Away from the Tourist Ghetto – Experiencing Prague Like a True Local

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and it continues to attract millions of tourists from around the globe. It is hard not to see why. The country has old-world charm in a modern setting.

Its popularity has a downside, though. In recent years, prices have surged and it affects everything from accommodation to food. That’s why instead of following the usual touristy areas, let’s track what the locals do. This should give you access to local prices and a much more authentic experience.

We also suggest to check out a local travel blog like Praguehere.com and get the best deals and insights.

The cobbled streets of Prague give you that nostalgic feeling and constant assurance that you are in one of Europe’s finest. But when several people elbowing for space, saving those memories in a picture can be a nightmare. What tourists don’t know is that right at the corner of the busiest streets are almost deserted roads leading you to surprising destinations.

Here are some travel tips from the locals.

#1 Wake up early

Early bird gets the empty cobblestone streets. 

If you wanted to capture the beauty of Prague without photobombers, going out from 6 to 8 am is a perfect time. Prague castle is open as early as 6 am, be an early bird and ditch the queue. Some cafes and shops also open as early as 7 am for that quick bite. Have Prague all to yourself. This is also when you get to mingle with the locals grabbing a quick breakfast before heading off to work.

#2 Eat like the locals

One of the more odd places where locals go to is an elementary school cafeteria called Uhelny TRH4. Since it is a school, avoid the lunch hour to avoid the crowd. The buffet is open for the public from 11 am to 2 pm during weekdays.

Another good restaurant at Zlate Hory is U Radnice. This is where most of Prague’s city hall employees dine at an affordable price.

Have a picnic in downtown Prague. Grab a picnic box called Narodni and head off to any of these picnic spots:

• Střelecký Ostrov near the Altova River.
• Riegrovy sady offers a view of the castle with a breathtaking sunset. 
• Letenske sady is a large beer park that offers plenty of seating and a spectacular view of the city. 

Dig into what the locals eat, soft bread rolls filled with sausage at street food stalls in Wenceslas Square.

#3 Enjoy nature

While Prague is known for its cobblestone streets and majestic architecture, nature is not far away from the city. Take a quick break from the bustle of city life in the following locations:

Prokopske udoli a natural reserve with a hidden lake. It has a tunnel with beautiful scenery and great playgrounds.

Vojanovy Gardens (Vojanovy sady) is a partially preserved garden which was once a monastery garden. Escape the crowd and busy streets and find serenity in the small lake under the shade of trees.

Havlíček Gardens (Grébovka – Havlíčkovy sady) is complete with water cascades, pavilions, grotto, and lakes. It is truly reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance, located in the street called U Havlíčkovh sadů, Rybalkova Street and the Botič Stream.

#4 Pub hopping

Prague’s locals are known for their love for beer and live music. This is a place where beer is cheaper than water. Strolling down the streets of Prague could give you a great chance of bumping into one of its many famous pubs. Here is a list of bars with live music:

• Live music in Prague at the Jazz Dock
• Narodni Trida – Rock Café 
• Vtopna inside the Palladium Mall

#5 Spot Prague’s unique art all over the city

While there are many art museums and galleries in the cities, the best ones are the ones on the streets, open to the public. Here are a few of the best.

Prague’s Dancing House located on Vltava River. 

Hanging Sigmund Freud which can be seen in Prague’s Old Town. It was unveiled in 1996 by David Cerny.

The narrowest street in Prague where only one person can fit. Vinárna Čertovka is 50-cm wide gap and that you would need to hit the “street light” to signal that you are passing by.

Franz Kafka’s Head is another David Cerny masterpiece that can be seen at the back of the shopping mall in Spalena street.