Castle and Lesser Town Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and recommendations for Castle and Lesser Town in Prague, Czech Republic with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Castle and Lesser Town

Castle and Lesser Town, known as Hradcany and Mala Strana in Czech, respectively, are two of the most historic and picturesque neighborhoods in Prague, Czech Republic. Castle and Lesser Town are situated on the left bank of the Vltava river and are connected by the famous Charles Bridge.

This guide will help you explore the best attractions, activities, and recommendations for Castle and Lesser Town, including culturally important museums and historical places, outdoor adventures and scenic views, hiking and biking routes, where to eat and drink, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, and how to get there and get around.

List of Places to Visit in Castle and Lesser Town

Exploring Castle and Lesser Town is like visiting a time machine that transports you back to medieval Europe. The neighborhood is a perfect blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, enhancing the overall charm of the area. Here are the top places to visit in Castle and Lesser Town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Prague Castle: A must-visit landmark in Prague, featuring a complex of buildings and courtyards, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and Golden Lane.
  • Lobkowicz Palace: This palace-turned-museum showcases an extensive collection of art, music, and historical artifacts, along with stunning views of the city from its terrace.
  • Lesser Town Square: Located in the heart of Lesser Town, this square is surrounded by historical buildings, churches, and charming cafes, offering a perfect opportunity for sightseeing and relaxation.
  • John Lennon Wall: A colorful wall dedicated to John Lennon, who was a symbol of freedom and peace, filled with graffiti and messages of hope and love.

Natural Attractions of Castle and Lesser Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Petrin Hill: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, offering magnificent views of Prague from its observation tower. Petrin Hill is a great place to take a leisurely walk, hike, or picnic.
  • Vojan Gardens: A serene garden with beautiful fountains and greenery that provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Kampa Island: A small island on the Vltava river, featuring a picturesque park, cafes, and charming houses that offer a slice of authentic Prague.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Castle and Lesser Town

Castle and Lesser Town are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes:

  • Prague Castle to Petrin Hill: A scenic trail that takes you from Prague Castle to Petrin Hill. The route passes through beautiful gardens, parks, and historical landmarks.
  • Charles Bridge to Kampa Island: An easy and picturesque biking route that takes you to Kampa Island. The route passes through charming narrow streets, quaint cafes, and historic buildings.
  • Letna Park: A popular place for joggers, this park also features stunning views of the Vltava river and the city of Prague.

Best Things to Do in Castle and Lesser Town: Activities and Tours

Besides the cultural and natural attractions, there are many other things to do in Castle and Lesser Town, such as:

  • Charles Bridge at Sunrise: Enjoy the stunning views of Charles Bridge at sunrise when the tourists are less crowded, and the light is perfect for photos.
  • Evening Lantern Tour: Take an evening lantern tour that guides you through the dark cobblestone streets of Castle and Lesser Town, sharing spooky stories and legends of the area.
  • Beer Tasting: Prague has a rich beer culture, and Castle and Lesser Town have some of the best breweries. Join a beer tasting tour and learn about the history of Czech beer while sampling local brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Castle and Lesser Town

One week provides enough time to explore Castle and Lesser Town thoroughly. Here’s an itinerary to help you plan your trip:

  • Day 1: Prague Castle and Gardens
  • Day 2: Lesser Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Kampa Island
  • Day 3: Petrin Hill
  • Day 4: Lobkowicz Palace and John Lennon Wall
  • Day 5: Vysehrad Castle and Dancing House
  • Day 6: Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock
  • Day 7: Beer Tasting and Evening Lantern Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Castle and Lesser Town

Prague is famous for its traditional cuisine, and Castle and Lesser Town have some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve authentic Czech food. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Goulash: A hearty meat soup that is perfect for chilly days.
  • Trdelnik: A sweet pastry made of rolled dough, sugar, and cinnamon, served hot and crispy.
  • Pork Knuckle: A meaty dish that is slowly roasted and served with mustard and cabbage.

Local Beverages

  • Pilsner Urquell: A pale lager beer that is brewed in the Czech Republic and is famous worldwide for its unique taste.
  • Becherovka: A herbal liquor that is often served as a digestif and is known for its extraordinary taste.

Where to Stay in Castle and Lesser Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Castle and Lesser Town have several accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Aria Hotel Prague: A luxury boutique hotel with a musical theme that offers stunning views of Prague Castle.
  • Domus Balthasar Design Hotel: A stylish hotel with an elegant interior that provides a comfortable stay with a touch of glamour.
  • Charles Bridge Bed and Breakfast: A budget-friendly option that is located in a historic building and offers a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Castle and Lesser Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Castle and Lesser Town have several local products that are unique to Prague. Souvenirs that you should consider buying include:

  • Marionettes: Handcrafted puppets that are a popular souvenir in Prague.
  • Bohemian Glass: Famous for its craftsmanship, Bohemian glassware is a good buy for anyone who likes elegant and unique glass pieces.
  • Becherovka: Grab a bottle of this herbal liquor as a souvenir or a gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Castle and Lesser Town

Czech people are generally friendly and welcoming, and they take pride in their culture and heritage. Respect for their customs is essential, and here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious places.
  • Avoid talking loudly in public places and being too expressive in your body language.
  • Tipping is prevalent in the Czech Republic. Round up the bill or leave a small percentage of the total amount as a tip.

Best Time to Visit Castle and Lesser Town

The best time to visit Castle and Lesser Town is from May to September when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, summers can be crowded, especially in August. December is also a good time to visit, as many Christmas markets and festivities are held in Prague during this month.

Do’s and Don’ts of Castle and Lesser Town

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and beer.
  • Explore beyond the tourist spots and be open to new experiences.

Don’t:

  • Photobomb other tourists.
  • Wear revealing clothes in religious places.
  • Litter or disobey public etiquette.

Safety and Health

Safety in Castle and Lesser Town

Czech Republic is a relatively safe country, and the crime rate is low. However, pickpockets and tourist scams are common in touristy areas. Here are some safety tips:

  • Keep your belongings close to you.
  • Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Health in Castle and Lesser Town

Prague has excellent healthcare facilities, and emergency assistance is available 24/7. Tap water is safe to drink, but drinking bottled water is recommended.

Getting to Castle and Lesser Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Castle and Lesser Town

Prague has one international airport, Vaclav Havel Airport, located about 10 miles from the city center. The airport is well-connected with several international airlines and offers several transportation options to get to Castle and Lesser Town.

Bus Stations Near Castle and Lesser Town

Prague has two main bus stations, Florenc and Roztyly, both of which have frequent bus connections to other parts of the country and other European destinations.

Other Options

Other transportation options include trains and taxis. Trains are a reliable and inexpensive mode of transportation, and Prague has several train stations that connect to other parts of the Czech Republic and Europe. Taxis are abundant in Prague but can be expensive.

How to Get Around in Castle and Lesser Town

Castle and Lesser Town are best explored on foot or by bike. Public transportation, including trams and buses, are also available and are an inexpensive way to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Castle and Lesser Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Prague has several nearby destinations that are worth a visit. Here are a few popular ones:

  • Karlstejn Castle: A Gothic castle located about 20 miles southwest of Prague, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views.
  • Konopiste Castle: Located about 25 miles southeast of Prague, this castle turned museum features historical possessions, weapons, and armor.
  • Kutna Hora: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 50 miles east of Prague, famous for its unique medieval architecture and the Sedlec Ossuary.

Conclusion

Prague’s Castle and Lesser Town offer a unique historical and cultural experience that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. With its stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why Prague is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. We hope this travel guide helps in planning your visit to Castle and Lesser Town, making the most out of your trip to Prague.

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