More about Prague
Why go to Prague?
Many cruises that include Prague also feature a couple of days in the city so you can dive deeper
Ships don't actually dock there; Prague serves as a jumping-off point for river sailings
From Prague Castle to Old Town and the Jewish Quarter, Prague teems with history
Prague Cruise Port Facilities?
Prague is one of a number of European cities that serve as departure and arrival points for major river cruises, but the ships do not dock there. Passengers meet at designated hotels and are bussed to their embarkation points. However, a number of local Vltava River trips -- some with dinner and music -- originate at the Charles Bridge.
Visitors who come a few days early would do well to reserve a room at one of the hotels right in the center of Old Town, where it's only a few blocks walk to theater, musical performances and restaurants. (Major cruise companies usually book travelers at international hotels, which are a long trek from the historic center.)
Good to Know?
As in any large city, it is important to keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially in crowds. Men should not carry wallets in back pockets, and women should not let purses dangle. Many women wear the straps of their bags crisscross over the front.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Prague is a walking city, split into several areas that span the Vltava River. There's the Castle perched high up on the west side with Lesser Town (Mala Strana) cascading down beneath it. An eight-minute walk away on the east side of the water -- and on flatter ground -- is the Old Town (Stare Mesto) with Old Town Square. New Town (Nove Mesto) with Wenceslas Square and Republic Square is south and contains the National Museum and the main train station.
By Metro: Even if you don't use the metro system, check out a subway station just to ride the escalator. They're extremely high and steep, and have become featured fodder on YouTube. Go to YouTube and enter Prague escalator in the search bar, and you'll see what we mean.
You cannot buy tickets onboard but typically, you can purchase tickets at hotel concierge desks. If not, they are sold from the yellow machines at metro, tram and bus stops, or at tobacconists or newsstands -- just look for the Tabak and Trafika signs. Fares are good system-wide, allowing you to travel for 90 minutes; it can also be used on buses and streetcars. Don't forget to validate your ticket by inserting it into one of the yellow boxes before you enter the station. Subway stops most utilized by tourists are Mustek, the city center; Staromestska, Old Town; and Hradcanska, Prague Castle. Streetcar, number 22, stops at Prague Castle.
You can also buy tickets that are valid for 30 minutes. A Prague Card, available online and at the tourist bureau, can be used for both public transit and entry to Prague's major sights.
By Taxi: It's best to take a cab from your hotel or taxi ranks. If you do a hail a cab from the street, negotiate the price before setting off. Drivers usually speak limited English. The customary tip is 10 percent.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The official unit of currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech crown (Kc, CZK), which is divided into 100 hellers. Although it is possible to pay in euros for certain services and in many shops and restaurants (especially those near Old Town Square and the international hotels), it is better to get some local currency for a stay in the Czech Republic.
ATM machines are spread around the city and give the best exchange rates. The Currency Exchange offices charge commissions. ATM's, or bankomats, tend to be the least expensive way to obtain local currency.
Language?
Czech is the official language in Prague, and it is difficult to learn. English is fast becoming the mainstream travel language as there are tourists from so many European countries. Most restaurants have menus in several languages, including English. Shopkeepers usually know enough so that they can make transactions. Concierges in the major hotels and restaurants are usually fluent in English, and most waiters usually know enough to take an order from an English menu with some pointing. Since English is taught in schools, most young people are comfortable with the language, and like to practice on tourists. The Czechs are very friendly, and will be delighted if you try such basic words as Hello (Ahoy) or Thank you (Dekuji; DICK-kwee). No need to enroll at Berlitz before you visit.
Where You're Docked?
Prague serves as a transfer destination for river cruises. Passengers frequently overnight for one day or more in Prague before journeying by bus to meet their ships.
