Prague is a city divided by a river. Its sights and attractions span both sides of the Vltava, as do our recommendations, and no matter which side you choose, you won’t be far from the city’s top restaurants, bars and things to do.
This micro-neighbourhood is technically part of the larger New Town district that wraps around Prague’s historic centre. The southern area near Charles Square (Karlovo Náměstí) has a more residential vibe than Wenceslas Square and Náměstí Republiky, also in the New Town. Karlovo Náměstí boasts easy walking access to nightlife options and the waterfront, with the added bonus of a good night’s sleep.
What to do
Get a glimpse into Prague’s WWII history at the Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius. This church is still dotted with bullet holes and has a memorial to the brave band of Czech rebels who assassinated Reinhard Heydrich, one of Hitler’s right-hand men (for the full story, watch the film ‘Anthropoid’ before you go). Then, to lighten the mood, visit the nearby Cat Café Prague.
Where to eat
Rub elbows with Prague’s foodie community at the Saturday farmer’s market on the Náplavka riverbank. Start any other morning at third-wave roasters Mama Coffee.
What to drink
Pair cocktails with a wiggle amid well-dressed crowds at nightclub Nebe. The international student scene is literally underground as you head towards Old Town, hanging out in Vzorkovna’s maze of rooms, accessible only with prepaid drink bracelets.
Where to stay
Do you want to see the Prague Castle from your bed? Book yourself into the boutique Dancing House Hotel’s with floor-to-ceiling windows, a sparkling buffet breakfast room and a rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the city. You’ll also get bragging rights for spending the night inside one of Prague’s most famous buildings. For comfort on a budget, the modern, environmentally-friendly Mosaic House hostel offers a livelier option.
If you only do one thing...
Rent a paddleboat from Slovansky Ostrov and survey the city skylines from the Vltava River.
