On 21st of November 2013, we had a short break from our University that gave us a great opportunity to travel around Europe! Prague (Praha) was one of our top choices at that time and we decided to embark on our journey from Munich Hbf by a Deutsche Bahn Bus that cost 58€ per person (2-ways). The train would have cost lots more plus it takes a longer traveling time, ironically. It is really advisable to purchase the bus tickets at least 3 days earlier to get the cheapest rate. Otherwise it would have been about 64€ per person.
The bus however does not have wireless which was quite disappointing as the journey takes around 5 hrs. I would suggest to take other bus companies as they have wireless services on board.
We stayed at the Mojo Inn hostel in Prague that cost about 17€ per person per night. Location was fairly alright, 20 minutes walk from the main train station but the rooms were really clean and spacious. The sheets, bed and pillow were very comfortable plus there was even a balcony overlooking the streets! The staff were also very friendly therefore I highly recommend staying here.
As Prague uses koruna or crowns (CZK) as their main currency, it is a little tricky to get by for us. Living in Munich we had Euros on hand and we had to search for a decent looking money exchanger in Prague. Many money exchangers charge a commission which is not always stated up-front and for those with a No-commission sign in the shop will also charge a fee if you didn't exchange above a certain amount. It's all part of a scam in Prague even though it is done everywhere (not sure if it's actually legal), but being overseas it is your only option. Another alternative is to always ask restaurants or the hostel if they accept Euros, which they will then return you CZK for your change at a better rate.
We explored the Old Town of Prague and saw the famous astronomical clock. The streets of the city branch out like an endless maze into many alleys filled with beautiful architecture and tiny shops.
The night scenery of Prague's old town was equally stunning. With 50 CZK (students), take a lift up the clock tower for a panoramic view of the city. It can get pretty crowded on top so just be patient.
In the cold night, who wouldn't like a hot beverage and snack. Prague's street are lined with many vendors that sell hot wine as well as its famous traditional pastry. It was the 1st time for us trying the hot wine and it was quite an interesting taste. The cylindrical pastry called Trdelnik is often served with a dust of cinnamon, sugar and nuts. This inexpensive snack will warm your fingers and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Food and beer are generally cheap in Prague. Never be afraid to hop into restaurants along the alleys as they serve really heartwarming and tasty food such as the Braised beef with garlic toppings and spinach. We loved this dish so much!
Day 2 began with a hunt for breakfast. Bakeries can be found at almost every corner, however we were looking for something special.
True enough we found this vendor selling a pan-fried baguette with an egg cooked in the middle. It was just lightly seasoned with salt but it was delicious. We continued our journey (on foot) to the Charles Bridge which connects the Old town to the Lesser Town.
The bridge was lined with many sculptures and it was also bustling with street performers as well as artist. Once we approach the Lesser town, the ambience and setting is even more beautiful and has an olden quaintness about it. We bought a tour ticket (125 CZK) that includes an English guided tour of the Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. It also includes entrances to the Basilica of St. George as well as the Golden Lane.
Be sure to head up to the St Vitus Cathedral if you don't have time for the others. It is a gothic landmark of the city that existed since the year 926. The architecture phenomena standing in awe and is breathtaking.
The golden lane is an ancient street in the Prague castle complex that dates back to the 15th Century. It comprises of 11 historical houses inside which period scenes have been created to show the life of artisans and medieval soldiers.
The end of the golden lane will bring you to a nice platform up on the hill where you can overlook the whole city and spot the famous landmarks that you have visited so far!
The John Lennon wall is also something not to be missed. Although now lots of graffiti has been drawn over, it is still a nice photo taking spot!
The dancing house is also not to be missed. With its daring and curvy outlines, this modern style building surrounded by historical architecture was built around 1992. Buy any drink at the bar and you will be rewarded with a lift up to the top for a magnificent view over the Vltava river up to the Prague castle.
On the last day before we say our goodbyes, we climbed up the 322 m high Petrin hill to reach the Observation tower. Standing at 60 m, it is 5 times smaller than the Eiffel Tower. Be prepared to climb about 300 steps to get to the top of the tower, which is the highest point in Prague city~
You could choose to take a cogwheel up to the peak of Petrin hill, however the queue was too long when we got there. The ticket price to go up the tower is 55 CZK.
Overall Prague was lovely and it provided us with lots of memories as we wandered and got lost in all its wondrous walkways while absorbing all of its rich historical background. The food was spectacular and very affordable like the Duck leg dish shown above. I would really love to return in the future!
