 | Experience the charm of Prague in the summertime | | | Prague was always high on my travel wish list, with its beautiful architecture, cafe culture, endlessly fascinating history, and that wonderful Astronomical Clock. I took my first trip there in 2011, right after I got my first real job in Berlin. I’ve been back a couple of times since, but that first visit left the biggest mark. One of my favorite memories from then was heading to Charles Bridge at 6am to take in the river, the Gothic structure and its baroque statues before the crowds arrived. It was just me and a few joggers in this beautiful scene. I must have crossed the bridge a half dozen times on that trip, and I loved the hustle and bustle at other times of the day, but that first quiet morning was the most special. There was so much more beauty though. On every street and around every corner were more amazing buildings, some hundreds of years old. I never got further than the Staré MÄ›sto (Old Town) and Malá Strana (Little Quarter) neighborhoods on that trip – there was just so much to see. Every time I go back, I venture out a little further to experience another side of this amazing city. What follows is a selection of our best articles on Prague and an interview with Prague-based writer, Mark Baker, on his favorite spots and how the city has changed during his time living there. | | | | | Destination Editor, Central
& Eastern Europe | | | | | | | Prague is a party city – here’s the best nightlife | There’s nothing like a night out in Prague. Find a cozy pub and sip on some of the world’s best beer. | | | Prague has iconic sights and lively culture. Let us help you
plan your trip. | | | | | The castle, the bridge, the clock: Prague is full of fascinating experiences and lively Czech culture. Read more Local tip: Visit Prague Castle at the top of the hour to see the changing of the guard ceremony. | | | | | Explore the grand and historic Staré MÄ›sto and Malá Strana before heading out of the center for a taste of local life. Read more Local tip: Tackle the center on foot and jump on the metro for the outer neighborhoods. | | | | | From the basics of arriving and getting around to insider tips, we’ve got you covered. Read more Local tip: Though English is common in central Prague, some basic Czech is appreciated. Do as the locals do and say dobrý den (hello) as you enter shops. | | | | | Summer brings long days and festivals, autumn sees crowds thin out and winter is best for budget travelers. Read more Local tip: Book in January or February to secure tickets to the Prague Spring festival. | | | | | Discover Prague & Czechia’s best experiences
and we’ll help you build the ultimate trip based on your interests. | | | | | Plan your next trip with expert tips from The Points Guy | What if your next credit card could get you closer to your next dream trip? With the help of expert travel advice from our team, you’ll learn how to maximize your travel using points and miles. Subscribe to TPG’s daily newsletter to get the latest in travel deals, credit card offers, points and miles advice, and more. | | | Mark Baker is a journalist, travel writer and author who has lived in Prague for close to 30 years. | | | I first moved to Prague in the 1990s – not long after the 1989 Velvet Revolution that overthrew the former communist government. I was drawn to the city by its beauty and cultural associations to figures like Václav Havel and Franz Kafka. I wanted to witness the historic transition from authoritarian rule to democracy and free markets. | How has the city changed in your time there? | Over the past three decades, Prague has changed in countless ways from a relatively isolated, dark and quiet city to the lively, prosperous capital of culture and tourism that it is today. Thanks (at least in part) to revenue brought in by increased tourism, Prague has become much cleaner and greener, with much more to see and do. | | | | | “Over the past three decades, Prague has changed in countless ways” - Mark Baker | | | What’s something about Prague that surprises visitors? | The sheer size of the city’s historic core. For a time in the 14th century, Prague – as capital of the Holy Roman Empire – was continental Europe’s most important city. The old coronation route of Bohemian kings, that once led from the Old Town up to Prague Castle, traces a medieval path that’s something like 3km (1.9 miles) long. | Where are your go-to spots? | The district of Malá Strana, across the Vltava river from the Old Town, is filled with hidden gardens. I love to stroll through the sprawling Renaissance-era Wallenstein Garden and admire the mysterious stone grotto. The baroque Vrtba Garden scales a side of PetÅ™ín Hill and offers beautiful views of the castle and city below. | How can travelers experience the city like a local? | Get out of the center when you can. The historic core is undeniably beautiful, but authentic city life takes place more in the outlying areas and neighborhoods, like Holešovice, Vinohrady and Karlín. Vinohrady, in particular, is home to many of the best restaurants and cafes as well as pretty parks, like Riegrovy sady and Grébovka. | When's the best time to visit Prague? | Prague is an all-year destination, but spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit. You’ll still get some sunny (and relatively warm) days, but without the occasionally oppressive heat, and crowds, of mid-summer. The cultural calendar is in full swing, and you’ll always find something good at concert venues around town. | | |  | Love travel inspiration in your inbox? | | | Share with a fellow travel lover by forwarding to a friend. Did someone share this email with you? Subscribe by clicking here. | | | This email was sent to you by: | Lonely Planet Publications Ltd. | 1101 Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 | | | |
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