Prague: A City That Collects Centuries (and Then Displays Them Beautifully)
Prague has seen everything over the centuries—empires, revolutions, medieval drama, modern reinventions—and somehow it still looks like it stepped out of a storybook. The history here isn’t trapped behind glass; it’s alive in the narrow old-town lanes, the Gothic spires, and the districts that each feel like they have their own personality (and opinion).
The Czech capital is a hub of Central European culture, brimming with world-famous attractions that have inspired writers and artists for centuries. It’s also the kind of city where you’ll turn a corner and accidentally stumble into yet another “wow, how is this real?” view.
In Prague, beauty is not a special stop on the itinerary—it’s basically the default setting.
For our girls’ trip through Central Europe by train, Prague was our second stop after Berlin, and we spent two days exploring the city, followed by a day trip to Český Krumlov.
How to Get to Prague City Center
Arriving by Train: Praha hlavní nádraží (Praha hl. n.)
We traveled by train from Berlin and arrive in Prague’s main station, Praha hlavní nádraží (often abbreviated Praha hl. n.). It’s a through station, not a terminus—so trains continue north to Berlin and south toward Munich, Vienna, Budapest.
The best part? You’re already in the city:
- About 15 minutes walk to Old Town (depending on your luggage and optimism)
- About 20 minutes to Charles Bridge (depending on your photo stops, and there will be photo stops)
To reach Old Town, you can take tram/metro, or order a ride-hailing car. Tip from someone who likes peace: if you’re arriving late or tired, ride-hailing is often smoother than grabbing a taxi from the station stand. It reduces the “tourist pricing” risk.
Arriving by Air: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Prague’s airport is Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG).
Option 1: Public Transport (Best Value)
The most common route is:
- Trolleybus 59 from the airport
- Transfer at Nádraží Veleslavín
- Continue on Metro Line A
You’ll use the standard Prague public transport ticket system.
Typical fares:
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | ~36 CZK |
| 90 minutes | ~46 CZK |
| 24 hours | ~140 CZK |
| 72 hours | ~340 CZK |
For short stays, the 90-minute ticket works well because it covers most sightseeing hops.
Option 2: Airport Express (AE)
The Airport Express bus runs between the airport and Praha hlavní nádraží.
It’s convenient, especially with luggage, but it’s not part of the normal transport fare system. Expect to pay roughly 200 CZK one way.
Think of it as paying a small airport convenience tax.
Option 3: Ride-Hailing
Apps like Uber work well in Prague and can be the easiest solution when traveling with friends or large luggage.
Where to Stay and Getting Around
Where to Stay
For first-time visitors, Old Town is the easiest base.
Most of Prague’s major sights are within walking distance, which makes sightseeing effortless.
The downside?
- It’s often the most expensive
- It’s the most crowded part of the city
But convenience in Prague can feel like a superpower.
On this trip we stayed at an Ibis near Palladium Mall, which turned out to be a very practical location when we needed quick dinners, snacks, or emergency shopping.
Getting Around Prague
Prague has one of the best public transport systems in Europe.
The basics:
- Metro + tram are best for central areas
- Buses mainly serve outer districts
If you’re staying a short time, the 90-minute ticket is surprisingly useful.
Prague Itinerary
Day 1 — Old Town and the Heart of Prague
Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
he historic heart of Prague is Old Town Square Prague, a marketplace that dates back to the 10th century.
It’s surrounded by colorful historic buildings, churches, and the famous Prague Astronomical Clock.
Tourists gather every hour to watch the small mechanical show.
Is it a little crowded? Yes.
Is it still charming? Also yes.
You can also climb the Old Town Hall Tower (there’s an elevator if your legs disagree with medieval staircases). The view over the rooftops and the spires of Church of Our Lady before Týn is absolutely worth it.
Walk Across Charles Bridge
From Old Town, stroll toward the iconic Charles Bridge.
Construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV and the bridge is now one of Prague’s most recognizable landmarks. It stretches 516 meters across the Vltava River and is lined with 30 Baroque statues.
Practical tip:
- Early morning = peaceful photos
- Midday = you become part of the attraction
Kampa Island
On the Lesser Town side of the bridge lies Kampa Island, a quieter pocket perfect for strolling.
Small bridges, riverside views, and the occasional “love locks” scene make this area a pleasant break from the busy Old Town streets.
Day 2 — Prague Castle and Scenic Tram Rides
Tram 22: The Scenic Route
One of the best ways to explore Prague is simply riding Tram 22.
We learned—after accidentally boarding the wrong tram—that direction matters.
But honestly, getting lost in Prague isn’t the worst problem to have.
A good strategy is:
- Take Tram 22 to Pohořelec
- Walk downhill toward Prague Castle
Your legs will thank you.
Strahov Monastery
Our walk toward the castle included a stop at Strahov Monastery, founded in 1149.
The highlight is its spectacular library halls filled with frescoes, globes, and centuries-old books.
For a brief moment you may feel inspired to become a scholar.
This feeling lasts about twelve minutes.
Loreta
Nearby is Loreta Prague, a beautiful Baroque complex dating from the 1600s.
Inside you’ll find cloisters, chapels, and a bell tower that completes the dramatic Prague skyline.
Prague Castle
Eventually you arrive at Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world.
Inside the grounds you’ll find:
- St. Vitus Cathedral – Prague’s Gothic masterpiece
- Old royal palaces
- Historic courtyards
Watching the changing of the guard is also part of the experience.
Gothic vs Baroque: Two Churches
Prague does contrasts beautifully.
Inside the castle complex is St. Vitus Cathedral, a dramatic Gothic cathedral filled with stained glass and towering architecture.
Across the river in Malá Strana you’ll find St. Nicholas Church Prague, known for its rich Baroque interior and ceiling frescoes.
Choose based on mood:
- Gothic grandeur → St. Vitus
- Baroque drama → St. Nicholas
Sunset views and the accidental Tram tour
By the time we finished exploring the castle, it was nearly sunset.
We planned to head back to the hotel.
Instead… we boarded the wrong tram again.
But honestly, Tram 22 is one of the best sightseeing routes in Prague, passing major landmarks and offering an effortless window tour of the city.
Sometimes the best views appear when you stop fighting the route.
Closing Thoughts
Prague is a city that rewards wandering.
Yes, you can plan it properly—clock, bridge, castle, churches, dinner—and you probably should.
But leave room for the moments in between:
- quiet side streets
- unexpected viewpoints
- and the occasional wrong tram that takes you somewhere beautiful.
In Prague, even mistakes come with good architecture.
And that might be the most Prague thing of all.
