Are you traveling to Prague soon? If yes, then you have come to the right place!
Since I have been on a trip to Prague, I can tell you everything you need to know to plan your amazing trip to this destination.
Prague is the capital city of Czechia (formerly the Czech Republic.) and is a beautiful and underrated European city.
It is known as “the City of the Hungers Spires,” as the Vltava River flows through it.
There are a lot of things to do and places to visit in Prague such as the Charles Bridge, Old Town, Astronomical Tower, and more.
But of course, you need to be prepared if you want to enjoy your trip and not stress when you are traveling to Prague.
So, are you looking for some useful Prague tips? Well, then keep reading my article on 18 Important Things to Know When Traveling to Prague!
Traveling to Prague: 18 Important Things To Know
Check On Your Country’s Czechian Visa Entry/Exit Requirements
Now, before you book a long-haul international flight to Prague, make sure you know about this country’s visa process.
If you are a USA citizen like me, then you do not need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic.
But keep in mind that you can stay only 90 days in 180 days within all of the European Union.
If you do not hold an American passport, research your country’s Czechian visa requirements.
Tickets Here: Prague: Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks
Tickets Here: Prague: Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Entrance Ticket
Check Your Passport Before Traveling to Prague
Before you travel to Prague, you need to check your passport.
Make sure the passport is valid for 6 months longer than your departure from the Czech Republic.
Also, Czechia requires two full blank pages for stamping so, make sure you have that.
If not, then apply for a new passport well in advance for your trip to Prague as expedited handling fees to renew your passport can be very expensive.
Tickets Here: Prague: City Highlights Private Walking Tour
Tickets Here: Prague: Old Town, Medieval Underground & Dungeon Tour
Purchase a Czechia SIM Card For Your Phone
When traveling to Prague, one of the first things that I would advise you to do is to purchase a Czechian SIM card for your smartphone, whether an external one or an e-Sim if you have a newer phone.
This will ensure that you have a good network throughout your trip to Prague.
Since the phone number will require international calling, it is best that you stay connected to your family and friends via WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
You will easily find local SIM cards at the kiosks at the airport upon your arrival or you can also buy it at local shops in the city. For e-Sims, contact your phone company.
Tickets Here: Prague: CoolPass with Access to 70+ Attractions
Tickets Here: Prague: Unlimited 4G Internet with Pocket EU Wi-Fi
Cash Or Credit Cards? What Is Best To Have?
If you are traveling to the Czech Republic for the first time, I am sure you must be wondering if you should carry cash or whether using credit cards would be better.
Well, I would suggest that you carry both.
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Prague.
If you are using cash, mostly Czech Crown (CZK) is accepted. Some hotels and restaurants may accept the Euro as well but Czech Crown is widely used.
In my experience, you will get the best exchange rate when traveling to Prague if you use an ATM.
Keep in mind that there are ATM fees in a foreign country so, withdraw a larger amount.
This will last longer, reducing the transaction fees that you will need to pay upon cash withdrawal during your trip.
Also, please check with your bank at home before your trip to Prague about the fee-free “in-network” bank ATMs in Czechia, so you do not have to pay those extra fees as well.
Tickets Here: Prague: Sightseeing Dinner Cruise on Open-Top Glass Boat
Tickets Here: Prague: Communism History and Nuclear Bunker Guided Tour
Use Prague Public Transportation
One of the top Prague tips to remember when planning your trip is that the city offers a variety of public transportation options.
So, you can use metro, trams, buses, and more.
Personally, I found the subway best for covering long distances as it is cheap and quick.
Apart from that, Prague has a rather extensive tram system. They are located near most subway station exits which makes them very convenient.
There are over one hundred bus lines that run frequently throughout Prague. The frequency depends on the time of day and day of the week.
Trust me, public transportation is a safe and affordable option to use once you travel to Prague.
Tickets Here: Prague: 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise
Tickets Here: Prague Airport: Shared Shuttle to/from Václav Havel Airport
Best Time to Visit Prague is Spring or Early Fall
If you want to avoid paying a lot of money for flights and hotels, then I would recommend you avoid the summer season.
During summer, the city is crowded with tourists and the temperature is quite high as well.
Instead, plan your trip to Prague in the spring (Mid-April to May) or fall (September to mid-October).
The weather is warm and pleasant in these months, making it perfect for exploring around.
I love the colorful flowers blooming throughout the city in the spring season that add more charm to this place.
Tickets Here: Prague: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour and Vltava River Cruise
Tickets Here: Prague: Skip-the-line Castle Ticket and Optional Audio Guide
You Will Feel Safe As In Any European City While In Prague
So, is Prague safe?
I always felt safe everywhere when I visited Prague. I stayed in Old Town and walked everywhere.
However, always remain vigilant with your personal space and your belongings.
Tickets Here: Prague: Bernard Beer Spa with Beer and Massage Option
Tickets Here: Prague: Mozart Ballroom Concert Ticket with 3-Course Dinner
Most Czechians Will Understand Your English In Prague
Czech is the official language of Czechia.
However, when traveling to Prague you do not have to worry about language problems.
People in Prague speak English and understand it well too.
You will have no problems being understood by the shopkeepers, or in bars, cafes, and restaurants in the main tourist spots. The same goes for hotels.
However, if you still need help. You can always download Google Translate to communicate.
I honestly never had any trouble communicating with anyone while I was in Prague.
Tickets Here: Prague: A. Vivaldi – The Four Seasons at St. Salvator Church
Tickets Here: Prague: Beer and Wine Spa Bath with Salt Cave Experience
Bring Along An Electrical Adapter
Another one of the top Prague tips to remember when traveling is to always keep a universal electric adapter.
Also, make sure that they fit into the standard European plug.
Bohemian Crystal Is The Symbol Of Czechia
In the mountains of Bohemia in Czechia, the most beautiful crystal is produced.
It gleams and shines in all the shops in all of Prague.
There are different qualities of Bohemian crystal to purchase, at different price ranges to fit your budget. Shopkeepers do barter, so do not pay full price. Haggle a little beforehand.
I purchased a crystal vase and once back home regretted I had not bought more. It is just that beautiful.
Book Here: Prague: Folkloric Dinner Show with Unlimited Drinks
Should You Pay Tips In Prague?
There is a tipping culture in Prague.
A 10% service charge is charged in most restaurants.
Check your bill so you do not double-tip in Prague.
A gratuity is customarily added to your hotel bill, but the bellhop, and the maid cleaning your room, will appreciate a small tip.
For taxi drivers, the norm is to round up the bill.
For all of the above though, if you receive exceptional experience, it is acceptable to leave a 15% tip in Prague.
Book Here: 1.5-Hour Black Light Theater Srnec Performance
Book Here: Prague: Petřín Lookout Tower and Mirror Maze Entry Ticket
Buy Attraction Tickets Online To Save Money And Skip The Lines
If you are traveling to Prague for two days or less, then it is a wise idea to purchase your desired attractions’ tickets online.
You can get discounts and save a lot of money on online tickets. Not to mention, you also get the skip-the-line benefit.
This is a great convenience especially if your schedule is jam-packed with things to do in Prague.
Tickets Here: Prague: Castle Tour with Local Guide and Entry Ticket
Tickets Here: Prague Castle 2.5-Hour Tour Including Admission Ticket
Can You Drink Water in Prague? Is It Safe? What You Need To Know Before Traveling To Prague
Yes. Yes, drinking tap water in Prague is considered safe.
Bottled water is always an option everywhere.
But when you travel to Prague, you do not have to worry about the quality of the drinking water.
Read my article here on How To Survive Long Haul Flights.
Save Money By Getting Snacks And Convenience Foods At Local Grocery Stores
If you are trying to save money, then one of the best things to do in Prague for tourists is to buy snacks at the local grocery stores.
Of course, when you are on vacation, you want to try different kinds of food in restaurants and cafes.
However, that may put a strain on your budget. And it can get tiring.
Fresh fruits such as apples and oranges last several hours in a backpack. And they are healthier than sugary and salty snacks.
Plus, they can be perfect for you if you are worried about getting sick on your return/onward flight.
Trust me, grocery shopping is the best way to eat healthy and stick to a budget when traveling in Prague.
Book Here: Prague: Vltava River Lunch Cruise in an Open-Top Glass Boat
Book Here: Prague: Pub Crawl and International Party
Notify Your Credit Card Company when Traveling to Prague
If you are planning a one-day trip to Prague also, then make sure to call your credit card company to notify them of your travel dates.
This helps them identify your transactions and not block your card thinking it has been stolen.
Also, do check if there are any foreign transaction fees levied upon using your credit card out of the country.
If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does not charge such fees.
Book Here: Prague: Private Beer and Wine Spa Experience with Drinks
Book Here: Prague: Ghosts, Legends, Medieval Underground & Dungeon Tour
Pick The Neighborhood That Is Best For You When Traveling To Prague
One of the best things to do in Prague, Czech Republic is to stay in a good neighborhood.
There are lots of nice districts to choose from, depending on your budget and interests.
One of the best places to stay in Prague for tourists is Old Town.
Old Town (District 2) is the most centrally located neighborhood in Prague. This is where I stayed when I visited Prague.
From this neighborhood, you have many historical sights within walking distance.
Plus, the charming cobblestoned streets and baroque architecture are quite a sight.
If you are on a budget, then New Town district is perfect for you. It is next to the Old Town district and close to everything.
Do not miss the “Dancing House” if you stay in the New Town district! (District 3)
Tickets Here: Prague: 3-Hour Secret Food Tour
Tickets Here: Prague: Czech Beer Tasting Experience
Walking Is Another Wonderful Way To Discover Prague
One thing that I loved on my trip to Prague was walking around the city.
Not only is walking one of the best forms of exercise, but it is also a great way to explore Prague up close and personal.
Explore the various neighborhoods, look at lovely cafes, and the stunning architecture, or simply watch people in Prague.
Tickets Here: Prague: Jewish Quarter Walking Tour with Admission Tickets
Where to Stay in Prague
Don Giovanni Hotel Prague – For a luxury experience, I would recommend a stay at Don Giovanni Hotel Prague. This 4-star hotel features a garden, a terrace, a bar, rooms with a wardrobe, and more.
Some rooms even offer stunning city views for guests to enjoy.
Plaza Prague Hotel – The Plaza Prague Hotel is another great choice. The rooms are all air-conditioned and offer free WiFi service to the guests.
The hotel is a 20-minute drive from the airport and one can take a tram from here to reach Old Town and Mala Strana.
Metropolitan Old Town Hotel – If you are looking for a hotel in Old Town in Prague, then the Metropolitan Old Town Hotel is the best choice.
It is 600m from Old Town Square and offers 2 traditional Czech pubs with delicious beer for visitors to enjoy.
Packing Tips When Traveling To Prague
Read How To Pack Lightly for packing tricks on how to maximize your packing space!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can keep your most valuable documents safe and secure next to your body.
These RFID sleeves would be handy to prevent identity theft.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips
.My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.
This world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.
Now I am sold. These Bagail packing cubes are the exact ones I use whenever I travel. I cannot believe how much more organized I am now!
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it will fit nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.
And the Bobble carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever and wherever you fill the Bobble. You can find filter replacements here.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great to bring along to store drinks and snacks.
This antitheft backpack has a charging port, is water-resistant, and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop.
These waterproof all-season shoes are extremely affordable and yet fashionable.
Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these Air Run high fashion sneakers come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.
I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.
I also sometimes bring along my Vionic Tides flip-flops. The toe post is so comfortable which makes wearing these super comfortable.
We all need to protect our eyes from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. These unisex polarized sunglasses come in a lot of lens colors.
If you are fond of the aviator-style of sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.
If you need new luggage, this expandable soft side spinner luggage is affordable and comes in lots of colors. If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this hard-sided luggage set better.
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