A Local’s Guide To Prague
The largest city in the Czech Republic and former capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia is known for sprawling castles, stunning Gothic churches, and colorful Baroque architecture—it’s truly unlike any other European city! Our local, Taylor, gave us the ultimate travel guide to Praha.
Hi! I’m Taylor (@taylortakesprague), an American living in Prague, Czech Republic. I studied abroad in Prague almost 6 years ago, and loved it so much I moved back permanently! My boyfriend is a Czech citizen and speaks Czech, so he’s been a big help with integrating into the local culture.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic and historic areas in all of Prague. Construction started in 1357, and it’s truly an architectural marvel. Charles Bridge connects Prague’s Old Town with the Lesser Quarter, and even though it’s usually quite busy with pedestrian traffic, I never get tired of crossing it.
Wallenstein Gardens
Open every year from April to October, Wallenstein Gardens has to be one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Prague. These gardens were created in the Baroque style in the 1600s along with the construction of the Wallenstein Palace, which now houses the Senate of the Czech Republic. In the summer, you can even catch performances here.
House of the Black Madonna
The House of the Black Madonna is one of Prague’s best examples of cubism, an art and architectural movement that began in Paris in the early 20th century. The building is named after a Baroque Black Madonna statue attached to its corner, a remnant of an earlier building on the site. Here you must visit the Grand Café Orient, the world’s only cubist cafe.
Klementinum
Klementinum is a historical building that hosts the Czech National Library, including the stunning Baroque library hall. It used to be a Jesuit college in Prague, and has served many different purposes over the last few hundred years. I highly recommended taking a tour and booking your tickets in advance!
Sapa (Little Hanoi)
Sapa, or Prague’s Little Hanoi, is the largest Vietnamese market outside of Vietnam. It is located in the outskirts of Prague and packed with Vietnamese and Asian stores, restaurants, businesses, and even a Buddhist temple. Vietnamese people are the third largest group of foreigners living in the Czech Republic, and Sapa is seen as the epicenter of the local community in Prague.
