Czech Republic independent travel as a tourist. A trip to Prague on your own: how to get there, what to see

At the beginning of this year, I visited the Czech Republic for the second time in my life, this time without the help of travel agencies and organized excursions... How to go to the Czech Republic on your own What difficulties an independent tourist may encounter while traveling around the Czech Republic and how to prevent them - read the material.

How to get to the center from Ruzyne airport?

So, the visa, which gives you the right to travel not only in the Czech Republic, but also in other EU countries, has been received, fortunately, you were not late for the plane, and now you are already receiving your luggage at Prague's Ruzyne airport.

It is logical that the question arises before you: how to get from the airport to the city center / your hotel? The simplest answer is a taxi. However, the public transport system in Prague is so well developed that getting to your destination from the airport by bus is not a problem at any time of the day.

What are the options?

Bus number 119 will take you to the Dejvicka metro station (green line), from which you can reach almost anywhere in Prague.
Bus number 100 goes to the metro station Zličín (yellow line).
Alternatively, you can get to the main Prague railway station (just the city center) by express bus.
At night, the bus number 510 runs from the airport. On it you need to get to the Divoka Sharki stop and change to the night tram number 51, which will take you to the center.

There should be no problems finding a bus stop at the airport: it is located right next to the exit from Terminal 1, where planes from Russia and Ukraine arrive.

The fare for the express bus is 60 CZK, for other routes 32 CZK. In addition, a ticket purchased for CZK 32 gives you the right to travel by any public transport for one and a half hours.

The road from Ruzyne to the center will take you 40-60 minutes.

Transport in Prague

You can travel on the Prague metro, trams, buses, and funicular with the same ticket. It all depends on the time of its action. The prices for the main types of tickets used by tourists are as follows: 30 minutes - 26 CZK; 90 minutes - 32 CZK; one day - 110 kroons; three days - 310 CZK. This is the cost of tickets for adults, for children prices are two times lower.

Buying a ticket for a newcomer to Prague is not an easy task. And if a bus ticket from the airport could be bought directly from the driver, then in order to get around the city you will have to get acquainted with the vending machines. In fact, everything is not as scary as it might seem. The most important thing is to prepare a trifle, since ticket machines do not accept banknotes. All you need is to go to one of the yellow poles at stops and at metro stations, press the button opposite the cost of the desired ticket as many times as you need tickets (in Czech - "rider"), and drop coins into the receiver ...

Controlling a ticket machine is intuitive even for a child, but if you have any difficulties, you can buy a ticket in the so-called traffic - kiosks at stops and metro stations where they sell newspapers and cigarettes. Just keep in mind that after eight in the evening you still have to use the machine.

Be aware that a ticket you have purchased does not yet grant you a right of travel. In order for the ticket to become valid, it must be validated in yellow punch cards, which can be found at metro stations, trams and buses. Only after the stop of departure and the beginning of the validity of the ticket are printed on your ticket, you cease to be a "hare".

During the two weeks of my stay in Prague and the intensive use of public transport, I only encountered the controllers twice. But do not rely on the luck and kindness of the inspectors: the fine for a stowaway ride is 800 kroons and the inspector does not care whether you are a malicious stowaway or a harmless tourist who has not been able to deal with the fare.

It is important to note that the tram network in Prague is very developed. Land transport runs strictly according to the schedule indicated at the stops, with a traffic interval of 5-7 minutes in the daytime and half an hour at night. The working hours of the Prague metro are from 5-00 to 24-00.

Visual and very understandable city transport schemes can be taken for free at some metro stations (for example, at Vysehrad - the red line) or downloaded in advance on the Internet.

What to see in Prague

Almost every street in the center of Prague breathes history, and every house keeps its own legend. Therefore, if you want to see "something interesting", just go to the center!

But still, in the Czech capital, from the great many, one can single out the Top 5 attractions, not seeing which is tantamount to not visiting Prague at all.

St. Vitus Cathedral (Malostranská metro station - green line) is the main Catholic cathedral in the Czech Republic, the majestic building of which was built over 600 years and combines various architectural styles- from gothic to modern. Open daily until 17-00, entrance - 100 CZK.
Old Town Hall with the famous astronomical clock (metro station Staromestcka - green line). Every hour, crowds of tourists gather under the clock to watch the "performance" - the exit from the windows to the chimes of the 12 apostles.
(metro station Staromestcka - green line) - the third symbol of Prague, built in the 15th century and connecting the historic districts of the city - Old city and Malu Stranu, which were once separate cities on the map.
Wenceslas Square (metro stations Museum and Mustek - green line) - favorite place walks of Prague citizens, as well as the shopping and business center of the capital of the Czech Republic.
The Jewish Quarter is one of the most mysterious places in the city, where, according to legend, several centuries ago a local rabbi created a man of clay - Golem.

Do not deprive yourself of your attention - a very unusual structure.

Food, bars and restaurants in Prague

Having walked around the sights and sated with spiritual values, you will certainly think about daily food. Restaurants in Prague are ready to satisfy the hunger of any tourist, regardless of the size of his wallet. By the way, even in rather expensive (by local standards) restaurants you will be pleasantly surprised by the prices. And in simpler establishments, you can quite count on a plentiful set lunch with beer for 150-200 CZK.

What you must try in the Czech Republic? First, the boar's knee - a whole baked pork shank, served with vegetables. When ordering this main national Czech dish, keep in mind that one serving is enough for two or even three people.

Second, discover the dumplings. This is a side dish of dough or potatoes in the form of chopped balls.

Thirdly, indulge yourself in tasting various types of Czech beer, which is brewed here in small breweries and may have flavors that are quite exotic for Russian people - for example, cherry or banana. The prices in the Czech Republic for the more traditional and famous "Krusovica" are about five times less than in Russia! So, a bottle of dark will cost you only 15-17 CZK.

In the cold season, hot tea and mulled wine are sold on the streets, which are especially pleasant to drink with aromatic Czech pastries with a funny name for our ears trdlo.

In the suburbs of Prague

Two weeks will be enough for you not only to get to know Prague, you can also explore interesting settlements located an hour or two drive from the Czech capital. During my trip, I was able to visit the following:

Karlstein. Karlštejn Castle is a 45-minute drive from Prague. You can get to it by train from the main railway station in Prague (metro station Glavní nádraží - red line). The train runs every half hour and a round-trip ticket for two costs 154 kroons. The station ticket offices are located directly opposite the central entrance to the station under the escalators. When choosing the train you need (as a rule, it is a two-storey “City Elephant” in red) look for the one that goes to Beroun. There are excursions around the castle at any time of the year, except for February - I just went to the Czech Republic at that time, so I can't tell you anything about them, I only had to admire the architecture outside.

Krshivoklat - another interesting medieval castle which is definitely worth taking a look at. A trip to Křivoklát (it's a pity that I realized this only later) can be successfully combined with a trip to Karlštejn, since the path to the first castle lies just through Beroun. So, at the main train station in Prague, you buy tickets to Kshivoklata (for two round trip - about 250 CZK). Do not be intimidated by the need to transfer from Beroun to the train to Rakovnik. Czech trains are perfectly docked, you don't have to wait - as soon as you arrive in Beroun, the next train will already be waiting for you. If your train is delayed, the train to Rakovnik will wait.

After examining the castle, on the way to the railway station, be sure to look into the restaurant "At the Deer". Here, in a medieval interior, you can taste pheasant and venison dishes at very reasonable prices.

Miller – small town located just 30 km from Prague at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers, is famous for the castle with an art gallery and a wine museum, as well as the Church of Saints Peter and Paul with an ossuary (keep in mind that it is open for visits only until 16-00). There is a regular bus to Melnik from platform 10 from the bus station (metro station Nadrazi Holesovice - red line, do not confuse it with the bus station Florenc!), There is a regular bus, the fare is 48 CZK.

After walking around the town, stop by the pastry shop located in the castle. Here you can enjoy ice cream or chocolate in luxurious baroque interiors.

Kutná Hora is one of the most interesting cities Czech Republic. Here are the Cathedral of St. Barbara (the second most important in the Czech Republic after the Cathedral of St. Vitus) and the Ossuary - a church, the interior decoration of which is completely made of the bones of 40 thousand people. To get to Kutna Hora by train, you need to buy tickets (58 -100 CZK depending on the class) at the already familiar Main Station (Glavni nadrazi). If you want to see the Church of St. Barbara, take tickets to “Kutná Hora in the main place”, Kostnica to “Kutná Hora Sedlec”. It will be necessary to change to electric trains for these directions at the station "Kutna Hora glavnini nadrazhi". As I already said, changing from a train to an electric train in the Czech Republic will not give you any trouble.

Trip to Karlovy Vary

To visit the Czech Republic and not visit the favorite resort of the Russian aristocracy of the 19th century Karlovy Vary is nonsense.

What to see? Openwork, cake-like houses, colonnades with hot springs of mineral water, Old lock, museum of the main alcoholic beverage local places - "Becherovki" (a cross between vodka and "Bittner's balsam").

How to get to Karlovy Vary from Prague? The easiest way is by Student Agency buses, which run between these cities every hour. A one-way ticket for one person cost me 163 CZK. But tickets were bought directly at the bus station in Prague, from where the buses depart (metro station Florenc - intersection of the red and yellow lines). If tickets are purchased through the company's website, it will be even cheaper. You will be pleasantly surprised by the service on the bus for this money: free hot drinks to choose from, TV, radio, Wi-Fi, toilet.

What to bring from Karlovy Vary? For children - the famous wafers (waffles), for men - of course, "Becherovka", for women - cosmetics made using the local mineral waters.

What currency should I take with me to the Czech Republic?

The Czech currency is Czech crowns, so if you are taking cash with you, you should think about the exchange methods in advance. In my opinion, it is most convenient to take euros with you, and exchange them for crowns already in the Czech Republic.

In the city center, exchangers are almost at every corner, but when choosing them you need to be as careful as possible. You shouldn't be fooled by the "0%" signs - as a rule, the interest-free commission applies only to the purchase of crowns, and on their sale it can reach almost 10%! Therefore, before giving your hard-earned money to such a cute smiling Arab (and in Prague, as a rule, they are the ones who keep exchange offices), be sure to ask him to show you the final amount on a calculator. Always keep in mind that for 1 euro you should be given about 25 kroons. No identification documents are required for the exchange.

And what about the language?

Many tourists traveling for the first time to the Czech Republic on your own are very afraid of the language barrier. Nonsense! Czech youth are fluent in English language, and people of the older generation speak Russian well. If you suddenly need to find out something, be sure that they will explain it to you, but at least in sign language.

Maria Lobareva, Novosibirsk,

A trip to the Czech Republic on your own will not be practically any different from a neighboring city in Russia, although you will first need to take care of a Schengen visa if you do not already have one.

Flights to Prague

The first point, you will need to go to Prague and back. Airfare to Eastern Europe is quite low compared to Southeast Asia and South America, so this point will not cause you any difficulty.

Accommodation in the Czech Republic

Next, you will need to think about where you will stay in the territory - in hotels or hostels. If you are not a budget tourist, then either a boarding house is best for you. Pensions in the Czech Republic are rented apartments in private houses and which differ for the better from the so-called guest houses. It is advisable to immediately book accommodation on the entire route of your trip, and not only for the first 2 days. Very often, good accommodation in the Czech Republic is booked a couple of months in advance, so you shouldn't hope for chance.

Insurance in the Czech Republic

You will need to buy travel insurance for an independent trip to the Czech Republic, since this item is required to get into the country. You can buy insurance from the insurance company closest to your home, or you can make it easier and book it online.

If you do not have a Schengen visa, then go to the website of the Czech consulate and see the list of visa documents. Next, make an appointment at the Czech consulate and submit all documents along with a completed application form. If in your locality there is no consulate, it will be much easier if you go through a visa application center or travel agency. Excessive independence at this point, apart from wasting time, will not give you anything.

Czech Republic travel guide and map

Also you will need to take care of good guide and a map with which you will travel in the Czech Republic on your own. Most tourists in the Czech Republic visit only Prague, and the rest of the cities are left for the next trip. If you go to travel here for at least 2 weeks, then during this time you can travel around the whole country, since its territory is very small, and the population of the republic is less than the population of Moscow.

The most important ones that you must visit may be: Charles Bridge, Vysehrad, Wenceslas Square (Wenceslas), Dancing House, Prague Castle and Old Town Square with an astronomical clock.

Brno

The second largest city, the capital of South Moravia, is located 200 km from Prague. There is no metro in this city, and the city center itself can be explored on foot in a couple of hours. The Freedom Square is considered the center of Brno, and the Schbilberg Castle can be called the symbol of the city.

You can get to the city of Brno from Prague either by bus in 3 hours from the Florenc bus station (the Florenc metro station of the same name), or by train from the railway. station Hlavní nádraží (metro station of the same name). Both the bus station and the railway. The train station in Brno is located nearby in the city center, and all the most interesting in here is located compactly, so that it is convenient to explore on foot. It will be enough to allocate 1 day to explore this city.

Plan your own trip to the Czech Republic! We will tell you how to go on a trip in 2019: where to go, what to see, how to save money, how to get a visa, what to try.

How to get to the Czech Republic on your own

Ticket prices are per person, both ways during high season.

The most convenient way is to fly from Russia to Prague - there are many flights. If you need to travel to other cities, it is easy to get from the capital by bus or train.

The cheapest flight to the Czech Republic is from Moscow - tickets cost from 10 thousand rubles with a transfer, and a direct flight - from 14 thousand. Prices for tickets from St. Petersburg are higher - from 13 thousand rubles for a direct flight, but without luggage (airBaltic).

Flights from the regions are costly. It is relatively inexpensive to fly from Kaliningrad and Kazan - from 13 thousand rubles, as well as from Rostov, Yekaterinburg and Samara - from 15 thousand.

Useful articles:

If you cannot find inexpensive tickets, buy a tour - sometimes it is more profitable than traveling on your own. For example, vouchers to Prague for two from Moscow for 6 nights cost from 40 thousand rubles. At the same time, its price includes tickets, accommodation, meals and transfer.

Visa to the Czech Republic

To travel to the Czech Republic, you need a Schengen visa. It is easy to get it yourself - correctly collect a standard package of documents and submit them in advance. The main thing is confirmed hotel and ticket reservations, insurance and a sufficient amount of money in the account.

Don't forget about insurance! She will save you from expenses in case of emergency. Submit it on services or. Cost - from 300 rubles per week.

Transport in the Czech Republic

Intercity transport

Trains. The Czech Republic has a dense network railways. Main center- this is Prague, there are several railway stations... From the main station ( Praha hlavní Nádraží) - trains leave for cities in the Czech Republic and other countries. From there we went to Kutna Hora. From the station Holešovice (Nádraží Holešovice) trains run to European cities, and from Masarykovo nádraží - mainly to Czech ones. A ticket from Prague to Karlovy Vary costs 160 CZK (second class). ...

If you are interested in trips from Prague to European cities, we advise you to read, and.

You can travel cheaply on your own in the Czech Republic by using the Student Agency and Eurolines buses. For example, a ticket from Prague to Karlovy Vary costs from 130 CZK. You can buy it online. It is not necessary to print it, you can drop it onto your phone and show it to the driver.

You can independently organize a trip between the cities of the Czech Republic, Europe or just around Prague. The search engine shows everything possible ways travel.

Transport in Prague

The main modes of transport in Prague are metro, buses and trams.

Trams and buses run even at night - they have a separate timetable on dark blue signs at stops. Night transport runs from 12:30 am to 4:30 am. Metro hours are from 5:00 to 24:00. Route diagrams for day and night transport, as well as a metro plan can be downloaded for free in excellent quality.

You can buy tickets from vending machines at some metro stations and stops, ticket offices, newspaper and tobacco kiosks, as well as by SMS. Read more about buying a ticket via SMS on the website www.smsjizdenka.cz.

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An inconspicuous city hotel tucked away in narrow city streets (Photo © booking.com / Hotel Leon D'Oro)
Remember that hotels become more expensive during high season. It is better to book them 3-4 months in advance - this way you will find the best option at a good price. Peak time is summer and New Year holidays.

View from the window of Studio Nicolas Prague (Photo © booking.com / Studio Nicolas Prague)
What to see in the Czech Republic on your own

Look for interesting excursions on Sputnik and. Individual and group, no crowds of tourists and in Russian.

So, if you are going on an independent trip to the Czech Republic, we advise you first of all to get to know Prague better, which has won the love of millions of people. However, the number of attractions is off scale in other cities of the country.

Prague

Prague is one continuous attraction. It will take more than one day to get around them all. However, when going on an independent trip to the Czech Republic, do not forget to pay attention to other cities of the country.

The old town is the most famous area. Usually, tourists begin to get to know the city exactly from where the monument to Jan Hus, the town hall with the astronomical clock and the Tyn Church are located. Located next door.

You will walk along the medieval Charles Bridge more than once - it connects the historical districts of Stare Mesto and Mala Strana. The royal road passed along it. The bridge is decorated with 30 sculptures of saints.

On the other side of the Vlatva, visit the Vysehrad fortress and admire the rooftops of the city. In the fortress there is the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, Vysehrad cemetery and rotunda of St. Martin. Also take a walk, which is famous for its abundance of palaces and temples, narrow streets and colorful houses.

Nerudova street, Mala Strana
In addition, you can visit museums in Prague for free! How to do this, read this.

Prague is a touristy city. Most of them are in summer and on New Year's holidays. We advise you to be mentally prepared for so many people.

Brno

Must see in Brno, the former capital Moravia: the Church of St. Jacob, where the ossuary is located, the Church of St. Jan, the Gothic Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the castles of Špilberk, Veveří and Slavkov, where the Battle of Austerlitz took place, the Capuchin and Augustinian monastery and much more. There are many art galleries and universities in Brno.

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Note for gourmets: food in the Czech Republic

An independent trip to the Czech Republic is a great opportunity to arrange a gastronomic tour! Here's what to try on your trip:

Baked pork knuckle served with garnish and sauces. It is especially good with beer. The portions are large, so don't overestimate your strength.

As an alternative to the knuckle - baked pork with gravy, stewed cabbage and dumplings. In general, a huge number of dishes are prepared from pork in the Czech Republic: baked pork ribs in honey, grilled pork, pork roll, pork goulash, pork steak and schnitzel, etc. Lamb and beef are present, but in smaller quantities.

Game and poultry dishes also common: pheasant breasts, hare pate, baked partridges, foie gras, baked geese, ducks, pheasants, etc.

Beer snacks are very popular in the Czech Republic: these are the so-called drowned men- spicy pickled pork fat, usually consumed after a couple of beers, and hermelin- soft cheese with white mold (can be fried, baked and pickled).

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Jachymov and Marianske Lazne are suitable for people suffering from respiratory and musculoskeletal diseases. Jachymov is the first health resort in the world and in the Czech Republic in particular with radon springs. It's quiet and quiet city, contributing to the restoration of mental and physical harmony. In addition to taking baths, you can watch summer palace, a 16th century palace park and glacial caves, as well as climb Mount Klinovec.

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Marianske Lazne- the second most popular resort in the Czech Republic, there are about 40 healing springs. The city is also famous for the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary with 33 steps symbolizing the years of Christ's life, the Anglican Church, the Evangelical Church and the Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir. In the vicinity of the city there are nature reserves Kladska and Smradech, through which ecological trails run.

Frantiskovy Lazne specializes in the treatment of gynecological diseases and the genitourinary system, 21 sources come to the surface. As in other cities, there are many attractions: the resort, despite the developed infrastructure, has retained the appearance of the city of the early twentieth century.

(photo © Yael Gripich / flickr.com)

Ski resorts in the Czech Republic

Winter Bohemia is of no less interest to tourists than in other seasons. Ski resorts in the Czech Republic are a worthy alternative to Western European ones, despite the medium-altitude mountains. Their undoubted advantage is their location: many centers are located nearby or on the territory of protected areas.

Some of the most popular ski resorts in the Czech Republic are located in the Giant Mountains where Mount Snezka is located 1602 meters high - the highest point in the country. These are such resorts as Pec pod Sniezkou, Spindleruv Mlyn, Janske Lazne, Harrachov, Karpacz, Szklarska Poreba and others. The resorts are very picturesque: the slopes of the mountain range are covered with pine and spruce forests, from here the Elbe River begins. Snow lies here from November to May.

Second largest mountain Jeseniki array is not inferior in popularity to the Giant Mountains. Despite freaky tourist routes and ski slopes, there are also unexplored corners - for example, the Richlebskie Mountains do not have a developed tourist infrastructure. The highest point is Praded (1491 m).

In general, the Jeseniki region is considered one of the most promising regions: here you can get medical treatment, which will cost much less than in Karlovy Vary, and do active sports, be it skiing, cycling or trekking. The array is also not deprived of sights and beauties of nature - it is clearly worth going here not as part of a turguppa. If you are traveling around the Czech Republic on your own, we recommend that you definitely visit the Jeseniky.

(photo © CzechR / flickr.com)

Sumava mountains with highest point 1378 m (Mount Plekhi) are also not offended by the attention of travelers. As in Jeseníky, rest here is varied, and the nature is gorgeous.

Moravian-Silesian Beskydy- a picturesque massif with the highest point of Lysaya Gora (1323 m). Developed infrastructure, good service... Places favored by tourists are Pustevni, Yavorovy, Bila, Solan. Bila will delight lovers of winter sports with ideal slopes and slopes of varying degrees of difficulty.

Ore mountains with the Klinovec peak (1244 m) are not so popular among tourists, but they also have a lot to offer: both the ski resorts (Bozi Dar and Klinovec), and thermal springs, and sights.

Independent travel is gradually becoming fashionable among Russians. Many have already gone to the resorts of hot countries more than once, planning a trip only on their own. As it turned out, this is not at all difficult, and the impressions from such an adventure remain much more than from the usual tourist package with a mass of imposed services. One of the most popular routes among our compatriots is Europe, and the most attractive country is the Czech Republic. This attractiveness is due to the relatively low cost, all-season and extraordinary medieval beauty that can be found in any Czech city at almost every step. A trip to the Czech Republic can turn out to be great Honeymoon or Christmas holidays, and planning all this is quite simple and without the involvement of travel agencies. Wondering how? You will find all the answers to the questions in this article.

Historic landmarks & health resorts in czech republic

A tourist trip to the Czech Republic can give you a lot of pleasant impressions, in different seasons it appears in completely different guises and plays like a precious stone with its edges. Rest in this country will definitely appeal to the whole family, everyone will find something special for themselves - excellent Czech cuisine, delicious live beer from local breweries, ancient castles and healing mineral springs.

Depending on how you are ready to be imbued with the spirit of the Czech Republic, this country will open up to you. Of course, it is best to see several different cities, but if you don't have that opportunity, then choose Prague. It has retained that special medieval character, for which tourists come here.

Karlovy Vary is also an excellent choice; this resort is famous all over the world for its healing waters. Of course, many tourist packages include an excursion to this city, but you can really get to know it only on your own. Therefore, if we have convinced you that a trip to the Czech Republic is easy and simple, then let's start planning the upcoming trip. Where does it all start?

If you are not quite an experienced tourist, then remember that the key to a successful trip is detailed preparation for it. Without this, it is difficult to expect that everything will turn out well, because in a foreign country it is quite difficult to drastically change your plans or hope at random - everything must be carefully prepared and planned.

What do you need to travel to the Czech Republic? First of all, an excellent plan, which should take into account all the nuances of the upcoming trip. We can say that the plan is conditionally divided into two large parts:

preparatory;
excursion.

The first part, of course, is the most extensive. It includes the following items:

determining the travel budget;
the choice of the season;
route planning;
booking a hotel;
buying tickets to the Czech Republic;
obtaining a visa.

Usually, the entire list can be completed in one to two months. During this period of time, you will have the opportunity to perfectly prepare, complete all the documents and approach the preparation of the excursion program.

Do not think that upon arrival you will decide where you would like to go. Your budget depends on how often you are going to visit museums and other popular tourist places. After all, a trip to the Czech Republic on its own leaves tourists with a fairly wide range of attractions that can be visited. The main thing is not to get carried away and correctly calculate your strength. Otherwise, you will not be happy about the long-awaited trip to the Czech Republic. Reviews that tourists leave on various Internet portals always contain useful information, allowing you to choose the most interesting historical monuments and places in the country.

Travel budget: how much money do you need?

A trip to the Czech Republic on their own will cost our compatriots much cheaper than buying a tourist package. Therefore, you can safely start forming your travel budget without worrying that you will not have enough money for something. The Czech Republic is considered the cheapest country in Europe, which is the reason for its incredible attractiveness for tourists from all over the world.

The most expensive items of expenditure will be travel, accommodation and meals. Depending on the choice of transport to the Czech Republic (we will talk about this a little later), the cost of the journey will vary from fifteen to thirty thousand rubles.

An average room in a hotel in Prague costs three thousand rubles for two, and meals will cost approximately two to three thousand rubles a day. Thus, a trip for two for a period of ten days will cost the family about eighty thousand rubles. You also need to add a certain amount for the excursion and the purchase of souvenirs. For a rich excursion program, a thousand rubles a day will be enough for you.

Of course, we did not take as a basis the most low prices... If desired and with some luck, a trip to the Czech Republic can cost you much cheaper. But it is better to always include in the expense item the amount with a certain margin, so you will feel much more confident in a foreign country.

Czech Republic: the best time of the year to travel

So, you have a trip to the Czech Republic. What do you need to know in order not to be mistaken with the choice of the season? When is the best time to visit the Czech Republic? In fact, the answers to these questions are extremely simple. We will help you decide on travel dates.

The best time to walk around Prague and beyond is spring. Since mid-April, a stable above zero temperature has been established in the country, usually the thermometer does not drop below twenty degrees Celsius. Orchards and numerous jasmine bushes are beginning to bloom. Cities literally plunge into sweet dope, and walks turn into a real exquisite pleasure.

You can come to the Czech Republic in the summer, but for many tourists it becomes quite difficult to wander around the cities under the scorching sun. Moreover, you will have to walk a lot.

Until November, the Czech autumn pleases tourists with excellent weather and magnificent views. Surprisingly, an autumn trip to the Czech Republic attracts a lot of couples in love who fall under the charm of ancient cities on the eve of winter.

In winter, the country becomes rather uncomfortable, it often rains and cold winds blow. The only exceptions are Christmas days, when Prague and other cities shine with festive lights, and the falling snow reminds of a fairy tale that has come to life. In the rest of the winter months, the Czech Republic looks gloomy and harsh, but for many travelers it is at this time that it seems the most attractive. It exhibits harsh medieval features that best highlight the country's history.

Acquaintance with the Czech Republic: where are we going?

The Czech Republic is not a very big country, so here you can see the main sights in a few days. And for this it is worth visiting several cities, because it is impossible to form an opinion about the country only in Prague alone, where tourists usually first of all strive.

So let's look at the most important tourist destinations Czech Republic:

Prague

This city is glorified by poets and artists, its ancient beauty makes you forget about everything in the world. Therefore, it is difficult to imagine that a trip to the Czech Republic can do without visiting this amazing city.

If time permits, then set aside four to five days to explore Prague. This will be enough to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city. Most often, tourists walk along it on foot, because literally every lane and house in Prague is a historical monument. Particularly long distances can be traveled using public transport, it works here around the clock and runs strictly on schedule.

2. Karlovy Vary

For former Soviet fellow citizens, this resort is associated with something incredibly European. Almost all tourists want to visit here, but in principle there is nothing to see in this city. Literally one day is enough for you to appreciate the old mansions, modern luxury hotels and taste the healing mineral water... It is also worth visiting the medieval castle and the Hot Spring Colonnade, and exotic lovers can afford to sip the famous "bekhterevka", which is sold everywhere here.

3. Cesky Krumlov

This town is rarely reached tourist groups, but believe me - it's worth doing. The independent traveler can afford to make a transfer trip from Prague to literally find himself in the past.

The town itself is home to only fourteen thousand people, but it is truly unique. The fact is that Krumlov looks exactly the way it did in the Middle Ages. Each of its streets, as if descended from illustrations or films about medieval Europe... You will not see such beauty anywhere else in the country.

4. Brno

This city is quite large for the Czech Republic and very noisy, but it is worth going here for local delicacies, a variety of beers and to see old churches, of which there are a great many in Brno.

Keep in mind that the number of cafes in the city and all the goodies that are sold there can significantly harm your figure. Many return from this town a couple of kilograms more than before the trip. And it's not always about food, it is simply impossible to refuse beer in Brno. It is sold on every corner, and breweries offer tourists to visit their own museums and taste different beers. But don't pay more than two euros for it - this is the most affordable price in the Czech Republic.

Lovers of alpine skiing will also find application in the Czech Republic. The country is home to many comfortable and well-equipped resorts. YOU can go, for example, to Harrachov or Pec.

If your goal is to improve your health, then in Mariánské Lazne and Podebrady you will be gladly welcomed and an individual wellness program will be drawn up. But keep in mind that in this case, the cost of the rest will increase significantly.

Traveling to the Czech Republic by car or bus

As we have already specified, you can get to the Czech Republic in different ways. To many inexperienced tourists it seems that the best option is to travel to the Czech Republic by car or bus. But in fact, this option has too many "buts".

First of all, keep in mind that the journey from Moscow will take about twenty hours, and this is at best! Some travelers reported that it took about fifty hours to get to Prague (of course, this included stops and overnight stays). Imagine that you have to spend at least a day in an uncomfortable position. This is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous to health, because in the process of long sitting, edema is formed and the work of many internal organs is disrupted.

In addition, the gasoline spent on the trip makes it quite expensive. Is it worth choosing an expensive, long and inconvenient route at the same time? We think not. Therefore, focus on other modes of transportation.

Train: an alternative way to travel

Travel to the Czech Republic by train is possible only from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Experienced travelers say that in spring and summer, a similar option is also available to residents of Yekaterinburg.

Despite the fact that the Moscow-Prague railway connection is one of the oldest, it is, alas, not the fastest and most convenient. You will have to get there for about a day, and for many tourists this is a rather unpleasant moment. The cost of a round trip ticket for one person varies within four hundred dollars, which is clearly not cheaper than a flight.

One of the advantages of a train ride is the picturesque scenery outside the window, but if you are not a fan of such pictures, give up such a tiring journey.

Flight to the Czech Republic

The most comfortable ride to the Czech Republic from Moscow will be by air. Literally in five hours you will already be standing in or Karlovy Vary in anticipation of the upcoming adventures.

On this route, two airlines deserve attention:

Aeroflot.

The cost of a round trip flight varies within nine thousand rubles. Most often, tourists choose direct flights, but you can also stay on transit flights. They will be significantly cheaper. Keep in mind that buying air tickets early will save you about ten to fifteen percent of the amount. You will find exactly how to spend this money in the Czech Republic.

Accommodation: the nuances of choosing a hotel

In order to draw up documents for a trip to the Czech Republic, you will need a reservation from the hotel. Therefore, before collecting paperwork for a visa, you should choose and book a hotel room.

Here, as in any other business, there are nuances and peculiarities. Keep in mind that in the Czech Republic you will have to walk a lot - you will leave the hotel early in the morning and return only at night. Thanks to this, you should not choose expensive hotel with mass additional services, a small room with a clean bed and a bathroom in good area... And there are plenty of such hotels in the Czech Republic.

If we are talking about accommodation in Prague, then you should not look for a hotel in the center. Not all tourists know this trick. The fact is that public transport works well in the city and is quite safe at any time of the day, so even at night you can quickly reach your hotel. And the cost of living will be significantly lower than in the advertised hotels in the center of Prague.

Few people know that Prague is divided into areas with numbers. The most acceptable for tourists are the following areas: 1, 2, 3 and 6. But even in this case, it is worth checking the map before booking, some areas are quite large and your hotel may be on the very outskirts of the city.

Don't look for a hostel in Prague and the Czech Republic in general. Here, such accommodation is very unprofitable for a tourist. For example, an average hotel room costs forty dollars, and a ten ten room in a hostel costs thirty-five dollars. The comparison will clearly not be in favor of the latter.

Features of the visa regime

What documents are needed to travel to the Czech Republic? Take care of your health insurance first. Recently, it can be issued not only in the offices of various companies, but also via the Internet. This makes the process much easier, but do not forget that your policy should cover approximately thirty thousand euros.

To travel to the Czech Republic you need a visa, its registration is quite typical for the Schengen. But for those who first encounter such actions, this process can cause some difficulties.

Documents for a trip to the Czech Republic must be collected three months before the intended trip. In this case, you will have the opportunity to prepare well for your visit to the visa center. The package of documents for a visa looks quite standard:

international passport;
tickets and hotel reservations;
income statement;
bank statement;
medical insurance;
questionnaire.

All these papers can be taken to the Visa Application Center or Consular Section (it all depends on which city you live in). For many Russians, it is the visa issue that is the most difficult when they decide whether they can afford it. independent trip to the Czech Republic. A visa costs thirty-five euros, and another thousand rubles will need to be paid for the services of a visa center. Nothing complicated, right? Within ten working days, and in many cases even earlier, you will have a stamped passport in your hands.

Food in the Czech Republic

Even if this is your first time going to independent travel and you are very worried about food in an unfamiliar country, the Czech Republic will give you absolutely no trouble finding cafes and restaurants. There are a huge number of them in every city of the country, but complete presentation Only national pubs will give you about Czech cuisine. Here these are special places where people come to relax, chat, taste new beers and, of course, have a delicious meal.

Dishes in such establishments are distinguished by exceptional taste and inexpensive prices. For example, a dinner for two with several glasses of beer, soup and pork knee will cost you about a thousand rubles. After such a lunch or dinner, you will definitely not want to eat for the next ten hours. The secret lies precisely in the pig's knee, which even a hungry company cannot always master. Therefore, it is usually ordered one for the whole table. Most food in the Czech Republic is quite fatty, but surprisingly tasty. This applies to appetizers, meat dishes and desserts. The latter are distinguished by some special sophistication that you will not find anywhere else.

The Czech Republic is a great country to start independent travels. She will give you invaluable experience and mass unforgettable experience... And this is exactly what tourists expect from their trips, isn't it?

Trips to the Czech Republic for the purpose of recreation are available to almost everyone. And modern technologies allow us to organize our leisure time without resorting to professional guides and travel agencies. In this case, it is important to calculate all the advantages and disadvantages of such a vacation and roughly calculate the budget.

The Czech Republic is a country with an interesting culture and history that has been formed over millennia. Having arrived here once, you will want to return more than once, since any corner will arouse interest. And it will not be possible to fully explore this country in just a few days.

Experienced tourists are advised to book plane tickets, book a hotel room in advance. It is better to do this through special services. It is worth not only paying attention to the photo of the hotel, but also the reviews, their number. There is no need to risk booking rooms in hotels that have a large number of negative reviews, so as not to spoil your vacation. The same goes for the overall rating of the hotel on the service.

If you want a quiet and cheap holiday, it is better to go to rest not during the period of an active influx of tourists. There is no need to neglect the rented transport if more than 2-3 people or a family with children are traveling.

Those who already know what a trip to the Czech Republic is, say that this is a country that you need to visit at all seasons.

What you need for the trip: tickets, visas and other documents

The Czech Republic belongs to the Schengen zone and is part of the European Union, which means that for Russian tourists, the following documents will be required to cross the Czech border: international passport, visa and medical insurance. If you have a passport and visa, be sure to make sure that they have not expired. It is possible to buy medical insurance in a few minutes. If a tourist chooses a trip to the Czech Republic, then it is better to find out in advance the information and what the minimum amount should be on the account of the vacationer.

Of course, there must be tickets as well. You can find and order them on special services. In addition, they have the ability to track cheaper options. The most affordable options in terms of tickets can be obtained in February or November, September (up to 10,000 rubles). Tickets for August and during the New Year and Christmas holidays will be more expensive, but even here you can find a way out - order them 5-6 months earlier.

When is the best time to go

The advantage of Prague over many others tourist cities in that it is beautiful in its own way at any time of the year. The climate also contributes to wonderful travel: in winter there is no unbearable frost, and in summer there is no unbearable heat. Therefore, everyone decides for himself what time of the year to visit here. Many people tailor their travels to their vacations or wait for train or plane tickets to drop slightly in price.

Most of the travel to Prague is gaining popularity from the beginning of May to the middle of September. Good weather, practically without rain, and the fact that during this period there are no sights that are closed for viewing, helps to get pleasure from the rest. It does not even stop the fact that the prices for renting rooms in hotels and hostels are significantly different from those offered in the off-season.

The second peak of the influx of tourists is considered to be Christmas and New Year's holidays (December-January). There are many who want to see the New Year's fairy tale, because Prague at this time is especially interesting and beautiful.

What to see in the Czech Republic on your own

A trip to the Czech Republic on your own can be no worse than with a professional guide. In addition, such a vacation has several advantages: there is no need to have time to "run" after the guide and the rest of the group, you can take plenty of pictures and calmly walk, stay longer in those places that you liked the most.

Independent travel to the Czech Republic allows you to use paper maps of the country, city, or a more modern option - online maps.

Those who value their time, study and think over the route at home, but this requires patience and effort, because you need to get acquainted with the country in absentia.

You can download or purchase an audio guide around the city for a small fee. He and the map-mobile application will give you the opportunity to explore the city on your own no worse than with a group.

As for the costs of visiting attractions, this entertainment is available to everyone. The average spending for a week for visiting museums, castles, cathedrals and other interesting things will cost up to 1,800 rubles. Many sights, squares, bridges can be seen for free.

Lodging

On average, choosing a trip to Prague, a tourist should expect 40-50 euros for a double room. If you want to order breakfast, you will have to pay an additional 15-20 euros. The cost will depend on the location and the number of stars the hotel has.

Most often, rooms are booked in advance through special services. If you seize the moment, you can get a discount on your first room reservation up to 45%. Thus, sometimes in the center you can live in 4 or 5 * hotels for a purely symbolic amount. Usually this opportunity is provided when the tourist flow season has already ended.

It is not necessary to choose rooms in large hotels. Mini-hotels and hostels also offer good, comfortable rooms for a reasonable price. Although hostels will most of all be relevant for students and young people who have decided to relax with a large company.

Most tourists go to the Czech Republic on vacation in the summer or on New Year's holidays. At this time, the cost of even the cheapest housing will skyrocket several times. To get a room at an affordable rate during the holidays, experienced tourists book places 3-4 months before the expected vacation.

Transport

Locals and tourists alike enjoy such views as trams, buses, subways. The first two options are ready to deliver passengers at night, however, according to a separate schedule, which is better to clarify in advance. Getting to any part of Prague at any time of the day is not a problem, because night transport works until 04.30, and the metro begins to receive the first passengers already at 05.00. You can find out the detailed public transport schedule on the website of the Prague transport company.

It is advantageous that, depending on the cost of the ticket, it can be used for 30 minutes, 1.5 hours, days or three. The validity of the ticket starts from the moment of its first composting. Buying a ticket will not be a problem. This can be done at cash desks, kiosks with cigarettes and newspapers, at any metro station, and even by SMS.

Tourists most often choose tram routes 22 and 91. The first of them travels through the National Theater and goes to Prague Castle and Belvedere. You can ride such routes from 12 noon to 6 pm.

Prague is famous for its well-developed transport system. Public transport walks clearly on schedule. Even if the departure time is not suitable for the tourist, there is always the opportunity to use the transfer service or.

Attractions, entertainment, excursions

In Prague, almost every corner is some kind of attraction. It is not realistic to examine them all in one day, and even more so on your own. The first place every tourist goes to is the Old Town. There is a monument to J. Hus, the Tyn Church, the town hall. Do not go around and. there is a special attraction on the square, which is additionally decorated with sculptures of 30 saints. He himself connects the Lesser Country of Prague and Stare Mesto.

Those who will be near the Vltava River should definitely visit.

Travel agencies offer the following general sightseeing tours:

Excursion for a group to Cesky Krumlov - 28 euros per tourist. A personal excursion here will cost 250 euros (there must be no more than 4 people in a group).
Meet the sunrise in the Czech capital and capture it all in a photo shoot - up to € 290.
Walking tour (in a group of up to 6 people) - 150 euros.
City tour (in a group up to 4 people) - 105 euros.

Those who came to Prague on their own and do not want to be limited only to this city, but want to visit or fully relax at the resort, can choose the following health resorts:

Marianske Lazne - the resort will be relevant for those who suffer from diseases of the musculoskeletal system or respiratory tract. Similar diseases are treated in the Jachymov spa. There are radon sources on its territory. It is possible to combine treatment with sightseeing.
Karlovy Vary. The most famous resort in the Czech Republic. There are 12 hot springs on the territory. Here they treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, improve metabolism and eliminate problems in the work of the operative-motor apparatus.
Frantyshkovy Lazne. Eliminate diseases of the genitourinary system and gynecological diseases. There are more than 20 mineral springs on the territory.

In winter, when traveling to the Czech Republic, they offer not only to visit, but also to visit promising in terms of development ski resorts... These are the Giant Mountains, the Jeseniki massif, the Moravian-Silesian Beskids, the area of the Sumava mountains, the Ore Mountains.

Food in the Czech Republic: how much it costs and what to try

The Czech Republic is a gourmet paradise. Many tourists combine visiting local attractions and, at the same time, arrange a gastronomic tour. Those who have already appreciated all the delights local cuisine, it is recommended not to pass by such dishes in cafes or restaurants:

Poultry and game dishes: foie gras, cooked partridges, hare pate, pheasant breasts, several types of baked poultry with sauce.
Very tasty and savory drowned fish - pickled pork pork. Cheese with white mold of various types of preparation does not lag behind in taste and popularity. These are some of the most popular beer snacks.
Dumplings. In a special way boiled potato or dough products. They are served both separately and with a special filling or sauce. Sometimes they are thrown into soup or used as an addition to a side dish.
Voles - several types of soups: onion, potato, garlic, vegetable, mushroom. More exotic liquid dishes are also offered - soup in bread or soup based on beer.
Baked pork knuckle with sauce or garnish is an ideal beer snack. The portions are huge. An alternative to this dish is baked pork with gravy. Dumplings and stewed cabbage are often added to the dish. In general, Czechs love pork, beef and lamb dishes and cook them in different ways.
The most popular desserts here are pancakes and strudels, ice cream, cakes and waffles, rolls and traditional trdlo, a dough with vanilla aroma and sugar.
The most popular drink is, of course, beer.

Will food be expensive?

Sitting in a cafe or restaurant will not cost much more than it would be in Russia. It is possible to sit in a restaurant together for up to $ 20. For this money, you can order two vegetable salads, a large knuckle (or 2 traditional dishes) and, of course, a glass of Czech beer.

Don't be afraid to feast on street food. A bun with sausage will cost 80 CZK, mulled wine can be bought for 50 CZK, a kebab with vegetables and chicken can be taken for 120 CZK, potato pancakes - 22 apiece, tredels - 60-110 CZK (depending on whether they are filled or not).

What to bring from the Czech Republic: shopping and souvenirs as a gift

Choosing a gift or a souvenir sometimes takes a lot of time, because you want to choose something special and original for your family. Traditional Czech souvenirs are garnet jewelry, Bohemian crystal and bijouterie, handicrafts of Czech craftsmen, hats of the well-known local company Tonak, Karlovy Vary waffles, beer, cosmetics made from natural ingredients, smoking pipes, porcelain products, antiques, souvenirs with images of Czech heroes cartoons.

The capital of the Czech Republic has not only a wide selection of souvenirs, but also an ideal place for shopping. The quality of the items is excellent and the prices are much lower than in the famous shopping capitals of the world. It is important to know that you need to follow the discounts and for this it is better to choose a certain season, the period of the New Year and Christmas holidays, for example. If you choose the right shopping period, you can save up to 40%.

Shopping centers in Prague are good, but markets should not be ignored either. In addition to the fact that here you can buy a thing at a ridiculous price, there is still an opportunity to bargain. It should be borne in mind that the sellers in the markets love and respect tourists who know their language at least a little.

Money: how much and in what currency to take

It is advisable that tourists stock up on crowns, euros in advance. It will not hurt and credit card... The amount of money that is needed depends on the needs of the vacationer. Alternatively, it can be 6000 kroons and 300 euros, plus a bank card. With the latter option, you need to be careful and find out in advance if the card is suitable for use in the Czech Republic.

In order to at least roughly understand how much to take, it is advisable to plan approximate purchases, spending at home, and, of course, there must be a financial reserve.

It is not necessary to exchange all the money for crowns at home. It is necessary to do this only partially, for the first time. If necessary, it is much more profitable to do this in the Czech Republic, only in safe places. Read more about the Czech currency.

Summing up

Getting to the Czech Republic on your own will not be difficult. This can be done by personal car, plane or train. It is imperative to determine for yourself how to go: either pre-order a tour or a personal guide, or travel on your own and look for adventure.

How long to go? Everyone decides for himself in terms of time and finances. Of course, it would be nice to visit here for at least 5-7 days. The advantage of such a trip will be that the sights can be visited at a more relaxed pace, there will be an opportunity to enjoy the special Czech atmosphere.

What period should you go? The country is beautiful at any time of the year. But most of all tourists are attracted by the country in the summer and on the eve new year holidays... But it will be nice to have a rest during the so-called "off season", because this way you can walk more calmly and more affordable in terms of finances.

Do not forget that the cost of living will depend on the area in which to rent a house and for how long. The most expensive is the tourist center. Everything will be close at hand, but accommodation can be many times more expensive than in the outskirts or in the middle area.

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