Prague Travel Guide – General Impressions & Useful Information
Prague has a way of staying with you. My first visit to Prague was in 2010 during an Interrail trip. Among all the European cities we toured, Prague instantly climbed to the top of my favorites list. It was a city I promised myself I’d return to.
Returning years later, I wanted to see if the “City of a Hundred Spires” still held its magic. Whether you are planning a solo trip to Prague or a family vacation, here is my honest take on the city then and now.
When I finally returned, I expected an immediate sense of familiarity. Surprisingly, it felt like visiting for the first time. While my memories eventually aligned with the cobblestone streets, the feeling wasn’t quite as intense as that first 2010 spark.
However, Prague remains a must-visit destination for first-time international travelers. It’s compact, walkable, and visually stunning.
Prague General Impressions
The City of Love
Move over, Paris! Prague is a city of romance. You’ll see couples of all ages openly expressing their love on every corner. If you are traveling to Prague alone, don’t be surprised if the romantic atmosphere makes you wish for a local guide to sweep you off your feet!
Fashion and Style
Coming from the “simple elegance” of the Netherlands and Spain, I was struck by how stylish the residents are. Both locals and tourists in Prague seem to put extra effort into their outfits, adding to the city’s sophisticated vibe.
Safety and Social Issues
One noticeable change was the increase in homelessness among the local population. While it’s a sad sight and can occasionally be unpleasant, I felt perfectly safe. Is Prague safe for solo female travelers? Yes. Even exploring alone, I felt secure, aided by a visible police presence in major tourist hubs.
Getting to Prague
If you find that direct flights to Prague are too expensive, consider the “backdoor” route.
Route: Berlin to Prague via FlixBus.
Experience: The journey takes you through beautiful green landscapes.
Arrival: You will arrive at Florenc Bus Station, which is centrally located and easy to navigate.
Accommodation in Prague
For this trip, I chose the Ibis Praha Old Town. If you are looking for central accommodation in Prague, this is a solid choice.
Location: Prime. It’s walking distance to the Old Town Square and the main train station.
Amenities: It’s right next to the Palladium Mall, which is perfect for quick shopping, cafes, and a supermarket.
The Verdict: It’s a standard, reliable Ibis. My only complaint? No power outlets next to the bed—a small but annoying detail for modern travelers!
Local Tip: If you want a more “neighborhood” feel, look for rentals near Riegrovy Sady park. It’s uphill but offers a more authentic local experience.
Currency Exchange in Prague
A common question is: Do I need cash in Prague? In my experience, no.
Card Acceptance: Almost everywhere, from museums and cafes to small ice cream stands, accepts credit cards.
The Money Exchange Trap: If you must exchange cash, be extremely careful in the Old Town. Many places advertise 0% commission but give you a terrible exchange rate.
Warning: Avoid places that don’t display their rates clearly on neon signs outside. I fell for a “no commission” sign and ended up being ripped off on a small amount. Don’t make the same mistake!
You can also read my article on “Things to Do in Prague“, “Museums to Visit in Prague” and “Parks and Gardens to Visit in Prague“.
