Nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic, Prague is a city that is rich in history, stunning architecture, and unforgettable views. From the majestic Vltava River to the towering Gothic spires that dot its skyline, Prague offers a plethora of opportunities to explore and experience its beauty. One of the best ways to take in the sights and sounds of the city is to embark on a city cruise down the Vltava River. In this post, we’ve curated a list of the 9 best city cruises in Prague that are sure to offer a unique and memorable experience for both tourists and locals alike.
The 9 Best City Cruises in Prague
- Prague: 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise
- Prague: Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet
- Prague: Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise
- Prague: 45-Minute Historical River Cruise and Refreshments
- Prague: Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise
- Prague: Vltava River Lunch Cruise in an Open-Top Glass Boat
- Prague: Sightseeing Dinner Cruise on Open-Top Glass Boat
- Prague: Evening Vltava River Eco Cruise with Prosecco
- Prague: Panoramic Vltava River Cruise
The 9 Best City Cruises in Prague
1. Prague: 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise
Experience the illuminated beauty of Prague from a different perspective during a 50-minute evening sightseeing cruise along the Vltava River. Listen to informative audio commentary in eight different languages while admiring picturesque views of incredible landmarks such as the Charles Bridge, Rudolfinum, Kampa Island, Prague Castle, and Štvanice Island, all while enjoying panoramic views from the open deck. The boat departs from the dock at Čech Bridge Pier 3, and the package also includes a printed guide and WiFi onboard. Please note that this tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or large luggage.
2. Prague: Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet
On this tour, experience the beauty of Prague at night on a dinner cruise along the Vltava River. Marvel at historic monuments such as the Prague Castle and Dancing House and enjoy a wide variety of Czech cuisine from a rich and tasty buffet table of Czech and international dishes. Sit back and relax as you are serenaded by live music and admire the luxurious surroundings of the deck. A welcome drink, paper map available in 16 languages, and Wi-Fi are included, with additional drinks available for purchase. Each table seats six people, and the maximum number of people per booking is six. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. Please note that pets and luggage or large bags are not allowed. Due to the irregular traffic on the Vltava River and the limited capacity of the water locks, the cruise route cannot be guaranteed, but the duration of the cruise will not be affected. Join us and experience the magic of Prague by night on this unforgettable Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet.
3. Prague: Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise
Discover the beauty of Prague on a 50-minute Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise. See Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and other iconic sights from a unique perspective. Learn about the history of this beautiful and historic city through audio commentary available in eight languages. Use the onboard app to learn interesting facts and stories about Prague. Enjoy free Wifi onboard and hotel pickup and drop-off. Board your cruise at Pier 3 Dvořákovo Nábřeží (embankment) under the Čechův Bridge and next to the Hotel InterContinental Prague. Luggage or large bags are not allowed.
4. Prague: 45-Minute Historical River Cruise and Refreshments
Experience Prague from a different perspective with a 45-minute historical boat tour along the Vltava river. Embark on a traditional canal boat and discover the waterways of old Prague while listening to an audio commentary available in 19 different languages. Admire the charming views and learn about the city’s fascinating history. This tour departs from the Charles Bridge, where you can enjoy stunning views of Prague Castle and take some great photos. Cruise through The Devil’s Channel (Čertovka) and find out why this area is called the Venice of Prague. During the tour, you will also get the chance to enjoy drinks and snacks on your canal boat, including one drink (beer, soda, water, tea, coffee, or mulled wine during winter) and seasonal treats like traditional gingerbread in winter or ice cream in summer. Additionally, this tour includes an entry ticket to the Charles Bridge Museum where you can deepen your knowledge about the city’s history. Please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Meet at the Charles Bridge Museum and head to the ticket counter located down the stairs on the right-hand side of the building with the sign “Museum” when looking at the Charles Bridge. Boats depart every 15 minutes, so there’s plenty of options for you to choose from.
5. Prague: Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise
Experience the beauty of Prague with the Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise. Enjoy stunning views of iconic city attractions from the open deck, including the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Vyšehrad Rock Castle. The cruise will take you through the historic Smichov water lock, one of the four chambers in the city. A perfect activity for families, the boat includes a bar where you can purchase snacks and the famous Czech beer. The boat trip also includes Wi-Fi on board, an online audio commentary and map, a handheld paper map, an information booklet, and the convenience of pickup or drop off at your accommodation. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience while in Prague.
6. Prague: Vltava River Lunch Cruise in an Open-Top Glass Boat
Cruise through the heart of Prague and take in the picturesque views from the Vltava River while enjoying a delectable buffet lunch on this 2-hour tour. Listen to live music on board as you pass the historic center and sail beneath the iconic Charles Bridge. You will be welcomed with a traditional Czech aperitif and have access to free Wi-Fi and online audio commentary available in six languages, as well as a paper map in 16 languages. Don’t miss the chance to relax, indulge, and sightsee all at once on this Open-Top Glass Boat lunch cruise along the Vltava River.
7. Prague: Sightseeing Dinner Cruise on Open-Top Glass Boat
Discover the beauty of Prague at night on a 3-hour sightseeing dinner cruise on an open-top glass boat. Feast on a buffet-style dinner with a wide selection of traditional Czech and international dishes as you pass by Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Kampa Island, Vyšehrad, Petrin Hill and Rudolfinum, all illuminated at night. Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the specially insulated deck or the section with retractable glass walls and ceilings, which can be guaranteed with an upgrade to the window seat option. Enjoy live music on board, a welcome drink and free Wi-Fi, while following the route and listening to informative audio commentary in multiple languages. Explore the open decks after dinner, get perfect photo opportunities from unique vantage points and feel the cooling river breeze. Meet at Pier 3 on Dvořákovo Nábřeží and board the boat for a magical evening in Prague. Please note that the tour is operated by a third-party company and you may not be sitting with your group if it exceeds a maximum of 6 people per booking. Vegetarian and vegan food options are available.
8. Prague: Evening Vltava River Eco Cruise with Prosecco
Experience a romantic evening on the Vltava River with a fascinating eco-cruise in Prague. This tour offers an opportunity to marvel at panoramic views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, which look charming from the waters below. Onboard, sip on a glass of prosecco and savor some snacks while admiring the beauty of the Czech capital. The cruise is both serene and exciting, passing by the seat of the Czech government, the Rudolfinum concert hall, Civic Swimming Pool, Prague Metronome, and the Old Town. Additionally, enjoy the benefits of interactive guides available on board, as well as a printed guide, and WiFi. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to see the best of Prague on this sightseeing tour. The meeting point is at Prague Boats Pier 3 Dvořákovo Nábřeží (embankment) under the Čechův Bridge. Note that luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so make sure to bring only useful things like sunglasses and a sun hat to make the most out of the experience.
9. Prague: Panoramic Vltava River Cruise
Discover the beauty of Prague from a unique perspective on a Vltava River cruise. Take in breathtaking views of iconic landmarks including Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the City of a Thousand Spires. Listen to informative commentary in English as you relax on a comfortable boat and enjoy light snacks and drinks at your own expense. The cruise is perfect for families with small children or anyone looking for a memorable experience in a short amount of time. In Winter, you can enjoy a cozy and heated seating experience while in Summer, the boat is air-conditioned. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and the meeting point is at River Boats Prague on Pier 16. Please note that baby strollers and wheelchairs must be foldable and passengers must be able to walk a few steps and stairs on their own or with assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prague
Prague is one of the most popular and picturesque cities in Europe, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to Prague, you may have some questions about this enchanting city. In this blog post, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Prague, along with informative answers based on accurate research and expert advice.
1. What is the best time to visit Prague?
The ideal time to visit Prague is during the shoulder season between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild, crowds are manageable, and hotel rates are reasonable. Summer is high season in Prague and can be crowded and expensive, while winter can be chilly and dark. Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve celebrations make December and early January popular times to visit Prague but expect higher prices during this time.
2. What is the currency in Prague and can I use euros?
The official currency in Prague is the Czech crown (CZK) and while you may be able to use euros at some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops, it’s wise to have some Czech crowns on hand for smaller purchases and public transportation. Many exchange offices and ATMs are available throughout the city where you can exchange your currency.
3. What are the must-see attractions in Prague?
Prague has a wealth of attractions, but some of the must-see sights include:
- Prague Castle – a complex of historical buildings, palaces, and museums built in various styles over the centuries.
- Charles Bridge – a famous pedestrian bridge connecting the Old Town and Lesser Town.
- Old Town Square – a large historic square in the heart of the Old Town with many important buildings and monuments.
- St. Vitus Cathedral – a Gothic masterpiece inside Prague Castle.
- Petrin Hill – a tranquil park with stunning views of the city.
4. What is the public transportation system like in Prague?
Prague has an efficient and affordable public transportation system consisting of metro, trams, and buses. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations or from ticket machines and must be validated before boarding. The same ticket can be used on all modes of transport within the city.
5. Is Prague a safe city?
Prague is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but like any other city, it’s important to take precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of pickpockets and scams.
6. What are the traditional dishes in Prague?
Prague cuisine is hearty and traditional, with some of the most popular dishes including:
- Guláš – a hearty stew made with beef or pork, onions, and paprika.
- Knedlíky – a type of dumpling made from bread or potato dough, often served with meat and sauce.
- Svíčková – a beef dish in a creamy vegetable sauce with cranberry sauce, whipped cream, and bread dumplings.
- Palačinky – Czech-style pancakes filled with jam, chocolate, or cheese.
- Pivo – Czech beer, often enjoyed at one of the many beer gardens in Prague.
7. Do I need a visa to visit Prague?
If you’re a citizen of the EU or Schengen area, you can visit Prague without a visa. Citizens of some countries may need a visa, so it’s best to check with your embassy or consulate before traveling.
8. What are some lesser-known attractions in Prague?
While Prague’s popular attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also some lesser-known sights that are just as fascinating and less crowded. Some of these include:
- The John Lennon Wall – a colorful wall filled with messages of peace and love.
- Liechtenstein Palace – an elegant 17th-century palace that houses a gallery of contemporary art.
- The Dancing House – a unique and modern building designed by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry.
- Strašnice Cemetery – a peaceful and atmospheric cemetery with elaborate and intricate tombs.
9. What is the nightlife like in Prague?
Prague has a vibrant and varied nightlife scene, with something to suit every taste. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues throughout the city, particularly in the Old Town and Žižkov neighborhoods. Some popular spots include the retro-futuristic nightclub Cross Club, the jazz club Jazz Dock, and the medieval-themed pub U Černého Vola.
Conclusion
Prague is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture and plenty of cultural attractions to enjoy. Hopefully, this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Prague and provided useful information for your trip. Remember to plan adequately, travel safely, and enjoy all that Prague has to offer!
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