Prague, a jewel of a city. Unlike many major cities like Vienna and Budapest, which suffered serious damage during WWII, Prague managed to escape unscathed, as the Nazis fled without a fight.
What a great walking city with all the twisting cobblestone lanes. Do get a good detailed map. I like to think I have a good sense of direction, but even I was turned around on several occasions.
Language: In a word; difficult, Fortunately just about everyone in Prague proper speaks some English, and you’ll find all the menus in several languages.
Two words to learn are “Prosim” (Pro-SEEM), meaning “please/you’re welcome”
And…this is tough one “Dekuji” (Dyeh-KOO-ye): Thank you.
The Charles Bridge: You will walk across the Vyltava River on your way to the Prague Castle. Yes, it’s a little touristy as there are vendors all along the pedestrian bridge. But this is the perfect place to buy a painting from one of the local artists. Also check out their puppets on strings; some with really grotesque features like witches and wolves. It’s a perfect venue to take pictures, but do it early. You can walk up the hill to the castle, and within the grounds is one of Europe’s’ great Gothic Cathedrals, St Vitus.
Jewish Prague: One of Europe’s oldest communities, it was essentially wiped out during the Nazi occupation. Plan a visit to the Jewish Museum in the 1st district, which oversees a few of the synagogues, including the Maisel and Pinkas, as well as the cemetery, dating from the 14th century.
Dining and Drinking
Beer drinkers, rejoice! The Czechs drink more beer per capita than any other country. The famous beer (pivo) is Pilsner Urquell, the original pilsner beer, Staropramen is also very good, and my favorite, the original Budweiser from Ceske Budajovice. This is the real deal, not like pedestrian American version.
Every type of cuisine is available, but do try some typical Czech dishes. Potato soup, Nosh-Up (duck, roast pork, sausage), Cabbage & Dumplings to name a few.
U Fleku: an institution dating back to 1499. Skip the late cabaret and have dinner and their dark beer (stout). Deminka and Na bibym miste, all are in the 1st district are good choices..
If you want to splurge, La Perle is worth it. We had panoramic views from the 7th floor of the “Dancing House” You’ll have to see this building to believe it. The cuisine is French and we gave them an 8 for food and 10 for circuses.
Stay tuned for our Friday post, which will feature Mike's advice on Venturing Outisde of Prague.