Prague Travel
The capital of the Czech Republic is an enchanting city to explore on holiday. Travel to Prague to discover incredible historical monuments, fascinating baroque architecture, iconic works of art and lush riverside parks.
The historic part of the city is located on both sides of the Vltava River. It is made up of six distinct areas, once independent but now unified. Prague is known for its wonderful restaurants, vibrant entertainment and nightlife. It offers a fascinating insight into an ever-changing history. Significant places to visit in Prague include Charles Bridge, the Old Town with its legendary astronomical clock and the city’s famous landmark, Prague Castle…
What we love about Prague holidays
- Many transport options – tram, subway or taxi – make exploring Prague a cinch.
- Classical music concerts, jazz clubs, pubs and nightclubs create a diverse and buzzing nightlife.
- It’s a great base from which to discover nearby spas, castles and medieval towns.
- Prague is known for its art, literature and culture, which you can learn about in numerous fascinating museums and art galleries.
- The city’s architecture is legendary and diverse, from Art Nouveau buildings to Cubist structures.
- The picturesque Vltava River is crossed by no less than 18 bridges including famous Charles Bridge.
- It’s home to more than 200 parks and recreational spaces.
- Prague is known as ‘the City of 100 Spires’ because of its skyline, but there are as many as 500 towers and spires in the city – if not more.
For a different city perspective, view the heart of the Old Town from the observation deck in the tower of the Old Town Hall. See charming terracotta rooftops from the tower of St. Vitus Cathedral or go to the top of the PetÅ™Ãn Lookout Tower for panoramic views. Prague is charming, exciting, intoxicating and quintessentially Eastern European, the ideal holiday destination for those who enjoy exploring European cities.
Things to do in Prague
One of the world’s most breathtaking cities, Prague is well-known for its diverse architecture, but also for its art scene, dining and entertainment offerings. Yes, there’s plenty of historical attractions to see, including the famous Prague Castle. Still, the city offers so much more. It’s the atmosphere, the vibrant nightlife, lush parks and exceptional beer that has people returning here time and again.
With so many things to do and places to visit in Prague, it’s no wonder that the city couldn’t remain a best-kept secret forever. Whether you’re staying for a short time en route to visit other exciting cities, or visiting Prague to discover this fabulous city in-depth, you’re in for a feast.
Things to do in Prague
- Take a stroll across Charles Bridge, which is over 700 years old and took half a century to build.
- Explore Prague Castle and its surrounding gardens.
- Discover Old Town Square, home to the famous Astronomical Clock.
- Stroll Malá Strana’s cobbled streets.
- Explore one of Prague’s most beautiful parks in PetÅ™Ãn Hill.
- Visit Prague’s oldest museum, the National Museum.
- Enjoy a pivo (Czech beer).
- See the John Lennon Wall, a dazzling tribute.
- Take a day trip to explore Karlštejn Castle.
- Shop till you drop in Prague’s traditional Christmas markets.
- Discover the Powder Tower, one of the city’s original gates.
- See fabulous ballet, opera or drama at the National Theatre.
Prague’s charm extends to extraordinary architecture such as the Dancing House, built in New Baroque Style, located in the city’s New Town, which resembles a couple dancing. It’s also home to one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, Clementinum Library. And that’s just a taste of what’s in store on a Prague travel experience. Thompsons Holidays can take you on a Prague adventure, so call us right away.
Know before you go...
- The best time to visit Prague is in spring (mid-March to mid-May) and autumn (September to mid-November).
- High season is from June to August.
- You will have to stopover in a European location en route to Prague from Johannesburg, such as Munich, Zurich, Amsterdam, Istanbul, etc. You will then catch a connecting flight to Prague in the Czech Republic.
- The flight duration from South Africa with one stopover: 12 hours, 45 minutes.
- South African passport holders require a Schengen visa to enter the Czech Republic.
- Passports should be valid for at least 3 months after travel and have blank pages.
- The Czech Republic is on Central European Time, 1 hour behind South Africa during the winter (November to March) and the same time as South Africa in the summer months (last Sunday in March to last Saturday in October).
- The official currency is the Czech Crown (CZK). This is often the only currency accepted.
- Some hotels, restaurants and shops accept Euro, but the exchange rate is unlikely to be good.
- Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and some shops, but in the Czech Republic, cash is king.
- ATMs are found in tourist areas – use those in banks for safety.
- Tipping is an accepted custom, especially in tourist areas. If acceptable, tip restaurant staff, luggage porters, drivers and guides around 10%.
- Food is relatively affordable in Prague.
- Czech is the official language, spoken by the majority of the population.
- English is reasonably widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Almost half of all Czech residents are Roman Catholic.
- When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).
- It is safe to drink tap water in the Czech Republic. In addition, bottled water is readily available.
- Vaccinations are not currently required, but do check with your travel clinic before you go.
- Smoking is not permitted in public areas such as restaurants, bars and indoor work places as well as on public transport. Airports offer designated smoking rooms.
Travel tips
What must I pack?
- Depending on when and where you visit, lightweight clothing for summer, warm clothing for winter including rain gear. Choose items that can be layered.
- Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites – no shorts or tank tops. Legs and shoulders must be covered. Long, loose pants and long-sleeved cotton shirts are best.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses for summer holidays.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Travel adaptor.
Getting around
- Prague has an excellent transport system of subways, taxis, buses, trolleys and trams.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller?
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Avoid single-use plastic; rather take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).
- Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
- Do not support animal encounters and wildlife activities that are harmful or unethical.
Safety tips
- Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.
What do I do in an emergency?
- If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.
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