Prague is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque Medieval city’s in Europe; it’s church spires, turreted buildings, cathedrals, castles and winding cobbled streets are a delight to behold and also very well maintained as the city centre was hardly touched during the World War Two bombings. The city’s thriving cultural scene is also a draw for artists, opera fans and so forth, making it one of Central Europe’s most popular holiday destinations and the ideal setting for a magical weekend away, on a par with Venice for it’s beauty and history.

The city is built over seven hills and is split down the middle by the River. The city centre itself is divided up into different areas, although neighbourhood names vary from one travel guide to another which can be confusing. Here I’ve named just a few of the main, tourist areas (in English) to make it a little easy to picture the city in your mind’s eye. There is the Castle area, Lesser Town, New Town, Old Town and Jewish Town.

This is a wonderful high spot from which to enjoy stunning views over the city and the river, but the privilege has a price. For cheap accommodation near to Prague Castle area you should look at hostels and book out of season or expect to pay top dollar. Lesser Town is also near the castle and home to many government buildings.

New Town and Old Town are situated opposite each other and are both very historical, although New Town is where you will find the city’s wildest nightlife. If you are looking for the Prague you know and love from TV documentaries and picture perfect postcards, Old Town is your place.

The Jewish Town is where an old Jewish Ghetto originally stood (another thing the city has in common with Venice) and has an interesting past within its own right. Come here for Kosher food and interesting architecture but equally for classy restaurants and chic shopping. Hotels in the Jewish Town are easy to come by and it can make a nice base from which to explore the city.

Choose your Prague base but make sure you do the rounds and visit at least a few of the other neighbourhoods to get a well rounded view of this wonderful, vibrant European city!

Prague has to be one of my favourite cities in central Europe, if not the whole of Europe! Who can resist its beautiful old town with cobbled streets and magnificent castle, Gothic architecture and classical music concerts? There is a more modern side to the Czech capital too though so clubbers and young travellers looking for a party needn’t go home disappointed. But the best thing about Prague is that it is very budget-friendly; gone are the days when you could buy a pint of delicious Czech beer for a few pennies but Prague is still considerably cheaper than some of its European neighbours.
Your first major saving will be on accommodation: Cheap apartments in Prague are easy to come by as many locals like to make a little extra cash by renting out their homes during the high season. This is the perfect way to experience the city like a local and enjoy a little privacy during your stay. Of course, if you are only staying for a few days and really want to enjoy a prime location to use as a base from which to explore the historical city centre, look at B&B’s near to Charles Bridge in Prague which will be cheaper than hotels.
For cheap things to do try the Wallenstein Palace Gardens which are beautiful baroque gardens open from April to October and are free to visit. The National Museum is free on the first Monday of every month, and if you are a Kafka fan, head to the Kafka Musuem (admission for less than 3 pounds) and then on to the historic Cafe Louvre where the man himself often enjoyed a coffee and the views from the cafe’s summer terrace.
Buses are efficient and cheap if you are not able (or willing) to walk around town.
The River Vltava divides the city up with Prague Castle on the left of the river. Mesto (New Town), and Stare Mesto (Old Town) on the right-hand side of the river are where you will find all the shops, restaurants, and museums. For food, though, Josefov, the city’s Jewish quarter is unbeatable. Food is, generally speaking, very cheap in Prague and many local restaurants offer set daytime menus for very reasonable prices.

You will always hear people speaking very fondly of Prague, but nothing beats seeing this open air museum for yourself and absorbing the magical atmosphere of Bohemia!