Prague : book your hotel

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, the thirteenth most significant city in Europe and an exciting, culturally-rich destination for a short break. Affectionately known as the City of a Hundred Spiers, Prague is famous for its historic Old Town, colourful Baroque buildings and Gothic churches.

Before you can start enjoying your weekend, week or longer in Prague, you'll need to get there. The Czech Republic's largest international airport is near Prague City Center, called Prague Ruzyne Airport. It's served by airlines from around Europe and the world every day. Hop in an airport taxi to get to the city in around 35 minutes. Getting a cab to Prague means you won't need to worry about finding your hotel when you arrive; your driver can pull up and park right outside. You could also take the bus from outside the airport for a couple of euros.

The Old Town was once a medieval settlement, separated by a wall and moat from the surrounding area. Today, it's one of the most beautiful parts of the city, welcoming floods of tourists throughout the year. Visiting the Old Town is one of the top things to do in Prague. Head to the Old Town Square and City Hall with its towering Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, Jan Hus Memorial and St Nicholas Church.

The city's famous Old Town Hall was built in 1338 as the seat of Prague's administration. The beautiful building still stands proudly today, only missing its Eastern Wing, destroyed during the Prague Uprising in 1945 and never rebuilt. Modern visitors can see the charming Gothic tower, bay chapel and unique Astronomical Clock, called the Orloj. Take a guided tour to take it all in, plus see the Municipal Hall, Old Council Hall, Brožík Assembly Hall, George Hall and the Romanesque-Gothic basement. You can also climb 42 metres to the top of the tower for a beautiful view of Prague rooftops.

This charming church in Prague looks like something out of a fairytale. Sometimes simply referred to as Týn Church, this Gothic masterpiece is a prominent feature in Prague Old Town. It's been the city's primary religious centre since the fourteenth century. Týn Church features two 80 metre towers with smaller spires, elaborately decorated with stained glass, sculptures and intricate paintings inside.

The Jan Hus Memorial stands proudly at the end of Prague's Old Town Square. It shows victorious warriors and protestants forced to leave Prague after the Battle of the Lost White Mountain, which happened in Prague during the epic Thirty Years' War. Jan Hus was a Czech theologian and philosopher who became an influential religious thinker in the fourteenth century. He was condemned and executed for his radical thinking.

The Czech Republic capital is known for its rich history and beauty. This is thanks, in part, to its magnificent castle, which towers above the city below. This is one of the must-see attractions in Prague and one of the most important cultural institutions in the entire country. This UNESCO monument boasts over 1,000 years of history, founded in 880 by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty. It's the largest coherent castle complex globally, spanning over an area of almost 70,000 square metres. Prague Castle showcases various architectural styles, including Romanesque remains from the tenth century and Gothic additions from the fourteenth. It's recommended that visitors join a guided tour to get the most out of a trip to Prague Castle. Learn about the history and significance of different areas as you explore with a knowledgeable guide. Visitors can see the Old Royal Palace, St Vitus Cathedral and St George's Basilica. Not to mention climbing to the top of the Great South Tower for unbeatable views of Prague below.

If you want to eat some traditional Czech food in Prague, you won't be disappointed. There are many tempting local dishes to sample and excellent international restaurants scattered throughout the city. Czech food is typically very comforting and calorific; perfect fuel for walking around the capital. Beefsteak tartar is a favourite here, consisting of raw beef cut and served with condiments and an egg yolk on top. Spread it on bread with a rub of garlic for a perfectly crunchy, sweet and savoury contrast. Kulajda is a traditional Czech soup made with potatoes, dill, vinegar and served with a poached egg on top. There are many fantastic sausage dishes in Prague, including hot dogs topped with sauerkraut, traditional fermented cabbage. If you enjoy meaty flavours, look out for the roast duck on many menus, usually paired with sauerkraut and dumplings. Be sure to grab a schnitzel or two during your time in the city. These flattened pork pieces are breaded and fried in butter, served with potato salad as the ultimate Czech comfort lunch.

Beer is one of the Czech Republic's most famous exports. What better opportunity to enjoy a couple of bottles than when you visit the capital? If you're not into beer, there are many other warming and refreshing drinks in Prague. Not to mention plenty of beautiful wine and cocktail bars to find them in. Head to Tretter's for award-winning cocktails or visit Groove Bar for a buzzy atmosphere and delicious drinks in the Old Town. U Medvídků is set inside a former medieval brewery, an easy choice for perfectly-poured beers in a casual setting. Or go to Hemingway Bar for the most extensive absinthe menu in the Czech Republic. T-Anker Bar is a rooftop bar offering a view over Prague Old Town and an impressive bottled beer menu.