Prague
Prague felt like the best of several European cities combined into one. Beautifully appointed public plazas remind you of Belgium, while the street performers bring images of Trafalgar Square to mind. The gorgeous river and its handful of bridges are akin to Florence while the stunning palaces and street side cafes felt slightly Parisian. Easily walkable and just the right amount of things to do, Prague is the ultimate three day European city.
Getting into the city
Honestly, just take an Uber or taxi. The airport is pretty far and to get into the city with public transportation isn't the most ideal, so save yourself the hassle and hop in a private ride to wherever you're going.
Where to stay: Airbnb or Aria
I'll get more into the Aria Hotel Prague on my next post, but definitely don't overlook staying at an Airbnb. Prague is a pretty cheap city overall, and we got a fantastic pad with more than enough space for our group for impressively cheap.
Where to go for your first meal, or for when you want a trendy restaurant slightly removed from the city:
This place was recommended to us by the host of our Airbnb and it most definitely did not disappoint. I had some traditional pickled-vegetable-stuffed-meatloaf with a glass of cold beer and was beyond content. The décor of the restaurant is modern and definitely Instagrammable, which in this day and age is an important factor.
Where to walk across the river: Charles Bridge
An icon of the city, this bridge connects the two main parts of the city. Pedestrians only can use the Charles bridge, and on it you'll find street performers, hordes of tourists and fantastic views down the river of Prague. Its inevitable to end up on this bridge, and its definitely a tourist epicenter, but its beauty will make you want to cross it over and over again.
Where to hang out in the largest castle in the world: Prague Castle
The largest castle in the world is definitely no joke. The Prague Castle sits atop the city with fantastic views (as well as a grind of a climb up the stairs to the top) and immaculate architecture. We did not have to pay for general access. Which allowed us to see the grounds as well as the main cathedral (one of the most beautiful I've ever seen). This was good enough for us, and we didn't find the need to pay to see the rest of the interior of the castle. Grab a hot dog from a vendor or a latte from arguably the most scenic Starbucks in the world, post up with a view, and kick back for a little.
Where to see a wall with some meaning: John Lennon Wall
Located on the west side of the river, this artsy wall is a haven for photography, as its colorful backdrop with meaningful and inspiring messages provides an ideal backdrop. The store of the Lennon wall is actually pretty impressive as well, so check that out too, located just behind the Lennon Wall.
Where to have a drink with a view (and one of the best views in Europe at that): Hotel U Prince Rooftop
Quick side note-the letter U makes repeated appearances in Prague. Just a thing I noticed. Anyways, head to the rooftop of this hotel for great views over Old Town to go along with a nice drink (their specialty cocktail is fantastic).
Where to have a drink with a view and some architectural infusion: Rooftop at the Dancing House
Designed by Frank Gehry, this building is a modern example of Prague's fantastic architectural scene. The interior though is kind of odd, in all honesty. The views from the rooftop are great, which can only be accessed by purchasing a drink inside. Space is limited outside thanks to a large sculpture in the middle of the terrace, but I wasn't complaining, especially with a glass of white in hand.
Where to pregame (or end up staying the night): Anonymous Bar
This place has some of the most ridiculous cocktails you'll ever have. We didn't have to wait to get a table, but as soon as we were seated the line ballooned. Ask for the black light when you get the menu because what you see is not all that there is ;).
Where to have a drink in an underground legend of a bar: Black Angel's Bar
The vibe of this world-renowned bar is very Czech, with an understated opulence that is almost exciting for some reason. Head downstairs into a barrel-vaulted cellar-turned-bar and order drinks from award-winning bartenders for a guaranteed good time.
Where to flash back to middle school dance party: Karlovy Lazne
Five stories with a different music genre on each, this club (largest in Eastern Europe apparently) has something for everyone. The vibe is very middle school though, between the music, awkward crowd and décor, so just take that tid bit of knowledge with you before you head here for a night out.
Where to chill with peacocks in a royal garden: Wallenstein Gardens
The Wallenstein gardens are beautiful, Parisian style gardens in the middle of the Mala Strana area of Prague, just below the Prague Castle. It's a nice place to roam about, snap some pics, and learn about the royal history of Prague. Take a ten minute walk through the adjacent Wallenstein Palace for free as well, as it is a beautiful space.
Where to get lost: Old Town
The cliché travel guide quote-"get lost in old town". May be cliché, but its true. The Old Town of Prague is stunning, and worth getting lost in. We found ourselves constantly peeking inside buildings and courtyards, so don't be afraid to do the same and figure out where you are once your legs are too tired to take another step.
Where to hang with skaters in a picturesque park: Letenske Sady
Located just on the north side of the river, this park on a hill is where to go for the iconic photo of Prague's old town, Mala Strana and the bridges in between. Grab a spot on the ledge or find a secluded space down the little dirt paths to enjoy the sunset.
