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Did you know that the Czech Republic is one of the top three hop-growing countries in the world, alongside Germany and the USA? Hops are cultivated on over 5,000 hectares of land here—that’s over 7,000 football fields combined!
The most famous variety of Czech hops is Žatecký poloraný červeňák, renowned for its delicate flavor and aroma. Other notable varieties include Kazbek and Agnus.
Since 2008, the “Czech Beer” designation has been a registered EU trademark. To qualify, breweries must use local water, hops, and malt, and the beer must be brewed entirely in the Czech Republic.
Here are some breweries that produce authentic Czech beer:
Beer can be broadly divided into two categories: bottom-fermented and top-fermented. Here’s what you need to know about each:
Myth: A beer labeled “12°” contains 12% alcohol.
Truth: The degree listed on Czech beers refers to the malt extract content, not the alcohol percentage. It indicates the amount of malt-derived substances in the brewing process.
Here’s a quick guide to alcohol content by degree:
| Beer 8° | 3–3,4 % |
| Beer 10° | 3,5–4,5 % |
| Beer 11° | 4,6–4,8 % |
| Beer 12° | 4,9–5,3 % |
| Beer 14° | 5,5 and more % |
| IPA | 4,4 % |
| Radler | 1,5–2,5 % |
While minimal foam is acceptable in some countries, in the Czech Republic, foam is a key indicator of beer quality.
A properly poured Czech beer should have a thick, creamy, pore-free foam resembling whipped cream. The foam should slowly dissipate and leave rings around the glass as you drink.
Among tourists, Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar are the most popular choices.
However, Czech beer experts often recommend these award-winning brews, as recognized by the 2024 Czech Brewers and Maltsters Association competition:
Prague is the most expensive place to enjoy beer in the Czech Republic. While a draft beer typically costs around 59 CZK (approximately 2.35 EUR) elsewhere, you can expect to pay about 71 CZK (2.83 EUR) for a half-liter in the capital.
Tip: Beware of scams in certain restaurants, especially those advertising fake draft beer. For advice on avoiding these pitfalls, check out videos by Honest Guide.
For a true Czech beer experience, don’t just stick to the famous brands. Explore Prague’s growing microbrewery scene, which offers unique flavors and often includes brewery tours.
Here are some of our top recommendations:
While Prague offers a wealth of beer experiences, why not venture further afield? Explore Czech nature and enjoy authentic beer in a tranquil setting, like the stunning Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Check out where to go for the best local beer.
Join Northern Hikes for an unforgettable journey to landmarks like the Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest sandstone arch, or the picturesque Kamenice River Gorge. Pair your adventure with authentic Czech beer in its natural habitat—where tradition meets serenity.
You may still hear Prague Airport referred to as "Ruzyně." However, it was officially renamed Václav Havel Airport Prague on October 5, 2012, to honor the birthday of the former Czechoslovak and Czech president, Václav Havel.
The airport has two public terminals:
Václav Havel Airport is located about 16 km from the city center. You have several transportation options:
Currently, there is no direct metro connection to the airport, but the nearest metro station is just a short ride away. Let’s explore the available options.
While the Prague metro has not yet been extended to the airport, both terminals are well-connected by frequent public transport services.
Night Arrivals: If you’re landing between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM, you can still use night buses:
For more details, check out this map of Prague public transport.
All public transport lines use Prague Integrated Transport fares. Tickets can be purchased:
Important: If you’re using a paper ticket, don’t forget to validate it at the machine before boarding, or you may risk a fine. Read more about Prague's public transport ticket prices.
Need to get to the main train station? The Airport Express (AE) bus offers a direct connection and stops right in front of the train station building. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
Fare Information:
Several taxi services operate in Prague, but the official airport taxi partner is Uber Airport. You can book a ride via the app, at self-service kiosks in the arrivals hall, or at designated stands.
Pickup Points: Located in front of both terminals.
Price: Rides start at approximately 700 CZK / 28 EUR.
We recommend using the official Uber app to avoid scammers.
For a hassle-free experience, arrange a private transfer in advance. Many companies offer classic and larger vehicles to suit your comfort.
Price: Private transfers typically start at around 750 CZK.
Before arriving in Prague, arm yourself with helpful information:
Prague is just the beginning! Enhance your trip with a visit to the breathtaking Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Join a guided tour with Northern Hikes to explore stunning landscapes, unique rock formations like the Bastei Bridge or Pravčická Gate, and create unforgettable memories.
Come with us to the Bohemian Switzerland National Park and visit the place where the famous film The Chronicles of Narnia was filmed.
The pre-Christmas season for many people in the Czech Republic begins with the moment when Christmas trees and decorations are lit up in the cities. Every year these are spectacular events that attract hundreds of people. Check out when the Christmas tree in Prague on the Old Town Square is lit up.
Another symbol of Advent in the Czech Republic is the advent calendar which we all remember from our childhood. While there used to be mainly chocolate Advent calendars, today every other company produces them and you can buy an Advent calendar with cosmetics, toys, alcohol, tea or anything else.
In some families the advent calendar is carried by Mikuláš, who brings his share of sweets and small gifts on December 5, the eve of his feast day according to the Czech calendar. The character of Mikuláš is based on Saint Nicholas who was the patron of sailors, fishermen, merchants, pharmacists, students and especially children. His current appearance in the Czech Republic is a long white beard, a large crutch and a tall hat. Did you know that he was the inspiration for the creation of the character of Santa Claus?
However, Mikuláš does not visit Czech households alone but with a devil and an angel. When the angel and St. Nicholas distribute gifts, the devils scare naughty children.
Mikuláš brings sweets on December 5th but who gives presents under the tree in the Czech Republic? It is a Ježíšek (Baby Jesus) who brings presents to Czech children on the evening of December 24th.
This tradition supposedly came to us from Germany where the reformer Martin Luther was bothered by the cult of St. Nicholas and therefore brought an alternative solution – Christkind.
Although the Czech Republic is a mostly atheist country the whole of Christmas is connected with Christian traditions. Baby Jesus is a child who was born to Mary and Joseph in a stable in Bethlehem as the son of God. Therefore at Christmas in the Czech Republic we celebrate the memory of Jesus' birth.
If you are wondering how a small baby manages to deliver presents to all Czech households in one evening, we do not have a clear answer for you. While in America you will find stories about ultra-fast reindeer and sleighs, in the Czech Republic we simply believe in miracles.
However, we do have one logical tradition associated with Baby Jesus. To find out what gifts children want for Christmas Eve, they write him a letter. The letter is then put out the window before going to bed and if it is gone by the morning, Baby Jesus (or parents) have read it.
The symbol of Czech Christmas is the Christmas tree whose decoration is a popular Christmas activity. Each household decorates the tree at a different time. Some people decorate it as early as the first Sunday of Advent which is 4 weeks before Christmas Eve while others decorate it until Christmas Eve. In some families Baby Jesus carries the decorated Christmas tree along with gifts.
In Czechia you can hang almost anything on the Christmas tree. Whether it's colorful baubles, angels, lights, various figures, pine cones, etc. The whole family is used to participating in this activity.
However, handmade decorations with traditional Czech Christmas ornaments made of glass beads or blown and hand-painted glass decorations are popular worldwide. Czech glassmakers and painters made them even for the British King Charles III. or the Belgian monarchs.
The symbol of approaching Christmas is not only the open windows on Advent calendars but also the lit candles on the Advent wreath. This is a decoration symbolizing the four weeks of Advent, i.e. the four Sundays before the birth of Jesus Christ.
Advent wreaths are most often decorated with pine needles and have 4 candles with another candle being lit every Sunday.
We have already answered the question: what day do Czechs celebrate Christmas? So let's take a look at what Christmas Eve on December 24th looks like in the Czech Republic.
According to tradition no food should be eaten on Christmas Day. Fasting is associated with the story that whoever can endure not eating until Christmas Eve dinner will see a golden pig which is a symbol of happiness and abundance.
Christmas Day is also full of other small Czech Christmas traditions that are supposed to bring happiness, health, and love. Some of the most popular include:
In the evening the family gathers for a festive Christmas Eve dinner which consists of a traditional Czech Christmas meal. Fried carp with potato salad should not be missing from the table.
For those who do not eat fish, schnitzels are prepared. Dinner often begins with wafers with honey and garlic or a traditional Czech Christmas soup - fish soup. In the past, the main dish was the so-called “Old Bohemian Kuba”, a meal with grits and mushrooms.
There is no Christmas without traditional Czech sweets or cookies and get ready, we have more than 50 types. Very popular is “štóla”, a cake with baked dried fruit and nuts, powdered with sugar. The traditional Christmas fancy bread is used to have its special place under the Christmas tree, which is then eaten with butter, honey or jam.
All these dishes are consumed with mulled wine with cloves and cinnamon.
Unlike in some other countries, gifts are unwrapped in the Czech Republic on Christmas Eve. However, first you have to wait until everyone at the table has finished eating before you can get up.
After dinner a bell rings signaling that Baby Jesus has brought gifts. For children this moment is the highlight of the day full of excitement and anticipation.
After the gifts are unwrapped, there is free entertainment. Some families sing Czech Christmas carols or watch traditional Czech fairy tales on TV. The most popular one is Three Nuts for Cinderella.
Czech Christmas Day usually ends with a Christmas midnight mass which is a Christian service. The most famous one in the Czech Republic is held in Prague at St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle but you can go to any church, even in smaller towns.
If you are spending Christmas Day in Prague, you will definitely have something to look forward to and you will not be bored. In the charming capital of the Czech Republic, every little corner traditionally breathes out the festive atmosphere at Christmas.
Traditionally the most popular are Christmas markets in Old Town Square which are open even on Christmas Day. In many places Prague also hosts a rich cultural program. Among the performers there are folk ensembles but also modern musicians, children's entertainment and various competitions.
If you'd like to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner in Prague, there are plenty of restaurants offering this special experience. However, it's important to book your table in advance to secure your spot.
Who wants to experience the true Czech midnight mass, there are many opportunities offered. As we have already mentioned, it will be held at St. Vitus Cathedral in Hradčany in Prague but also at the Church of St. Benedict or the St.Thomas’s Church in Lesser Town (there will be a bilingual mass, Czech-English).
Read more about the Top Things to Do in Prague During Christmas and December.
Are you going to the Czech Republic for Christmas markets? We have prepared for you a pocket Czech-English dictionary of basic terms and phrases so you do not feel lost in the streets of Prague or another Czech city.
“Silvestr” (New Year’s Eve) – the name of Silvestr (man) that appears in the Czech calendar on the last day of the year. Traditionally, it leads to festive celebrations, starting at midnight. New Year’s welcome goes hand-in-hand with sipping champagne, colorful fireworks, and great and lively entertainment. Check out what to do and where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Prague.
If you are spending Christmas time in Prague or somewhere else in the Czech Republic, make your stay even more special and join us for a one day tour to Bohemian Switzerland. You will enjoy beautiful Czech nature, mountains, rivers, fresh air, and some easy hiking.
Before you go to celebrate the new year in Prague, you should know one interesting fact. In the Czech Republic, the last day of the year is not called New Year's Eve, but Silvestr. Therefore, do not be surprised to see invitations to Silvestrovské parties on the menu of various restaurants, bars and clubs.
In the Czech Republic, we celebrate name days, which means that each day in the calendar a name or several names celebrate a holiday. On this day, people with the given name receive small gifts and congratulations. December 31st is dedicated to the name Silvestr and that's why we also call it the celebration of the arrival of the new year.
We refer to the following day, i.e. January 1st, as the New Year. This is also a national holiday when we celebrate the Day of the Restoration of the Independent Czech State, as the original Czechoslovakia was divided on January 1st, 1993. All shops are closed on this day.
Although New Year's Eve fireworks have always been an integral part of New Year's celebrations, in recent years Prague and other cities of the Czech Republic have been giving up on them. The official fireworks display organized by the city management was last held in 2019. The reason for the cancellation of large fireworks displays is to protect animals, especially waterfowl, that live on the Vltava River and to reduce the risk of dangerous situations.
Even though the city authorities appeal to residents and tourists not to use pyrotechnics during New Year's Eve celebrations, you can still see several private fireworks across the city.
You will see the most fireworks in the city center on Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Other popular places to view these light shows are:
If you want to avoid crowds and drunk people, we recommend not spending New Year's Eve on Wenceslas Square, which tends to be very wild and dangerous.
Alternatively, skip the fireworks altogether and choose a different way to welcome the New Year. Instead of the noise and chaos, why not escape to nature? For those who want a peaceful yet memorable start to the year, a day trip to Bohemian Switzerland with Northern Hikes is an excellent choice.
We will take you on serene trails to breathtaking views and stunning nature beauties. After all, what better way to begin a new year than by reconnecting with yourself and the great outdoors?
Gourmets and foodies will be here in seventh heaven. Prague restaurants and bars do not sleep even on New Year’s Eve. For Czech people, with a dry and empty stomach it is almost impossible to start a happy New Year. For this reason, one of the favorite New Year's Eve activities in Prague is fine dining, which is offered by almost every good restaurant.
The menu usually includes several courses, unlimited drinks, and also live music or a celebration after the midnight toast.
Here is a list of some Prague restaurants for New Year's Eve:
Don’t forget to make a reservation to be sure there will be a place for you.
There are spectacular parties and whole night dancing taking place all over the city. Whether you're looking for an 80's & 90's style, karaoke, radio night or a proper rave, Prague's bars and clubs have something for everyone. You just have to choose.
The most famous New Year's Eve parties are organized in Prague by:
Are you looking for a romantic event where you and your significant other could welcome another year together? Buy tickets for the New Year's Eve boat. Cruising along the Vltava River on a decorated steamboat is one of the unforgettable experiences that will be appreciated not just by couples but also by larger groups.
A heated cabin, delicious food and drinks, live music, and extraordinary views of the castle, Charles Bridge, and, of course, fireworks. Expect all of this if you decide to welcome the New Year on the waves of the Vltava River.
Would you like to experience a more peaceful New Year's Eve celebration? Take part in one of the cultural New Year's Eve events in Prague.
New Year's Eve concerts are organized by:
Another option is to visit some of Prague's theaters which will play their best shows on New Year's Eve:
Make your day unforgettable with a one-day tour of the stunning Bohemian Switzerland National Park with Northern Hikes. Explore breathtaking nature, majestic mountains, and charming rivers, all while enjoying easy hiking and fresh air. Return to Prague around 7 pm, just in time to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the city’s heart.
Moreover, CNN has recognized Prague’s festive markets as one of the most exceptional in the world. Enjoy the true Christmas atmosphere in the heart of Europe and read our tips on the best things to do in Prague at Christmas.
As the festive season approaches, the air in Prague chills to a crisp breeze, with temperatures typically hovering between 2°C (36°F) and -2°C (28°F). Before you set off, consult the forecast and arm yourself with winter attire that embraces function and elegance. If you are interested in whether snow will await you in Prague, read the article: How cold does Prague get in winter and does it snow?
What would the Christmas holidays in Prague be like if you didn't visit the famous Christmas markets, which are also sometimes called the winter market or Christmas fair. The most famous Christmas market is located in the Old Town Square. Hard to miss from a further distance due to the giant Christmas tree that is dominant year by year.
The Christmas market in the Old Town Square will be open from the same day when the Prague Christmas lights are switched on together with the main Christmas tree. This year, this festive moment will take place on November 30, 2024, at 4 p.m.
To complete your Christmas market experience in Prague, try traditional delicacies such as sausage, Prague ham, trdelník, roasted chestnuts, mead, hot wine “svařák“ or punch. Picking just one can be a difficult task, so don't hesitate to taste everything. You'll burn calories later while exploring the top must-see places in Christmas Prague. You can find their list below.
If you’d like to enjoy the taste of Czech mulled wine in a more unique setting, join us on the Northern Hikes winter tours. Whether you choose The Laterns of Narnia or the Winter Hike Tour, each includes a special moment where our guide serves homemade mulled wine.
Picture this: surrounded by the magical sandstone labyrinth of Tisa Rocks, with snow crunching underfoot and a chill in the air, the aroma of warm spices fills the atmosphere. A small outdoor picnic unfolds, an unforgettable way to experience the flavors of Czech Christmas while immersed in nature.
The lighting of Christmas trees in Prague is a dazzling display of festive joy. As we have already mentioned, the most renowned is in the Old Town Square and its lighting is a highly attended event every year, which marks the season’s official commencement. So if you are in Prague at the end of November, don't miss the spectacular lighting of the Christmas trees throughout the city.
Other notable trees enhance the city’s yuletide charm, like the one near the Church of the Sacred Heart of the Lord in the Jiřího z Poděbrady Square, and the festive tree in Náměstí Míru, surrounded by a lovely Christmas market.
Take a walk across Prague and try to find the most magical Christmas tree. More are waiting for you at:
You can't leave Christmas Prague without an epic photo for your social media. But what to do when there is a 20-minute queue at the main tree? Venture to Prague's Christmas park in Žluté lázně for a visual feast of light installations. Here, almost 200 original light displays in 2D and 3D designs bring the Christmas festival “Lights Tell” exhibition to life, running until the 31st of January 2025 and open daily from 4 pm to 9 pm.
You can visit another light park in Prague's Letňany. Winter Wonderland is open daily including holidays and offers more than 200 light installations and attractions not only for children.
Our third tip is the Lumina Park light park, which is located near the Džbán swimming pool area. The Light of Time exhibition and Dino Live Prague promise a fascinating walk through history, in which you will be surrounded by a light and sound show.
If you want to stay in the city center and stop for a picture-perfect moment, wander through the garden of Slovanský dům in the city center, where festive lights create a magical backdrop.
If you are asking what to do in Prague in December, we don't have just one answer. At Christmas time the city comes alive with events that celebrate the essence of this holiday. Attend a concert at one of the theaters, or wander through exhibits that showcase the best of Czech art and history.
Whether you are a lover of classical music, gospel, or modern melodies or want to listen to Czech artists, you can choose from a wide range of Christmas concerts in Prague's cultural institutions.
The National Theater and the Rudolfinum, with their opulent interiors, host traditional Advent and Christmas concerts, where the strains of classical music encapsulate the spirit of the season. Not to be outdone, the Klementinum joins in with its roster of yuletide performances including the traditional Czech Christmas Mass.
You can visit other concerts, for example, in:
Do you like to immerse yourself in the culture and history? Good news for you, Prague's museums and galleries are also open during the Christmas holidays.
Admire musical heritage in the Czech Museum of Music, but if you are more into fine arts, visit Mucha Museum Prague – a museum dedicated to a world-known secession painter. London has Madam Tussauds, and Prague has the Grévin – wax figurines museum. While walking in the Wenceslas Square, you will for sure admire the historical building of the National Museum, so don't forget to take a look inside.
As you can see, the list of activities over the Christmas holidays in Prague is endless. For small travelers, there is a huge Zoo, also an excellent choice for fauna lovers. But if you prefer more flora, visit the Botanical Garden, which is even open on Christmas Eve until 14:00.
Do we have any running fans here? Don't miss the Christmas charity run in Prague. This 5 km route winds through Prague's scenic vistas, emphasizing participation and the Christmas spirit over competition. With every step, participants of all ages, from children to seniors, celebrate the season. Completing the run earns each person a special Christmas medal, and entry fees contribute to a charitable foundation, making this event a true embodiment of holiday giving.
And speaking of sports, we must not forget the ultimate Christmas activity in Prague, which is ice skating. There are many public ice skating rinks in Prague, whether covered in stadiums or outside areas.
Worth mentioning are:
In the pre-Christmas season, you can also skate in the city center, for example on Charles Bridge or Wenceslas Square.
Have you been thinking about buying Christmas presents for your loved ones in Prague? Great idea! At the Christmas markets, you can find everything from handcrafted ornaments to aromatic gingerbread, traditional Czech food or drink, but also wonderful decorations.
The main shopping artery is on the street Na Příkopě, where the twinkling lights reflect off the windows of not just high-end boutiques. The Náměstí Republiky is another destination not to be missed, with its Palladium shopping center offering a variety of stores that cater to every wish list.
Traditional Czech souvenirs are the gems of Christmas gifting:
Prague is super enjoyable, especially over the Christmas holidays. "City of Hundred Spires" is full of romantic narrow streets, breathtaking views, and historical places.
The Charles Bridge, the oldest Prague bridge, is definitely worth your visit. In the dimmed lights you'll feel the statues waking up slowly and walking from one end to the other- The very similar atmosphere also rules a famous island in Prague – Kampa. Walking close to the Vltava River would never be more romantic than now when we celebrate the most beautiful holidays of the year.
No Christmas visit to Prague would be complete without exploring the grandeur of Prague Castle. This iconic site, beautifully illuminated for the holidays, offers breathtaking views over the city. Visitors often wonder, is Prague Castle open on Christmas day? The answer is yes! Prague Castle welcomes you to experience its unique charm, even during the holiday season.
Prague is also loved due to its magnificent views. So stop by Letná, if you want to enjoy how it feels like to be part of the picturesque postcard. You will see an unforgettable view over snowy roofs from Vyšehrad, Vítkov, or Havlíček Gardens.
If you are enchanted by the Baroque period, get yourself caught in the opulent atmosphere of the Vrbovská Garden and the palace of the same name.
Read our other articles that you might find useful when visiting Prague:
Will you be staying in Prague until the end of December? Then we will delight you, because the post-Christmas period in Prague is alive with festive buzz, culminating in many celebratory events as New Year’s Eve draws near. The historic Old Town Square is the epicenter of traditional celebrations, where a spectacular midnight show ushers in the new year amid a dazzling fireworks display.
For those seeking an alternative experience, a New Year's Eve river cruise on the Vltava offers cozy heated cabins, sumptuous dining, and splendid views of the illuminated Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. It's a more tranquil way to celebrate, away from the crowds of the squares.
Check our complete New Year's Eve guide in Prague, including what to do and where to celebrate.
After a couple of mulled wines or walking in Prague, we also sometimes long for a break from the hustle of the big city, nature would be our next choice. In less than 2 hours you could be in the most popular national park in Czechia – Bohemian Switzerland.
Imagine stunning views with pleasant weather and an almost kitschy sunset in the fairytale countryside. It was probably also the reason why the filmmakers chose this locality as a shooting place for winter scenes for The Chronicles of Narnia movie.
A trip to the Tisa Rocks Labyrinth and Bastei Bridge will take you to two countries on a full-day trip. Enjoy the walk around tall sandstone towers, through narrow passages and small caves. From Bastei Bridge expect to view the breathtaking landscape formed by the biggest sandstone canyon – The Elbe Canyon.
Another option is to explore two highlights of Bohemian Switzerland – Pravcicka Gate and Bastei Bridge. It’s a comfortable full-day trip which is also doable in winter. Rock formations and high stone walls create iconic scenery and offer a perfect spot for scenic views.
For a more adventurous experience, try our Lantern Night Tour at Tisa Rocks, where the magic of The Chronicles of Narnia comes alive after sunset. Guided by lantern light, you’ll explore sandstone labyrinths and enjoy mulled wine and Czech cookies in the peaceful, starry surroundings. The tour ends with a gourmet dinner at a former hunting chateau before returning to Prague. A truly unique way to escape the city crowds and create unforgettable memories!During the Christmas and New Year period, you can book our winter tour to Bohemian Switzerland every day except for Christmas Day, December 24, and the first Christmas holiday, December 25.
Everyone visits Prague. Make your trip to the Czech Republic special and discover the beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, where the famous film Narnia was filmed. You will make unforgettable memories and learn more useful information from our guides about how things work in our country and what to see in the heart of Europe.
The Czech Republic is not only about Prague. In addition to Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, discover romantic castles, natural beauties, cute towns, rolling hills, and historical places that will take your breath away.
We recommend a one-day trip for several reasons:
If you are going on a trip on your own, don’t forget to pack:
If you are going on an organized trip with Northern Hikes, you will get water, a snack, hot tea or mulled wine from a thermos flask and a rain poncho. Read also how to pack for hiking.
Do you have a few extra days in the Czech Republic? Go to one of these 5 places located around Prague.
The largest natural stone bridge in Europe, cruise on the boat and the rock town where the famous movie The Chronicles of Narnia was filmed. All this and much more await you in the Bohemian-Saxon Switzerland National Park. Visit the Czech Republic and Germany in one day and go hiking with us, which even complete beginners can handle.
Why go on a day trip to Czech Switzerland with Northern Hikes?
Choose from our summer or winter tours.
While Czech Switzerland is the gateway to Narnia, Big and Little America is where Lemonade Joe was filmed. The Velká Amerika quarry is nicknamed the Czech Grand Canyon and it is a limestone quarry at the bottom of which there are two lakes with clear water.
The Velká Amerika quarry is located near the village of Mořina and the drive from Prague takes about 45 minutes. There is a parking lot at the viewpoint.
If you are attracted by monuments on the UNESCO list, we recommend a tour of the Průhonice Castle and the park. Its roots go back to the year 1800.
In the area, you can walk through one of the visitor circuits and permanent exhibitions. The surrounding park with its fairytale nature is perfect for a romantic walk or relaxing with a book. Průhonice Castle is located on the outskirts of Prague, so the journey from the city center takes about 30 minutes.
Do we have any lovers of breathtaking views here? Head to Vyhlídka Máj, which opens up one of the most beautiful views of the Vltava River. You will see a deep rocky horseshoe-shaped canyon.
You can reach the viewpoint by following the yellow hiking trail from the village of Teletín, where you can get there by bus. The nearest train station is Jílová u Prahy.
Just 35 kilometers from Prague, you can see a Renaissance castle from the 16th century - Nelahozeves Castle. You can see inside the castle as part of the guided tour of A Noble Family at Home. The house of the world-famous composer Antonín Dvořák also stands in its surroundings.
You can get to the castle from Prague by train to the Nelahozeves castle stop, or by bus to the Nelahozeves stop.
Are you looking for more tips for interesting places around Prague? Check out our 9 suggestions about what to do and see around Prague and Places to visit in the Czech Republic (Our favorites).
Everyone visits Prague. Make your trip to the Czech Republic special and discover the beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, where the famous film Narnia was filmed. A hike with Northern Hikes is a great start for your safe journey in the Czech Republic. You will not only make unforgettable memories but also learn more useful information from our guides about how things work in our country and what to see in the heart of Europe.
The Czech Republic is the heart of Europe, which beats with history, unique architecture, endless entertainment, and breathtaking nature. In the morning you can go exploring historic castles, churches, and buildings, in the afternoon you can have a coffee in one of the vast parks and gardens. At sunset, you can go to one of the many viewpoints and in the evening go to local establishments to taste world-famous Czech beer.
Have we enticed you? Look at other reasons why the Czech Republic should not be missing from your travel list.
The Czech Republic is a safe country to which you do not need to be afraid to go. It applies to both group trips, solo travelers, and solo female travelers.
In 2024, the Czech Republic ranked 12th of the safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. Interesting fact: the Czech Republic overtook several popular tourist destinations such as Holland, Spain, Italy, and England in the rankings. Read more in our article.
After arriving in the Czech Republic, you will also be pleasantly surprised by the prices here, which are generally lower than in the countries mentioned above or the USA. Of course, this does not apply everywhere. In popular places, for example in the center of Prague, be prepared for tourist prices, which tend to be many times higher. Therefore, before your visit, we recommend that you:
Yes! US citizens can travel to the Czech Republic without a visa. You do not need a Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days if your stay in the Czech Republic is not profitable.
To visit the Czech Republic, you need a valid passport. Furthermore, carry proof of valid travel health insurance and proof that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay.
The direct flight between Prague and New York City is offered several times a week by the airline Delta. The flight time is approximately 9.5 hours. Other airlines offer flights with a connection to Amsterdam, London or Paris.
Did you not find a direct flight to Prague? We have good news for you. European capitals are not far from each other, so you can also fly to Vienna or Berlin. You can then reach Prague comfortably and cheaply by train or bus.
We have a simple answer to this question: anytime. The Czech Republic is located in a mild climate zone, so you don't have to worry about any temperature extremes.
Average temperatures:
The main tourist season lasts from June to September. The second comes in winter when tourists from the cities move to the mountains.
The Czech Republic has its charm in every season. While in the summer you will enjoy sitting by the river or hiking in nature, before Christmas you will experience the magical atmosphere of the Christmas markets, for which Prague is famous. If you are a lover of snow and the movie Narnia, we recommend a winter trip to Bohemian Switzerland.
It probably won't be a surprise to you if we mention Prague first. The capital of the Czech Republic is rightfully the most visited place that you will fall in love with.
When visiting Prague, you should not miss the symbol of the town and the UNESCO monument – Prague Castle. It is the largest continuous castle complex in the world, which covers an area of 70,000 m2. From Prague Castle, walk across the Charles Bridge, which is the second oldest bridge in the Czech Republic. Its trademark is 30 statues of saints.
From the Charles Bridge, walk to the Old Town Square, which dates back to the 12th century and is the most important in Prague. In addition to the baroque church of St. Nicholas, the monument to Master Jan Hus, and the Old Town Hall, the Prague Astronomical Clock is also located on the square. It has been showing Old Bohemian and Babylonian times for over 600 years. Stop by the clock at the hour to see it moving.
The Czech Republic is not only about Prague. Take advantage of the convenient location of the capital and discover other corners of this country. Our tip is the national park Bohemian Switzerland, which hides natural beauties that you won't see anywhere else. And it is only 2 hours away from Prague.Take a photo at the largest rock bridge in Europe – Pravčická Brána, or take a boat ride through the gorge of the Kamenice River. You can also walk through the Tisa rock labyrinth, where the popular movie The Chronicles of Narnia was filmed.
Two countries with stunning landscapes in just one day! Explore the magical Bohemian-Saxon Switzerland with our experienced guides who will show you everything worth seeing.
Beware of scams. Avoid people who offer to change money on the street or collect money for “charity”.
Traditional Czech cuisine is based on cream sauces, pork and beef, and dumplings. The jewel of our gastronomy is svíčková, which was already mentioned in the Home Cookbook from 1826. The dish consists of beef roasted with vegetables, served in a cream sauce, and with a dumpling. Everything is then decorated with whipped cream and cranberries.
If you love sauerkraut, you must try knedlo–vepřo–zelo (pork-dumpling-cabbage). Roasted pork with potato dumplings and the distinctive taste of cabbage was invented by a Prague restaurateur.
We will stay with dumplings for a while because we can prepare them in countless ways in the Czech Republic. Dumplings can be filled with smoked meat, which is finely chopped, but also with fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, apricots, or plums. Pour melted butter over the fruit-leavened dumplings and sprinkle with sugar.
Meat lovers will surely fall in love with pub delicacies such as pork knuckle or roasted duck. You can look forward to crispy skin and delicious meat falling apart.
Now we come to a dish that does not originate in the Czech Republic, but the Czechs have become so fond of it that it can already be considered traditional. Although it may seem strange to eat raw meat, beef tatarák with toast (a slice of bread toasted in a pan until golden and rubbed with garlic) will surprise you with its taste.
With beer, we recommend trying utopence, literally translated as a drowned man, which is a Czech appetizer of soft sausage with onion, paprika, and pepper.
Not only vegetarians should also try bramboráky, which are potato pancakes that can be flavored and modified in various ways. Be careful, they are quite greasy.
Are you a soup lover? Order the thick hovězí vývar – beef broth with liver dumplings. It is a broth made from beef bones and meat with root vegetables. The second traditional choice is the kulajda. Soup made of mushrooms, potatoes, cream, dill, and spices, includes an egg with a liquid yolk.
You can find classic sandwiches all over the world. However, Czech chlebíčky, or open-faced sandwiches are unique. You will see this iconic Czech dish at every celebration or party in a million different ways.
As a rule, sandwiches are covered with ham, salami, cheese, egg, and vegetables and spread with potato salad or another spread.
Anyone who has ever looked up Prague on social media has certainly seen photos of the "traditional" Czech dessert trdelník, which is filled with ice cream, chocolate, or strawberries. We may disappoint you, but trdelník is not traditional and certainly not a Czech dessert. It has its roots in Hungary, partly in Germany, and also in Slovakia.
If you still want to have a trdelník and add your photo to the collection of others on Instagram, check out the trdelník taste test in Prague.
By the way, goulash in bread, which is also originally a Hungarian dish, is not traditional either. In the Czech Republic, we always eat goulash with a dumpling.
For traditional Czech cuisine, stop by:
And what about the desserts in Prague? Go to the Jizerská bakery in Chodov or to Kolacherie, which is a short distance from Prašná brána in the city center.
Are you planning to go out for a beer during your stay in Prague? Great idea! You can find tips on 7 pubs where to go for a beer in Prague on YouTube Honest Guide.
Food prices vary not only across the Czech Republic but also across Prague. You can find it cheaper in the outskirts of Prague than in the center, but even in the center of the city, beware of inflated tourist prices.
Restaurants offer the best deals during lunchtime, i.e. from 11 a.m. to 1-2 p.m. During this period, you can order a lunch menu, which costs from 150 to 200 CZK. These offers are usually on a special menu. If you don't get it on the table, ask the waiter if they offer a lunch menu.
In general, a main meal in Prague will cost you 150-300 CZK, depending on what you eat. According to the survey, a pizza costs 170 CZK on average, a steak 175 CZK, and a hamburger 200 CZK.
Most restaurants do not include a tip in the price of the meal and you are expected to give it separately. You can give the tip either in cash, or report a higher amount when paying by card. The tip usually amounts to 5-10% of the total spend.
In addition to Prague, visit other beauties that the Czech Republic offers. Come with us to the national park of Bohemian Switzerland, where you will see breathtaking natural beauty.
Hřensko is the lowest village in the Czech Republic. It has a unique location at the confluence of the two rivers Kamenice and Elbe. It is known primarily as a tourist starting point for trips to the famous Pravčická Gate and to the gorges.
You can get to Hřensko by car, bus, train, or ferry. The fastest way is of course by car. The journey from the capital city of Prague takes about 2 hours, and the distance is around 130 km.
You can also use public transport. There is a direct bus connection to Hřensko from Děčín, lines 438 and 434. The journey takes 20-40 minutes. You can get to Děčín from Prague by train. The fastest connection takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.
If you are traveling to Hřensko from Germany, a boat ferry from Schöna can be a fun transport option. You can also sail along the Elbe on the Poseidon sightseeing boat.
The village offers 4 paid parking lots:
The price for a private car is 200 CZK per day.
You can choose from several different types of accommodation, from hotels to guesthouses and private accommodation. We recommend:
Taste traditional Czech cuisine, and, in addition to breathtaking natural beauty experiences, take away gastronomic ones. Our most popular place to eat is Restaurant U Fořta, where they cook mainly from regional food.
Excellent delicacies also await you in the Kortus restaurant, where you can try, for example, traditional Czech svíčková.
In Hřensko, you should stop at the defunct cemetery, which was founded as early as 1874. It also included a Neo-Gothic tomb Clary's Chapel (Claryho kaple), which has survived to these days. It belonged to an important wood merchant from Hřensko, who cultivated the famous "Gorges of Kamenice with its boat ride" and also built the Falcon's nest restaurant directly under the Pravčická Gate.
We recommend a walk to the Janovská lookout, which stands above Hřensko. You can enjoy views of the surroundings and the meandering Kamenice River from this place. You can reach the lookout via the green route from the center of the village.
The Labská lookout Elisalex, which is located right above the municipal office of Hřensko, is also worth mentioning. As soon as you climb to the top, you will see a beautiful view of the Elbe River.
As we have already mentioned, Hřensko is one of the starting points for the Czech Switzerland National Park. From here you can immediately go to the 2 most famous natural attractions:
A boat ride through the Divoká Gorge, which is open from Easter to early November.
If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, book your group tour with Northern Hikes. Say goodbye to the hassles of solo travel, and embrace the assurance and companionship of a group adventure. Whether you’re a spontaneous solo traveler or a group of friends seeking a new experience, our tours cater to all.