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Europe Czech Republic Prague
Tourist Information (9)
With your kids Historical destinations Wallet Friendly Vibrant Cities
"Mother Prague has clutches," Franz Kafka wrote nearly one hundred years ago. Prague's convoluted streets may keep you in those clutches loving every second of it. Anyone who has wandered around the city's cobbled streets and Gothic alleyways and seen the moon hover behind the towers and pinnacles of Europe's most beautiful capital will definitely come back.
Population: Approximately 1.25 million
Currency: 1 koruna česká (Kč - CZK) = 100 haléřů = 0.039 Euro
Emergency numbers: Emergency: 112
Police: 158
Ambulance: 155
Fire Brigade: 150
Newspapers: Lidové noviny
Mladá fronta Dnes
Opening hours: Shops are open Monday to Saturday 09.00-16/17.00. Many shops close on Sunday, but the biggest shopping malls and the shops around the tourist areas remain open.
Tourist information: Tourist Information Centre - Staroměstská radnice (Old Town Hall)
Staroměstské náměstí 1, Praha - Staré Město
www.prague.eu
Opening hours: Daily 09.00-19.00
e-mail: tourinfo@prague.eu
Section in Prague
The Czech capital is small and compact, with hospody (beer-houses) offering the world's best beers stationed on every street corner. The most important areas are the central districts of the city: Staré Město (Old Town), Josefov, Nové Město (New Town), and Malá Strana (Lesser Town). These are best explored on foot.
Old Wastewater Treatment Plant
National cultural monument of the Czech Republic Anchor point of the European Route of Industrial Heritage UNESCO candidate of the Czech Republic The compound of the former mechanical wastewater treatment plant was in operation between 1906 -1967. Today, it illustrates the history of architecture, technology, and water management – specifically the treatment of wastewater in connection to the drainage of an urban area. The plant was built as a part of the Prague modern sewer system at the turn of the 19th century into the 20th. Wastewater was collected by a gravitational sewage system from all over Prague and treated before its outflow into the Vltava river. The sewage system improved the development of the city of Prague and its industry, and saved the population from water-borne diseases, as treatment ensured an ecological approach to nature. Prague became one of the technically best-equipped European cities in the early 20th century. The manager of the site (Tovarna z.ú. company) organises exhibitions, concerts, and themed programs involving operating steam engines. The importance of the original purpose, the extraordinary authenticity of the preserved original machinery, underground spaces, steam engines still in operation, precise work and craftsmanship of masons of this compound make the site a prime water industrial heritage site.
Staronová Synagoga (Old-New Synagogue)
Staronová Synagoga is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. This is where Rabbi Löw, who created Golem — the clay figure which was to protect Prague's Jewish population from persecution — preached. It has been an important centre for Czech Jews for centuries.
Karlův most (Charles Bridge)
This iconic bridge was built in 1357 under the guidance of Charles IV, and up to the 19th century it remained the only bridge connecting both sides of Prague. Take a stroll over the bridge and learn the names of the 30 saints whose statues stand sentinel there.
Veletržní palác (National Gallery Prague)
This handsome, functional building from the 1920's is where trade fairs used to be held until 1951. Later, it served as headquarters for foreign trade companies. Today, it houses the National Gallery collections of modern, international and Czech art.
Prague Castle and St. Vitus' Cathedral
The whole of Prague Castle, the area which lies on a hill overlooking the city, is a must for any visitor. The castle's history goes back to the 11th century, and it is believed to be Europe's largest castle. The Gothic St.Vitus' Cathedral, which took more than 600 years to build, is most significant and impressive.
Czech Beer Tasting
Many people imagine the Czech Republic to be a prominent beer producer - and rightly so. If there is one place where you should take the opportunity to sample some of the best beers in the world, it's here. There is a wide selection of pubs where you can begin your tasting, and even a museum dedicated to the beverage. You can take a tour of the museum, taste some Czech beers and even bottle your own beer. The Czech Beer Museum is situated on the following address:
This clock has been ticking since 1490 on the wall of the Old Town City Hall in the Old Town Square. Every hour between 8 am and 8 pm, visitors can see the Apostles (small wooden figures) appear from the clock. At closer glance, one can see mystical zodiac signs on the clock´s face.
Catch local acts
Experiencing local musicians play live in the city you are visiting is a great way of getting a sense of the country's cultural tradition. In Prague there are many places where you can catch local acts, for example at Akropolis.
If going to Prague is not thrilling enough then you should try out bungee jumping from Zvikov bridge. K.I bungee jump has been around since 1993 and is a good option if you dare to try it out.
Divadlo Minor invites you to a puppet show. These types of shows are big in Prague, and have a long history in Czech Republic. Do not mistake it for a show only for children as they also are aimed at adults.
There are many places to go to for a drink in Prague, and the casinos are always a good choice. Palais Savarin is highly recommended even if you do not gamble since the interior is simply amazing. If you are a fan of James Bond, then head to Banco Casino, as it is one of the casinos which appear in the movie Casino Royale. Palais Savarin:
At the Prague Zoo you will see a diverse variety of animals in well-maintained grounds. It is worth enjoying a day walking around and learning more about different animal species who are looked after here. The zoo is easy to access from downtown Prague.
KGB Museum
The KGB Museum houses many interesting historical artefacts. You can, for example, see Lenin´s death mask, equipment used in laboratories by the KGB and Trotsky's murder weapon. You even have the possibility of trying on authentic military head gear.
Mind Maze
If you are tired of plain sightseeing, then this is an interesting activity that can add a new dimension to your time in Prague. Challenge yourself, your friends and family to maths and puzzle games and see who emerges victorious in the tough competition.
Prague Shooting Trips
Here you can visit a shooting range and challenge your partner to see who is the best at aiming. Complete training, transportation to and from the range and a snack after the winner is presented is included in the price.
The Czech are known admirers of classical music, which is easily apparent through multiple concerts hosted regularly at different venues across the city. Rudolfinum offers beautiful music in an amazing setting. See what is on while you are in town, and catch a fascinating performance if time permits.