West bank of Vltava Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in our comprehensive travel guide to West Bank of Vltava in Prague, Czech Republic.


Introduction to West Bank of Vltava

Located in the heart of Prague, the West Bank of Vltava is a charming part of the city that offers a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities. This area of Prague is home to some of the city’s most famous attractions, such as the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Old Town Square. In addition to these popular tourist destinations, there are also plenty of lesser-known gems waiting to be explored on the West Bank of Vltava. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, the West Bank of Vltava has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in West Bank of Vltava

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Charles Bridge
  • Prague Castle
  • St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Old Town Square
  • National Museum
  • Jewish Quarter
  • Petrin Tower
  • John Lennon Wall

Natural Attractions of West Bank of Vltava: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kampa Park
  • Letna Park
  • Stromovka Park
  • Prague Zoo
  • Vysehrad

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Bank of Vltava

  • Prague Castle to Petřín
  • Hradčany to Horská čtvrť
  • Kampa Park to Stromovka Park

Best Things to Do in West Bank of Vltava: Activities and Tours

  • Take a sightseeing tour of the city
  • Visit the Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Walk along Charles Bridge and enjoy the views
  • Enjoy a picnic in Kampa Park
  • Visit the John Lennon Wall and graffiti-filled streets nearby
  • Take a boat tour on the Vltava river
  • Go on a beer tour and taste some of the best Czech beers
  • Explore the Jewish Quarter and visit the synagogues and museums
  • Climb to the top of Petrin Tower for panoramic views of the city

Week-Long Itinerary for West Bank of Vltava

Day 1: Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and Mala Strana Day 2: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Astronomical Clock Day 3: Jewish Quarter, Tyn Church, and Powder Tower Day 4: Kampa Park, John Lennon Wall, and Petrin Tower Day 5: Letna Park, National Museum, and Wenceslas Square Day 6: Vysehrad, Dancing House, and Vltava River Cruise Day 7: Shopping in Andel, Beer tasting, and dinner in a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of West Bank of Vltava

Must-Try Dishes

  • Svickova (beef sirloin in cream sauce)
  • Goulash (meat stew with paprika and potatoes)
  • Smazeny syr (fried cheese)
  • Trdelnik (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon)
  • Pilsner Urquell (Czech beer)
  • Becherovka (herbal liqueur)

Local Beverages

  • Pilsner Urquell (Czech beer)
  • Krušovice (Czech beer)
  • Staropramen (Czech beer)
  • Becherovka (herbal liqueur)
  • Slivovice (plum brandy)

Where to Stay in West Bank of Vltava: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Augustine Hotel
  • Aria Hotel Prague
  • The Golden Well Hotel
  • Art Deco Imperial Hotel
  • Hostel One Prague
  • Brix Hostel
  • Sophie’s Hostel
  • Little Quarter Hostel and Hotel

What to Buy in West Bank of Vltava: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bohemian glassware
  • Marionettes
  • Garnets
  • Wooden toys and carvings
  • Traditional Czech pottery
  • Becherovka or other Czech liqueurs

Local Culture and Customs of West Bank of Vltava

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Respect local culture, including food and drink traditions
  • Tipping is expected in restaurants and cafes
  • Czechs are generally reserved but friendly people
  • Smoking is not allowed in most public places

Best Time to Visit West Bank of Vltava

The best time to visit the West Bank of Vltava is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and there are numerous festivals, events, and concerts taking place. Spring and fall are also great times to visit when the crowds are smaller, and the temperatures are mild. However, be prepared for the possibility of rain during these months. Winter can be a good time to visit for those interested in winter sports or Christmas markets, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Bank of Vltava

Do:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Czech for greetings, asking for help, and ordering food
  • Take public transportation, such as trams or the metro to get around the city
  • Try traditional Czech food and beer
  • Visit the lesser-known attractions to get a deeper understanding of the city
  • Enjoy the views of the city from different vantage points, such as hilltops or river cruises

Don’t:

  • Expect everyone to speak English
  • Wear revealing clothing or beachwear in public places
  • Be loud in public, especially on public transportation
  • J-walk or ignore traffic signals

Safety and Health

Safety in West Bank of Vltava

Prague is generally a safe city, although tourists should be aware of pickpockets and petty crime, especially in crowded areas such as the Charles Bridge or the Old Town Square. It’s also important to be vigilant at night and avoid unlit or deserted areas.

Health in West Bank of Vltava

Prague has several English-speaking hospitals and clinics that provide quality healthcare. Visitors from the EU can access free emergency medical treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private healthcare is also available, but it can be costly.

Getting to West Bank of Vltava: Transportation Options and Logistics

The West Bank of Vltava is easily accessible by public transportation, including trams, buses, and metro. The nearest airport to the West Bank of Vltava is Vaclav Havel Airport, which is approximately 20 miles from the city center. There are several ways to get to the city from the airport, including taxi, airport shuttle, or public transportation. Prague also has a well-connected railway system that links it to other cities in the Czech Republic and Europe.

Airports Near West Bank of Vltava

  • Vaclav Havel Airport Prague

Bus Stations Near West Bank of Vltava

  • Florenc Bus Station
  • Prague Main Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train Station: Prague Main Train Station

How to Get Around in West Bank of Vltava

The best way to get around the West Bank of Vltava is on foot or by public transportation, such as trams or the metro. The city also has a bike-sharing system, and bike rentals are available at various shops and rental companies throughout the city. Taxis are available, although they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from West Bank of Vltava: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kutna Hora: a UNESCO-listed town known for its medieval architecture and bone chapel
  • Karlstejn Castle: a Gothic-style castle surrounded by forests and hiking trails
  • Cesky Krumlov: a picturesque town with a medieval castle and red-roofed buildings
  • Karlovy Vary: a spa town known for its hot springs, colonnades, and grand hotels

Conclusion

The West Bank of Vltava is a vibrant and exciting part of Prague that has something to offer every type of traveler. With its historical attractions, lively cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, it’s no surprise that this part of the city is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re exploring the famous landmarks or discovering hidden gems, the West Bank of Vltava is sure to leave lasting memories.

Strahov Monastery Strahov Monastery Hall in Veletržní palác Hall in Veletržní palác