The most interesting sights of the Czech Republic. Prague. Prague tourist and non-tourist. Photos and videos of Prague Unusual places in Prague
Our walk around Prague was planned in advance. And here we must immediately express gratitude to the author of the route, To the one who fell from the moon, which we took as the basis for our walk and spotted on the Vinsky forum. It starts from the left bank, from the heights of Prague Castle and gradually descends to the Vltava and further to the right bank. But amazing Prague, of course, made adjustments to the written plan and captivated us with its alleys, leading us and returning us to iconic places.
So, on the advice of a kind person, we wanted to take the 22nd tram to Pogorelets Square, visit the Strahov Monastery and from there follow the route.. But Prague prepared a lot of improvisations for us. Our 30-minute tram ticket (In Prague you pay not for trips, but for the time you use the transport) was not enough for the last 2 stops, and we decided to get off the tram earlier and walk. And here is the first gift from Prague for Belarus. On the way, we met our great fellow countryman, and even with a signature in the Belarusian language. Thank you, Prague!
* The following picture and some others in the upper right corner are marked with . This means that under such a photo there is another one hidden - similar or from a different angle. To display the second image, click on the first image, to return the first, click on the second.
It turns out that our pioneer printer Francis Skaryna lived in Prague and worked as a royal botanist. After all, if the tram ticket had not expired, then they would not have known about memorial place! And not a single guidebook says anything about it!
Lion in the courtyard of the monastery. What should ivy cover?
We looked at the panorama of the city, ran down the narrow streets to Loretta::
We approached the president's residence:
We looked outside and inside at St. Vitus Cathedral:
Now it’s clear why it took a hundred years to build it.
Clock on the cathedral, two dials - the hour hand at the top, the minute hand at the bottom. It is five minutes past one:
After visiting the cathedral, it takes some time to come to your senses... It makes a strong impression.
We admired the views from the height of Prague Castle to the rest of Prague:
We went down the stairs:
and came across Prague's answer to one of Brussels' most famous landmarks - the Manneken Pis. :)
Both the Czech Republic and its neighbor Slovakia, soon after joining the European Union, the enthusiasm and euphoria diminished. The essence of the idea is that a Czech and a Slovak “water” the map of the former Czechoslovakia, drawing the letters “E” and “U” on it. :)
video of this action:
We were impressed, smiled and moved on. In general, the Czechs are a little disingenuous. They seem to swear at the European Union, but nevertheless, historically they are very keen on everything European. Here and there you come across the “Prague Eiffel Tower”, then “Florence”, then the “Champs Elysees”. Not to mention " Czech Switzerland"But we move on and, of course, get lost in the crooked and narrow streets:
Found. We realized that the Vltava is not far from us.
The Vltava is a restless river, sometimes it tosses and turns in its historical bed and causes floods. We see a mark on the water level during the 2002 flood:
While walking, we were surprised by the traffic light on the narrowest street in Prague. In essence, this is a passage between houses and two adults cannot pass in it, and therefore on both sides of the passage there is a button connected to a traffic light:
From the bridge across one of the canals we admired the “Venice of Prague”:
Each wedding passing by attaches its own castle to the railing of the bridge; soon there will be nowhere to hang the castles, or the historical bridge will collapse:
At this time, the understanding came that it would not hurt to have a snack. And warm up a little. :) Because the first signs of fatigue appeared, and along with them the feeling of beauty began to dull.
Numerous bakeries are perfect for realizing our desire, where they bake delicious Trdelnik rolls right in front of you. And this bun is best enjoyed with a glass of hot mulled wine. Mmmmm, this is delicious!
We refreshed ourselves and warmed up, restored our sense of beauty - and our walk-excursion went on with renewed vigor :) . At the same time, we present the prices in cafes in the tourist center:
Let's go look for the lower funicular station. Suddenly, instead of a station, a sculptural composition from the Museum of Communism appears in front of us - melting people:
The Czech memory of the Soviet period, however.
We finally found the lower station and rode up in the carriage:
Not far from the upper station the "Prague Eiffel Tower" was built:
We went out and examined the tower. Cool, not very similar to Parisian.
We went down in the cable car to the lower station. We walked along the narrow streets towards the Vltava.
Walking through the square, we saw a monument and came closer. "Don't be afraid, Masha, I'm Dubrovsky!" (With) :) :
We wandered along the banks of the Vltava. Katya at the foot of the Charles Bridge:
We came to the conclusion that this could be the end of our inspection of the left bank. It's time to cross the Vltava via the Charles Bridge.
There is an endless stream of tourists on the bridge at any time of the year. Of course - this is one of the main recognizable postcard images of Prague, everyone wants to capture themselves on the bridge. Well, we are no exception:
Vltava from Charles Bridge:
The bridge supports, looking towards the source of the river, are made in the form of irons, and in front of them are structures made of raised logs. This is all for breaking ice floes during ice drift:
We walked across the bridge and found ourselves on the right bank of the Vltava. Here the movement of tourists is even greater:
Once again we got lost in the intricacies of narrow streets, and it’s unclear how we came to the Powder Tower and the Public House:
We looked at the building of one of the theaters:
We saw the only building in the Czech Republic in the style of “example of cubism” - it is necessary to express great admiration for it. The house “at the black mother of God”, who for some reason was stuck in a cage. Expressed:
Although, to be honest, it's nothing special. We, of course, are not great experts in architecture, but department store buildings in the regional centers of the Republic of Belarus were built in a similar style. And they do not pretend to be tourist sites. Need to come up with an idea! And the staircase there is really cool, we were convinced.
Around the corner of the "cubic" building there is one notable beer restaurant. And it is notable for the fact that Vaclav Havel and Bill Clinton once drank beer here in an informal setting:
We went in and looked at the menu (by the way, we could already have lunch), but the menu did not impress us - there was no “baked knee”. And there was no beer in Kruzhovica. :(
Let's go for a walk further.
Here we came across the Czech Pomegranate brand store. Granat d.u.v. Turnov. Address - Dlouha, 28:
We purposefully returned to this store another day. It will be useful to know that in Prague there are two more authorized stores selling REAL pomegranate from Turnov - at Panska Pasaz - Na Prikope 23 and Panska 1/892. Other stores may sell you glass instead of garnet.
By the way, jewelry with garnet - great option for a gift from the Czech Republic.
We go out to Old Town Square:
The movement of tourists here never stops:
We looked at the clock on Old Town Square and listened to its chiming (fortunately the time had approached another full hour):
The watch is simply magical!
Winding through narrow streets, we made our way to Wenceslas Square, again “Prague’s Champs-Elysees”. This Paris was given to them. Vaslavek is good in himself, without nicknames:
The area is huge and is also teeming with tourists at any time of the year.
Building national museum. Currently under restoration:
In 1968, this building came under tank fire. Soviet tank units entered Prague to establish a regime loyal to the USSR (“Prague Spring”), and for some reason the military seemed to think that the government was meeting in this very building (they had neither information nor maps). They opened fire on the museum (!). We figured it out later... The building to this day retains, as a memory of that time, traces of shelling - on the facade on the columns, potholes from shells were specially sealed with a material of a different color.
They went into the alleys again and ended up at the Jindriž Tower:
We noticed that it was already getting dark, looked at the clock, and then it dawned on us that we were terribly hungry. Next to the tower there is a restaurant corresponding to the location “U Jindrižská vezha”, which we visited for dinner:
And they were satisfied - tasty and satisfying. When we got out, it was already completely dark, we boarded the tram and went to our Olshanka hotel.
The tourist walk around Prague is over. It is better that it be spread out over two or three days. Length of the described walking route- 6-7 kilometers.
2. Non-tourist Prague or details of Prague
After gawking at the historical and architectural sights, I wanted to see what these historical centuries-old houses look like from the courtyard and from the inside. The fact that the facades are openwork is understandable. What is a Prague courtyard?
So, it turned out that it is not possible to look at the houses “from the inside” and in the courtyards - because all the houses in any block are built close to each other and it is impossible to walk between the houses into the courtyards. The neighborhoods were built like fortresses:
The “entrances” in our understanding are led directly onto the street, and the doors are closed to the intercom:
And intercoms work everywhere :) . You won't go anywhere.
So that residents can drive into the courtyard by car, arches are provided, which are also protected by gates. And the gate is properly closed by default:
But the one who walks will master the road, and the one who seeks will find! There were a couple of gates that we managed to slip through (some were not closed tightly, others were entered behind a car that had driven there).
And they saw the construction of courtyards in the historical part of the city.
We go through the gate, go through the arch, we see mailboxes and doors to the stairs:
Concierge booth:
A modern elevator is attached to the side of the ancient building in the courtyard:
There is usually very little space for parking cars, so cars are parked in rows. Until the trailing person leaves, the others will not be able to leave:
In another yard we saw an alternative way of parking - three-tier garages. Car lift:
What can I say... Europe, however.
Žižkov district, where we lived.
Hotel Olshanka (we were based here):
Opposite the hotel on the other side of the street is the Olse restaurant. This cafe is mainly for local population. If you want to plunge into the real (non-touristy) Prague atmosphere, go. We were there - the price tag was the same as in the center of Prague, and overall it was fun and tasty. Only the waiters are greedy - they openly demand tips. A pub for local men in general, but Czechs drink culturally:
Tram tracks going to the center:
Here we board the tram:
And we will take the tram one stop towards the center:
Przystski screensaver - Jindrižska (c). It sounds like music!))
And then we’ll take a tram across the bridge over the Vltava:
At intersections where there is insufficient visibility, panoramic mirrors hang:
Now a few words about parking in Prague (and in the Czech Republic in general), in case you have a car (your own or a rental one).
All types of parking are indicated by lines of different colors on the roadway.
Blue line - RESERVE zone - parking is allowed only to those who have purchased a subscription card and stuck it on the windshield. This card does not give you the right to park everywhere, but in a certain area of the city (Prague is divided into several districts - Prague 1, Prague 2, ..., Prague 9, ...) and is valid for a month or a year.
White line - in these zones, parking is allowed to everyone, you just need to pay for it through a parking meter or directly to the parking attendant (they will issue a receipt). The receipt must be left under glass. An example of such a parking lot was above - Wenceslas Square.
Yellow line "herringbone" - parking is prohibited for everyone.
The police were repeatedly seen coming and checking the subscription cards or receipts of all parked cars.
If there is no receipt or subscription card, then a “trap” is issued to the car and instructions are posted on the glass on what to do next. Here's an example:
If there are no lines, then you can park for free. We just haven’t seen such places in the center of Prague.
Happy travels!
Come to the Czech Republic!
Practical information
How to get from the airport to the center of Prague? (How to get to Prague from Vaclav Havel Airport?)
When leaving the airport there will be a kiosk that sells tickets for public transport. If you don’t have crowns, then there are machines nearby that exchange euros, dollars and pounds for crowns, and a little further there is an exchanger. The normal rate is 1 euro - 25...26 CZK, 1 dollar - 18...19 CZK. Buy a ticket for 32 CZK (one and a half hours) and get off at the bus stop. Your bus number 119. Get in, mark your ticket on the composter, and drive to the final stop Dejvicka. There you change with the same ticket to the metro line "A" and get off at the station you need. Easily.
Features of public transport in Prague (in the Czech Republic).
There are three types of public transport in Prague - tram, metro, bus. The most popular for us was the tram. Trams run on schedule, very often, and the schedule is posted at each stop. The trams in Prague are beautiful, surprisingly fast - they move faster than in the Republic of Belarus. The tram has priority at the pedestrian crossing.
The metro consists of 3 lines - A, B, C.
In any type of transport there is a clock, all stops are announced (an audio recording is played), in addition, the names of the stops are displayed on the display. Public transport is clean and tidy, passengers ride sitting and standing.
A single ticket for public transport costs 24 CZK for 30 minutes, 32 CZK for 90 minutes. After entering the transport, you need to “validate” the ticket - you insert the ticket into the composter, the composter itself puts a current time stamp on it. And from now on, you can use transport (any) within the validity period of the ticket - i.e. 30 or 90 minutes. Those. a ticket for example for 90 minutes, you got on the tram at 15:00, marked the ticket, rode the tram for 20 minutes, then switched to the metro, go to the metro, got off the metro at 16:10, switched to the bus, and must leave the bus without later than 16:30. The controllers were not seen, but they say that they are there.
There is also a funicular with two stations, a single ticket is valid for it. You can take the funicular to the Prague Eiffel Tower.
We didn't notice any routes.
How to rent a car in the Czech Republic?
How much does it cost in the Czech Republic? Prices in Prague
First, exchange rates.
Many currencies are accepted in the Czech Republic, let's focus on the main ones - euro, dollar, Russian ruble (yes, yes - the Russian ruble is freely accepted at exchange offices).
Courses at which you can take currency - 1 euro - 25...26 CZK, 1 dollar - 18...19 crowns. Be sure to check how many crowns you will receive in your hands for such and such an amount of euros (dollars, rubles). Some exchangers may only show sales rates, not purchases; many exchangers have a hidden commission. If you change at a bank, you will need a passport, if you change at “Arab exchange offices”, then a passport is of no use. "Arab exchangers" are the majority of exchangers in Prague and they are staffed by Arabs.
So, the money is exchanged, the crowns are in the pocket, so the prices will be in crowns.
Dine in a restaurant in Prague - 500-700 CZK for two. These will be salads, one “knee” for two (and you may not be able to handle it alone - it costs a kilogram) or another signature dish or two smaller dishes, a beer for each. It's usually filling and tasty, don't worry. Lunch for two for 800-1000 CZK - this is if instead of beer there is a bottle of wine, and with tea/coffee and something with tea/coffee.
Just drink Czech beer in a cafe - 30-50 CZK for half a liter. Tea or coffee with pastries in the center of Prague - 100-150 CZK per person.
Prices in stores.
Czech beer 0.5 - 13-15 CZK.
Becherovka 0.5 - from 150 to 290 CZK, depending on the store and the type of Becherovka (we saw 3 types - Original, Lemon, Cordial)
Absinthe - well, it’s generally difficult to figure it out - there are many different types of it, and stores sell it in very different ways. From 250 to 1000 CZK.
From things, clothes, shoes - there is no shopping in Prague, the prices are high. Baseball cap 300-350 CZK, cap 200 CZK, children's jacket for a 3-year-old child - 1100-1300 CZK, Nike sneakers - 2200-2700 CZK. There were no discounts. Perhaps you should come for shopping during sales.
Do you want to become “one of our own” in the Czech capital? The secret is simple - stop rushing. Do not try to visit all the tourist establishments described in the guidebook, or better yet, stay away from them altogether. Why do you need these crowds of people, inflated prices, problems with service and standard souvenirs? Let's talk about alternative Prague - the way the natives know and love it!
Antoninovo pekařstvi
This small bakery (or rather, two - a branch recently opened) is deservedly popular among local residents. They line up to buy traditional bread and pies (kolaches), prepared according to the recipes of Czech grandmothers. Breakfasts are no less good, especially the favorite option of many Prague residents, which brings back memories of childhood - bread with egg salad and a cup of cocoa. Reservations are not accepted, so on a weekend morning you will have to stand in line (usually it moves quite quickly). You can sit outside and watch the quiet life of the area.
Address: Laubova 4 (Praha 3), Moskevská 38 (Praha 10).
Opening hours: daily from 7:30 to 19:30.
Choco Cafe
A family workshop and cafe that serves 50 types of chocolate, including some very original ones - for example, with chili pepper. It is also worth trying the wafer Hořické trubičky with a creamy filling, the taste of which is emphasized by chocolate, nuts and other additives. A portion of two straws costs 55 CZK (€2).
Address: Liliová 250/4, Klimentská 34, Betlémské nám. 8 (Praha 1)
Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 20:00.
Můj šálek kávy
Residents of Prague's Karlin district love this establishment for its versatility. Here you can have breakfast, lunch, drink coffee (gourmets consider it one of the best in the city), eat dessert or chat with friends over a glass of wine. The cafe is famous for its “English breakfast” - connoisseurs claim that it is prepared according to all the rules. To burn off those extra calories from this lovely establishment, climb the nearby Vítkov Hill for views of the .
Want to save money? We have collected for you all the places in Prague that you canAddress: Křižíkova 105 (Praha 8).
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 22:00, Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
La Dégustation Bohême Bourgeoise
Czech cuisine, considered by many gourmets to be lacking in sophistication, is a challenge for any chef. This establishment received him with dignity - they developed a tasting menu of 11 dishes based on culinary recipes of the 19th century. The asking price is 3350 CZK (€125).
Address: Haštalská 18 (Praha 1).
Opening hours: daily from 18:00 to 00:00.
Qubus Gallery
Fans of modern art and custom souvenirs will appreciate this art space created by designers Jakub Berdich and Maxim Velkovsky. Here you can see the works of Czech and foreign masters, as well as buy interesting (and very expensive) products made of glass, porcelain, wood, metal, wax, plastic and other materials.
From cabarets to antique districts –Address: Rámová 3 (Praha 1).
Opening hours: daily from 11:00 to 19:00.
Cross Club
A place loved by representatives of the DIY subculture. They are attracted here by non-commercial music (dubstep, breakbeat, reggae, ska, punk, rockabilly and drum and bass), low prices, an unspoken permission to smoke weed and a fascinating interior in which the world of Jules Verne and cyberpunk plots are intricately mixed. Czech and foreign performers regularly perform here, as well as other interesting events: author readings, theatrical performances, film screenings. A nice bonus is that most of them can be visited for free or for a nominal sum.
Where is the real underground of Amsterdam?Address: Jindřišská 5 (Praha 1).
Opening hours: daily from 14:00 to 22:30.
Atrium Concert Hall
Located in a former church building. Classical music concerts are held here, tickets for which are obscenely cheap (Prague residents claim that at times they cost no more than a Big Mac). Sometimes famous musicians perform here, but you will have to pay a lot more for the pleasure of listening to them in famous halls.
Address: Čajkovského 12 (Praha 3).
Opening hours: according to the concert schedule.
Dox Center for Contemporary Art
Interesting exhibitions are constantly held here, sometimes even several at once (ticket costs 180 CZK or €6.5). You can join a tour (English-speaking guides are available) to get as much information as possible about the exhibits on display. There is a café and a store that sells souvenirs made of glass and porcelain, jewelry from the best Czech designers and books about art.
Address: Poupětova 1 (Praha 7).
Opening hours: Tuesday - closed, Wednesday and Friday - from 11:00 to 19:00, Thursday - from 11:00 to 21:00, Saturday-Monday - from 10:00 to 18:00.
Page Five
A cozy store specializing in the sale of books and magazines about art, as well as author's prints. There are works by young Czech authors and popular magazines Kinfolk, Frame and Monocle, as well as publications in English. The average cost of a book is 300 CZK (€11). Opposite is a homely bistro - Bistro 8, where you can have a cup of coffee and cake or have a full lunch after a successful shopping spree.
Address: Veverkova 5 (Praha 7).
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 19:00, Saturday from 12:00 to 16:00, Sunday - closed.
Second hand Fifty Fifty
Are you smiling sarcastically? Not worth it! This is not a store with well-worn rags, but a kingdom of vintage clothes! A stylish lady rules here, who personally brings interesting specimens from her trips (mainly from Berlin). You can buy tunics, blouses and shirts from the 70s, Levi's jeans from the 90s, handbags and other accessories - all in excellent condition. From time to time you come across real treasures, for example, a Burberry coat. The average cost of clothing is 300 CZK (€11).
Address: Slezská 28 (Praha 2).
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00, Sunday - closed.
Parallelni polis
This unique place can be called a state within a state. Hacker state. It was conceived by the legendary association of Czech artists Ztohoven, in order to promote the development of crypto-anarchism.
All the most important things you need to know about Prague -In addition to the coworking space, there is a cafe here - officially the first establishment on the planet where they accept exclusively virtual currency - bitcoins - for payment. For those who are far from the world of “digital money”, there are so-called “paper wallets” that are used for one-time transactions. The coffee here is excellent - Berlin-roasted Bonanza, recognized as one of the best in the world.
Address: Dělnická 43 (Praha 7).
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00.
Art space MeetFactory
An art gallery, theater, music stage and co-working space for creative people. This place was founded by the provocateur Czech sculptor David Cerny, so don't be surprised by the building's appearance - its walls are decorated with pink cars and paint drips. Bands playing indie and electro music perform here, studios of young artists work, and exhibitions, fairs and festivals are held from time to time. The average ticket price is 350 CZK (€13). Good news for opponents of smoking - this bad habit is prohibited on the MeetFactory territory.
Atypical Prague... This is the same Prague, only seen from a different side, from a different point of view. You just need to get off the beaten path and pay attention to what doesn’t catch your eye. There is, after all, a discreet, unnoticeable beauty, but if you look into it, understand and feel it, then everything else will seem banal and uninteresting. This is how it turns out in the case of Prague, when you notice certain nuances, or rather, unusual places, in which the city’s individuality is especially noticeable. So, we suggest visiting them on the weekend, or, as they say, Prague for the weekend.
For example, Cafe Bella Vida. It is located close to, and has a view of Vltava from its windows will not leave you indifferent. This cafe is distinguished by its original design: in the form of a private apartment, that is, just a few rooms, differently furnished, with closets along the walls, different-sized chairs. You come, sit down in a comfortable chair that you like, order those dishes for which this cafe is famous. This is homemade lemonade or specially prepared coffee. Or you can even sit on the embankment, where the cafe also has several tables. From here, from open space, the view of the surrounding area is absolutely unforgettable. This cafe has not yet become famous among Prague guests; there is no crowd here, no unnecessary fuss, everything is calm and cozy. The feeling is as if you came to visit friends, and not to a public institution.
Cafe address: Malostranské nábřeží 563/3, 118 00 Praha, Czech Republic
Kampa Island Park
Which is located right next to the Bella Vida cafe, in fact it is a small island, half of which is given over to a park. On one side it is washed by the Vltava, on the other there flows a river with interesting name Devil, and locals love walking under the shade of its vegetation and the sound of river flows. In addition to the park itself, the island attracts curious people, who are skillfully made from yellow plastic bottles. The authors of this original composition in 2008 were just trying to draw attention to the irrational, from their point of view, use natural resources. And the result is a museum object, a sculpture-exhibit, especially attractive at dusk and at night, when the internal lighting is turned on. More and more people are coming to see the line of yellow penguins, and some are even trying to steal them as souvenirs.
Address: U Sovových mlýnů 2 118 00 Praha Czech Republic
John Lennon Wall
Another interesting one is this. It is located opposite the French embassy in Prague, and the inscriptions on it are said to have begun to appear immediately after Lennon's death. The city authorities unsuccessfully tried to stop such disgrace in the city center, but none of their efforts stopped fans from again and again filling the wall space with inscriptions, quotes and drawings. In the end, they were left alone, and this place no longer became a “disgrace”, but a full-fledged modern landmark of the city. It is interesting to watch it, because it is a living object, it is constantly changing, new images, autographs and wishes appear on it.
Address: Velkopřevorské náměstí, 118 00 Praha, Czech Republic
Wallenstein Garden
There is another amazing object that will cause your genuine admiration. This - . It hid behind an inconspicuous gate, but in fact it is one of the most picturesque gardens, or rather palace gardens in the Baroque style. It appeared in Prague at the beginning of the 17th century. Now this garden has become the territory of the Senate, and this is probably why there are so few visitors to it. Meanwhile, there is something to see! This is a completely artificial garden, made according to an intricate design and lovingly maintained in excellent condition to this day. Here lies a pond with fish splashing in it, magnolia trees bloom and arrogant peacocks walk around. The landscape is complex, with green hedges and intricately trimmed trees, with statues here and there. There is also a strange wall made up of stalactites, on which, in addition, face masks are carved. An absolutely magical experience, incomparable to anything.
Address: Letenská, 110 00 Praha, Czech Republic
Boat trip on the Vltava
The Vltava is magnificent. On the shore you can see rental points for boats and catamarans, marked with figures of swans, with which the catamarans are decorated. You can rent such a catamaran and go for a ride, and then people around you will pay attention to you, look at you and take pictures. Then you will feel for yourself what it’s like to be a celebrity! Well, if fame doesn’t attract you, you can take a boat and glide in it along the Vltava waters, admiring the picturesque banks. At the same time, you will take a break from walks and impressions.
Swans on the Vltava
But if the swans still don’t impress you, then take a walk along the Janackovo embankment. Here's where you'll see enough, this time alive. They don't pay much attention to onlookers, but go about their business. They won't mind at all if you want to take a photo of them.
Address: Janáčkovo nábřeží, 150 00 Praha-Praha 5, Czech Republic
Buy Krtek - the symbol of the Czech Republic
Somewhere along the road you will see toys being sold - Mole (Krtek), a children's cartoon character by artist Zdenek Miller. Krtek is, if you like, a symbol of the Czech Republic. The cartoon with this hero was shown at one time in the USSR, as well as in 75 countries around the world. So buy Krtek as a souvenir of your visit to Prague.
Street food
After long walks I really crave something to eat. And the unusually tasty smell of smoked meat immediately attracts attention. It turns out that you have come to a place where they sell Prosciutto di Praga, or Old Prague ham. People happily crowd around a huge ham, from which thin slices are cut off with a special knife and immediately eaten by the connoisseurs gathered around.
After trying the meat delicacy, don’t forget to enjoy dessert. This is the so-called trdelnik, National dish, which they have adapted to cook right on the street, in the presence of customers, and even upon their order. This is a tube of pastry with cream or Nutella inside, and even sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar on top. Real jam! You just need to remember that you are not the only one who likes this dish. The wasps have tasted it for a long time, and will try to eat it with you. So be careful!
If you still haven't had enough, you can buy it here, on the street, fresh fruits. Or vegetables.
Street musicians
By the way, if you ate ham on, you probably paid attention to the street musicians. There are many of them, they are different, and there will always be one that will touch some string in your soul.
Astronomical clock Orloy
If you stay around the musicians long enough, you might be lucky enough to watch one of Prague’s most famous landmarks in action. We are talking about ones that show a lot of different parameters, they don’t just show time. But at the same time they are clocks, and astronomical ones at that. They were installed back in the 15th century, and since then they have evoked genuine admiration among all spectators of the extraordinary action. There are four main figures and twelve more apostle figures. The main figures: a skeleton, symbolizing death, chimes every hour; followed by a figure with a mirror, symbolizing vanity; then the figure with the wallet is greed, and finally the fourth figure in the turban, symbolizing nothing, is just a Turk. And at noon, all twelve apostles emerge from the openings and majestically reveal themselves to numerous spectators.
Address: Staroměstské náměstí 1, 110 00 Prague 1, Czech Republic
Franz Kafka and Prague
When the phantasmagoria with the clock ends, you can go further to Franz Kafka Square. It is located here, but the exhibition contains only photographs, and it is unlikely that you will be interested in it.
But looking at the house in which he lived is much more interesting. To do this, you need to turn in and find number 22. This is a very tiny apartment with thin walls.
If you are really interested in Kafka and the details of his life in Prague, then nothing prevents you from crossing the Vltava and visiting, looking, walking around, feeling the atmosphere. Little has changed here since then.
Maybe you will even be able to buy “The Castle” in the original language, there is such an inconspicuous shop there, they will show you.
Museum address: Cihelná 2b, 118 00 Praha 1, Česká republika
Visit Franz Kafka's grave
There have been plenty of charlatans at all times. In the 16th century, one of the most notable was the English medium Edward Kelly, who claimed that with the help of his crystal ball he could communicate with spirits and also turn metal into gold. Ruler Rudolf II became interested in the alchemist’s latest “gift”; he gave Kelly the title of “Baron of the Kingdom” and gave him the “Donkey’s Cradle House” on Jansky Hill as a laboratory.
It is there that the Prague Museum of Alchemists and Magicians is now located, covered, like Edward Kelly himself, with many mystical legends. According to one of them, Kelly did not have ears (in the Middle Ages they were cut off for fraud), but he successfully hid it behind long hair. However, one woman accidentally noticed this “flaw”, for which she was cursed. Returning home, she discovered that her son had turned into a donkey. Fortunately, everything ended well - the woman returned the child’s human form with prayers.
In this museum you can plunge into the atmosphere of a real alchemical laboratory. Among the exhibits are a crystal ball (the same one!), a philosopher's egg (intended for the production of the philosopher's stone), ovens for brewing potions and other interesting things. By the way, many objects can be touched with your hands and tested on yourself. In addition, as part of your visit to the museum, you can stop by the Kellixir restaurant and taste the “elixir of youth” or another “medieval potion.”
Address: Jánský vršek 312/8
Website: muzeumalchymistu.cz
Vicki: Edward Kelly
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 20:00
2. Penguins on the Vltava
Contemporary art is sometimes difficult to understand. For example, it is not known for certain what the art group Cracking Art Group wanted to say when they installed 34 yellow penguins on the banks of the Vltava as part of the Re-Evolution exhibition at the Kampa Museum. The penguins are made from recycled plastic bottles. They stand side by side on a small bridge, not far from another unusual Prague monument called “The Chair”.
It’s impossible to walk past these compositions and not take a photo of them. They, like a magnet, attract Prague residents and visitors to the city. The only difference is in attitude: for some these are just cool monuments, while for others it is modernity, expanding the boundaries of the usual understanding of the world. Be that as it may, the yellow penguins on the Vltava look very bright, especially in the evening when the lights turn on.
Address: na Malé Straně, u Muzea Kampa (U Sovových mlýnů 2)
3. Kingdom of Railways
Many people dreamed of a toy railroad as a child. The Kingdom of Railways is the apogee of childhood dreams; it is the largest operating model railway in the Czech Republic.
It is located in the building of the Anděl Hotel and represents 121 meters of railway tracks running along the Karlovy Vary and Usti regions. Czech towns, small and large stations recreated in the smallest detail, and video cameras are built into the locomotives, which allows you to imagine yourself as a passenger on the train and a resident of this tiny world.
Recreation Project Czech Republic in miniature began in 2009 and is scheduled for completion in 2014, when Prague Castle connects to Karlštejn Castle. So the Kingdom of Railways is constantly evolving. Not only children, but also adults will be delighted with his visit, because for them this is another reason to feel like a child.
Address: Stroupežnickeho 23
Website: kralovstvi-zeleznic.cz
Operating mode: daily from 09:00 to 21:00
4. Lego Museum
Another magical place for children and those young at heart is the Lego Museum. The Prague Museum of this world-famous designer is the largest in Europe: more than 2,500 exhibits, assembled from more than a million parts, 340 sq.m., occupying 3 floors.
Architecture, Harry Potter, world landmarks, space, star Wars– a total of 20 thematic exhibitions, 20 worlds recreated using a construction set. You can immerse yourself in their amazing atmosphere not only by looking at the museum stands, but also in the playroom, where children can use Lego to build another, their own, world. In addition, on the territory of the museum there is a store where visitors are offered various series of designer toys.
Address: Narodni 362/31
Website: muzeumlega.cz
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 20:00
5. KGB Museum
There are many places in Prague that commemorate the common Soviet-Czech socialist past. One of the most extraordinary is the KGB Museum. It was opened in 2011 through the efforts of a private collector who previously lived in Russia.
The museum recreates the atmosphere of the USSR State Security Committee: employee offices, telephones, stationery, insignia of Soviet secret service agents. In addition, personal belongings of the first persons of the Soviet Union are presented - the leaders of the Cheka, GPU, OGPU, NKVD, MGB, KGB. For example, a radio receiver from personal account Beria.
A special place in the museum is occupied by a photographic exhibition entitled “Prague 1968 through the eyes of a KGB officer” - these are photographs taken by employees of the State Security Committee in Prague in the spring of 1968, when Soviet troops entered the Czech capital.
There is an important warning on the main page of the museum’s website: “Attention! The purpose of this exhibition is not to promote violence, racial superiority and national hatred.” The Prague KGB Museum is mainly a historical museum.
Address: Vlašská 13
Website: www.kgbmuzeum.com
Vicki: KGB Museum in Prague
Operating mode: daily from 9:00 to 18:00
6. Ta Fantastika Theater
The magic of music, plasticity and light gives birth to a fascinating performance called black theater. Black theater is an artistic production based on the optical effect of the black cabinet, thanks to which objects “come to life” and become actors on par with the actors.
The Ta Fantastica Theater, located in the UNITARIA palace, was founded by Piotr Kratochvil in 1980, who at that time lived in the USA. Upon returning to his homeland in 1989, Kratochvil continued to engage in black theater.
Ta Fantastica Theater is a non-verbal theater, its main means of expression are light, movement and music. Therefore, when visiting it, you will not encounter a language barrier - the magic is clear without words.
7. National Technical Museum
The Prague National Technical Museum is a paradise for lovers of engineering and technology. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the Czech Republic was considered one of the most advanced countries in terms of technology, so in 1908 this museum was founded in the Czech capital.
Over its long history, the Prague Technical Museum has accumulated more than a million exhibits, and today it is considered one of the best in Europe. The museum has several thematic rooms: transport, architecture, astronomy, household appliances, printing and photography.
The largest (4-story pavilion) and fascinating, of course, is the exhibition dedicated to transport. There are also cars: from the very first ones, powered by a steam engine, to quite modern ones (for example, cars driven by the top officials of the Czech Republic); and all kinds aircrafts– from airplanes to planes from the Second World War; and steam locomotives, and motorcycles and bicycles.
No less interesting is the exhibition dedicated to the history of photography. For us, people of the 21st century, accustomed to taking digital photographs, even the process of printing from a negative seems something unusual. The exhibition presents some of the very first cameras, flashes and other photographic devices.
The astronomy hall contains various telescopes, star charts, astronomical clocks and other equipment that have helped to study the Universe over the centuries. Exposition household appliances talks about evolution household: there you will see what our grandmothers used to cook, iron and wash with. And in the “Typography” hall you can trace the history of printing: antique typewriters, typesetting blocks, printing presses and much more.
You can devote the whole day, or even more than one, to visiting this museum.
Address: Kostelni, 42
Website: ntm.cz
Virtual tour of the museum halls
Operating mode: Tuesday-Friday from 9:00 to 17:30, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00
8. Prague metronome
Not far from the National Technical Museum, in Letna Park, there is another unusual technical structure- a huge metronome.
In 1991, the General Czechoslovak Exhibition took place in Prague. On this occasion, they decided to build a metronome on the site where there once was a monument to Stalin. The artist Vratislav Karel Novak took on the project. The result was a 24-meter monument with a 20-meter barbell, methodically counting the time.
It’s funny that before the Czech Republic joined the European Union, when the country was faced with an important historical choice, one of the resourceful townspeople signed “Yes” on one side of the metronome and “No” on the other. Apparently, the device helped the Czech people make the right decision.
Currently the platform at the metronome is favorite place Prague skateboarders.
Address: Nábřeží Edvarda Beneše
Vicki: Prague metronome
9. Sex Machine Museum
Prague is one of the European capitals where prostitution is legalized. However, the phrase “Prague Museum of Sex Machines” sounds more than strange (somehow it does not fit with the majestic architecture and glorious history of the Beauty of Prague).
However, there really is such an establishment in the Czech capital. The Sex Machine Museum is an exhibition of erotic devices with which people different time, V different countries tried to please themselves and their partners. The museum occupies three floors and includes more than 200 exhibits (directly “tools”), as well as books, clothes, unusual condoms and much more. The pride of the establishment is the only cyber sex machine in Europe. In addition, old erotic films are shown within the walls of the museum from time to time.
As you understand, the doors of the museum are open only to adults.
Address: Melantrichova 18
Website: sexmachinesmuseum.com
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 23:00
10. Beer depot
The Czech Republic is a beer country, so there are plenty of places in Prague where excellent Czech beer is bottled. But all these establishments are similar to each other. All but one.
We are talking about the Vytopna restaurant, located on Wenceslas Square (entrance from shopping center Phoenix Palace). The Czechs are clearly partial to trains, because Vytopna is another model railway. More precisely, it is a beer depot, where beer is delivered on small trains along rails laid between the tables of visitors (there are rooms for smokers and non-smokers). The bar counter serves as a loading and unloading station: dirty dishes are brought there, new batches of beer are poured there and the route is set. Thus, drinking a foamy drink turns into exciting children's fun.
By the way, the whole family often comes to this restaurant (there is a special corner for children), because, in addition to excellent beer, Vytopna is famous for its cuisine. True, empty seats in the restaurant are rare, so it is better to book a table in advance.
Address: Václavské náměstí 802/56
Website: vytopna.cz
Virtual excursions: ,
Operating mode: daily from 11:00 to 23:30
11. Absinthe bar
Other popular alcoholic drink in the Czech Republic is absinthe. And in Prague there is a bar completely dedicated to him - Absinthe Time bar.
The establishment's menu includes dozens of types of absinthe with different thujone content: from 10 mg to 100 mg (this absinthe is sold only in this bar). In addition, you can treat yourself to a variety of cocktails, which, of course, also include absinthe.
From the friendly waiters you will learn how to prepare absinthe, its types and learn the culture of its use (hot and cold methods).
Address:
Kremencova 5
Website: absinthe-time.cz
12. Bobsleigh track
Who said you can't sled in the summer? In Prague - you can. For this purpose, a “bean drag” was built there, that is, a rail bobsleigh track. This is 800 meters of adrenaline, sharp turns and breathtaking loops, overcome at a maximum speed of 62 km/h - what you need for an active holiday.
At the same time, the “bean drag” is extremely safe - even children over 8 years old can ride (younger ones must be accompanied by adults). The sleds are equipped with brakes, and the track itself is illuminated in the evenings. But the best part is that those who like to ride won’t have to “carry” the sled—the smart mechanism itself will lift them back up the mountain.
In addition, on the territory of the bobsleigh track, there is a wonderful rope center, a children's playground and a restaurant. This perfect place for family holidays.
Address: Prosecá 906/34b
Website: bobovadraha.cz
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 22:00
13. Museum of Miniatures
The Museum of Miniatures is an exhibition of works by Lefty of our time, Anatoly Konenko. This Russian microminiaturist artist began micropainting back in 1981. In 1998, in Prague, on the territory of the Strahov Monastery, a museum was opened with his works, which can only be viewed with a microscope or magnifying glass.
There are about 40 exhibits in total, but what kind! Tiny reproductions (10x10 mm plates) of paintings by Matisse, Botticelli, Dali, a camel caravan in the eye of a needle, the Eiffel Tower in a cherry pit and others.
Anatoly Konenko, apparently, has special reverence for another master of “small forms” - Chekhov. The museum displays a portrait of Anton Pavlovich on a poppy seed, as well as a book with his story “Chameleon” measuring 0.9x0.9 mm, which until 2013 was considered the smallest book in the world and listed in the Guinness Book of Records.
Prague is usually called by different names. Prague is mysterious, beautiful, mystical, concealing thousands of wonders. It is completely impossible to know Prague completely. All the same, it will contain secrets, unseen temples and unexplored routes. It is very interesting to walk around Prague: all around you can see beautiful monuments and buildings with their own history. It is proposed to consider the features of the new route around Prague, which starts at Wenceslas Square and ends near the Dancing House. This walk will last about three hours and you can visit several churches that are located some distance from Visegrad, the center and the embankment.
Prague can be classified as one of those cities where you will want to return again. And those who are lucky enough to see almost everything in Prague can be offered to take advantage of the new walking route, which cannot be found in guidebooks. So, you should stock up on a map and go to Wenceslas Square, since the path will start from there.
You can walk to the center of Wenceslas Square to Stepanska Street, it is located next to the most famous passage in Lucerne. If you walk along this street for about five minutes, you will notice on the left the majestic Gothic structure of the Church of St. Stepan. This temple at one time played the role of a parish for the New Place, an entire district of the city. It is believed that King Charles IV founded this church, and the monument to him is located next to Prague's Charles Bridge.
This church is famous for its Baroque paintings. Among them there is an image of St. John of Nepomuk, who grants wishes.
Stepanska Street as it moves becomes Lipova Street, which forms an intersection with Katerinska Street, where the church dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria is located.
Next you should go along Vinichna Street, which continues Lipova. After a block you should turn right along Apollinarskaya Street. Around the bend there will be a church dedicated to St. Apollinaris on Vetrovo. This Gothic temple is famous for its interior paintings, which are well preserved. It is fashionable to get married in this church these days, since young Prague residents rightly believe that the proximity of the maternity hospital to this church is a very good sign.
The steep Apollinarskaya street, paved with paving stones, leads to the wide street Na Slupi. On this street, you should turn left to see the temple dedicated to St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows.
The Vysehrad fortress is located on the banks of the Vltava. The guidebooks recommend coming here by metro, but along this route you can walk here and get inside through the powerful fortress gates. The characters of all Prague legends associated with the history of the formation of the Czech state certainly made their mark in Visegrad.
According to the legend associated with the hill under the Visegrad fortress, unprecedented wealth is hidden in the depths of the hill. This treasure can be revealed on the shortest night for a person who has never sinned in his life. Therefore, no one managed to find the treasure. They also say that under the fortress there are sleeping knights on horseback, capable of defending their native Czech Republic in difficult times.
Next you should pass by Botanical Garden, which will be on the right, along Vyshegradska Street towards two churches located opposite each other. This is the church dedicated to St. John on Skalce, as well as the Emaus Monastery. To then go down, you should go through the monastery courtyard to the steps that lead down. Locals This road is often used, so you just need to follow the Prague residents who are always rushing about their business.
Having gone down past the solid building of the Ministry of Labor, you should go down to Gorazdova Street, and then it leads to Reslova Street. Then you need to turn left and see on the left the unusual Dancing House, which is one of the masterpieces of Prague architecture. It is the embodiment of the deconstructivist style, composed of two parts, as if intertwined in dance.
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