by Prague is known for its stunning architecture. But it’s not just the ‘City of a Hundred Spirals’. It also has 30 bridges and a variety of parks, palaces and castles to explore. It’s no wonder that Prague is gaining popularity as a destination for city breaks. Prague is a popular tourist destination, and even though Eastern Europe is well-known for its value, prices have risen due to the popularity of Prague, particularly in the historic center. Here are my top tips to make Prague a budget-friendly destination (NB. 100 Czech koruna = PS3.35/EUR4/US$4.35).
Prague: Things to Do on a Budget
Walking through Prague’s Old Town feels like taking a free architectural tour. There are impressive Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. For street performers in summer, or Christmas markets in winter), head to the Old Town Square and observe the procession made up of the Twelve Apostles as the oldest Astronomical Clock in the world strikes the hour (9:00 to 11:59).
One of Prague’s most iconic sights is the 14th-century Charles Bridge ( Karluv Most). It has 30 statues that line its walls, and towers protecting every end. It’s also the busiest place in Prague, so it’s best to go there before dawn to avoid the crowds. The colourful, graffiti-covered John Lennon Wall and the Dancing House are just a few of the other free sights. David Cerny’s bronze giant baby statues outside Museum Kampa is another.
The largest castle in the world is the Prague Castle, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a free look from the outside but you must purchase a ticket to enter. There are several versions, but the best value is CircuitB, which includes St Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, St George’s Basilicas, Golden Lane, and the Daliborka Tower. Tickets are CZK 250 for adults and CZK 125 for concessions. They are valid for two consecutive days. You will need to pay an additional CZK 295 for adults and CZK 295 for concessions to visit the Lobkowicz Palace. Take into account Europe hotspost rules, as well.
Prague’s Jewish Quarter was Europe’s largest Jewish Ghetto (Josefov). It is now a lively district that boasts some of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish historical monuments. The Jewish Museum in Prague offers more information about the history of Prague’s Jewish Quarter. Entry costs CZK 350 for adults and 250 concessions. It includes the Maisel and Pinkas Synagogues, as well as the 15th century Old Jewish Cemetery with 12,000 gravestones.
Take a walking tour for a low-cost introduction to the city. You will only need to tip your guide. They are offered by several companies in Prague. Sandemans New Europe offer a 3-hour tour of Prague’s history. They depart from the Old Town Square in front the Czech tourism office. The Powder Tower offers a similar Old Town Prague tour that departs at 10.30am each day and returns at 2pm.
Discover Prague Tours offer a Royal Walk tour through the Old Town, New Town, and Jewish Quarter at 10am, 11am, noon, and 2pm respectively) and a Prague Castle tour at 10.30am and 2pm. Both depart from the Discover Prague office (Celetna 12,). Prague Extravaganza offers 2-hour tours of Prague’s Old Town and Jewish Quarter. Tours depart from the Powder Tower between 11am and 3:30pm. A Charles Bridge and Castle tour starts at King Charles IV statue at 1pm (and 5pm during summer).
Museums and galleries that save money
Some major Prague museums offer free admission. The National Museum is open on the first Monday each month, while the National Gallery is open on specific dates throughout year. Many other museums are open on International Museums Day (18 Mai 2020). Prague Museum Night is also held every year on June 13, 2020. It features special shows, free transportation, and museums that are open from 7pm to 1am.
You can purchase a 9 museums pass in 5 days for CZK 200 adults/130 children. This includes the National Museum, museums that are dedicated to music, folk culture, American, Asian and African cultures, as well as Dvorak the composer.
You can also purchase additional general city passes. The Prague Card allows you to enter 60 attractions for free. It costs EUR62 for 2 days, EUR72 for 3 days, and EUR84 for 4 days. Students and children get discounts. The Prague City Pass can be used for 30 days, so it is more suitable for those who stay longer. The pass covers 15 attractions and costs CZK 1400 for adults and CZK 990 for children. You get a complimentary sightseeing bus tour or boat trip and many other discounts.
Prague Zoo offers a weekly “Happy Mondays” event for families with children. Tickets cost CZK 50, and are available to students and seniors.
