How to Get to Prague from Other European Cities

Located in the heart of Central Europe, Prague holds the crown of being the capital of the Czech Republic. It’s a fairytale city with a UNESCO-listed historic center and more than five million tourists visiting each year. No matter where you are planning to visit from in Europe, getting to Prague is surprisingly easy. Read on for a comprehensive guide for getting to Prague from other European cities, as well as how you can get around once you arrive.

Flying to Prague from Other European Cities

The main airport in Prague is called Václav Havel Airport Prague. It’s located just outside the city center, with a great public transport connection that makes traveling into the city very simple. This airport serves direct flights to many cities across Europe, including London, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam and Milan. Airlines with service to Prague include easyJet, KLM, and Wizz Air.

It’s also possible to fly to Prague from other places in Central Europe, including Budapest and Vienna. There are plenty of budget airlines like RyanAir and Wizz Air that offer flights between these countries, often at very competitive prices.

Getting to Prague by Train

If you’re looking for a comfortable and eco-friendly way to get to Prague from other cities in Europe, the train is a great option. The city is well-connected by train from Germany, the Netherlands, and Poland. Tickets are often reasonably priced and tickets can be booked online directly from providers like Rail Europe or Deutsche Bahn. The journey from Berlin takes around 4 hours and from Vienna it takes around 6 hours.

It’s also possible to travel to Prague by train from other destinations in Central Europe, including Prague, Hungary, Slovakia, and Croatia. Tickets can be booked on various website including Železniční doprava České republiky, the official website of the Czech national railways.

Getting Around Prague

Getting around Prague is very straightforward and affordable. Public transport systems are reliable and well-connected. You can take trams, buses, or the metro around the city center, as well as longer commuter trains further outside the city.

In terms of getting around the city center, there are plenty of options depending on your preferences and needs. You can either opt for public transport tickets or purchase a day pass for either trams or buses. If you plan on traveling around quite often within a short span of time, you may find that buying a pass ends up being cheaper than single tickets. Long-term passes are also available if you plan on staying in the city for more than a week.

Alternatively, you can rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels! There are dozens of bike docks located across the city that make it easy for visitors to rent bikes for short periods of time. This is a great way to explore the city without worrying about public transport delays or tickets.

For visitors who are looking for an alternative way to explore the city’s beauty, there are companies that offer private walking or driving tours of sights like Charles Bridge or Prague Castle. This might be expensive, but it can be worth it if you want to get away from the crowds that gather around iconic landmarks in this beautiful city.

At the end of the day, getting to Prague is surprisingly easy! There are great transport links with flights arriving into the city’s main airport and trains connecting several countries throughout Europe to Prague. Once you arrive in the city and check into your accommodation of choice, there are plenty of transport options that make getting around simple and enjoyable.

Insider’s Guide to Prague: Beyond the Tourist Stops

If you’re planning a trip to Prague, you might already have your bucket list of must-visit spots, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square. But there’s more to Prague than these popular landmarks. Let’s explore the hidden gems and local secrets that make Prague unique and memorable.

Local Attractions: Discover Prague’s Hidden Charms

While the tourist attractions are impressive, you might want to explore the lesser-known corners of Prague that offer a more authentic experience. Here are three places to consider:

– Vysehrad. This fortress might not get as much attention as Prague Castle, but it’s worth a visit. The views of the city from the fortress walls are breathtaking, and you can also wander through the peaceful cemetery, where many famous Czechs are buried.

– Wallenstein Garden. This baroque garden is tucked away behind the Senate building, near the Prague Castle. It’s a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Find the white peacocks and the grotto with sculptures from Greek mythology.

– Letna Park. This park offers a panoramic view of the Prague skyline and the Vltava River. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, a bicycle ride, or an evening stroll.

These spots will provide unique and unforgettable experiences that will set your trip apart from the average sightseer.

Dining Spots: Savor the Best Czech Cuisine

Prague might not be famous for its cuisine, but the city has a rich food heritage that is worth exploring. Here are some traditional Czech dishes and where to try them:

– Goulash. This beef stew is best eaten with bread dumplings – try the rustic and cozy Lokál Dlouhááá.

– Trdelník. A sweet pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon, ideal for dessert or a snack. Sweeten up at one of the many street stalls that pop up throughout the city.

– Palačinky. The Czech version of crepes, with a variety of sweet or savory fillings. Try them at Cafe Louvre in the heart of the city.

These are only a few examples of the fantastic food scene in Prague, where you’ll find excellent beer, wine, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit every budget.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrate Prague’s Traditions and Customs

Prague has many cultural traditions, which are still a big part of everyday life. Here are some ways to immerse yourself in the local customs:

– Attend a classical music concert. Prague is renowned for its music scene, where legends like Mozart and Beethoven played. Book a concert at the Municipal House or the Rudolfinum.

– Enjoy a brewery tour. Beer is a huge part of Czech culture, and there are plenty of breweries and pubs throughout the city to sample the local brews.

– Experience the annual wine festival. Every September, Vinobrani takes place in the vineyards of Prague, where visitors can taste various wines and enjoy live music.

These cultural experiences not only entertain but also educate you about the varied cultural heritage of Prague.

Local History: Tales of Passion and Woe

Prague has witnessed many significant historical events, from the arrival of the Celts and the Germanic tribes to the Velvet Revolution in 1989. Here are three lesser-known stories:

– The Defenestration of Prague. In 1618, a group of dissatisfied Protestants threw two Habsburg officials out of a window of the Prague Castle. Although they survived that fall, this event triggered the Thirty Years’ War.

– The Love Story of Franz Kafka. The famous author had a stormy love affair with Felice Bauer, which was mainly conducted through letters. You can visit the house where he lived and worked in Prague, and read some of those emotional texts.

– The Prague Spring. In 1968, Czechoslovakia experienced a period of liberalization and political reform, which was violently suppressed by the Soviet Union. You can learn about this period by visiting the National Museum.

These stories give a glimpse into the complex and rich history of Prague, that goes beyond the usual touristy anecdotes.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Prague’s Hidden Gems

Finally, here are some unconventional tips to make your Prague trip unforgettable:

– Secret locations. Visit Prague’s underground, i.e., Kampa Island, or explore some of the hidden courtyards and art galleries that are often overlooked by the casual visitor.

– Nightlife. Prague has a vibrant nightlife, from jazz clubs to electronic music venues. Don’t miss some of the underground clubs in Vinohrady.

– Take a day trip. While you’re in Prague, take a day trip to nearby towns like Kutná Hora, where you’ll find a picturesque medieval architecture and a bone chapel.

These ideas will provide you with the perfect alternative to the classic tourist spots.

Summary

There’s more to Prague than meets the eye. By exploring the city’s hidden gems, savoring traditional dishes, and engaging with local culture and history, you’ll have an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the usual touristic clichés. So pack your bags, hop on a bus from one of the many European cities that takes you directly to Prague and discover the charm and magic of this fantastic city!