Copy of Prague Walking Tour
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Hotel U Zlata Studne
Contact:
- 420 2 5701 1213
- visit website
Location:
- U Zlaté studně 166
- Prague,Hla11900
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Map
Description:
Arguably the greatest accommodation in Prague, this hotel rests in the shadow of Prague Castle and is adorned with terraced gardens on all sides. The Restaurant U Zlate Studne overlooks the red tiled rooftops of the Lesser Side and an upper terrace fit for a king. This hotel has a total of 20 unique rooms span the 4 floor building.
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Wenceslas Square
Contact:
- +420 (0)2 2171 4444 (Tourist Information Centre)
Location:
- Václavské námestí 68
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
Historically, Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske Namesti) has had many faces. Originally the central horse market in Prague, it later became a hub for political demonstrations (exemplified by the monument to local students who committed suicide in the square in protest of the Soviet invasion of Prague) and local celebrations (such as of major sporting victories). More like a long boulevard than an actual square, the Wenceslas Square of today is lined with restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs, and shops. At the top of the square, you'll find the square's namesake and Czech hero, St. Wenceslas, seated valiantly atop his horse. Behind him lies the National Museum and, just next to that, the Prague State Opera.
Author note:
Start the Museum end of the square at the statue of the great king‚ and wander down the famous square checking out the old and new buildings. This isn't the oldest or the most beautiful part of the city‚ but it is replete with history. Imagine the tanks in '68‚ or the hoards of students looking up at Havel in the window on the eve of the Velvet Revolution in 1989. It's best not to have a plan here. Just wander around‚ grab a chlebicky (open faced sandwich) or two and find your way to the far end of the square.
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Stavovske Divadlo (Estates Theater)
Contact:
- +420 224 227 981
- visit website
Location:
- Železná 540/11
- (at the bottom of Wenceslas Square, near Mustek metro stop)
- Prague,Bohemia110 00
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Map
Description:
At the time when it was opened, in 1783, the classicist Estates Theater was called Count Nostitz's Theatre, after the aristocrat who had it built. It was part of 18th century enlightenment principles, which saw theaters as demonstrations of a nation's cultural standards. In 1798 the Czech Estates bought Count Nostitz's theater, re-naming it the Theater of the Estates (Stavovske Divadlo). It was for a time dedicated to showing exclusively Czech performances until 1862, when it was taken over by a German ensemble and re-named the Royal Provincial German Theater. Finally, in 1920, it again became the Theater of the Estates and, except for a brief time during WWII, has maintained this historic name. Although there were some complications, Czech performances took over the stage and this became a place for Czech people to enjoy high art. Here, Mozart premiered two operas, Don Giovanni and La Clemenza di Tito. Still intact, the Estates Theater is Prague's most beautiful theater and experiencing a performance here is a true delight.
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Czech National Bank
Contact:
- +420 224 411 111
- visit website
Location:
- Senovážné nám. 30
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
The banking house, designed by František Roith, was built for Živnostenská banka from 1935 to 1942 on the site of the original Živnostenská banka building (built in 1900) and neighboring hotels. The Roith building has been selected for registration in the National Directory of Historical Monuments. It has been used by the State Bank of Czechoslovakia and the Czech National Bank since 1950. No substantial repairs have been made on the building in more than fifty years.
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Czech Press Photo
Contact:
- +420 2 2232 2254
- visit website
Location:
- Maiselova 2
- Maiselova 2
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
From the ravages of war to the heart-stopping action of sport, photojournalists capture moments powerful enough to change nations. This exhibition of hundreds of award-winning Czech press photographs shows off the powerful and effective talent of many of the country's homegrown photojournalists. The moving images taken from the pages of Prague's prime magazines and newspapers document many facets of Czech life, from sports and leisure to politics and conflict. Admission is free.
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Jewish Museum in Prague
Contact:
- +420 2 2274 9211
- visit website
Location:
- U Staré školy 1
- Prague,Bohemia110 00
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Map
Description:
The Jewish Museum in Prague allows Central European Jews to celebrate their heritage, and serves as an important education in Prague's history for any visitor to the city. The museum has survived Nazi occupation and the Communist regime since its establishment in 1906. The museum has been sustained by its commitment to Jewish heritage and community. It houses an extraordinary collection of Judaic art and artifacts from Central Europe, and operates public exhibitions in historical sites around the city of Prague, such as the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Maisel Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue (The), the Klausen Synagogue, the Jewish Ceremonial Hall, and the Spanish Synagogue.
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Josefov
Contact:
- +420 2 2171 4444
- visit website
Location:
- Next to Old Town Square
- Prague,Bohemia110 00
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Map
Description:
Located between Old Town Square and the Vltava River, the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) is what remains of Prague's Jewish ghetto. In the 13th century, Prague's Jewish community was ordered to all move to this one small area. As time passed, the population grew and this part of Prague became extremely overpopulated. In late 19th century, an intense redevelopment was undergone but that doesn't mean the Jewish people were off the hook. They remained in this ghetto until WWII, when the majority of the Czech Republic's Jewish population either died or was forced out of the country by communist leaders. Today, Josefov is an important cultural area. Within its borders lies the best-preserved group of Jewish historical monuments in Europe. This includes six synagogues, including the Old-New Synagogue and the Spanish Synagogue, the Jewish Town Hall, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and museums, such as the comparatively new Robert Guttmann Gallery. Most of these sites are controlled by the Jewish Museum in Prague.
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Czech Museum of Fine Arts (The)
Contact:
- +42 2 2222 0218
- visit website
Location:
- Husova 19
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
This museum presents works of contemporary Czech and other Eastern European artists. Coffee-table books and catalogs with detailed descriptions in English and color reproductions usually accompany well-planned exhibitions. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
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Novomestsky Pivovar
Contact:
- 420 2 2223 2448
- visit website
Location:
- Vodièkova 20
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Map
Description:
Something of a Prague landmark, the relatively unassuming entrance to the Novomestsky Pivovar (New Town Brewery) hides an extensive, well-decorated labyrinth. Take a seat at one of the long wooden beer hall tables for some hearty Czech fare and tasty pilsners brewed on site. Popular with both locals and tourists, the restaurant's massive pig's knee dish is famous throughout town. Over the last couple of years the staff's reputation for surliness has discouraged many. Make sure you check your bill before settling.
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Hotel U Zlata Studne
Contact:
- 420 2 5701 1213
- visit website
Location:
- U Zlaté studně 166
- Prague,Hla11900
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Map
Description:
Arguably the greatest accommodation in Prague, this hotel rests in the shadow of Prague Castle and is adorned with terraced gardens on all sides. The Restaurant U Zlate Studne overlooks the red tiled rooftops of the Lesser Side and an upper terrace fit for a king. This hotel has a total of 20 unique rooms span the 4 floor building.
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Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock (The)
Contact:
- +420 2 2448 2751
- visit website
Location:
- Staromestské námestí
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
This is the vortex of tourist activity in Prague, whether it be to catch a glimpse of the clock's elusive statuettes, check out one of the town hall's exhibitions or climb the tower. It was in 1338, during the reign of King John of Luxembourg (1310-1346), that work began on the building of a town hall. The oldest parts of this complex of buildings are the Gothic sections and the tower. In May 1945, the Nazis set fire to the building as their last act during the occupation, but most of the damage has been repaired. The clock originated from the beginning of the 15th century and, every hour, the Twelve Apostles (added in 1490) move across just above the clock face, bowing to the crowd on the square. Finally, the clock strikes the hour.
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Jan Hus Monument
Contact:
- +420 2 2171 4444
Location:
- Staroměstské náměstí
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
The monument to Jan Hus stands in the centre of Old Town Square. It was sculpted by Ladislav Saloun and unveiled in July 1915 on the 500th anniversary of Hus' death. Jan Hus (1369-1415) was a Czech theologian and preacher who became Rector of Charles University in 1403. He drew attention to the poor social conditions in the city and criticised the funding of the Papal Wars. He was tried for heresy in 1415 and burnt at the stake, thus becoming a Czech martyr and national hero whose death is celebrated with a national holiday on July 6th each year
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Charles Bridge
Contact:
- +420 2 2171 4444
- visit website
Location:
- Malá Strana
- Prague,Bohemia11000
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Map
Description:
This stunning stone bridge in the Gothic style replaced the Judith Bridge, which collapsed in a flood. Called the Stone Bridge for several centuries after its construction in 1357, Charles Bridge (Karlův most) connects Old Town to Lesser Town. Allegedly, egg yolks mixed into the mortar strengthened the bridge's construction. Perhaps it is those egg yolks that helped Charles Bridge to survive many disastrous floods. At each end of the bridge stands a tower, like bookends for the row of 30 Baroque statues that have lined the bridge since 1657. Today, Charles Bridge is a constantly bustling pedestrian bridge, lively with artists, musicians, and vendors.
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Jo's Bar and Garage
Contact:
- 420 2 2423 3137
Location:
- Malostranské náměstí 7
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Map
Description:
This place offers one of the largest Tex-Mex menus with tasty burritos. Wash down whatever you're eating with a draft beer. Heineken is on offer if you get tired of the Czech brew. The small downstairs dance bar is usually full of native English speakers and those wishing to meet them. Get a specially designed Jo's tattoo and you'll never have to pay for another dinner here for the rest of your life. Ask for details.
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Prague Castle
Contact:
- +420 224 373 368
- visit website
Location:
- Jiřská
- Prague,Bohemia119 08
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Map
Description:
The Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) is the largest castle complex in the world and one of the most important cultural sites in the Czech Republic. Founded in the 9th century as a wooden fortress, it expanded to include a palace, three churches, and a monastery. Extensive renovations took place in the early 20th century and again after the Velvet Revolution. Over the course of its many face-lifts, the castle has taken on Baroque, Gothic, and Neo-Gothic qualities. The complex includes three courtyards, in which you can find such important sites as St. Vitus Cathedral, Mihulka Powder Tower, and St. George's Basilica, among others. The ceremony of the changing of the guard takes place every hour; at noon, some fanfare accompanies this ceremony. The Prague Castle currently houses the Czech President and is the seat of Czech political power.
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Golden Lane (The)
Contact:
- +420 2 2171 4444
- visit website
Location:
- Jiřská
- Pražský hrad
- Prague,Bohemia11800
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Map
Description:
This is an alley of miniature 16th-century cottages in a variety of colours built originally for the Palace Guard. However, by the 19th century the lane had become home to artists and craftsmen, and then in the early part of the 20th century, several well-known personalities came to live here. No. 22 is where Franz Kafka's sister lived and for a time in 1917, Kafka himself used the premises to write some of his stories. In 1951, the Communists threw out the residents and turned the lane into a souvenir street for tourists. Running along the roofs above the shops is a gallery containing an exhibition of armour and period costumes (entry from no 24). Chalk this one up as a must see when visiting Prague.
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Strahov Monastery
Contact:
- 420 233 107 722
- visit website
Location:
- Strahovske nadvori 1/132
- Prague,Bohemia118 00
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Map
Description:
The Strahov Monastery (Strahovsky Klaster) was established by the Premonstratensians, a Catholic religious order of canons founded by St. Norbert. The Romanesque stone monastery was first built in 1140. However, the abbey has met with serious challenges. In 1258, a fire almost completely destroyed the church. Hussites plundered the monastery, followed by a similar event during the Thirty Years' War. Then, in 1742, the French army bombarded the church. In dealing with this devastation, the Strahov Monsatery was reconstructed in the Gothic style then given Baroque qualities in the early 18th century. Finally, in 1989, the monastery was given back to the Premonstratensians. Today, believers still take pilgrimages to this site. On the Strahov Monastery's peaceful and beautiful grounds are an important museum and word-renowned library, rife with rare volumes.
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Petrin Hill Funicular
Contact:
- +420 2 2171 4444
- visit website
Location:
- Újezd
- Prague,Bohemia11800
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Map
Description:
The charming Victorian Funicular is one of Prague's most popular sights, and is run by the public transit authority. It offers a slow, but enjoyable trip to the top of Petrin Hill where there are splendid panoramic views of the city, a replica Eiffel Tower, and a strange Mirror Maze. The funicular, tower and maze date from an exhibition in 1891. Although the small train was out of service for two decades, it was beautifully restored and reopened in 1985.
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Petřín Hill Observation Tower
Contact:
- +420 7 2491 1497
- visit website
Location:
- Mala Strana
- Prague,Bohemia15000
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Map
Description:
The lookout tower (Petřínská rozhledna) on Petřín Hill looks much like a miniature Eiffel Tower. Built in 1891 as a celebration of the Czech lands, it initially did the trick. However, since that time it has become a topic of debate, with many people harboring serious dislike for what seems like an inferior version of Paris' main attraction. Although the exterior is the source of some resentment, the tower's purpose makes it a major tourist attraction. Set atop Petřín Hill, it takes a mere 299 steps to reach the top, where a breathtaking view awaits. It is said that on a clear day, you can see 150 km in any direction. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering the most comprehensive bird's eye view of the city, Petřín Observation Tower has earned its spot as one of Prague's top-ranking tourist sites.
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U Tri Pstrosu
Contact:
- 420 2 5728 8888
- visit website
Location:
- Dražického náměstí 12
- Hotel U Tří Pštrosů
- Prague,Prague11800
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Map
Description:
"At the Three Ostriches" is one of the best known and well-run hotel cum restaurants in Prague and began life over 400 years ago as the home of a famous and well-to-do ostrich-feather merchant. These days the spot has a special, intimate feel specializing mainly in Czech and continental cuisine, including Beef Goulash and Bread Dumplings, Roast Pork with Sauerkraut and Dumplings and Beefsteak with Green Peppers. The service is always attentive and pleasant.
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Hotel U Zlata Studne
Contact:
- 420 2 5701 1213
- visit website
Location:
- U Zlaté studně 166
- Prague,Hla11900
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Map
Description:
Arguably the greatest accommodation in Prague, this hotel rests in the shadow of Prague Castle and is adorned with terraced gardens on all sides. The Restaurant U Zlate Studne overlooks the red tiled rooftops of the Lesser Side and an upper terrace fit for a king. This hotel has a total of 20 unique rooms span the 4 floor building.
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Terezin Ghetto Museum and Memorial
Contact:
- +420 416 78 2225 / 420 416 78 2442
- visit website
Location:
- Principova alej 304
- Terezín,Bohemia411 55
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Map
Description:
The Terezin memorial, located at a one-hour drive north of Prague, is split into two parts—a museum and an exhibition space. The museum is in the town of Terezin, about 15 minutes' walk from the Small Fortress, or prison. The museum details the sufferings and the cultural activities of the 140,000 Jews who were deported here between 1941 and 1945. Nearby one of the barracks and other structures where Jews lived and worked has been converted into an exhibition space. Most visitors head for the 18th-century Small Fortress, which the Nazis utilized as a prison for Jews and non-Jews alike. Earlier in the century, Gavrilo Princip, the assassin of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, was incarcerated here.
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Houšťka Brandýs nad Labem
Contact:
Location:
- Brandýs nad Labem
- Brandýs nad Labem,Bohemia250 01
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Map
Description:
Area Houťka Brandýs n. L. is a fascinating place to explore. With mineral baths, hiking, and boating, there is plenty to do outside. There is also a state of the art indoor athletic facility named after the famous Emil Zátopek. Just 10 minutes outside of Prague. Take the route E65 in the direction of Mladá Boleslav.
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Bellevue
Contact:
- 420 2 2222 1443
- visit website
Location:
- Smetanovo nabrezi 18
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Map
Description:
With its excellent view of Prague Castle, the Bellevue is my perennial top choice. The ambitious owners (who also run Vinárna V zátisí and Mlýnec, both reviewed below) have put all their energy into the Bellevue's intelligent menu: beef, nouvelle sauces, well-dressed fish and duck, delicate pastas, and artistic desserts. For a tamer but extraordinary treat, try the filet of fallow deer. Al dente pastas share a plate with lobster-and-spinach purée, garlic and herbs, or tomatoes and olives. The greens on the side are always fresh and never overcooked. Desserts feature hot bitter chocolate tart, or wild berries in port and cognac served with vanilla and walnut ice cream. The consistent food and presentation and the pleasant and perfectly timed service make your meal at Bellevue one to remember.
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Hotel U Zlata Studne
Contact:
- 420 2 5701 1213
- visit website
Location:
- U Zlaté studně 166
- Prague,Hla11900
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Map
Description:
Arguably the greatest accommodation in Prague, this hotel rests in the shadow of Prague Castle and is adorned with terraced gardens on all sides. The Restaurant U Zlate Studne overlooks the red tiled rooftops of the Lesser Side and an upper terrace fit for a king. This hotel has a total of 20 unique rooms span the 4 floor building.
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Malá Skála
Contact:
- +420 483 39 2045
- visit website
Location:
- Malá Skála
- Malá Skála,Bohemia468 22
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Map
Description:
If you love the brilliant and serene beauty of the outdoors, then you will love this "Bohemian Paradise." Located in the northeast region of the Czech Republic, this recreation area is protected and there is plenty to see and do here. Take in the amazing panorama of stunning landforms and rock formations overlooking the valley of the Jizera River. Interesting destinations include Catchpole House, sandstone natural mazes, and the last remaining reminisce of the Zbirohy and Frystejn Castles, including much, much more.
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Celeste
Contact:
- +420 221 984 160
- visit website
Location:
- Rašínovo nábřeží 80
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Map
Description:
For one of the most elegant dinners in Prague head way up the infamous "Dancing Building" in Prague 2 to Celeste. The staff at this French restaurant usually performs well; serving up modern and creative cuisine with an emphasis on freshness. The contemporary interior is a nice backdrop to the beautiful views. An excellent wine list and summer terrace are just two more reasons to visit.
