1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Eastern Europe Travel

Prague Travel
Travel to Prague, Capital City of the Czech Republic

By Kerry Kubilius, About.com

Castle Hill, Prague

Castle Hill, Prague

Le-si © 2006
Why should you travel to Prague? Prague is a city known for its beauty, history, nightlife, and culture. In addition, Prague is one of the most tolerant and most diverse cities in Eastern and Central Europe. The locals are modern, up-to-the-minute Europeans, ex-pats thrive in carved-out pockets of the city, and tourists are never bored. Prague is a great travel destination for so many reasons – and that’s why “travel to Prague” should be on your to-do list.

Let’s get started. Travel to Prague is fairly uncomplicated. No visas to get, no vaccinations required. If you forget something, you can buy it there. If you need directions, someone who speaks English will be able to help you. And if you never want to leave . . . no one will blame you. But first, just to make sure, better check out Czech Travel Basics to brush up on what you need to know about currency. Prague is, after all, one of the more expensive travel destinations in Eastern Europe.

Guidebooks and directions from friends will require some knowledge of Prague’s neighborhoods. Prague is divided into districts, labeled numerically, but Prague’s districts all have distinct characters and histories. In each one you’ll find something different. However, two of the most important neighborhoods to visit when you travel to Prague are Old Town (containing the Jewish Quarter, or Josefov) and Castle Hill. Take the tours:

And don't miss many other sights not included in the above photo tours:

Prague is extremely easy to get around. Prague transportation includes buses, taxis, and a metro. Be aware, though, that to see Prague the right way, you will have to do a lot of walking. Having a good Prague street map (buy direct) can help you find your way around Prague.

Old Town and New Town Prague are connected by Charles Bridge. You can shop for traditional Czech souvenirs in Old Town Prague (think garnets, puppets, and antiques) and cross Charles Bridge into New Town. New Town contains many modern shopping malls and department stores that offer fashionable clothing, electronics, shoes, cosmetics, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment.

So what should your travel to Prague entail? As Prague is a major music center – and has been for centuries – plan your travel to Prague around a seasonal music festival.

Alternatively, visit museums (the Sex Machines Museum is very popular), meet new friends at clubs, have a traditional meal at a Czech restaurant, or go exploring on your own.

Hotels in Prague are many and varied, catering to any taste, budget, or location requirement.

Explore Eastern Europe Travel
About.com Special Features

Find travel inspiration and get the best tips and reviews for your next getaway. More >

The best times to visit East and Southern Africa. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Eastern Europe Travel
  4. Czech Republic Travel
  5. Prague Travel
  6. Prague Travel - Travel to Prague>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.