I spent a few days in Czech republic. I visited Ostrava, Brno and Prague. It was shortly before Christmas when the Christmas markets are the biggest attraction. Here are the places I visited and some tips and tricks I learnd while visiting.
Places I visited
Ostrava
This is the third biggest city in Czech republic. It is located on the northeast, close to the Polish border. I haven’t had enough time to spend there. It is an industrial city full of old or new factories and companies. The city itself doesn’t have that much to offer but it is definitely worth to see. It has a special vibe.
Christmas markets, Brno
The markets were located at the Freedom square. They were small and cozy. There were stands with food, souvenirs and homemade goods. There was also a stage where different groups had perfomances. You should definitely try some of the food, they offer a lot of local specialities. A lot of Christmas lights, decorations and music can’t be missing, they also had a Christmas tram.
Špilberk castle, Brno
This castle is standing on a hill in the city. You should definitely visit, as it is one of the landmarks of Brno. You can enjoy beautiful view, take a walk in the park or learn something new in the castle museum. There were also ponys outside.
Christmas markets, Prague
The markets in Prague were located at Old town square. You can enjoy the view of the Astronomical clock, the Church of the Virgin Mary Before Tyn, a lot of souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes or museums and attractions there. The markets were cozy and beautiful with a lot of lights and decorations. There were also a lot of stands with food, homemade goods and souvenirs. The prices at the Christmas markets are mostly really high but if you are on a budget I advise you to at least try some local goods. There were also some attractions like a stage for performances but also a Santa Claus walking there, a devil or even Pikachu.
Astronomical clock, Prague
The biggest and the most famous landmark of Prague or even the whole Czech republic. It is an old astronomical clock attached to the Old town hall. Every hour you can see The Walk of the Apostles and hear the bell. It’s a show that a lot of people can’t miss. I personally expected something more but I think the clock itself is amazing.
Prague castle
It is the biggest landmark of the Czech republic and the seat of the Czech president. You can enjoy the castle museum or just the view. There were also a few Christmas stands with food mostly so you can enjoy a warm drink.
Charles bridge, Prague
Another famous spot in Prague which you cannot miss. This bridge is really stunning, especially during winter. This bridge is standing above the Vltava river and it is a pedestrian bridge. It is decorated by 30 statues. The atmosphere is amazing, you find a lot of artists and also souvenirs there. It is a nice spot to take pictures and just enjoy the view.
The dancing house, Prague
It is a commercial building with also a bar and a cafe. It is a very interesting architecture and it’s worth visiting.
The Lennon wall, Prague
This wall is full of art and graffiti. There are also a lot of poems or messages. The wall was a symbol against the regime in the past. When the painting of John Lennon appeared on it, it got a name The Lennon wall symbolizing peace and freedom.
The Narrowest Street of Prague
It is a very interesting spot to visit. It is a very narrow street leading to a restaurant called Čertovka. The street is so narrow that they had to install traffic lights on both ends. You have to push the button and wait until the light turns green to pass this street. There is also a beautiful view on the Charles bridge.
Idiom Installation, Prague
This is an endless tower of books. It is also a cool spot to visit and it’s a piece of art. It’s located at the Municipal Library. The entry is free and the pictures and videos are worth it.
Tips and notes
- Be ready for a lot of people. There were a lot of people everywhere we went. Some people were really rude and sometimes you had to push yourself through. When we visited the Idiom, we had to wait in a queue for like half an hour.
- Always have some cash. In Czechia they use Czech crowns (čk). It’s good to have some for the souvenirs or food, even tho they accept cards mostly. But if you need a toilet you will need some coins. The toilets are paid almost everywhere, be ready for it.
- If you’re visiting during winter, wear warm clothes. It can get really cold and snowy, especially in the evening and night.
- They speak English. At least in Prague they do.
- Check the reviews. When you are booking a hotel make sure you are informed enough. It happened to us twice that we had something we didn’t expect. First the host was terrible and disrespectful, this time we ended up in a Jewish hotel without us knowing. It wasn’t a problem for us but we were surprised. It was an interesting and funny experience.
- Use public transport. In Prague it’s really easy to use the public transport and google maps show you exactly what to use. You can buy a one way or a day ticket. In Brno or Ostrava tho we didn’t really figure it out.
- Careful for the scammers. You have them everywhere. Mostly trying to take and sell you your picture. Sometimes selling other stuff like food or souvenirs. But Prague as a tourist destination is quite overpriced in general.
- Take your time. We’ve been there for 3 days and it was by far not enough. Especially during winter it’s getting fast dark outside so you have less time. There is a lot to see and do in Prague, you’ll need at least a week if you want to enjoy it fully.
- Travel through the week. The hotel prices are a lot cheaper during weekdays. On weekends you can pay double the price if not more.
- You can use the trains. They are driving to different cities or even countries and are quite affordable.
In general I enjoyed Czechia a lot. I’m definitely planning to come back to Prague cause the time we had was not enough at all. It is a fun city with a lot of cool attractions, full of art and a lot of sights.