Narrow cobblestoned streets, the bluest skies, architecture that will take you back in time – Prague is literally one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen in my life.
When life is pulling everyone in a thousand directions, this is a place which encourages you to slow down and smell the roses.
Prague or “Praha” is the capital of the Czech Republic and still has a timeless feel to it. The city suffered considerably lesser damage as compared to others in World War II and since then has become quite a popular tourist spot. All the “wikipedia” history aside, Prague is literally love at first sight and believe it or not, is pretty cheap on your pocket too!
What You Need to Remember About Money
There are a couple of things you must know in Praha when it comes to money though, before you start spending anything!
(1) Firstly, the official currency is Koruna – which is the only currency used everywhere. Even though you are in Europe, the Euro isn’t used at all. So remember to exchange your cash in the city for the much needed shopping!
(2) Secondly, cabs are terribly expensive and have no set meters of there own – so you’d best take the awesome public network and avoid the exorbitant rip off.
(3) And thirdly, one Koruna is about 2.80 rupees. (See where I am going with the “budget” trip pitch?)
When in Prague, all you need to ‘check out’ in terms of sightseeing are about 3-4 major sights (including the Prague Castle) and you’re all set. The entry fee to the magnificent structure is about Rs 700 per person for a duration of 2 days – which is by far, the least you will pay anywhere in Europe.
Hey, it works out to be cheaper than sightseeing in India too, at times!
Beer Comes Cheap – and Aplenty!
Beer lovers, Prague is your ale heaven. From light to dark stouts, there is something for everyone. Prague has some of the oldest breweries in the world – and also hosts a Beer Festival for 17 days in May.
Think beer that comes at about 200 bucks a pint (only!), gorgeous fresh meats and desserts that will make you drown the city in a puddle of drool – and you will realise that it is extremely food friendly and super light on your wallet. I remember eating a giant meal composed of cheesy garlic bread, goulash and a dozen pints of beer – all amounting to just Rs 2000. It was the best dinner of my life!
But if you’re a spirit connoisseur, the special underground club culture must be experienced. Enter any restaurant and you’ll find that the dinner folk sit on the top floor – however, the bottom floor is where the party is! What with plenty of underground pubs – scattered across Prague 1 and 2 – pumping out the best nocturnal sounds, it is an experience you absolutely must have.
Shopping Will Pinch
Are you mentally calculating hotel costs? You needn’t worry – Prague doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to stay in. Since it’s a comparatively smaller city, there are a variety of boutique hotels and even hostels to choose from. Oh, and here comes the best part – a cozy bed in a hostel right in Prague Old Town will set you back by just Rs 900 a night. (Yes, you heard that right.)
All the best brands in the world are right here in the centre of the city, but shopping is the only aspect where Prague isn’t especially cheap. The local brands may not cost as much – but head over to the luxury aisle and you’re looking at forking over market prices.
But heck, with all the dough you’ve already saved, surely you can loosen the purse strings a little?
Prague holds a special place in my heart. It will in yours too, I promise – as also in your wallet.
(A massive EDM junkie and a Jedi Padewan, Radhika believes in taking life by the fork and knife every day. She has been a media woman for the last 10 years with a huge passion for video technology. While working in content management is her day avatar, nothing gets her foodie side going like a good spicy misal pav!)
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