There’s nothing quite like Europe in the spring, no matter where you go. There’s more bikes and picnics and strolling than there is in America. And there are also more wine parks and bouncing pups…and generally just lots to love. But we didn’t just go anywhere in Europe. We went to Prague.
By visiting Prague in the Czech Republic we visited a city that isn’t quite as touristy as a lot of the more on the beaten path European destinations. It was beautiful, quiet, delicious and full of wine. No to mention that we were toured by “locals” who have lived in Prague for a year so we were able to explore some of the lesser known city haunts. Here are the places to hit next time you’re in the Czech neighborhood.
PLACES TO VISIT
- CHARLES BRIDGE: Definitely a touristy spot, but it’s still one of the prettiest spots in the city, and you’ll honestly sound like an idiot if you visit Prague and don’t go here. Take a whole bunch of photos, buy some baubles or have a caricature drawn of yourself and just enjoy.
- SENATE OF THE PARLIAMENT OF PRAGUE: Tucked away off a street on the way to Prague Castle, we came across the parks and buildings of the Senate. Almost Greek or Roman in their architecture, it’s a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy.
- VYSEHRAD: This is a little out of the town center but the views are stunning, plus it has one of the coolest old cemeteries I have ever seen. The headstones are all beautiful, and after I definitely recommend stopping at the little cafe for an espresso.
- PRAGUE OLD TOWN: There are plenty of tourists “musts” in this neighborhood, but I also encourage you to take some time out just to stroll the streets. Grab a coffee, or a trinket, and mind your step on the cobblestones. It’s a photography dream.
PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK
- HEMINGWAY: One of the oldest, and best, cocktail bars in the world. Bar none (pun intended). They have plenty of custom cocktails, all the classics, but the bartenders can also make anything under the sun based on your liquor preference. Ali requested a Butterbeer a la Harry Potter and the frothy, butterscotchy deliciousness was unparalleled. Also, order the “Cocktail in a Book” and your Old Fashioned will literally be served from inside the pages of a novel.
- ESKA: This was the last stop on our food tour (see below) and it was truly an amazing finale, from the decor to the table settings to every plate set before us. Almost everything is made naturally in house, and is sourced seasonally and locally. It’s an open kitchen on both floors, including a small grocery, that you’ll want to spend a whole day of meals inside.
- TASTE OF PRAGUE FOOD TOUR: I can not say enough about this tour. Not only did we leave more than satisfied culinarily, but we also learned quite a bit about the city’s history and saw various parts of town. The restaurant list changes based on season, day and availability, but the experience will be great no matter what.
- LETNA BEER GARDEN: Beer. Wine. Great views. It’s as simple and wonderful as that. There are plenty of beer gardens in Prague, but don’t miss this one.
Jeans by Henry & Belle
WHAT TO PACK
- LAYERS: The weather changes on a dime this time of year, plus lots of activities are outdoors so you’ll want to be prepared for outside tourism even into the wee hours of the morning. Think light jackets, a cocoon sweater or (a favorite of locals) blanket scarves.
- WALKING SHOES: The cobblestones are no joke! Heels are a treacherous idea, and not just because you can walk almost everywhere. We saw almost no heels the whole trip (except on our own feet) and comfy shoes allow for much easier dancing in the “cave nightclubs” Prague is famous for.
- SUNGLASSES: One thing we noticed overall, was that people kept much more to themselves here than in America. Sometimes this made things difficult, like when we were trying to figure out public transportation, but I also used it as an excuse to rock my biggest shades without a care in the world. If you can’t see me behind my lenses then I can ignore you too.
- JEANS: Not only because of the temperature, but because the style in this city is more casual overall. People rarely dress up, even to go out on the weekends, so grab a pair of dark skinnies or rock your favorite distressed pair of blue jeans all you want. Casual is cute in Prague.
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