a map, and explore. Dont overlook the small side streets and courtyards where Prague is often at its most charming. Dont worry about getting lost, Pragues center is quite compact and best explored by foot, however, when you get tired, take the tram or the metro. Public transportation is very efcient, cheap and among the best in Europe. Spend time in our pubs and cafs, do some shopping, take a few romantic photos over the Charles Bridge, all-the-while, marveling at the beauty of a thousand spires that has already attracted millions of tour groups. The city was undamaged by WWII and can now offer you an unforgettable experience just by walking through the Baroque, Rococo and Art Nouveau redeveloped streets.
Charles Bridge
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INTRODUCTION
Prague was under communist rule for over 40 years and seldom visited by tourists until after the Velvet Revolution on November 17,1989. From the moment freedom came to the streets, the city started enjoying a huge economic boom; even more so after the Czech Republic joined the European Union in 2004. Now, it is very popular tourist destination according to statistics, the 6th most visited city in the Europe. The city is situated on both banks of the Vltava River in central Bohemia. Prague is the Czech Republics capital and the cradle of Czech culture. Many famous writers, artists, athletes, sports players, models, and lm directors were born here. Prague has a huge number of buildings of special architectural interest. In 1992, the historical core of the city, covering 866 hectares (3.34 square miles), was listed in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Register. No matter where you go, you will discover parts of the citys multilayer history dating back to the Holy Roman Empire, the Hapsburg Empire, the rst Czechoslovak Republic (1918), the Nazi Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, the Communist Republic of Czechoslovakia to the present time of a democratic Czech Republic.
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HISTORY OF PRAGUE
Prague was rst settled in the ninth century by the Pemysl dynasty, which remained in power for nearly 500 years. In the mid-fourteenth century the Bohemian king and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV founded Charles University in Prague. He was also responsible for the construction of the renowned Charles Bridge spanning across the Vltava River, a major tourist attraction. In 1526 the Habsburgs came to power in Prague, and not until the end of World War I and the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire did they relinquish control of the city. In 1918 Prague became the capital of the newly formed democratic republic of Czechoslovakia. In 1968 a movement known as the Prague Spring attempted a series of liberalizing reforms from within the government, only to be crushed by the Warsaw Pact forces led by the Soviet Union. In 1989, non-violent protests on Pragues Wenceslaus Square toppled the Communist government in the Velvet Revolution (so named because of the lack of bloodshed). The new democracy elected as its president the prominent Czech playwright and philosopher Vaclav Havel, who follows in a long tradition of Prague artists, including composer Antonn Dvok and writer Franz Kafka. In 1993 Czechoslovakia split into two parts, with Prague remaining as the capital of the Czech Republic.
HISTORY / CZECHS
CZECHS
At rst impression Czechs might seems a bit intimidating, service in shops or restaurants provided without smiles and passengers in metro or trams looks very quiet. However after you visit some pubs, socializing places, clubs or friends at their home, it is guaranteed that
youll get a very different impression. You will be able to understand their very good sense of humour and you will value their politeness. Most of Czechs are reserved, condent and quite at least until they hit the pub and not to forgot hard working, rarely aggressive or confrontational.
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Date: 5 December. People wander around the streets in threesomes, dressed as St. Nicholas, an angel and a devil, symbolising confession, reward and punishment. On this day grown men stick to the hobby of beer drinking.
Witches Night
Date: 30 April. This festival marks the end of winter and the new birth of spring. Bonres are lit to purge the winter spirits. These festivals are mostly found in the countryside but can be seen at Petn Hill in Prague as well.
is crammed with market stalls selling carved toys, ceramics, glass gurines, Christmas gifts, delicious gingerbread cakes, barbecued sausages and mulled wine. Entertainment is provided by street performers. Even if you are not there to do shopping you can enjoy watching street performers and indulge yourself in the Christmas atmosphere.
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shorter option, which is the Hervis Prague Half Marathon held on 31st March. This is just 21km (with a three-hour limit). For the marathon run you have to pay a registration fee, ranging from 500 to 1700 CZK.
rary dance and movement theatre Tanec Praha. Now this festival is one of the most successful in Prague.
(Verdi Festival) In late August come to see this 10-day festival featuring Italian operas at the State Opera House. The festival provides a chance to see very good productions outside the main opera season.
Dance Prague
In June you should not miss the international festival of contempo-
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TRIP PLANNING
Prague is busy almost year-round, except in January and February, which are probably the quietest months of the year. Despite that fact, Prague isnt a city requiring a visitor to do extra planning or make advance bookings. Most visitors book their accommodations prior arrival to get the online rates, which are much less than the normal hotel walk-in rates. But, if for some reason you do not make an advance booking, Prague still has a lot of hotels and other facilities to accommodate crowds of tourists and you will always nd some place to stay. The recession hit Pragues hotel sector hard creating a constant oversupply of top-end hotel rooms causing many places to drop their prices and offering last minute deals in an attempt to attract customers. For the modest and cheap restaurants, it is not necessary to make a reservation; in the up-scale restaurants, it is recommended you reserve a table one day in advance, or even on the morning of the same day. The exception might be during New Years day, Valentines day or Easter, when one week in advance should be sufcient. If you wish to attend a particular opera or classical music concert, we advise booking two or three weeks ahead to ensure seating. Outside of high season, you wont have problem getting tickets from the box ofce just on the day of the performance. If you travel to Prague on some of the low-cost airlines, it is probably the only part of your trip where earlier means cheaper, in terms of advance ticket booking.
TRIP PLANNING
Though for luxury goods, like electrical appliances, cosmetics and fashion, prices are higher here than elsewhere. An average tourist will spend around 1,700 CZK per person per
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day. The lowest daily budget can be as low as 900 CZK if you stay at hostels, eat carry-out food and use public transportation. However, if you stay in a private accommodation, eat at average restaurants and control your budget, you can get by on 2,500 CZK a day. At the high end, if you stay at top-end hotels, eat at top-end restaurants and use taxis, you could easily spend 10,000 CZK a day. Do not expect Prague to be extremely cheap and keep in mind that only some products and services are much cheaper here. Beer, food in supermarkets and public transportation remain relative bargains compared to other European capitals. Attractive hotels in downtown Prague range between 3,500 CZK and 6,000 CZK for a double room, but hotels in Prague suburbs can cost as low as 700 CZK for a single room. Staying in a hostel dormitory room for one costs on average 400 CZK, but can be found for as low as 250 CZK in low season. Dinner for two with some drinks at one of the fancier restaurants can cost around 2,000 CZK or at a midrange restaurant costs from 900
to 1,200 CZK. Lunch in a pub can cost about 150 CZK per person and a special lunch menu in cheap eatery can cost from 80 to 100 CZK. A cup of coffee in a city cafeteria is 50 CZK, but in Starbucks it is around 100 CZK. A beer in a pub outside the city proper will cost around 25 CZK though in the heart of the city, this will cost up to 80 CZK; soft drinks about 35 CZK. Cigarettes are still a bit cheaper than in other parts of EU, a pack of Marlboro cigarettes costs 84 CZK. In supermarkets, a 0.5 L bottle of water costs 15 CZK, a loaf of bread from 20 CZK, liter of milk 20 CZK. If you are planning to rent a car, a liter of gasoline will cost you around 32 CZK. Cinema tickets cost up to 200 CZK. A one-day public transportation pass costs 110 CZK, a taxi from airport to the city-center is from 500 to 650 CZ, and taxi within citycenter should cost 180 to 250 CZK. If you want to lower your expenses, you should avoid city-center hotels, restaurants, night clubs and shops, or ask locals where theyre going out. Visiting galleries and museums is not expensive and some of them are admission free.
TRIP PLANNING
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SAFETY
Prague is a comparatively safe city; crimes of violence happen very seldom, and while the crime rate is still low, common safety precautions should be taken as petty crime is on the increase in the central areas of Prague. Dont keep luggage and valuables visible in your car; you should try and remove the CD player even if it is a rented car. Dont leave valuables including your passport, unattended in hotel rooms. Instead, use hotel safes or better yet, leave your expensive items at home and just take your passport. The biggest danger for tourists is pick-pocketing. This is most common where large groups gather, i.e. in crowded trams or busy tourist spots. When traveling, keep a photocopy of your passport and credit card information on you. This way if you lose these items or have them stolen, you will be able to get replacement travel documents and access to your money. According to Czech law, you have to have proof of identication with you at all times, but in reality, police very rarely ask people for identication.
SAFETY
a standard warning that taxi drivers in Prague are famous for trying to rip off both tourists and locals. Never take a taxi off the street. From the airport, pre-book a safe taxi in advance with Prague Airport Transfers.
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for additional extras like sauces, bread, rolls or pretzels on the table. Usually the menu will state the price excludes charges for bread, but the notice will be printed somewhere where it is hard to see. The simple solution is if you dont want to pay for those items, then ask the wait staff to take them away. Even if you dont eat it, but its on the table, you are obliged to pay. In pubs if you do not get an itemized bill, do a quick rough calculation and if in doubt, ask your wait staff for a detailed bill. If you pay a large bill for a group of people, its pretty easy to squeeze in a few extra crowns on your bill or they may do a wrong calculation. By Czech law, the bill always includes a service charge, but does not include optional tips. So the total amount on the bill will include a 10% tip, however, sometimes restaurants try to persuade customers to leave an additional 10%. You do not have to unless the service was excellent. In the Czech Republic smoking is prohibited at schools, cinemas, theatres, sports facilities, state ofces and other public places such as bus and tram stops. For example, if you smoke at a tram or bus stop you can be ned (a 1,000-CZK ne).
Health
There is no health threat when traveling to Prague. The water supply in Prague is good. It is considered very safe to drink water from the tap, but it is heavily chlorinated so it can have a metallic taste. If you need drugs for a medical condition, go to a pharmacy, the only places that sell over-the-counter medicines. They also dispense many drugs normally available only by prescription.
SAFETY
Legal Matters
Alcohol the legal drinking age is 18 years. Drugs the law in the Czech Republic forbids possessing more than a small amount of drugs. Driving there is a zero blood alcohol limit tolerance.
Emergency Numbers
112 General emergency number (similar to 911 in the US). Operators speak English and German. This can be used for any emergency situation (police, re brigade, or emergency medical assistance, report road accident). 150 Fire brigade 155 Medical emergency (ambulance/rst aid) 156 Prague City police 158 Police
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SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Prague in one day
If you have only one day to explore Prague, then concentrate on the Castle District and the Lesser Town ending your walk in the heart of the Old Town. Once you get to the Prague Castle Complex, visit the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and St. Georges Basilica, and pass the small picturesque houses in Golden Lane. Then, descend into the Lesser Town where youll nd the ancient burgher houses and the Baroque copper-domed St. Nicolas Church. Making your way across Charles Bridge can take as little or as much time as you like; if you enjoy souvenir stands, performers, artists, musicians, or just beautiful city views, you may want to linger awhile longer. If you want to feel even more of the romantic atmosphere of the city, you might wish to jump on the Venice Boat Cruise. During this short 40-minute boat cruise, you will have a chance to see Pragues architectural gems from the Vltava River. The boat departure pier is just under Charles Bridge, accessible from ertovka, Kampa Island. Once across the bridge, walk along the riverside and take a break at the famous Caf Slavia, on Smetanovo quay, where you can have coffee while enjoying the view over the river and up to the castle on the other side. After the rest, continue walking to the Old Town Square to see the Astronomical Clock and watch The Walk of the Apostles performing on the hour. From there continue your walk towards Celetn Street where you can see quite a few architecturally and historically important houses, such as at the Three Kings, the White Lion, the Black Sun and the Black Madonna. The most interesting one worth a visit is the House of the Black Madonna, which dates back to 1912 and houses a branch of the Czech Museum of Fine Arts with a permanent exhibition on Czech Cubism. Celetn Street will eventually take you to the Powder Tower. Next to the Tower is the Municipal House. It is Pragues most prominent Art Nouveau building, built between 1906 and 1912. It is a popular stop for visitors drawn in by the buildings gold trimmings, stained glass, sculpture, and the regular exhibitions and concerts.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
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SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
St. Georges basilica at Prague Castle now serves as a concert hall, a delightful and popular setting for early evening classical concerts
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SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Vrtba Garden
Loreta, Hradany
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Konopit Chateau
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ACTIVITIES
Prague is bursting at the seams with things to do. Whether you choose the citys rich musical heritage or simply enjoy a pint of Pilsner in one of its legendary beer cellars, this is the city where there really is something for everyone. Most visitors just enjoy walking in Prague and discovering nice views, historic buildings, religious icons and famous inhabitants. There is plenty of walking tours to choose from, some covering the general history of the city with others focused on specic themes the history of the Jewish community, Romanesque Prague, Gothic Prague, Baroque Prague, Renaissance Prague or Composers Prague. You can join a group tour or book your own personal guide. If the idea of walking does not appeal to you, you can always blend culture with comfort by taking a ride through Prague instead. Horse-drawn carriages carry you at a gentle pace through the cobble-stone streets of Old Town. Or you can opt for a ride in a vintage car open-top, weather permitting. Generally, all tours depart from Old Town Square. Riverboats are another option for seeing the city from a different angle book a lunch cruise, evening cruise with dinner or cruise with a live jazz band.
ACTIVITIES
Tower, Letn Park, TV tower, Old Town Hall Towers and St. Henrys Tower.
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today or alternately performed by puppets at the National Marionette Theatre. Visit some famous traditional Czech pubs, where guests sit at plain wooden tables and wait to be served glasses of the frothy Pilsner Urquell lager. On the Vltava River, you get an interesting new perspective by renting a row boat. You will nd boat rentals open every day from April to the end of October, from 9am to nightfall under Charles Bridge, directly across from Club Lvka, or on Slovansk Ostrov. Go into one of Pragues hidden churches and cloisters, which are often used for musical concerts and therefore, rehearsals. Slip in through the side door, pay your respects and if possible, stay for the angelic acoustics.
Try the National Museum, if you are a museum-goer, as it offers visitors free admission on the rst Monday of the month as do many other museums. When you pick up the Prague Post newspaper, check for any gallery exhibition openings. Visit some numerous shopping malls. Some are located in the heart of the city. Palladium and Myslbek Centre are probably the most lavish and well-stocked in Prague. They have a good range of shops like Marks & Spencer, Marlboro Classics, Kookai, Calvin Klein and Next, to name a few. Theres even a sushi bar. Take a trip, during the summer months, on Pragues historic tram 91, which can be great fun too. The National Theatre, Lesser Town Square and Wenceslas Square are all boarding points.
ACTIVITIES
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Dtsk Ostrov
Enclosed playground on a small island just off the Lesser Town side of the Vltava river. Entry is possible from Jankovo nbe, Lesser Town.
Pedal-boating tip
The Vltava river is the perfect place to spend an hour or two pedal boating with kids, if the weather is nice. We had a great time, pedalling under each bridge and exploring the river. You can rent pedal boats at Charles Bridge, Mnesv Bridge and ofn Island (on the Old Town side, also called Slovansk Island).
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are found in the large Transport Hall, crammed full of vintage trains, planes and automobiles. Among the many exhibits here are examples of Czech engineering at its best koda for example was one of the foremost engineering companies in Europe before WWII. Elsewhere, theres a large display of lm and photographic equipment, while the mining technology exhibit recreates the workings of a coal/ore mine in the museums basement. Address: Kosteln 42, Praha 7, Holeovice.
Prague Zoo
For nature and animals lovers, Prague Zoo is the perfect place to visit (elected as the 7th best zoo in the world by Forbes magazine). The zoo is open all year round and is located in the picturesque environment of the Trja Basin. Its diverse terrain makes it possible to walk through both shady groves and open, grassy plains. There are an ever-growing number of exhibition lots that blend with the natural landscape. To make your trip to the zoo more pleasant, a popular series of informative feedings and training exercises have been prepared for weekends, along with many other interesting programmes. There is also a small chair lift that will, no doubt, be entertaining for children. Address: U Trojskho zmku 3/120, Trja; Open: daily 9am-7pm in summer and until 4pm in winter months. Getting there: take a bus no. 112 from the underground station of Ndra Holeovice; get off at Zoologick zahrada, last stop. In the summer months, PPS is operating boat which serves the zoological garden. Boats sail daily from Na Frantiku quay every hour.
Toy Museum
Close to Golden Lane is this nice little place with lots of antique trains, teddy bears and dolls, complete with English-language signs on most of them. There are not many things children are allowed to touch, but there are plenty of mysterious mechanical objects, such as music boxes and steam-powered toys, for the kids to speculate about. There is a Barbie exhibit on the second oor, which is quite interesting. Location: Prauge Castle; Open: daily 9:30am 5:30pm.
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TRANSPORTATION
Prague Airport
Prague Airport, Ruzyn (all international ights arrive here), is located 17km (about 10.5 miles) from the city-center and has all the modern amenities you would expect of a European airport. The journey from airport to city-center takes around 20 30 minutes by taxi, or around 55 minutes by public transport. At the arrivals area, you will nd the tourist information desk where you can get information. There are also other desks in the airport where you can arrange a rental car or book a hotel. You can also exchange your money for Czech koruna, or withdraw money at an ATM. It is best not to exchange money or cash travellers cheques at the airport, as either the commission is quite high or the rate is not very good; instead, wait until you arrive at the city, or take money from the ATM. When youre leaving, you may want to eat before you head to the airport, as the restaurants at the airport are generally overpriced.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting around
Prague is a simple city to get around, especially in the centre, which is relatively small and compact. The best way is to take trams or just walk. Be careful when crossing as some drivers tend to ignore crossings without lights. Also trams travel quite fast and may come upon you with little warning.
Beware
Pickpockets operate on the public transport (especially trams 22 and 23) and in crowded tourist areas like the castle or the Astronomical Clock.
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Prague Metro
The Metro is formed by three lines: A, B, and C. Lines are colorcoded and the metro operates from 5am to midnight. The green line (line A) connects terminus Skalka and terminus Dejvick. The yellow line connects terminus ern Most and terminus Zlin and the red line (line C) connects terminus Ldv and terminus Hje. There are three cross stations: Muzeum (lines A and C), Mstek (lines B and A) and Florenc (lines C and B). Time intervals are approximately two to three minutes at rush hour and four to ten minutes off-peak.
TRANSPORTATION
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Prague trams
Trams are a fast way of getting around and compared to the metro, you will have the chance to see much more. Tram lines are well structured and organized covering a large area of the city. Daytime trams run from 4:30am till midnight in eight-to-tenminute intervals (8 to 15 minutes on weekends). Night trams (numbers 51-58) run from 12:30am until 4:30am in 30-to-40-minute intervals. The central interchange tram stop-of-night trams is Lazarsk stop.
TRANSPORTATION
of March through mid-November. The tram leaves from Steovice every hour from 12 noon till 6pm and continues through the city-center. The ticket costs 35 CZK for adults, 20 CZK for children and seniors over 70.
City buses
Buses mostly cover the outskirts of Prague, especially areas not covered by the tram system. Daytime buses run from 4.30am till midnight in six-to-eight-minute intervals during peak hours, 10-to-20-minute intervals during off-peak, and 15-to-30-minute intervals on weekends. Night buses (numbers 501512) run from 12:30am till 4:30am in 40-minute intervals. Timetables are located at bus stops.
Trams 22 and 23 Follow one of Pragues most scenic routes, passing by the National Theatre to Staromstsk and Malostransk Metro stations, and continuing up to the Belvedr, Prague Castle and Pohoelec, with some stunning views on the way. Tram 9 Other useful tram routes is No.9. This tram runs across the city via Wenceslas Square and onto Lesser Town. Historic tram 91 The Nostalgic Tram 91 runs on weekends and holidays from the end
Taxis
Taxi service in Prague might be tricky, especially if you hail a taxi off the street, so it is good idea negotiate your fare in advance. Besides that, taxis remain the most comfortable way to travel. The taxi company with the best reputation is AAA Taxi, which has metered taxis all over Prague. If you are going from or to the airport, pre-book a cab from Prague Airport Transfers.
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transport (subway to tram, tram to bus, etc.) for up to 30 minutes from validation for short ride tickets, and up to 90 minutes for long ride tickets. Tickets are also valid on night trams and buses and on the Petn funicular. If you are staying in Prague for longer, it is a good idea to buy a long-term public transport pass.
30 minutes ticket (short rides) Adults: 24 CZK Children 15-18 years: 12 CZK Children under 10: FREE 90 minutes ticket (long rides) Adults: 32 CZK Children 15-18 years: 16 CZK Children under 10: FREE Short-term passes (unlimited travel within ticket validity) Most visitors nd travel passes cost effective and hassle free. If you will use public transport more than a few times a day, denitely go for one. 24-hour pass: 110 CZK 3-day pass (72 hours): 310 CZK
TRANSPORTATION
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travel for destinations in Czech Republic and for selected destinations in the EU. You can also buy them from any train station in Prague or elswhere in the Czech Republic. At Pragues main train station, the ticket counters are on the basement level. Most locals do not make advance reservations, and tickets are generally available to all destinations right up until the day of travel. If you are in a hurry, it is also possible to buy a ticket from the conductor, but be prepared for an extra charge.
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EXCURSIONS & TRANSFERS TO OTHER CITIES TRANSFER FROM/TO PRAGUE DOWNTOWN Brno Liberec Plze Mlad Boleslav Marinsk Lzn Vienna Budapest Berlin Nuremberg Dresden Krakow Passau Salzburg Bratislava OTHER CITIES MORE
1 to 4 passengers 5 to 8 passengers >9
ONE WAY CZK 3708 CZK 2280 CZK 1840 CZK 1240 CZK 3400 CZK 5958 CZK 9450 CZK 6408 CZK 5238 CZK 3000 CZK 9720 CZK 3942 CZK 6768 CZK 5904 ASK US
ONE WAY CZK 4635 CZK 2850 CZK 2300 CZK 1550 CZK 4250 CZK 7448 CZK 11813 CZK 8010 CZK 6548 CZK 3750 CZK 12150 CZK 4928 CZK 8460 CZK 7380 ASK US
ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US ASK US
TRANSPORTATION
RENTAL OF LIMOUSINE Hummer H200 (max. 20pax) 1hour rental 4650 CZK Lincoln TC120 (max. 8pax) 1hour rental 2190 CZK Call us on free phone: 800 870 888 or book online at www.prague-airport-transfers.co.uk
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SHOPPING
Most shopping malls and arcades are located in the center of Prague in Wenceslas Square, in streets Na Po, 28. jna, Nrodn tda, Vinohradsk (above the National Museum), Pask and on or close to the vicinity of Old Town Square. You can nd pretty much everything from clothes, electronics and music to glass and antiques. Close to the tourist attractions are many shops selling souvenirs, t-shirts with Franz Kafka on them, Mucha merchandise, Russian dolls, aunting puppets, and Czech porcelain and glass. If you are looking for more unusual shopping, head down hidden passages, and to the arcades and backstreet shops of Lesser Town and Old Town. In these little shops, you can nd many bargains, and curious and interesting things. Best buys or recommended items to look for in Prague include Bohemian glass, crystal and china, ceramics, wooden toys and local handicrafts.
SHOPPING
Czech marionettes in Prague where you can see operas that feature traditional Czech marionettes, these puppets make a good gift. You may know someone who would fancy one of these eerie, but unarguably artistic creations. Czech classical music classical CDs abound of the works of Czech composers, like Dvok, Smetana, Martin and Janek, as well as those of folk music and brass bands. You can get them at any bookstore, as well as in many other stores in the city-center.
Czech crystal, glass, porcelain and ceramics can be found in many department stores and close to tourist spots. Also Czech handmade porcelain and ceramic are good gifts. Bohemian glass is famous the world over for its uniqueness and quality. It is sold at many places in the citycenter with the prices not radically different from shop to shop. Some of the shops are even able to ship abroad. Absinthe You do not have to be absolutely insane to like absinthe, but the potent, chemistry-lab green spirit is 70% alcohol.
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Shopping Malls
shopping mall several years ago. The complex offers many exclusive designer brands, such as Tommy Hilger and La Perla and houses a supermarket in the basement. In the atrium is a caf; it is a nice place just to sit and wait for your partner to nish shopping. It is located on the corner Vinohradsk and Budesk, a 10-minute walk from Wenceslas Square. To get there, take Tram 11 to Vinohradsk trnice. Myslbek Shopping Gallery This small shopping mall is located in a modern building just opposite of the ern Re shopping mall. It is accessible from Na Pkop Street or from Uheln Trh Square. Behind a striking modern facade, this cozy and relaxing shopping gallery has 30 shops and boutiques offering mostly fashion goods, cosmetics, leather materials, ties and pearls. The shopping mall also has a few restaurants inside. Address: Na Pkop 19; New Town; Open: daily Mon-Sat 9am10pm & Sun 10am-7pm.
Czech marionettes
Palladium This very large shopping mall which just opened in 2007. It is located in the city-center near the Municipal House, a few minutes walk from Na pkop street. There are four oors, with more than 200 shops and over 20 restaurants and cafs. There is also some historical value behind the Palladium, as the foundations are associated with 12th century structures which have been integrated into the architecture of the shopping mall. Address: Nmst Republiky 1; Open: daily 9am-10pm. Vinohradsk Paviln This former historical market hall was reconstructed into a nice
SHOPPING
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Nov Smchov This is a fashionable and modern shopping center, as well as a favorite entertainment center. It is located in the Smchov district about a 10-minute walk from city-center. Nov Smchov is spread across three oors lled with 150 different shops, a food court and a Palace Cinema multiplex. There are several style boutiques, a big computer store, plus the French food chain Carrefour. There is also a huge area for parking in the basement. To get there take either tram or Metro (line B) to Andl.
SHOPPING
Moser It is very well know and respected Bohemian glassmaker. Moser was founded in Karlovy Vary in 1857 and is famous for its rich and amboyant designs. Visit their shop on Na Pkop located at the House of the Black Rose. Address: Na Pkop 12, New Town; Open: daily 10am-8pm.
Address: Plzesk 8; Smchov; Open: daily 9am-9pm (restaurants until 11pm). Fashion Outlet Arena This is an outlet center where youll nd dozens of shops with brands discounted 30-70%. It is open daily from 10am to 8pm. To get there, take Metro (line A) to Hostiva, and from there, the shuttle bus runs directly to the Fashion Arena. Address: Zamenhofova 440, trboholy; Open: daily 10am-8pm.
Czech Currency
The monetary unit of the Czech Republic is the Koruna esk (K) or Czech crown. Coins are only in nominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 crowns. Banknotes come in 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 crowns.
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welcome
FREE ENTRY EVERY DAY BEST STAG NIGHT IN PRAGUE AMAZING GIRLS HOT DRINKS SEXY PERFORMANCE
SHOPPING
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EATING / RESTAURANTS
Visitors to Prague often miss out on the best of traditional Czech cuisine which is heavily meat-based, but also quite diverse. Dont miss this, unless you are a vegetarian. A typical national dish is pork, cabbage and dumplings (vepo-knedlo-zelo) which must be accompanied with a pint of beer (or two), the most typical Czech beverage. The national dish is composed of roast pork, knedlky (bread-like dumplings which is a kind of gnocchi made of bread), gravy and sauerkraut (pickled cabbage). The reason why it gained so much popularity is because of its balanced taste, with the sour taste of sauerkraut a perfect complement to the salty taste of the meat. Other popular choices to try are roast duck or Svkov na smetan sirloin beef in cream sauce with bread dumplings and garnished with cranberries. Czech cuisine also adopted schnitzels (breaded and fried chicken or pork patties) from Vienna, goulash (meat in gravy with bread dumplings) from Hungary and other things like sour cream, vinegar, sour vegetables and pickles probably from the East. As mentioned earlier, most Czech dishes are quite lling and mild, however, fresh salads are still quite rare. The one exception are fresh veggies found on nearly every menu is opsk salt, also called balkansk salt. It is a small bowl of chopped bell peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers in sweet vinegar with a salty white cheese grated and liberally sprinkled on top. Among grab-and-go foods, brambork (a garlic-seasoned fried potato pancake) is a quick, if not greasy, local favorite. The same goes for for smaen sr (fried cheese). Fried cheese was, for a long time, practically the only vegetarian dish served at restaurants. Today, the range of meatless dishes is denitely much wider. The hotdog in a roll, sausages and kebabs are sold from kiosk windows around the city and are a reliable bridge between an early lunch and late dinner.
EATING / RESTAURANTS
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CHEAP RESTAURANTS
Cheap restaurants are not hard to nd, but can be less frequent around tourist spots. Generally, prices in cheap restaurants range from 100 CZK to 250 CZK for dinner and beer. Most of them serve delicious Czech, Italian or American style dishes. Yes, it is also possible to eat extremely cheap at some local Chinese restaurants for around 80 CZK for a lunch, but dont expect a large portion. A meal at McDonald or KFC will cost you 100 CZK. Also, most of the cheap restaurants do not accept credit cards. Bohemia Bagel A wide variety of fresh bagels, sandwiches and homemade soups are available here, as well as bottomless cups of coffee. We recommend you try the mufns, brownies and cheesecakes. They have two locations one at jezd 16, Lesser Town (open daily 7am-2am) and another location at Masn 2, Old Town (open Mon-Fri 7am-midnight and SatSun 8am-midnight). Prices range: 40-150 CZK.
Pizza Coloseum This is a place for pizza and pasta. It is usually crowded, but is great for a pre-movie dinner. Located at Vodikova 32 in New Town, it is open Mon-Sat 11:30am-11:30pm; Sun noon11:30pm. Prices range from 100300 CZK. Kva Kva Kva For best and cheap coffee accompanied by toasted bagels, croissants, cakes and pastries dont go anywhere else. Free WiFi. Open: 7am-10pm Mon-Fri, 9am10pm Sat & Sun; Address: Passage Platz, Nrodn tda 37.
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RESTAURANT PICKS
U Prince Hotel Roof Terrace Bar If you are looking for romance in Prague, then one of the best spots in town is the U Prince Hotel Roof Terrace Bar. As you sit down for a drink, be sure to enjoy the terrace at the ve-star hotel by the same name. Located in the Old Town Square, the sights are unforgettable as you are at eye-level with the famous Astronomical Clock Tower. The Roof Terrace Bar has some of the best views in all of Prague, and you can watch as the sun sets on Prague Castle and the square itself. You can even enjoy this spot year round as there are heaters and covers which keep the terrace warm and protected even in the middle of the winter months. Address: U Prince Hotel, Old Town Square 29. Chez Marcel This is a French restaurant and brasserie popular with locals and ex-pats. Recommended are daily specials, pepper steak and pat. Location: Hatalsk 12, Old Town; Open: Mon-Fri 8am-1am; weekends 9am-1am (kitchen open noon until 11pm).
U Kalicha (At the Chalice) Here you will nd Czech food. The Good Soldier vejk made a date with a friend here for six in the evening after the war. It has lots of atmosphere and standard Czech fare. Location: Na Bojiti 12-14, Prague 2; Open: daily 11am-3pm and 5-10pm. Ambiente Here you will nd Italian pasta fresca. It is a reliable eatery in the centre of the city, but you will nd better noodles elsewhere. There is a lively atmosphere. Recommended are cotoletta do agnello con spinaci, letto ala griglia and fettuccine al salmone. Location: Celetn 11, Old Town; Open: daily 11am until midnight (caf open 9am until midnight). Piano Nobile at Villa Richter This ne, exquisite French restaurant is located on the hillside just below Prague Castle in a summerhouse that dates all the way back to 1836. Newly restored, this restaurant offers not only a tremendous view of Prague, but also ne food at reaso-
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nable prices. The restaurant also has over 2500 bottles of wine, including a wide international selection as well as popular Czech wines. Address: Star zmeck Schody 6, Prague Castle. SaSaZu SaSaZu continues its reign as the top upmarket Asian restaurant in Prague. The chef, Shahaf Shabtay, has travelled the world, and it shows on his menu, which includes avours and dishes from India, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and other exotic locales in Southeast Asia. Prices for individual entres are not outrageous. Address: Bubensk nbe 306/13, Prague 7; Open Sun-Thur 12 noon12 midnight & Fri-Sat 12 noon1am. Konrna Restaurant Set in the middle of Lesser Town, Konrna Restaurant offers traditional Czech food. The building which houses the restaurant actually dates back to 1176, but has recently undergone an entire transformation that has not only kept, but also enhanced the atmosphere and character. The food on
the menu is a blend of Czech favorites and international ones as well with such meals as beef sirloin and rib eye steak. There is also duck, boar, goulash, and sausage with bacon. Address: Maltzsk nmst 10, Lesser Town.
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EXPENSIVE RESTAURANTS
If money is not an issue, you can sample some of the best gourmet restaurants in Prague. Our personal recommendations are the restaurants: Bellevue, with unparalleled views of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge; Pravda, with striking and innovative minimalist interior; Celste, for its excellent French cuisine and views of the Prague skyline. The stunning castle view from the Allegro Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel is also great experience. For seafood specialties, try Restaurant Ryb Trh. Although not cheap, the dishes are an amazing combination of art and taste.
Kampa Park Kampa Park is an excellent choice, especially in the summer when diners can eat beside the Vltava River. Superb Scandinavian seafood and seasonal specialties are among the top choices at this posh riverside restaurant. Weekday lunches offer great value and are especially popular. Prices range from 500-1,000 CZK. They are located at Na Kamp 8b, Lesser Town (Kampa Island) and open daily 11:30am-11pm (bar is open 11:30am-1am). Bellevue Stunning views of the castle and river complement the outstanding world-class, carefully crafted continental cuisine, served up in an atmosphere of formal elegance. There is also a lovely summer terrace. Fancied by families, couples and businesses alike, the Bellevue is considered to be one of the top places to eat. Located at Smetanovo nbe 18, Prague 1, they are open Mon-Sat noon-3pm and 5:30pm-11pm; Sun 11am-3pm for brunch and 7-11pm otherwise. Prices start at 1,000 CZK and up.
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Cleste This restaurant offers one of the best French cuisines in Prague and is located on the top oor of one of Pragues most famous modern landmarks, the Dancing House (Tanen Dm), Ranovo nbe 80, Prague 2. There are amazing views of the city from both the inside dining room and the rooftop terrace. Recommended are red snapper la Provenal, tournedos de boeuf with Barnaise sauce and young rabbit in mustard sauce. Prices start at 700 CZK and up. It is open Mon-Fri noon-2pm and 7:30pm-10:30pm (no lunch on Mondays). Pravda This is hip from the inventors of ne dining in Prague. Gracefully cool service complements the marvelous dishes. Recommended are Cajun crawsh, Vietnamese new spring rolls and Scandinavian marinated salmon in mustard sauce. They are located at Pask 17, Old Town and open 11:30am1am. Their dishes range in price from 1,000 to 1,200 CZK.
U Maltzskch ryt This restaurant dining rooms with candlelit tables, are housed in a Gothic and Romanesque cellar making them continental, cosy, romantic and gracious. Recommended dishes include let mignon, venison Chateaubriand, roast wild boar with rosehip sauce and homemade apple strudel. Open daily from 11am-11pm, and located at Prokopsk 10 (off Karmelitsk) in Lesser Town, prices range from 800 -1,000 CZK. Terasa U Zlat Studn The food is a clear highlight of this restaurant but the views across the red-tiled rooftops of Lesser Town are stunning. The kitchen, which has French, Mediterranean and Asian inuences also include fois gras, monk sh, royal pigeon, traditional French bouillabaisse, chocolate almond cake and homemade ice cream. Address: U Zlat Studn 4; Lesser Town; Open: noon-11pm; A La Carte menu 720-1150 CZK; Degustation menu at 2100 CZK.
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Lokl Part of the successful Ambiente chain of inventive restaurants, Lokl has championed the Slow Food movement here in the Czech Republic, turning out quality, reasonable moderately priced Czech plates think livers, fried cheese, svkov served in a trendy space, with free-owing Pilsner and a lively, upbeat pub atmosphere. Located in Old Town at Dlouh 33, Old Town, they are open daily 11am-1am. Kolkovna Run by the Pilsner Urquell brewery, Kolkovna is a stylish, modern take on the traditional Prague beer hall decorated with historical photos and advertisements, and old tools and artefacts traditionally used in beer brewing. The food is reasonably priced, with a large selection of traditional Czech fare such as roast duck and pork, Moravian sparrow, goulash and venison. Main courses are served with traditional side dishes such as dumplings, and red and white cabbages, along with mashed potatoes and fries. Address: V Kolkovn 8; Old Town; Open: 11am-midnight.
Hygiene
Prague is safe concerning cleanliness and hygiene. Facilities are inspected once in two years.
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La Degustation Bohme Team of chefs and ptissiers prepare three tasting menus consisting of seven courses supplemented with seven amuse-bouches. Come to the best traditional meals of Czech culinary art from the end of the 19th century inspired by masterful techniques of the culinary personality Marie B. Svobodova. Visit their website (www.ladegustation.cz) for a menu selection using organic ingredients from Czech farms and small produce providers. Their expensive fare is located at Hatalsk 753/18, Old Town, and open Mon-Sat 5pm-midnight. CzecHouse Grill The Hilton Pragues agship restaurant features Czech specialties as well contemporary European cuisine. In this vast room inside the Hilton, Chef Roman Paulus concentrates on upscale, modern versions of classics, but throws in a few twists, such as an over-thetop USDA prime beef tartare with caviar. Other than the less-thanstellar view of a parking lot and ofce building, theres nothing disappointing about this place.
Located at Poben 1, Karln (inside the Hilton Hotel), they are open daily 6pm-11pm and for lunch Mon-Fri noon until 3pm. Their prices are rated as expensive. Caf Savoy This is a picture-perfect Victorian-era caf. Even if the food was marginal, which it isnt, it would be recommended for the setting, dcor and ornate ceiling. Theres a feeling of casual sophistication about the place and dishes from entres to desserts match the scene approachable, yet better than the norm. Address: Vitzn 1, Smchov. Their moderately priced food is served Mon-Fri 8am-10:30pm and SatSun 9am-10:30pm.
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VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTS
There are not many 100% pure vegetarian restaurants in Prague, so if you are searching for one, its good to know that many restaurants which appear in vegetarian directories are often mixed restaurants, serving both meat and only a few veggie dishes. Except for well-known vegan restaurants like Country Life and Govinda, check the ingredients in the dishes, as its not unusual for your potential veggie meal to include pork. Govinda Vegetarian Club A vegan restaurants (two locations) run by the Hare Krishnas cheap, quick, and tasty. Various kinds of Indian specialties and other meals inspired by western culinary art are served. The addresses are Soukenick 27, Prague 1 & Na hrzi 5, Prague 8. They are open in both locations MonFri 11am-5pm and Sat 8am-5pm. Country Life This cafteria-like or buffet-style vegetarian food hall offers a variety of ready-made selections, including sandwiches, salads, veggie burgers
and veggie goulash. The extra healthy unprocessed, unrened, nondairy food is charged according to weight. This place gets really busy, but dont get frightened by the long line it moves quickly. It also has a health food store where you can pick up some items to cook at home. With a non-smoking environment, it is located at Jungmannova 1, Prague 1 and Melantrichova 15, Prague 1. Both locations are open 9am-8pm Mon-Thu, 9am-6pm Fri. and 11am-8pm Sun. Lehk Hlava (Clear Head) Excellent and cheap vegetarian cuisine featuring specials, tapas, soups, salads, desserts, pasta, main entres, fresh juices, and other beverages. No eggs are used. The interior is unique, with each room having a different theme; a small colorful contemporary room, a warm orange room with sh tank, and a blue heaven room where the ceiling is decorated with stars. With a non-smoking environment, it is located at Melantrichova 15, Prague 1. Open 10:30am-7:30pm Mon-Thu, 10:30am-3pm Fri and noon-8pm Sun.
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FAMOUS CAFS
Caf Imperial This endearingly shabby yet grand Habsburg era caf has retained its original, over-the-top 20th century cream-and-mustard ceramic tiled decor and colourful mosaic ceiling. The locals clearly approve of its unpretentious air too and the free doughnuts go down a treat. There is live jazz on Friday and Saturdays evenings. Address: Na po 15, New Town; Open: daily 9am-11pm. Caf Slavia This is the most famous Cafe in Prague: a cherry-wood and onyx shrine to Art Deco elegance, with polished limestone-topped tables and big windows overlooking the river and National Theatre just across the street. Indulge in your cup of coffee while watching the city pass by. The menu offers some great cream cakes, fresh salads, pastas and vegetarian dishes. Address: corner of Smetanovo nbe and Nrodn; Open: daily 8am-midnight.
Municipal House Coffee Come for the atmosphere as well as the treats. This Art Nouveau caf on the ground oor of Municipal House is one of the most elegant in town. Location: Nmst Republiky 5, New Town; Open: 7.30am-11pm.
TIPPING IN RESTAURANTS
The basic 5%-15% is appreciated, but not mandatory. Also, many Czechs just round the bill up. Leave cash on the table if you thought the service was good, or say Dobr when paying your waiter; it means OK, as in keep the change. Or, when handing over the money, just say how much cash you would like back. If you say nothing, you will receive the exact change. Some restaurants add a service fee to the nal amount, so the tip is included. If you are unsure, just ask. Also, if you are unsure about any items on the check, it is wise to ask. It can be hard to gure out exactly what you are being charged for, and mistakes are not uncommon. Even today, some establishments try to rip off tourists.
EATING / CAFS
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up into a froth into which a small amount of fresh garlic is pressed. Topinka it is a piece of dark bread fried in salt, garlic and lard or oil. It is traditionally served with scrambled eggs, grated cheese, meat mixture, or spicy cheese spread. Pickled Hermeln Hermelin is a camembert-type cheese. This one has been marinated in oil with onion, garlic, hot peppers and spices.
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PUBS
U Flek On the premises of the oldest Czech brewery in Prague, this pub and microbrewery is more expensive than other places, but in return, you are drinking special dark beer brewed right on location while enjoying live music and chatting with tourists from all over the world. The front faade of the 12th-century building is unique in that it has an old, highly-decorated clock above its door. 13 black beer (0.4L) known as Flek costs 59 CZK. Beware the waiter asking if you want to try a Becherovka itll add 80 CZK to the bill. U Flek is located in New Town at Kemencova 11. Open: daily 9am-11pm.
U Pinkas The rst Prague pub to serve Pilsner Urquell (in 1843), it is still a place recommended for great and reasonably-priced Czech meals. The interior is spartan, but the back patio is a surprising enclave, surrounded by ruins and divided into distinct open-air rooms; it welcomes boisterous groups (you may hear impromptu singing) or those seeking a more romantic place. Located in New Town at Jungmannovo nmst 16, close to the underground station Mstek. Open 11am-11pm daily. Pivovarsk Dm The food is average, but the beer is experimental and very good. This place is denitely worth a few pints, with a nice atmosphere and friendly service. Locals gather here to sample the classic Czech lager and it gets crowded, so expect to wait if you come at dinner time. This brew-pub located at Lpov 15, New Town, close to Charles Square. Open: 11am-11:30pm.
PUBS AND BARS
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Pivn Galerie This is a bar and bottle shop together. They have a few beers on draft, along with hundreds of bottles of different Czech beer. If youre not sure which one to choose, ask the staff for help. The bar is located away from the city-center, about a kilometer (about 2/3 of a mile) from the Holeovice station. Because of its location, many foreigners never nd this very friendly bar with its great atmosphere. Address: U Prhonu 9, Holeovice; Open: Tue-Sun noon-1.30pm & 3pm-8pm. The Strahov Monastic Brewery (Kltern Pivovar) This microbrewery is located close to the Prague Castle (Strahov Monastery); it serves simple meals and famous Czech beers. Pub serves up two varieties of its St Norbert beer dark, a rich, tarry brew with a creamy head, and amber, a full-bodied, hoppy lager. It might be a bit more expensive by Czech standards, but is still a bargain for travelers. Address: Strahovsk ndvo 301, Strahov; Open: daily 11am-10pm.
Ferdinanda This establishment has two centrally located restaurants one in Lesser Town and the other in New Town. Ferdinanda serves the tasty and unique Ferdinanda beer, or try the Sedm Kul (Seven Bullets), which is an excellent Vienna-style beer. Of course, they also have a good selection of pilsners and lagers. The food is different from what you will nd in other similar places, and the staff is very friendly. Prices are very reasonable. The New Town location is on the corner of Opletalova and Politickch vz. Their Lesser Town location is at Karmelitsk 18. Open: daily 11am-11pm. Les Moules Caf This restaurant/caf serves a large selection of Belgian beers, including Stella Artois, Chimay and Hoegaarden. From the food menu, try some delicious seafood. It is located only a few steps from the Jewish Museum located at Pask 19, Josefov. Open: daily 11:30am-12pm. It is a bit pricier compared to other pubs.
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U Medvdk Some bars in Prague have veered towards the tourist currency, however, U Medvdk, has retained its traditional charm and is still very much a favourite with Czech locals. This is a straightforward Czech pub and easily large enough to accommodate everyone. Address: Na Pertn 7, Old Town; Open: beer hall 11:30am-11pm, museum noon-10pm. Novomstsk pivovar This popular local beer hall is located just a few blocks from Wenceslas Square. If you havent booked, youll be lucky to get a table. Address: Vodikova 20, New Town; Open: 8am-11:30pm MonFri, 11:30am-11:30pm Sat, noon10pm Sun. Hostinec U Kocoura This long-established pub is located on the tourist route at Nerudova. It is very famous with cheap beer and is often crowded. Address: Nerudova 2, Lesser Town; Open: daily 11am-11pm.
U Zlatho Tygra (The Golden Tiger) This is quite an old drinking hall with cool beer prices, just 36 CZK for liter of the frothy Pilsner Urquell lager. When Bill Clinton visited the Czech Republic, Vclav Havel former President of the Czech Republic showed him this pub to see a real Czech Pub. The average beer tourist may nd it hard to get a seat in this popular locals hangout, so make sure you get there early as seats ll up quickly. Have a pint while standing at the bar, if all the seats are taken or reserved for regular patrons. This is one of the worlds greatest beer bars, so treat it and its regular patrons with appreciation. Located in Old Town at Husova 17, Prague 1; Open daily from 3pm11pm; Prices: 36 CZK per 0.5L of Pilsner Urquell.
PUBS AND BARS
Survival Beer Dictionary Beer PIVO Brewery PIVOVAR Dark beer TMAV / ERN Pale beer SVTL Draft beer TOEN PIVO
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BEST BARS
There are three types of bars unique to Prague the traditional Czech pub with perfect local atmosphere and usually cheap beer, western-style bars serving trendy but expansive cocktails, and the casino bars which are a 24-hour combination bar-casino. These below are our favorites. Bombay Cocktail Bar Only a few steps from the Old Town Square you can nd this busy, popular music bar. It is quite small with a tiny dance oor. Regardless of its size, it has a good atmosphere and the best cocktails in town guaranteed.
PUBS AND BARS
impressive number of beers on tap, as well as a cocktail of the week - and on Thursdays all cocktails are half-price. There are also three televisions and one large projection screen, receiving such channels as Sky Sports, ESPN, BBC and more. Address: Liliov 14, Old Town; Open: daily 10am until 1am. Bugsys Bar An old reliable place, where trendy and hip crowds gather every night, it shakes, stirs and tosses the best cocktails in town. Their drink list is about the length of The Great Gatsby and fun to read with over 300 different kinds of drinks listed. It is open daily 7pm-2am at Kosten 2 (off Pask) in Old Town. Caffreys Irish Bar Here you will nd a casual atmosphere and full menu at Old Town Square. Guinness, Kilkenny and Bulmers are all available. Located at Old Town Square 10, their hours are Sun-Thu 9am-1am, Fri-Sat 9am-2am.
Address: Dlouh 13; Open MonWed 5pm-4am, Thu 5pm-5am Fri-Sat 5pm-6am. OChes Bar With a great location between the Old Town and Charles Bridge, there is no wonder that this pub is so popular. Interestingly, it is not a traditional Irish pub, but is a mix between Irish and Cuban. As a result, OChes brings in a wide and varied clientele who come for the sports, the cocktails and the beers. OChes also sports an
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ZanziBar Serving dry martinis, margaritas and other staples, mixed well by Prague standards. Decor is more Malibu-pink and Vegas-neon than Zanzibar though. Wednesday night is Ladies night and they are open daily 2pm-2am at Lzesk 6, Lesser Town. Double Trouble Club This is a bar and club with small party atmosphere and huge cocktail list. No one is going to be shocked by people dancing on tables or seats, or even on the bar. Actually, this is the norm here. Partake in the fun at Melantrichova 17, Prague 1. Open: 7pm-5am. Paddy Reilly This is a pricey sports bar, but worth it if you like a lot of big-screen action. 46 CZK for Pilsner Urquell and 60 CZK for 0.4l of Guinness. Sharp, shapely wait staff serve free bowls of popcorn at Ve Smekch 21, New Town. Hours are noon-2am daily.
Czech Beer
The love of beer is one of several character that the Czechs share with the British. Czech beer tends to be more full-bodied and more bitter than foreign brews, and always arouses the desire for more. The most famous beers are Pilsener Urquell and Gambrinus from Plze (Pilsen), Budvar from esk Budjovice (Budweis), Staropramen and Kruovice.
Czech spirits
If you prefer spirits, all the wellknown ones are available, the most popular amongst Czech people being vodka followed by rum and fernet. Fernet is a dark herbal bitter drink. Becherovka is another herbal spirit, originally from the Bohemian spa town of Karlovy Vary. Another spirit you may come across is borovika (a juniper-avoured spirit with the inuence of an Italian grappa) and myslivec. If you will be invited to someones home you might be offered slivovice which is mostly homemade brandy made from plums.
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ENTERTAINMENT / NIGHTLIFE
Prague offers large number activities how to spend your free time. There are theatres, museums, concerts, recitals of classical music, festivals, exhibitions, galleries, music clubs, entertainment for children every visitor will surely nd something to his taste. For night-time entertainment Prague also offers a huge range of options. There are shows, concerts, jazz, theatre, cabaret, pubs, a casino, nightclubs and strip clubs to be discovered, relished, tasted and enjoyed right through to the early hours of the morning. The nightlife scene cant quite match London and other big cities, but that can be a good thing too in terms of price and less crowds.
Cocktail bars
There are a number of sophisticated cocktail bars in the center of Prague. Try Tretters bar, near Old Town Square, which has a classic atmosphere with a friendly bar staff. Also in the area are Zapa bar and Bugsys, which are very good choices too. Behind the Tyn Church on Old Town Square, there is Tnsk bar and Books. ZanziBar in Lesser Town is good choice if you wish to visit some of Pragues VIP bars; high prices and standards are guaranteed.
want something really special, try going to Kolkovna, near Old Town Square at V kolkovn 8, which is popular amongst expats. This restaurant serves fresh unpasteurized Pilsner Urquell on tap a very tasty brew. The food and Czech cuisine is a little more expensive than a local-oriented pub, but many nd it is worth the visit. But be warned, the large restaurant is often full. Other recommend places for hanging out and drinking great beer with your food are: Pivovarsk Dm on Jen and not far from Wenceslas Square, U Vejvod near Nrodn Tda, and the historic brewery U Flek near Charles Square.
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Discos
There are some real discos in Prague. Radost FX is a very good club with a long-lasting popularity, situated close to IP Pavlova station. This club has many visiting star DJs for their dance oor downstairs. Upstairs, it is a lounge and vegetarian restaurant. If you like funk and techno, then Roxy is the best club in town, located close to Namst Republiky. Karlovy Lzn is a mega club near the Charles Bridge, with four different dance oors on different levels, each oor dedicated to a different music genre this club is very popular especially among tourists. Duplex on Wenceslas Square is another disco popular with foreign teenagers and even stag-party stragglers. La Fabrique has a couple of dance oors, and is near Wenceslas Square also, making it another good centrally-located option. If you want to feel more Czech atmosphere, try the club N11 (Meloun), which is popular with the locals. Lucerna Music Club on Wenceslas Square is a fairly large club and it regularly lls to capacity. Another favourite of young people is M1 Secret Lounge on Masn,
near Old Town Square. The crowd is generally a mix of well-off young Czechs and expat students. Duplex Duplex is one of Pragues most popular nightclubs with huge dance hall. It is a combination of nightclub, caf and restaurant. During the day the 6th-oor terrace restaurant is a great place for coffee and to enjoy the views. Night offers a view overlooking the lights of Wenceslas Square. It is located at Wenceslas Square 21, New Town. Open: 10pm-5am. Mecca One of the best in Prague. Very fashionable club (former warehouse), featuring industrial-chic, house and techno music to dance to. Located at Prhonu 3, Holeovice. Open: 10pm-6am Wed-Sat; Women admitted free until midnight. Karlovy Lzn Located close to the Charles Bridge at Novotnho lvka in Old Town, this is another huge and very cool night club. Each oor has its own style, from chill out to hard core trance; live bands at
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ground level, dance to classic disco on rst oor (Discotheque), rock to 1960s and 70s music on the second oor (Kaleidoskop), or house and techno on the third oor (Paradogs). Address: Smetanovo nbe 198; Prague 1; Open: 9pm-5am; Admission: 120 CZK. Radost FX This very famous club features top local and international DJs. Exquisite sofas, mosaic-topped tables... A caf serving great veggie food and cheesecakes, a Moroccan lounge in the back for relaxation, and downstairs dance club that only gets going after late hours. Located close to the underground IP Pavlova station at Blehradsk 120, Vinohrady.
Rock Clubs
Under the communist regime, rock and roll was banned, as it was considered too pro-western. Pragues rock scene was dominated by dissidentera rock bands and highly inuential international acts, like the Velvet Underground and the Rolling Stones. But since 1989 after the Velvet Revolution, the independent rock and roll scene has ourished and evolved here. Now the city offers many different rock venues to get your x of a little bit of good ol rock and roll. Clubs such as Futurum, Klub 007, Strahov, Bunkr, Palc Akropolis and Roxy usually host live rock bands. Roxy Arrive around midnight when the fun starts in the best club in town, if funk, rock and techno is your favorite. Located at Dlouh 33, Prague 1.
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the complete assortment of Absolut vodka), a movie theater, and a gallery are located in the basement. Get to their location by taking the Metro B to Nrodn Tda 20 in Old Town. Their admission charge is from 50 to 100 CZK. Music Bar Futurum Futurum is quite a large club, having a capacity for 500 people, with a large bar occupying the longest wall next to the dance oor. It is primarily a rock club and because of its size, it is a venue for large bands to play large in fame of course, not a band with a giant drummer and yeti guitarist to ll the large dance hall. There are 80s and 90s parties every Friday and Saturday which specialize in showing old video clips on a large screen. Their address is Zborovsk 7, Prague 5. They are open daily 8pm3am; concerts start around 9pm. Admission costs start at 100 CZK.
with just a few tables. You might want to check the their performance schedule on the internet and book ahead if you can. The same goes for Ungelt Jazz and Blues club, behind the Tyn Church. One of the oldest jazz clubs in Prague is the Reduta Jazz Club located at Nrodn tda 20. Ungelt Jazz & Blues Club A tiny club situated in the 15th-century cellar of a Renaissance building. A mix of blues, funk and jazz supplied by top Czech performers. They featured live shows every night. Located at Tn 2 in Old Town. U Star Pan At the Old Lady is a sophisticated cellar jazz club that attracts serious names from all over the world. Located at Michalsk 9 in Old Town. Blues Sklep One of the citys newer jazz clubs. A mix of blues, jazz and deep funk is played here. Address: Lilliov 10, Old Town; Open: 6pm-2am, live concerts at 9pm; Admission: 100 CZK.
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Adult Clubs
The side streets near Wenceslas Square (especially Perlov Street) are full of strip clubs. This is Pragues small red light district. The most famous and most expensive strip clubs are Goldngers, located under the Ambassador Hotel, Darling Cabaret at Ve Smekch 31 and K5 Relax at Korunn 5. Almost all strip clubs offer private strip shows and even more... whatever you fancy. Generally all strip clubs charge entrance fees, so unless you have a promotion leaet with a free entrance offer, expect to pay anything from 200 CZK up to 600 CZK. Drinks are usually much more expensive compared to the ordinary pubs or night clubs.
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Sweet Paradise With at least twenty girls every night, this adult club, which is split over two locations, offers good night entertainment. They provide free taxis between both clubs. Special services are available such as escorts. Address: Slezsk 75, Prague 3; Open: Noon until 5am.
Casinos
Most casinos in Prague are open from evening until early morning and some dont close at all. Minimum bets start at 20 CZK with some offering free drinks for players. Players need to be over 18, obviously well-dressed and have some ID. Casino President They offer free soft drinks if you gamble. This new and luxurious casino, located in the Hotel President at nm. Curieovch 100, features roulette, black jack, punto banco and poker daily from 6pm-4am. Ambassador Casino Open non-stop with Roulette, black jack, punto banco, poker and slot machines. Visit their location at Wenceslas Square 5-7, Prague 1.
Hot Peppers This exclusive club is located next to the disco Duplex and comes with a professional presentation. The all night party includes exotic dancers, a lesbian show, stage show and private parties. There is free entry, two for one beers and many other offers. Address: Wenceslas Square 21; New Town; Open: 8:30pm-5:00am.
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Massage
Mandarin Oriental Spa The only spa in the world located in a former Renaissance chapel offering a unique spiritual space to begin your journey to equilibrium. For complete privacy guests can retreat in their robes through an underground passageway linked directly to the main building and their rooms. Address: Nebovidsk 459, Lesser Town; Open: Mon-Sun 10am8:30pm. Thai Fit One of the oldest in Prague. The aroma of the adjacent Siam Orchid restaurant adds to the ambience of this great place and inspires you with what to do post massage. Eat! They also tantalize the senses with herbal, oil, chocolate and lava stone massages, and once youre limbered up, you can join one of their yoga courses or just lounge a bit longer in the sauna. The price is 600 CZK for a one-hour traditional Thai massage. Address: Na Po 21 or Vodikova 4, New Town; Open: 9am-9pm.
Cinema
Prague has numerous cinemas, many located in newly-built shopping malls, some showing rst run international lms along with some Czech films. Admission is from 90 CZK to 200 CZK. Hollywood blockbusters may be dubbed into Czech, but other lms are mostly shown in their original language. Prague is not only popular for tourists but also many international movies have been shot here, such as Mission Impossible, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Amadeus, Everything is Illuminated, Oliver Twist, Hellboy and many others). Full listings of movies shown in Pragues cinemas are published in the Night & Day section of the Prague Post newspaper. Palace Cinema Slovansk Dm Ten-screen cinema in a great location close to Wenceslas Square in the shopping mall, Slovansk Dm. Lucerna One of the oldest cinemas in town, seating over 500 people, located just off Wenceslas Square in Lucerna passageway.
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form exclusively in their own theatres the National Opera Company in the National Theatre; the State Opera Company at the State Opera. The latter presents popular performances in predominantly classical Italian repertoire, always in the original language. Tickets should be bought in advance. The National Opera Company has a more experimental repertoire and most of its operas are performed in Czech. To view a Czech opera, by Czech composers Smetana or Dvok, the National Theatre is your best opportunity. A lesser known opera company based at the Estates Theatre performs mainly classical, Italian operas in the original language. Opera tickets for top-price seats range from 1,000 CZK to 1,300 CZK which makes seeing an opera in Prague more accessible than most European cities. State Opera (Sttn Opera) North of the museum, along Wilsonova and next to the Parliament building, is the massive building of the Prague State Opera (Sttn opera). The State Opera was rst opened in 1888 as the Neues Deutches Theatre (as
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a Prague German stage with the performance of Wagners opera, The Mastersingers of Nrnberg). Shortly after this time we built our own national theatre. Bohemian-born composer Gustav Mahlar, brought trafc to a standstill while conducting the premiere of his Seventh Symphony. It is one of three important venues for opera in Prague, the others being the National Theatre and the Estates Theatre. Most State Opera performances are from the Italian repertoire those of Donizetti, Rossini, Verdi and Puccini with the occasional inclusion of Russian, German and French oeuvres (works of a composer) each season. At festive times, particularly leading up to Christmas, the Prague State Opera departs from opera and ballet to become the grand setting for a series of wonderful classical music concerts. The venue is extremely popular and advance booking is advisable and often essential. Among the exceptional artists who performed here were directors Gustav Mahler, Richard Strauss, Felix Mottl, Arthur Nikisch and Felix Weingartner, as well as soloists Anna Bahr-Mildenburg,
Berta Lauterer-Foerster, Maria Jeritza, Nellie Melba, Karl Burian, Enrico Caruso, Benjamino Gigli, Jan Kiepura, Richard Kubla, and Tino Pattiera. Advance tickets can be purchased through Bohemia Ticket and Ticketpro and range in price from 100 CZK to 1,150 CZK (100 CZK to 500 CZK for a ballet). The doors are open 10am-7pm Mon-Fri; Sat 9am-1pm. Performances usually begin at 7pm.
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sists of three art ensembles opera, ballet and drama which perform at three places: in the original building of The National Theatre, in The Estates Theatre and in The Kolowrat Theatre. Located at Nrodn tda 2, New Town. The box-ofce is open Mon-Sun 10am-6pm. Tickets cost about 1,200 CZK. Theatre Etiquette Whistling is not considered a positive form of applause: its equivalent to booing. Dressing up for the theatre is customary, but is no longer a strict rule. You should however, refrain from wearing trainers. When attending a classical concert or opera, on the other hand, you must be in formal dress.
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Estates Theatre The Estates Theatre is the oldest theatre in Prague, famed as the place where Mozart conducted the premiere of Don Giovanni on 29 October 1787. Mozartissimo a medley of highlights from several of Mozarts operas, including Don Giovanni is performed here several times a week in the summer; see their website for the exact performances showing; the rest of the year sees various opera, ballet and drama productions. The theatre is equipped for the hearing-impaired and has wheelchair access (wheelchair bookings can be made up to ve days in advance). The theatre is located at Ovocn trh 6 in Old Town. You can buy tickets up to 1,200 CZK from any National Theatre box ofce.
Image Theatre Come to the theatre where dancers will express their unspoken, disturbed emotions and overcome the laws of physics in front of your eyes. Music will bring the inanimate to life, tragedy will change into comedy and the unbelievable will become real. Moreover, your imagination will be fully awakened. Located in Pask 4 in Old Town. Performances start at 8pm. Tickets prices are generally around 450 CZK. National Marionette Theatre National Marionette Theatre has a long tradition in popular entertainment in Prague. Puppets and costumed actors perform classical operas like versions of Mozarts famous opera of operas, Don Giovanni, as well as some lighter fare like the enchanting story of The Magic Flute. Another interesting performance is the Puppet Gala Performance, a mix of the puppeteers nest works. This authentic theatre is located in Old Town at ateck 1. Come to see some of the great performances starting at 8pm.
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MUSEUMS
The National Technical Museum This houses exhibits from the sciences, like acoustics and astronomy, and also of means of transportation and time measurement. Address: Kosteln 42, Prague 7. Hours of operation are Tue-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat, Sun and holidays 10am-6pm. Wax Museum Prague There are over 60 wax gures of personalities of Czech and world history, politics, science, culture and sports. The museum has two branches. The Wax Museum of Czech History is located at Mosteck 18, Prague 1 and The Wax Museum of World Personalities is at Melantrichova 5, Prague 1. Both are open daily from 9am-8pm. Museum of Decorative Arts Here you will nd stories of materials, such as glass, ceramics, commercial art, furniture, textiles, books and placards. Location: 17. listopadu 2, Prague 1. They are open daily Tue 10am-7pm.
The Museum of Czech Cubism The poque of cubism within world culture applied mostly to paintings and sculptures its architectural primacy is in Prague. Located at the House at the Black Madonna, Ovocn trh 19, New Town. Open from 10am-6pm daily. The Lobkowicz Palace Built in 1570, this palace houses an exquisite collection of Czech history and old master paintings by Canaletto, Brueghel, Velzquez and others. You can admire there one of the most important collections of arms in Central Europe and original manuscripts by Mozart and Beethoven. They are open daily, 9am-5pm, except Mon.
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GALLERIES
Prague is lled with numerous amazing art galleries, which are often forgotten by tourists. If you are visiting for just a short time there might be other places on your list which you may want to visit rst, but some galleries might just be on the way when you stroll around, and many are admission free. The National Gallery comprises many buildings around Prague and is famous worldwide for its collections. Prague Castle Gallery Picture Gallery of Prague Castle (Obrazrna Praskho hradu) was founded in 1965. Today the gallery houses paintings from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The highlights of the gallery are: Guido Renis The Centaur Nessus Abducting Deianeira; Titians The Toilet of a Young Lady; and Rubens The Assembly of the Olympic Gods. There are also sculptures and paintings by Czech baroque artists and many of Rudolf IIs (1575-1611) best paintings. Address: Prague Castle Second Courtyard; Open: daily 10am-6pm; Admission: 100 CZK.
Kinsk Palace Palace host permanent collection of prints and drawings. Kinsky Palace was built between 1755 and 1765 by Anselmo Lurago from designs by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, it is the most beautiful Rococo building in Prague. In 1768 it was bought by Stepan Kinsky, an Imperial diplomat. In February 1948 Klement Gottwald proclaimed communist rule in Czechoslovakia from the palace balcony. Nowadays, the Kinsky palace belongs to the National Gallery. Address: Tnsk ulika 606/3; Old Town; Open: daily except Monday 10am-6pm; Admission: 100 CZK. St. Agnes Convent St. Agnes Convent hosts permanent rxhibition of Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe. Among the highlights are works by artists: the Master of the Vy Brod Altar, and Master Theodoric, Master of the Michle Madonna, Master Theodoric, Master of the Litomice Altar, Master of the Altar of the Knights of the Cross). Address: U milosrdnch 17, Josefov; Open: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm; Admission: 150 CZK.
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St Vitus Cathedral The spires of St Vitus Cathedral, an elegant but domineering French Gothic structure, soar above the ramparts. It is the countrys largest church, and contains numerous sidechapels, frescoes and tombstones, not forgetting the naves beautiful coloured stained-glass windows created by the famous Czech Art Nouveau artist, Alfons Mucha. It literally sparkles with all the nery inside. The most beautiful of the cathedrals numerous side-chapels contains the tomb of St Wenceslas, the Good King Wenceslas of the Christmas carol, which has become something of a pilgrimage site, and shows scenes from the life of Christ. The Coronation Chamber houses the Bohemian Crown Jewels, and the Royal Crypt is where most of the Kings and Queens of Bohemia have their nal place of rest (Charles IV, Wenceslas IV, George of Podbrady and Rudolf II). The southern entrance to the cathedral, the Golden Gate, is decorated with a richly gilded coloured mosaic representing the Last Judgement, dating from 1370, and it is one of the artistic treasures found in the Castle District. It is possible to climb the 96m-tall tower for magnicent views over
the city and clockworks. The towers Sigismund Bell, made in 1549, is Bohemias largest bell. Around the Castle Golden Lane is a series of small, colorful shops that originally served as housing for the palace guards the outstanding monument of St Georges Basilica; the Czech art museum, and a short walk away is Lobkowicz Palace Beyond Golden Lane, the Daliborka Tower is named after a nobleman who was imprisoned here on suspicion of complicity in a peasants revolt. In the Mihulka (Powder Tower), alchemists were once employed to discover the secret of turning base metals into gold. Theres also a Toy museum, which really has nothing to do with the castle, but contains some very interesting old and new toys. The changing of the
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palace guard is an entertaining affair (every hour on the hour at the main gate) a sort of poor mans version of Londons Buckingham Palace routine. History The castle dates back to the 9th century when Prince Boivoj founded and fortied a settlement here. During the 12th century, a Romanesque palace was built, and rebuilt in Gothic style, during Charles IV reign in the 14th century. The last reconstruction of the Royal palace was made under the rule of the Jagellons at the end of the 15th century. In that time the famous Vladislav Hall was built, constructed in late Gothic style (1497 to 1500, by the builder Benedikt Rejt). An enlargement of the castle took place in 16th century after a big re in 1541. The Spanish Hall in a new part of the castle was built in the reign of Rudolf 11, and it assumed its nal form later on, during the reign of Empress Maria Theresia (1743 1780). It is designed according to the plans of architect M. Pacassi. After World War 1, the interior and gardens of the castle were redesigned by architect J. Plenk.
Getting There on Foot As a starting point, we recommend the Metro station Malostransk, located just below Prague Castle. From there you will step up on the Old Castle Stairway (Star zameck schody) and directly to the castle gate. Another recommended option is from Lesser Town Square via Nerudova Street a bit of a steep walk too. You will end up in front of the main entrance to the Castle. This option is not suitable for less energetic seniors. Getting There by Tram If you prefer not to do such a steep walk up Old Castle Stairway, you can take either tram No.22 or No.23 up to the hill to the get off at the stop for Prask Hrad. Other tram stops include: Krlovsk letohrdek (Belveder) start with the Royal Garden, Belveder and Ballgame Hall, then cross the Deer Moat bridge to get to the Second Courtyard. The Royal Garden and Deer Moat are closed from November through March. Pohoelec walk to the Castle through Hradany and you will arrive at the main entrance.
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Entrance fees Entrance fees are required for a few selected areas, but visitors can walk freely through the grounds and even into the larger portion of the cathedral. A collective ticket can be purchased at the information ofce. Allow a minimum of four hours for a visit. Other information can be found on the ofcial website for Prague Castle. The neighborhood of Prague Castle is called Hradany. Long visit ticket Includes: Cathedral of St. Vitus, Old Royal Palace, permanent exhibition The Story of Prague Castle, St. Georges Basilica, Convent of St. George National Gallery, Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower, Prague Castle Picture Gallery, Powder Tower, Rosenberg Palace. Price: CZK 350.
ATTRACTIONS THE BEST TO SEE
Prague Castle Opening hours During the summer season (April September), the Castle complex is open daily from 5:00am to midnight. Places where tickets are required are open from 9am to 6pm. Prague Castle Gardens together with Deer Moat are open according to the months: April and October from 10am to 6pm; May and September from 9am to 7pm; August from 9am to 8pm; June and July from 9am to 9pm. During the winter season (October March), the Castle complex is open daily from 6am to 11pm. Places where tickets are required are open from 9am to 4pm. Prague Castle Gardens, including the Deer Moat and the Riding School Terrace, are closed. Prague Castle Tips Do not miss Golden Lane but, if you are tempted do some shopping there, be aware this is the most expensive shopping area in the whole of Prague followed by Pask Street. Dining or even lunch at Prague Castle can be very nice, but surely very expensive too. If you are visiting the castle with children, you might wish to visit the Toy Museum. The Information Center is located in the third courtyard.
Short visit ticket Includes: Cathedral of St. Vitus, Old Royal Palace, St. Georges Basilica, Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower Exhibition The Story of Prague Castle, Prague Castle Picture Gallery, Powder Tower, Rosenberg Palace, Great South Tower of Cathedral of St. Vitus. Price: CZK 250.
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Loreta
This pretty baroque shrine has been a place of pilgrimage since 1626, when it was endowed by a Bohemian noblewoman, Kateina of Lobkowicz. The Loreta shrine was inspired by a medieval legend. In 1278, so the story goes, the Virgin Marys house in Nazareth was miraculously transported by angels to Loreto in Italy and thus saved from the Indel. The Marian cult became an important propaganda weapon of the Counter-Reformation and, following the defeat of the Protestants at the Battle of the White Mountain in 1620, some 50 other Loreto shrines were founded in Bohemia and Moravia. The heart of the Loreta is the Santa Casa, a replica of the Virgins relocated house. Sumptuously decorated, it incorporates a beam and several bricks from the Italian original. On the silver altar (behind a grille) is a small ebony statue of the Virgin. The rich stucco reliefs, depicting scenes from the lives of the prophets, are by Italian artists. The much larger Church of the Nativity was designed by Kilian Dientzenhofer between 1734 and 1735, with ceiling frescoes by Vc-
lav Reiner and Johann Schopf. Less edifying are the gruesome remains of saints Felicissimus and Marcia, complete with wax death masks. The cloisters, originally 17th century but with an upper storey added by Dientzenhofer in the 1740s, once provided overnight shelter for pilgrims. In the corner chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows is a diverting painting of St Starosta, a bearded lady who prayed for facial hair to put off an unwanted suitor, only to be crucied by her father whose plans for her wedding were thwarted. The Loreta treasury has a famed collection of vestments and other religious objects, including a diamond monstrance made in Vienna in 1699, which glitters with 6,200 precious stones. Address: Loretnsk nmst 7, Hradany; Open Tue-Sun 9am12:15pm & 1pm-4:30pm.
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Strahov Monastery
Strahov monastery, was not much of a success until 1143, when a group of Premonstratensians settled here. The Premonstratensians are a Roman Catholic order of canons founded in 1120 by St. Norbert. They are also known as the Norbertians or White Canons. During communist times, the monastery was closed and many monks were imprisoned. Later after the communism regime collapsed, they returned here in 1990. The monastery area includes the Church of St. Roch, Church of Our Lady of Ascension, where Mozart is said to have played the organ in the church in 1787, Strahov Picture Gallery and the unique Strahov Library. The magnicent library is located in large halls and decorated with Baroque ceiling frescos. It is the largest monastic library in the country with two baroque halls and is more than 800 years old. The library contains more than 130,000 volumes, including 2,500 books published before the year 1500, along with 3,000 manuscripts. The oldest book is the 9th-century Strahov Gospel. Other works include those of famous
printers such as Christoffel Plantin from Antwerp. Theres a two-story high Philosophy Hall dating back to 1780 and its entire ceiling is covered with a delightful composition entitled The Spiritual Development of Mankind by Franz Maulbertsch. The lobby outside the hall contains a Cabinet of Curiosities which you simply must see. This corridor takes you to Theology Hall (with a curved ceiling in Baroque stucco work) dating from 1679, built by Giovanni Orsi. Theology Hall has walls lined with elaborately carved bookcases, stacked with precious volumes and manuscripts. Library Open: 9am-noon & 1-5pm; Admission: 80 CZK; Picture Gallery Open: 9am-noon & 12:30pm- 5pm; Admission: 60 CZK.
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Despite the initial outcry at the modern style of the sculpture, the statue stands as a symbol of Czech identity.
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Astronomical Clock
The most popular part of the tower is the town hall clock. Pragues Astronomical Clock is one of the oldest and most elaborate clocks ever built. The tower dates back to 1338, however the clock was rst installed in 1410; the clock was rebuilt by the Master Hanu in 1490. The clock is composed of three main components: the astronomical dial, representing the position of the sun and moon in the sky and displaying various astronomical details, The Walk of the Apostles, a clockwork hourly show of gures of the Apostles and other moving sculptures, and a calendar dial with medallions representing the months. You can you watch twelve apostles appear every hour from 9am to 9pm in its upper section. Huge crowds gather well in advance to watch this performance. The Prague Information Service (PIS) provides information about concerts, performances, and other happenings in the city. PIS also sells public transport tickets. Location: Old Town Hall; Open: 9am-7pm Apr-Oct, 9am6pm Nov-Mar.
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adorned with much sgrafti. The famous writer Franz Kafka lived there with his parents at the end of the 19th century. The house At the Minute was connected with the neighbouring Pecoldovsk house and house At the Cockerel, and it was added to the Prague Old Town City Hall complex. Stone Bell House is unique Town Palace with Original Gothic Appearance is perhaps the most attractive building in the Old Town Square. The Stone Bell House hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and also musical events run by the City Gallery of Prague. If you go from the square to Charles Bridge you will most likely pass through Karlova (Charles Street) as this is the most direct route. Look out for outstanding Baroque ClamGallas Palace. Named after the wealthy patron of the arts Vclav Gallas it was built by Johann Bernhard Fischer of Erlach (between 1713 and 1719). There are statues made by Matthias Bernhard Braun and a theatre where Beethoven performed some of his works. The palace has been restored and today it houses the Municipal Archives of Prague.
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s Wencesla
Square
Charles Bridge
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Charles Bridge
The 13th century Charles Bridge is usually packed with tourists and Czechs alike, especially during the spring and summer months. Charles Bridge surely ranks as the most important tourist attractions in the city and should be the rst item on your list of sights to see. Early morning is the best time to experience a less crowded walk, although a romantic evening walk through the impressively lit streets of Prague by night is nice too. Expect hundreds of souvenir stands as well as an endless variety of street musicians playing their hearts out for you as you stroll across. However, dont get too carried away by the pleasures because you might just have your pockets picked (actually, this is not a big danger just be aware of the risk and youll be ne). The famous Charles Bridge crosses the Vltava River in Prague. This solid-land connection made Prague important as a trade route between east and west Europe. The bridge was originally called the Stone Bridge or the Prague Bridge but has been the Charles Bridge since 1870.
King Charles IVs favorite architect and builder Peter Parl, originally built the present-day bridge. The initial idea was to build a functional construction for jousting tournaments, and for many years the only decoration on the bridge was a simple crucix, but later the desire of the Catholics for ornamentation resulted in 30 statues being built between 1600 to 1800 AD. Today most of the statues are copies, due to damage caused by various oods and catastrophes over the centuries. There are now 75 statues and perhaps the most interesting, and oldest, is that of John Nepomuk (number 8 from the right as you cross towards the castle). The Bridge, which is 516 meters (1,692 feet) long, contains 16 pillars and 3 bridge towers. One of the towers, the Old Town Bridge Tower, is considered to be the most beautiful bridge tower in Europe due to its rich sculptural decoration. Thirty sculptures decorating the bridge date back mainly from the baroque period from the 18th century. The most remarkable was one created by Maty Braun and E. M. Brokoff.
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Wenceslas Square
The south end of Na pkop meets Wenceslas Square (Vclvsk nmst) the 750-meter long and 60-meter wide boulevard. It was rst laid out over 600 years ago in the Charles IV period when it was used as a horse market. Since then, the square has been a regular parade ground for every kind of person, organization or political party known in the Czech Republic. The square can, and has before, comfortably held 400,000 people. In the upper part of the boulevard, the statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse can be seen. A few meters from the statue a plaque stands in memory of those who were killed during the communist period, including Jan Palach, a 20-year old student, who set re to himself in January 1969, in protest against the Soviet invasion, four months earlier. Jan Palach died three days later with 85% burns. 800,000 people followed the funeral. Following the collapse of the communist rule in December 1989, Vclav Havel and Alexander Dubek appeared on the balcony of number 36 to greet their ecstatic supporters. Palach and other victims of the regime are commemorated in a small
shrine in front of Josef Myslbeks equestrian statue of St. Wenceslas. Today, Wenceslas Square is a hustle and bustle of commerce. It really comes alive after dark, when its restaurants, cinemas and nightclubs attract tourist crowds. The major historical sites are all within walking distance of the street and are worth walking step-by-step. At the northern end of the square, you can nd the Neo-Renaissance National Museum. Another signicant building is Koruna Palace a covered shopping arcade with a stunning glass dome dating from 1911.
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Municipal House
Pragues most exuberant and sensual building stands on the site of the Royal Court, seat of Bohemias kings from 1383 to 1483, which was demolished at the end of the 19th century. Between 1906 and 1912, the Municipal House was built in its place a lavish joint effort of around 30 leading artists of the day, creating a cultural center that was the architectural climax of the Czech National Revival. Restored in the 1990s, after decades of neglect during the communist era, the entire building was a labor of love, every detail of design and decoration carefully considered, every painting and sculpture loaded with symbolism. The mosaic above the entrance, Homage to Prague, is set between sculptures representing the oppression and rebirth of the Czech people; other sculptures ranged along the top of the facade represent history, literature, painting, music and architecture. You pass beneath a wrought-iron and stained-glass canopy into an interior that is art nouveau down to the doorknobs (you can look around the lobby and the downstairs bar for free). The restaurant and the caf
Municipal House
anking the entrance are like walkin museums of art nouveau design. Upstairs are half a dozen sumptuously decorated halls and assembly rooms that you can visit by guided tour (90 minutes, three or four per day), which can be booked at the buildings information center (through the main entrance, and around to the left of the stairs). First stop on the tour is Smetana Hall, Pragues biggest concert hall, with seating for 1,200 people ranged beneath an art nouveau glass dome. The stage is
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framed by sculptures representing the Vyehrad legend (to the right) and Slavonic dances (to the left). Several impressive ofcial apartments follow, but the highlight of the tour is the octagonal Lord Mayors Hall (Primatorsk sl), whose windows overlook the main entrance. Every aspect of its decoration was designed by Alfons Mucha, who also painted the superbly moody murals adorning the walls and ceiling. Above you is an allegory of Slavic Concord, with intertwined gures representing the various Slavic peoples watched over by the Czech eagle. Figures from Czech history and mythology, representing the civic virtues, occupy the spaces between the eight arches, including Jan Hus as Spravedlnost (justice), Jan ika as Bojovnost (military prowess) and the Chodov (medieval Bohemian border guards) as beady-eyed Ostraitost (vigilance). On 28 October 1918, an independent Czechoslovak Republic was declared in Smetana Hall, and in November 1989 meetings took place here between the Civic Forum and the Jake regime. The Prague Spring (Prask jaro)
music festival always opens on 12 May, the anniversary of Smetanas death, with a procession from Vyehrad to the Municipal House followed by a gala performance of his symphonic cycle M Vlast (My Country) in Smetana Hall. The public areas are open 7:30am to 11pm. Guided tours are available for 270 CZK for adults and 220 CZK for children.
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inscribed on the walls were unfortunately erased. Address: irok 3. The Old Jewish Cemetery with a tomb of Rabbi Lw. Address: entrance on irok. Klaus Synagogue and Ceremonial Hall both host exhibitions on Jewish Traditions and customs such as birth, circumcision, bar mitzvah and marriage. Maisel Synagogue history of Jews in Bohemia and Moravia. Address: Maiselova 10.
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Spanish Synagogue
The Spanish Synagogue the history of Jews since emancipation to the present. Address: Vzesk 1. Jubilee Synagogue situated outside the Jewish Quarter, quite near the main railway station. The Jubilee Synagogue, was built in 1905-06 in Art Nouveau and pseudo-Moorish styles as a compensation for demolished synagogues in the Jewish Quarter.
Mysterious Jewish Town Tales, legends and other such mysteries have been woven around a good many places in Prague. One of the most interesting is about Golem. It is said that in the attic of the Old-New Synagogue, the Golem is hidden a mighty being made of clay that was, according to legend, created by Rabbi Loew to protect the Jewish Town. Golem is inextricably linked to the mysterious atmosphere of old Prague. If you want to learn more about this, join us for the Jewish Tour while visiting Prague. Ticket sales: U Starho Hbitova 3a, Josefov; Ordinary ticket adult/child 300/200 CZK, combined ticket 480/320 CZK; Open 9am-6pm Sun-Fri Apr-Oct, to 4:30pm Sun-Fri Nov-Mar, closed on Jewish Holidays and on Saturdays, because of the Sabbath.
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Pask Street
Pask Street, the ultimate bourgeois avenue, thanks to its location, has always belonged to the streets with a high concentration of luxurious shops, swanky cafs, restaurants and bars. This street runs off the Old Town Square to the Vltava River, it bisects the Jewish quarter and is an easy walk from some of the best ve star hotels in Prague.
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Petn Hill
Only a stone throw away from the Prague Castle is Petn Hill; perfect for a summer walk away from the bustle of tourists. Part of the land is set aside for an apple and a pear orchard from which the fruit can be freely picked from the trees. Much of the stone used in building the major sights in Prague was quarried out of Petn, however, today this is not noticeable beneath the trees and gardens. The observation tower and a manicured garden dominate the summit, and halfway down is the famous restaurant Vinrna Nebozzek where you can enjoy a meal with a perfect view of Prague. Dont forget the hall of mirrors for a new and varied perspective of yourself The Petn Hill Maze. Originally a pavilion of the Czech Tourist Club at the 1891 Universal Exhibition, it was transferred later to the Petn Hill and turned into a mirror maze. It is a favorite spot for children. The hill is 318 meters or 1,043 feet high. For those less energetic, a funicular tram will save you trouble of a climbing (for price of a normal tram ticket). Petn Hill is also easily accessible from Hradany and Strahov.
Funicular Railway to Petn Hill Just opposite of the tram stop jezd (trams 12, 22, 23) in Lesser Town, the railway runs daily from 9am to 11:30pm (11:20pm from November to March) in 10-15 min. intervals. The charming Victorian Funicular is one of Pragues most popular sights. The original stations of jezd and Lanov drha were built in 1891 for the same exposition that built Petn watchtower. It has since been rebuilt several times, and actually this latest restoration, surprisingly before the end of Communism, is one of the most successful.
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Petn to Strahov a walk with great views Take a funicular railway up to Pragues best picnic spot, Petn Hill, which is also very popular with joggers, dog-walkers, lovers and families. From here you have magnicent vistas across the city of 100 spires, and the panorama gets better as you follow the trail down and around to Strahov Monastery. Petn Look-Out Tower An iron tower 60m (196 feet) high, was built in 1891 by F. Pril for the Jubilee Exhibition as a copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It has 299 steps that lead up to the top platform. Mirror Maze Fun for all located on the Petn Hill. A pavilion built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition, was later transferred to Petn. There is a dioramic picture commemorating the battle of students with Swedes on Charles Bridge in 1648 and a later on constructed mirror labyrinth. Nebozzek Restaurant The food isnt that great but the views from the terrace are spectacular. Restaurant is often full, so to ens-
ure seating reserve a table. Petnsk sady, Mal Strana can be reached by funiculars second stop. Vrtba Garden Vrtba Garden is situated on the slope of Petn Hill and is one of the most precious and beautiful of Pragues Baroque gardens.
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Infant Jessus
frocks used to dress the Infant; shops in the street nearby sell copies of the wax gure. Looking at all this, you cant help thinking about the Second Commandment (Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image) and the objectives of the Reformation. Jan Hus must be spinning in his grave. Address: Karmelitsk 9, Lesser Town; Open: church 8:30am-7pm Mon-Sat & 8:30am-8pm Sun, museum 9:30am-5:30pm Mon-Sat & 1-6pm Sun; Admission free.
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angels and cherubs was made by Peter and Richard Prachner in 1765. Inside is Baroque Organ of 1746 played by W. A. Mozart, when he was in Prague, four years later it was played at a funeral Mass in his memory. St. Nicholas Church is also very popular concert venue during the summer. Near of this church you can take a horse-driven cab and make a tour around the Lesser Town Square. Address: Lesser Town Square 38; Open: 9am-5pm Mar-Oct, to 4pm Nov-Feb; Admission: 70 CZK.
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Nerudova Street
If you head west of Lesser Quarter Square to Prague Castle you will pass through beautiful picturesque Nerudova Street named after Jan Neruda. He was a famous Czech poet who lived at the house called At the Two Suns (which is no.47). All the houses in Prague used to be marked by house signs until 1770 when the new way of numbering was introduced. The houses in Nerudova Street bear an extraordinary selection of heraldic beasts and house signs. Climbing up this steep street you will notice The Red Eagle, The Golden Horseshoe, The Green Lobster or The White Swan. Many houses are now used as coffee houses, wine bars and pubs. Several large Baroque palaces are also situated in this street, for example, Thun Palace (the seat of the Italian Embassy) and Morzin Palace (the Romanian Embassy). The facade of Morzin Palace is decorated with two huge statues of Moors holding a round balcony. Another impressive facade belongs to the Theatine Church of Our Lady. The Order of Theatines was founded during counter-reformation times.
Lennon Wall
The Lennon Wall was an ordinary wall in Prague, but since John Lennons death Pragues youth have covered it with John Lennon inspired grafti and Beatles lyrics. In 1988 the wall was a source of irritation for the then a communist regime of Gustav Husk. Young Czechs would write grievances on the wall and a government report written of it at this time led to a clash between hundreds of students and security police on the nearby Charles Bridge. The wall continuously undergoes change and the original portrait of Lennon is long lost under layers of spray-paint. It is located at Velkopevorsk nmst (Grand Priory Square), Lesser Town.
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Dancing House
The Dancing House, nicknamed Fred and Ginger is an ofce building in downtown Prague. It was built in 1997 by Croatianborn Czech architect Vlado Miluni in co-operation with American architect Frank Gehry. It was built on a vacant riverfront plot, next to a building owned by Czech playwright and former president Vclav Havel, whose strong support for avant-garde architecture was instrumental in getting the controversial design approved and built. Known in Czech as Tanc dm (the Dancing House), the house vaguely resembles a pair of dancers and stands out, without clashing with, the Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings that Prague is
famous for. There is a highly-rated French restaurant on the roof with magnicent views. The buildings tenants include several multinational rms. Location: junction where Resslova meets the river at Ranovo nbe 80. Restaurant is located on the 7th oor; Open: noon-2:30pm & 6:30-10:30pm Mon-Sat. The two or three-course lunch menu (450/550 CZK) is reasonable priced.
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Vyehrad
Vyehrad, sometimes referred to as Pragues second castle, is another of the Czech Republics ne castles. It was built in the 10th century on a hill over the Vltava River and within the castle is the Church of St. Paul and St. Peter, as well as Vyehrad Cemetery, containing the remains of many famous people from Czech history. The castles centerpiece is the church, whose blackened shape stands grandly upon the hill overlooking the Vltava River. Every inch of the interior is immaculately covered with decorations much like those on the pages of an illustrated manuscript, thus making it one of the most beautiful interiors in Prague. A small fee is required for this viewing pleasure. The Rotunda of St. Martin, dating from the 11th century, can be viewed a short distance from the church towards Vyehrad Metro Station. It is one of the original rotundas of the city. Vyehrad is an alluring and pleasant walk lasting about 2 hours. Even though it is situated close to city-center, you will be in quiet surroundings out of trafc. Due to its
position on a high rock just above the Vltava River, it offers nice panoramic views over part of Prague. The gardens surrounding Vyehrad Church are peaceful and manicured for beauty. There are some nice views of the Vltava, a couple of restaurants to visit and some enormous statues depicting gures in Czech mythology to examine. Any time of day is a good time to visit. Take a morning off from sightseeing and bring a picnic lunch; few areas in Prague are as quiet, green and peaceful. How to get to Vyehrad? It is easily and quickly reachable from the city-center by Metro line C to station Vyehrad (two stations from the National Museum). From there, it is about a 10-minute walk to Vyehrads main gate. The tour of the complex takes about 2 or 3 hours.
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CITY TOURS
Taking a walking tour around the city of Prague is a great opportunity to see the sights and to get to know the city. It can also lead to lots of hidden places that you may not have otherwise found without a guide. Prague walking tours are an excellent way to become acquainted with the citys rich history and architectural beauty, especially if youre visiting Prague for the rst time. Most of our walking tours leave daily from the Old Town Square in the city-center. If youd rather not walk, we also offer some Prague sightseeing tours where our coach will pick you up from your hotel and take you around the city in comfort. If youre on a budget, consider taking our basic free tour that will show you the citys main highlights.
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The second half starts at the beautiful baroque library of Klementinum. We cross the Charles Bridge coming into Lesser Town Square, the highlight of which is the great St. Nicholas Church. After a relaxing visit to the church, we climb 200 steps leading to the Hradansk Square and Prague Castle, one of the biggest fortresses in Europe. This city within the city hides the Schwarzenberg Palace, Archbishops Palace, Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George ... and the greatest architectural treasure St. Vitus Cathedral. The walk nishes next to the Old Royal Palace with a charming view of Prague, the city of a hundred spires. It is really easy to walk, simple to understand and great to enjoy!
Tour Details
TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily at 11:00am. Guided tour spoken only in English. PRICES: Free. If you use a transfer from the airport, booked through Prague Airport Transfers, our chauffeur will automatically give you a transport voucher. All you need to do is to bring your voucher and show it to our tour guide. BOOKING INFORMATION: No pre-booking is necessary. Just show up 10 minutes prior to the tour start time. Where does the tour nish? It nishes at Prague Castle. Our tour guide will gladly navigate you back to the city-center or another place you wish to go.
The place on Charles Bridge, where St. John of Nepomuk was thrown in the river in the year 1383, is connected with a nice legend. Touch the brassy cross here - and whatever your wish, it will come true! CITY TOURS
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After a guided walking tour of approximately 75 minutes, we will make our way to the Vltava River and board a boat where you can rest and relax while admiring Prague from a different viewpoint. Apart from the bridge connecting both river banks, you will see the well-known Charles Bridge from the boat. After the boat ride, we will continue with a pleasant walk through the Jewish Town to the Old Town Square, where you will see the Prague Astronomical Clock, Tn Church where the tour ends. TOUR DATE/TIME: Two 3.5 hour tours daily starting at 10am and 2pm. PRICES: 850 CZK per adult. INCLUDES: Bus and boat transportation. Free pickup from your hotel is optional.
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93 www.prague-guide.co.uk Address: Na Pkop (next to the Municipal House); Open 10am-10pm Apr-Sep, to 8pm Oct & Mar, to 6pm Nov-Feb; Admission 70 CZK.
CITY TOURS
Powder Gate
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TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily starting at 1pm from April 1st to November 2nd. From November 3rd to March 31st, only on Wed, Fri, Sat, and Sun at 12 noon. PRICES: 650 CZK. INCLUDES: Boat cruise, one welcome drink and lunch buffet.
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Ghost Walk
(one hour tour) This Prague walking tour will reveal the legends behind the citys so-called ghosts, as well as the secrets hidden in Pragues winding alleys and dark corners.
TOUR DATE/TIME: Starts at 6pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. PRICES: 690 CZK. INCLUDES: One beer at each pub (for a total of three beers) and a traditional Czech dinner.
As you walk, your guide will tell you ghost stories dating back to a time when the city was lled with knights and alchemists, exploring the folklore and history of Prague and learning the secret symbolism contained within the architecture. During this 1-hour evening tour, hear stories of those buried alive, the infamous execution, traces of secret societies, the miraculous Madonna. TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily starting at 6:45pm. PRICES: 300 CZK per person. INCLUDES: English-speaking guide for this walking tour.
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DAY TRIPS
Most mentioned destinations can be easily reached on day trips from Prague. Beyond Prague lies a green hinterland of rolling hills, medieval castles surrounded by forests, and pictureperfect cities, towns and villages, many dating back for centuries. While these areas were originally reserved for kings and aristocrats as retreats from the big-city, they are now enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Reaching the rustic areas is easily accomplished by either hiking or biking the trails leading into the hinterland or going by canoe down the rivers. Castles abound and include: Karltejn Castle, originally built by Charles IV to house his treasury; Konopit Chateau, Archduke Ferdinands retreat whose assassination started World War I; Lobkowicz familys Mlnk Chateau. It overlooks Labe and Vltava Rivers and has a vineyard that has produced grapes for centuries. The area is also rich with interesting medieval towns, including: Litomice with its Gothic and Renaissance houses. Kutn Hora an former silver mining town positioned on a hilltop. Along with it collection of exquisite baroque statues it claims fame to a classic cathedral. esk Krumlov a castle to fulll our dreams. West of Prague, you can soak in the soothing natural thermal springs of Karlovy Vary or Marinsk Lzn. This area produces some of the nest glass and porcelain pieces in the world. Head north out of Prague and you enter the side of the Republic with a dark past the holocaust. Located here are two painful reminders Lidice and Terezin. Lidice was destroyed by the Nazis in vengeance for Reichsprotektor Reinhard Heydrichs assassination. Terezn was a former Czech Jew concentration camp. One-hundred forty thousand passed through here, but fewer than 11% survived until the end of the war.
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Hlubok Castle
When visiting esk Krumlov there are quite a few options for combining your trip with a visit to another city. The most popular choice is just stopping in Hlubok Castle.
Some sights outside of Prague are different, if not unique. Take the Konopit Chateau for example. Here you can witness the hunting obsession of Archduke Ferdinad by touring the Trophy Corridor and Chamois Room and see the thousands of stuffed heads, antlers and skulls of his trophies. And then there is Kutn Hora. Visiting here gives you an opportunity to explore a medieval silver mine. Don a helmet and light and get started! Finally, a bizarre experience is visiting the Sedlec Ossuary at Kutn Hora where your spine will tingle looking at the decorations have been made out of the bones of 40,000 people.
DAY TRIPS
WE PROVIDE TWO KINDS OF DAY TRIPS: Regular-organized held only at certain times and dates, shared with others, guided and inclusive of all fees. Flexible-private on demand anytime you wish, private, exclusive of entrance fees and guide.
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Kutn Hora
(5.5-hour tour) A medieval center of silver-mining, it was the second richest town of the Bohemian Kingdom. The variety of Kutn Hora architectural monuments and the well preserved structure of the town-center reect its ancient fame and wealth, which has lasted until the present day. During our walk, well visit the Gothic cathedral of St. Barbara and the Italian Court originally a Royal Mint. No less admirable are the other beautiful Gothic, renaissance and baroque burgher houses and the unique stone well from the 15th century.
Italian Court
TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily starting at 1pm. PRICES: 990 CZK per person. INCLUDES: Entrance fees to St. Barbaras Cathedral, the Italian Court and Sedlec Ossuary. Optional free pickup from your hotel.
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Kutn Hora
(ve-hour private tour) This towns increasing wealth and prosperity from silver mining led to an architectural boom in the town and gave rise to the construction of many beautiful monuments St. Barbara Cathedral The Italian Court with the Royal Mint The Stone House and other Gothic and Renaissance landmarks. A uniquely amazing sight is the baroque ossuary in nearby Sedlec, decorated with the bones of some 40,000 people. The decorations even include a human bone chandelier.
TOUR DATE/TIME: Recommended pick-up time: from 9am to 2pm. Free time at the destination amounts to 2.5 hours, which is enough time to see the city on foot. PRICES: Prices shown are for a whole group. 1-4 persons 2,550 CZK. 5-8 persons 3,200 CZK. EXCLUDES: Tour Guide and entrance fees to St Barbara Cathedral, the Italian Court and Ossuary.
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Karlovy Vary
(9.5-hour tour) This spa towns history goes back to the 14th century, the time of Charles IV. Such celebrities as Russian tzar Peter the Great or worldfamous poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe praised the healing effects of the towns local mineral springs. This town is also famous for the production of world-famous Bohemian crystal Moser, for local china production known as Karlovarsk porceln (porcelain of Karlovy Vary) and for the production of a delicious herb spirit called Becherovka.
Baroque colonnade
TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily starting at 8:45am. PRICES: 1,590 CZK per person. INCLUDES: Fully-guided tour, lunch and Moser glass factory tour.
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Karlovy Vary
(seven or nine-hour private tour) A wonderful, leisurely walking tour around the city awaits you in Karlovy Vary. Admire the historical buildings and pamper your body and soul by soaking in the naturally heated healing mineral water (bring your swim suit). After a soothing soak, dry off and visit the Moser Glass Factory with its famed souvenirs produced by local porcelain craftsmen, taste the Czech traditional liquor Becherovka, and eat some of the regions famous hot wafes. While walking on the promenade, stop for lunch at one of the typical (and best) bath house restaurants or cafeterias in the region.
TOUR DATE/TIME: Recommended pick-up time: from 7am to 1pm. There are two different lengths of tours one seven hours in duration, and the other nine hours. With the short tour, there are three hours of free time at the destination, and with the longer tour there are ve hours of free time. 7-hour tour: 1-4 persons 3,500 CZK. 5-8 persons 4,375 CZK. 9-hour tour: 1-4 persons 3,900 CZK. 5-8 persons 4,950 CZK. EXCLUDES: Tour guide and entrance fees.
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esk Krumlov
(nine-hour tour) This historical center or medieval town is formed of narrow and winding little streets with a number of Gothic, renaissance and baroque houses that originated as mansions of noble families, such as the Romberks, the Schwarzenbergs and the Eggenbergs. You will walk through the town accompanied by our guide and have lunch in a medieval tavern. In the summer months, a visit to the local castle is included.
TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily at 8:45am. PRICES: 1,890 CZK per person. INCLUDES: Lunch and entrance fees and a free optional pickup from your hotel.
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esk Krumlov
(8.5- or 11-hour private tour) This picturesque historical town in southern Bohemia, tinged with romance, has been justiably the second most visited in the Czech Republic. The Krumlov castle, the magnicent Church of St Vitus, the famous Hall of Masks, the unique Baroque theatre, the chateau garden with a Rococo fountain, Barbers Bridge, the Alchemists Homes, the Eggenberg Brewery, the Crafts Museum, and the wooden river rafts are just some of the main attractions you will see in this quaint red-roofed town. The city caters to visitors all year round, and can easily be visited at any time of the year (though in the winter months the castle interiors are closed).
TOUR DATE/TIME: Recommended pick-up time: from 7am to 1pm. There are two different lengths of tours one is 8.5 hours in duration, and the other is 11 hours. PRICES: Prices quoted are for a whole group. 8.5 hour tour: 1-4 persons 4,400 CZK. 5-8 persons 5,500 CZK. 11 hour tour: 1-4 persons 4,950 CZK. 5-8 persons 6,100 CZK. EXCLUDES: Tour guide and any entrance fees. Castle entrance fee varies from 35 CZK to 300 CZK per person.
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Terezn Memorial
Terezn
(four-hour tour) If you like the history of World War II and the holocaust, this tour is for you. The former military fort of Terezn was built in the 18th century by Emperor Joseph II and will always be connected with the history of World War II. Better known as the Big Fort, the town of Terezn itself was used as transit camp for Jews from all over Europe and at the same time during visits of the
International Red Cross Organization it was misused for Nazi promotion purposes. The small Fort Terezn was a cruel prison of the Gestapo the Reichs secret police. TOUR DATE/TIME: Daily starting at 9am. PRICES: 1,150 CZK per person. INCLUDES: Free pickup from your hotel (optional) and all entrance fees.
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FLEXIBLE-PRIVATE EXCURSION
Terezn
(four-hour private tour) More than 140,000 Jewish people were imprisoned here by the Nazis during World War II. At the end of the war, only 17,247 had survived. A narrated video all about the complex of the former Nazi concentration camp will be shown, including authentic personal memories, and descriptions of chilling experiences and episodes from Terezns grim history. You will also visit the Ghetto Museum and the Small Fortress, which has an exhibition. TOUR DATE/TIME: TRecommended pick-up time: from 8am to 2pm. Free time at destination: 2 hrs 30 min (tour of Terezn memorial complex takes about 1 hr 30 min to 2 hours). PRICES: Prices shown are for a whole group. 1-4 persons 2,000 CZK. 5-8 persons 2,550 CZK. EXCLUDES: Memorial tour guide and entrance fees. Terezin Memorial entrance fee is 200 CZK and is paid directly by the customer.
Memorial to the Holocaust
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REGULAR-ORGANIZED EXCURSION
Pilsner Urquell Brewery
(8- to 9-hour tour) This town is as old as its beer. Our tour starts with a visit to the local museum, which has exhibits on the trades, guilds and beer brewing history. Later, we will have lunch in the local beer restaurant, Spilka, which is renowned for its traditional Czech cuisine and Pilsner beer, fresh on tap. After lunch, we will tour the authentic locations where this renowned beer has been brewed for ages. You will see the brewing room, the malt-house, the lager cellars all the places associated with fresh brewed beer tasting. In brief this tour is packed with awesome experiences!
TOUR DATE/TIME: This tour starts at 9am and only operates on Wed. and Sat. PRICES: 1,790 CZK per person. INCLUDES: Lunch and entrance fee and optional pickup from your hotel.
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FLEXIBLE-PRIVATE EXCURSION
Karltejn
(four-hour private tour) This charming Gothic castle was founded in 1348, built by the Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV as a place for safekeeping of the royal treasures. As you approach Karltejn village, you can enjoy great views of Karltejn and the surrounding countryside. After you arrive, you can admire the castles stunning interior and have lunch at one of the great local village pubs. With an average of 300,000 visitors a year it is prime choice between visitors to Prague when they thinking where to go for a day trip.
TOUR DATE/TIME: Recommended pick-up time is from 9am to 2pm, except Mondays when the castle is closed (as well as during the winter months of January and February). 1-4 persons 1,550 CZK. 5-8 persons 2,000 CZK. EXCLUDES: Tour Guide and entrance fees are not included. Castle entrance fee starts at 250 CZK for a guided 50 to 60-minute tour.
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Please be at the boat departure pier at least 10 minutes before boat departure time. The boat operator is called Premiant and the boat name is Classic River.
you are on the river tour or at 6:45pm for dinner cruise. This is also an optional bus pickup point for all shared excursions if you choose not to be picked up at your hotel, and meeting point for Beer and Ghost Tour.
Advance Booking
Do I need to pre-book any of those tours? Yes (except our free tour), we strongly recommend making a booking early. Please call us toll-free on: 800 870 888 (or +420 222 554 211).
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Nice to meet you T m (tye-shee mye) How much? Kolik? (kolik) How long? Jak dlouho? (yak dloh-ho) Where is ? Kde je ? (gde ye) Id like Chtl bych (khtyel bikh) I do not understand Nerozumm (nerozoomeem) I dont speak Czech Nemluvm esky (Neh-mloo-veem cheskee) What time is it? Kolik je hodin? (kolik ye hodeen) Can I have a ? Mohl(a) bych dostat ? (mo-hla bikh dostat) What is it? Co je to? (tso ye to) How are you? Jak se mte? (yak-se mah-te?) Beer Pivo (pivo) To your health (cheers) Na zdrav (nah zdrah-vee) Bon appetite Dobrou chu (do-brooh khutye) The bill, please. Prosm, et. (pro-seem oo-chet) Please; youre welcome Prosm (proseem) Restroom Toaleta (toh-ah-lehta) Waitress! Sleno (slech-no) Waiter! Pane vrchn (pane vrkh-nyee!) Restaurant Restaurace (rehs-tau-rahtseh) Shop Obchod (ob-khod) Street Ulice (oo-leetseh) Police Policie (poleetsee-eh) Hospital Nemocnice (neh-mots-nitseh) Train Station Ndra (nah-drazhyee) Airport Letit (leh-teesh-tyeh) 1 Jedna (yed-na) 2 Dv (dvye) 3 Ti (trzi) 4 tyi (chti-rzhi) 5 Pt (pyet) 6 est (shest) 8 Osm (osm) 7 Sedm (sedm) 9 Devt (dev-yet) 10 Deset (des-et)
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DISCLAIMER
This book has been written to provide information to help you visit Prague. Every effort has been made to make this book as complete and accurate as possible. However, there may be mistakes in typography or content. Also, this book contains information on seeing Prague, but only up to the publishing date. Therefore, this report should be used as a guide not as the ultimate source of Prague tourist information. The purpose of this book is to educate. The author and publisher does not warrant that the information contained in this book is fully complete and shall not be responsible for any errors or omissions. The author and publisher shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this book.
Discover Prague! An Insiders Guide to Visiting Prague is published by: Prague Airport Transfers s.r.o. Copyright 2011 Prague Airport Transfers s.r.o. All rights are reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the written permission of the author, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review.
2nd EDITION Published November 2011
Mapov podklady: Sluby cestovnho ruchu a kartograe, s.r.o., I: 60915790, info@scrk.cz, www.scrk.cz Veker reprodukce map nebo jejich st jakoukoliv formou jsou mon pouze s pedchozm psemnm souhlasem dodavatele mapovch podklad.
1 10 6 Dtenice
Karlovy Vary
Lidice
PRAGUE
14 Popovice 3 Kutn Hora 7 Konopit 19
Olomouc
Velk
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Plze 5
Karltejn
15 Jindichv Hradec 13
Romberk esk Budjovice
20
Hlubok 16
Brno
esk Krumlov
19 20
Terezn, 63km, 50min Lidice, 26km, 35min Kutn Hora, 71km, 1hr 15min Karlovy Vary, 127km, 1hr 50min Plze, 92km, 1hr 05min Dtenice, 85km, 1hr 10min Konopit, 47km, 35min Karltejn, 41km, 45min Kivoklt, 55km, 55min Mlad Boleslav, 66km, 50min Nibor, 40km, 40min esk Krumlov, 179km, 2hr 40min esk Budjovice, 156km, 2hr 10min Velk Popovice, 27km, 25min Jindichv Hradec, 153km, 1hr 45min Hlubok, 148km, 2hr 5min Romberk, 200km, 3hr Marinsk Lzn, 170km, 1hr 55min Olomouc, 281km, 2hr 40min Brno, 206km, 1hr 50min
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17
* Times and estimated distances are for one way transfers from/to prague downtown.
CHEAP TAXI
TO THE AIRPORT
TAXI max. 4pax 550 CZK MINIBUS max. 8pax 780 CZK SHUTTLE 1pax 290 CZK
Call us toll-free on 800 870 888 or +420 222 554 211
between 7am to midnight, daily. You can also book online at website.
WWW.PRAGUE-AIRPORT-TRANSFERS.CO.UK