Prague is a historic, welcoming, and bustling city – perfect for lingering a few days before your Classic Journeys tour. Cobbled lanes, friendly locals, and iconic red roofs set the scene for world-class culture, hearty Czech comfort food, and some of Europe’s best beer. Prague is an ideal place to slow your pace, taste something new, and see corners of the city that many visitors miss. Read on for our suggestions on the top five things to see, eat, and drink that will complement what you’ll experience on tour with us!
Top 5 Things To Do in Prague:
1. Vyšehrad: Prague’s Quiet Fortress on the Cliffs:
High above a bend in the Vltava, Vyšehrad feels like a peaceful village tucked inside ancient walls. Stroll tree-lined paths past a hilltop basilica and atmospheric cemetery where Czech composers, artists, and writers are buried, and pause at the ramparts for some of the best skyline views of the city—without the crowds.
💡 Insider tip: Time your visit for late afternoon, then linger on the walls as the sun sets and the city lights flicker on below.
2. Letná Park and Its Iconic Views:
Letná Park stretches along a ridge above the river, offering wide-open lawns, shady paths, and a classic postcard view of Prague’s bridges lined up along the Vltava. Locals come here to jog, picnic, and sip cold beer at the beloved Letná beer garden, where wooden tables sit under leafy trees for a welcoming pause.
3. The Dancing House and Riverside Stroll:
Along the riverfront in New Town, the playful, curving lines of the Dancing House stand out against Prague’s more traditional architecture. This contemporary building (pictured above) makes a fun photo stop and marks a lovely stretch of embankment to explore.
4. Kampa Island’s Art:
Tucked between the Vltava and the canal, Kampa Island feels like a small village in the middle of the city. You’ll find leafy riverside paths, whimsical modern sculptures, and quiet benches where you can sit and watch the world go by.
5. Strahov Monastery and Its Storybook Library:
Perched on the hillside above the city, Strahov Monastery is home to one of Europe’s most beautiful historic libraries, lined with globes, ancient books, and frescoed ceilings. Just outside, quiet courtyards and gardens give way to sweeping panoramas of the river below.
Top 5 Things To Eat In Prague:
1. Czech Pastries:
Czech bakeries are treasure troves of pastries like koláče (soft, yeasted cakes with poppy seed, cheese, or fruit fillings), which are pictured above. A morning stop at a neighborhood bakery is an easy – and delicious – way to start your day like a local.
💡 Insider tip: Grabbing a small plate to share over coffee lets you sample several varieties at once… enjoy!
2. Czech Goulash:
Czech goulash is rich, beefy, and fragrant with paprika, usually served with dense dumplings that are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Compared with other versions of this, Czech goulash is often a bit thicker and heartier.
3. Svíčková na smetaně (Creamy Beef with Dumplings):
Svíčková is a beloved Czech classic: slow-roasted beef in a velvety root-vegetable and cream sauce, served with pillowy bread dumplings. The plate often arrives garnished with a slice of lemon, cranberry sauce, and a dollop of whipped cream—a combination that sounds surprising but tastes delicious.
4. Trdelník (Chimney Cake):
You’ll see spirals of trdelník dough baking over open grills all around the city center, then rolled in sugar and nuts to make a crispy, chewy street treat. Sometimes it’s filled with ice cream or chocolate, but it can also be eaten warm as you stroll the cobblestone streets.
5. Vepřo knedlo zelo (Roast Pork with Dumplings and Cabbage):
Get ready for a hearty meal of roast pork, soft bread or potato dumplings, and tangy braised cabbage. The balance of rich meat, starchy dumplings, and bright, slightly sour cabbage is Czech home cooking at its best.
Top 5 Things To Drink In Prague:
1. Czech Beer:
The Czech Republic is famous for its beer, and Prague’s taps run with crisp, golden lagers and darker brews. A properly poured half-liter of Pilsner or a local craft beer pairs with everything from goulash to a simple plate of sausages.
💡 Insider tip: On tour, you’ll visit with artisans at a local brewery for a tasting and explore the remarkably well-preserved villages of Telc and Cesky Krumlov.
2. Moravian Wine:
While beer takes the spotlight, the Czech Republic also produces lovely wines—especially whites—from the Moravian region. In Prague, you’ll find cozy wine bars pouring local Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, and red blends by the glass.
3. Coffee in a Prague Café:
From grand, old-world cafés to intimate modern spots, Prague takes its coffee seriously. Sit down with an espresso or cappuccino and watch the city move past your window—it’s as much a tradition as visiting the major sights.
4. Slivovice and Other Fruit Brandies:
For something stronger, slivovice (plum brandy) and other fruit spirits are part of Czech celebratory culture. A tiny glass shared with new friends in a local bar is a memorable way to toast your time in Prague. These spirits are often homemade or from small producers, which adds to their charm.
5. Becherovka (Czech Liquor):
Herbal and slightly bitter, Becherovka is a traditional Czech liqueur originally created as a digestive. Sip it neat after a hearty dinner or try it in a simple cocktail with tonic and a slice of lemon. Either way, it’s a distinctly Czech flavor you’ll remember long after you return home.
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