Sometimes, the best experiences come from the places we least expect. Initially, the Czech Republic was at the bottom of my list for N.U.in, a study abroad program that sends students across the globe for their first semester; looking back, however, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From the intricate architecture to the vibrant nightlife, Prague was a place with something new to offer everyday. My days were filled with exploring historic landmarks and enjoying delicious coffee, while my nights were spent on late-night walks and long conversations with friends by the Charles Bridge.
For anyone visiting Prague, the possibilities of exploring are endless, making it difficult to narrow them down to a single list. Here is my list of must-see sites, top restaurants, tasty cafes and vibrant night spots.
Prague has some of the most picturesque landmarks scattered throughout the city. More well-known sites include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. While these are certainly the most famous, they can also be quite crowded and touristy. My favorite hidden gems are the Petrin Tower, one of the best scenic views of Prague, and the Vyšehrad area. This fortress is home to the stunning Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, which is known for its impressive architecture.
Although Prague is undoubtedly beautiful, I found some of the most breathtaking sites just outside the city, like the fairytale-like Karlštejn Castle, which is just a 30 minute car ride away. If you have the time, I strongly recommend taking a day trip to the mesmerizing towns of Kutna Hora and Český Krumlov. Český Krumlov is a charming town filled with medieval and Gothic architecture. Similarly, Kutna Hora, another city rich in medieval history, is most famously known for the Sedlec Ossuary, a unique chapel decorated with real human skeletons.
Prague had one of the most diverse food scenes of any Eastern European city I’ve visited. Much of my time was spent indulging in incredible cuisines — to my surprise, some of the best Asian food I’ve ever had was in Prague. One standout recommendation came from my marketing professor. Just across the street from my dorm was Kung Fu Pasta, where I had the best dumplings of my life. Exploring the city with friends led to even more unexpected gems. While wandering the streets, we stumbled upon Chiaki, a charming and aesthetically pleasing Japanese restaurant that quickly became a favorite in my friend group. For those looking for authentic Czech cuisine, I highly recommend Zapomenutý Čas. However, just a word of caution: traditional Czech food is heavily meat-based, so options may be limited for vegetarians.
Whether it’s getting work done or simply catching up with a friend, a coffee shop is always the perfect spot. My friends and I often joked that we probably drank more coffee than water while in Prague. The most famous cafe in the city is Café Savoy, known for its exquisite pastries and flavorful coffee. However, be prepared for a wait, as this spot is always in high demand with many tourists and locals. Beyond Café Savoy, I explored several other incredible cafés with great coffee and a cool atmosphere, including Version Coffee, Coffee and Riot and Café Tone. But if you asked me where I had the best coffee, my answer would undoubtedly be Kavárna Pražírna. Tucked away underground, this cozy café not only offers the best coffee but also delicious sweets to snack on, making it an absolute must-visit.
When it comes to nightlife, Prague has something for everyone. My favorite spot in the city, Vzorkovna Dog Bar, features vibrant lighting, unique drinks and a variety of activities, from games to live music, making it a fun and laid-back place to hang out. For a more high-energy night out, I highly recommend Lucerna, a trendy 90s-themed club that plays mostly American music. If EDM is more your style, Roxy and Tressor are solid choices. Even though I’m not a huge EDM fan, I still had a great time from the electric energy of these venues. I’d personally skip Karlovy Lázně, the famous five-story club and Duplex. While they are more well-known clubs, they tend to attract more tourists and can feel overly crowded.
Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or spending an entire semester in this beautiful city, Prague has something for everyone. The city’s charm lingers long after you leave, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.