Praha 1 Prague – All our local tips

In a small street near the tram-stop Národní divadlo there is an exceptional place. It is somewhat hidden – it is very easy to just walk by, not even realizing there is a bar. I consider myself as a sort of an expert concerning the Prague pubs and clubs but if it hadn’t been for a friend of mine who showed it to me recently, I might have just died without even knowing this place. And that would be a shame.

First of all – Al Capone’s bar is not just small – it is tiny. I guess if twenty people fit in, it feels already crowded. However, most of the time, there are just about two or three, so you will easily find a spot. Second: this place has a very exceptional atmosphere. I don’t even know why – but if you walk through the narrow hall into a small room – you feel like entering another world. Or more precisely: this place feels as if you were stoned even if you are not – the weird haze, the grave light, the silent music, the pictures of gangsters on the walls…

And third: it is just so cheap! Honestly, it might be the cheapest bar in Prague I know, when it comes to drinks and cocktails. „A Long island ice tea for less then 100,- CZK? You must be kidding me.”, is what I said during my first visit. But they weren’t and I had a great time. Try yourself!

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Al Capone’s | Bars | Cuba libre CZK 60.00
Bartolomějská 3 | Praha 1 | +420224241040
Mon – Thu 17:00 – 02:00, Fri – Sat 18:00 – 03:00, Sun 18:00 – 00:00

Art, design, science, history, psychology, travel, religion, mythology or fiction? I like it all. That’s why I enjoy coming to a lovely bookshop close to Old Town Square. According to Anagram’s website “words create worlds”. YES, they do! These words are also all in English so if you’re a bookstores fanatic and go to at least one in every city you visit (like I do), I’m sure you will find something interesting in this one as well. I don’t even have to buy anything. Looking at the different covers and smelling various types of paper is just as exciting as buying a certain book.

If you’re staying in Prague for a longer period of time and are upset with the book supply in local bookstores, Anagram can also order books for you. Even those that are rare of out of print.

It is actually not just books that makes me coming back. It’s also the music that they play which makes me want to dance between the shelves. And from there, it is just a few steps to my dearest Maitrea restaurant (check the Maitrea restaurant article)…

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Anagram Books | Art & culture, Shopping
Tyn 4 | Praha 1
Mon – Sat 10:00 – 20:00, Sun 10:00 – 19:00

Two storey underground venue and a centre for diverse contemporary stage art. And if it is specialized, then it’s towards the alternative end, and truly an Ark.

Archa is one of my favourite places to find some interesting and clever pieces of performance art and they are able to communicate this diversity to the public. Tickets are not the cheapest, but – do I look for quality or quantity?

The Programme of Archa Theatre is rich – from dance to drama, from live concerts to workshops. To show their broad scope just a few names include: Min Tanaka (who opened it in 1994), Butthole Surfers, The Residents, Václav Havel, Zappa plays Zappa, Amon Tobin, …Archa is not only a theatre, it is a production house too – they have many international projects. Also I should not forget the Archa.lab, a loose alliance of artists collected around the Archa Theatre who stress the importance of practical theatre activities, focusing on exploration, research and experiment.

The Guardian newspaper mentioned Archa as the country’s “alternative National Theatre”, and that fits – Archa is exceptionally well-equipped venue for all kinds of stage art: from drama to dance, for concerts as well as performances. All that including a café that serves hot and cold drinks and snacks. Archa feeds the soul and body at the same time.

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Archa Theatre | Art & culture, Music, Theaters
Na Poříčí 26 | Praha 1 | +420221716333
According the programme

Atmosféra is a favourite student place. It is spacious, consisting of three separate parts, two rooms and a garden with tables in between them. The rugged space even provides two entrances from various streets. And also makes this café somewhat more interesting.

On the walls you’ll find oldschool-like satiric posters usually with some smiling face and text saying for instance „Tequila – have you hugged your toilet today?” on them. In Atmosféra, there is also a table-football, a very popular pub-game in Prague.

It is not just the interior and equipment that makes it visit-worthy. It is very much thanks to the food. It is cheap, rich and tasty. You can for example buy half a kilo of there-made fried potato slices which they serve with three different dressings. It is a fair snack for four (or food for two ) and costs only 70 Crowns. They also have great Mexican specialities. And five types of cold cheap draft beer… Not to forget, they have a free Wi-Fi access.

Atmosféra is located right in the center, five minutes from Charles Bridge or National Theatre (check the National Theatre article). If you are ever around, hungry and thirsty, you must care for a visit!

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Atmosféra | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (International) | Pilsner, 0,5 l CZK 35
Smetanovo nábřeží 14/ Karolíny Světlé 33 | Praha 1 | +420222222114
Café 11:30 – 01:00 daily | Pub 12:00 – … | Garden 11:30 – 22:00 daily

The wine bar Bokovka (meaning Sideways – the inspiration by the movie is obvious) was founded in 2005 by a group from the local art crowd. The co-owners have also regular shifts behind the bar, so if you would be interested eg. in a conversation about film with two contemporary Czech film directors, you have a chance

The size of the spot together with tasteful interior and friendly staff makes Bokovka good for a date or a gathering over a glass of wine, but don´t be mistaken – when there is a party, the ambiance can be quiet lively. Bokovka is a strictly non-smoking place.

The wine list contains wine mainly from Europe, but you can find there also wines from the „new world”. Domestic wines are represented by Moravian wines. If you don´t want to order whole bottle, you can choose from the offer of wines by glass.

Good wine is even better with good food. In Bokovka, they have a likable approach to it – you can choose from a selection of olives, tasty cheese and sausages; or try one of the prepared plates – I love the tuscany one (99 CZK).

So if you will be in the mood for a glass of wine and relax a little bit after a day of walking, go sideways …

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Bokovka | Bars | Glass of wine (1,4 dcl) CZK 39.00
Pštrossova 8 | Praha 1 | +420721262503
16:00 – 00:00 daily

There are two types of cafés I enjoy. First and more common one in Prague is a Viennese stylish café often with long history and Austro-Hungarian origin, lots of marble and brass, located in old palaces (like Café Lucerna). The second type is the Parisian type with small round tables reaching out into the sidewalks, where customers can closely watch what happens in the streets – very rare in Prague.

Café 35 is a part of the French Institute of Prague (Institut Français de Prague, IFP) and is located in its yard so unfortunately is has no direct acces to the street. But besides this fact it’s a true French style café, with fresh French pastry in the morning, French music playing, French specialities for lunch and even up-to-date French newspapers.

Free Wi-fi connection is available. Also cultural events like concerts, lectures or readings organized by the IFP take place there. To get into the café you first have to enter the IFP. It’s a great place for meeting  French speaking people because many expats come here as well as teachers and students from the IFP.

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Café 35 | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (French) | Café au lait CZK 35
Štěpánská 35 | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 08:30 – 20:00, Sat 10:00 – 14:00, Sun closed

Everyone might have different criteria for what makes a good restaurant good. For me, general consistent quality  is one of these. One of the restaurants which meets these expectations is certainly the cosy brasserie Café de Paris.

The restaurant, situated on the pleasant Maltézské square, is famous primarily for its original entrecote. The sirloin steak is served with french fries, green salad with vinaigrette and pieces of baguette (my father whom I brang there for the penultimate New Year´s Eve) was really amazed, how the baguette was fresh and crispy which is really funny to hear, taking in consideration that he is living in France). The meat is accompanied with a sauce by your choice – the famous Café de Paris (which is a secret recipe), béarnaise or red wine based sauce. I like the way how it´s served – the meat and fries are on two small grills heated by candles.

Besides the steak frites, Café de Paris offers also a couple of other dishes which are changing during the season (now they have on menu the delicious tartiflette). Last but not least – don´t forget to have a dessert (I recommend to try the selection of three desserts or three cheese).

Overall, Café de Paris has a pleasant atmosphere – thanks to the place, great cuisine, decent interior and nice staff – which you have to check out by yourself!

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Café de Paris | Restaurants (French) | Entrecote CZK 289
Maltészké náměstí 4 | Praha 1 | +420603160718
12:00 – 00:00 daily

Café Imperial, that really stands for its name, is famous for many reasons. Firstly, its tiles. Walls and pylons covered with ceramic, handmade tiles almost a century old, have been recently restored – and with them the whole interior including furnishing.

Here you can experience the golden time of European grand cafés, while enjoying one of the many delicious dishes made by Zdeněk Pohlreich. A second good reason to have a lunch here.

This very experienced chef of the Prague culinary scene is the genius of truly Czech cuisine – in the original 20-30’s style that was as light and fun as italian cuisine today. Forget heavy sauces with stony dumplings – and experience taste in Czech style like never before.

The third reason? Let’s take a little detour first. Before reconstruction, there was an odd thing on the menu: a plate of donuts for 2000 CZK (approx. 70 EUR). That gave you the right to …

Well, a famous Czech novel, Saturnin (which was translated to English too) gives some idea of what might be in store:

„Let’s take a man without fantasy – in a half-full café who looks on a plate of donuts untill lunch – without the slightest idea of what to do with them. Then there are people, who after seeing this plate of donuts will imagine how delightful it would be to start throwing them at others … and, then there is the third kind, who are carried away by such fantasy, that they get up and do it!

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Café Imperial | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Czech) | Main meal CZK 150.00
Na Poříčí 15 | Praha 1 | +420246011440
07:00 – 23:00 daily

In the very centre I spotted a very nice place I visit quite often since then. You can easily get there by trams 3, 9 or 14 and get out at Vodičkova stop but it is also just a five-minute walk from Václavské náměstí. It is called a “café”, it is a regular restaurant, though. The menu is rich and the prices reasonable.

The name comes from the fact that it started as a place where the employees would be rehabilitated or rehabilitating drug users. However, you couldn’t make that out just like that as the personnel are very kind and compliant. It is a place for the whole family as there are separate smoker and non-smoker rooms, free wi-fi and even a small playground for the kids. At the same time they sell Czech-made ceramics.

Really cool is the design of the interior, menus and so on. Everywhere you can find advertisements from the beginning of the 20th century – most of the time they are really funny and worth seeing. I visit café Therapy most often for a beer and a “Tartar” steak (a minced raw steak you eat with toast, onion, garlic and pepper), it is just awesome. Come and try!

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Café Therapy | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Czech) | Beer 0,5 l CZK 27.00
Školská 30 | Praha 1 | +420284825515
Mon – Fri 08:00 – 23:30, Sat 12:00 – 23:30, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

I love photography and I try to reserve some of my time for it even now when school consumes practically all of it. Whenever I need anything related to this hobby, I can be sure to find it here.

FotoŠkoda is a unique place not only because of the building it is located in but mostly because of its conception – five floors full of photography – a huge store selling both new and used equipment and all kinds of material, repair service, studio, printing department and more services including photography courses and exhibitions. All of this under one roof and situated in the very centre of Prague – right by Wenceslas square.

Even though buying stuff online and having it shipped to our homes is a normal thing to do I still like to go into such stores where I can see the goods in real, try them out or ask the seller in person. The staff here is professional and really helpful, they were always nice to me even when I annoyed them with my questions for a half-hour and ended up not buying the product

If you run out of film, need a passport photo, your camera gets broken or you just want to buy some photography books, this is the place I recommend.

Langhans gallery is also located in the area of the Langhans palace (check the Langhans palace article).

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Centrum FotoŠkoda | Shopping | FUJI Velvia RVP 100F/135-36 CZK 215
Vodičkova 37 | Praha 1 | +420222929029
Mon – Fri 08:30 – 20:00, Sat 09:00 – 18:00

My favourite club to go out with friends. It happens quite often that some of my friends has a birthday party there or I visit some of the concerts as a photographer.

It’s not only the dance club which is on the minus first floor, there is a lively bar on the ground floor and a “Live underground” concert room or the minus second floor.

I like the design of the place, each floor has its own specific features. For photos, feel free to look here. Sometimes the bar gets quite crowded and it’s not easy to find a place to sit. A lot of foreigners come there but I think they mostly aren’t tourists, probably students or people who moved to Prague.

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Chapeau Rouge | Bars, Music | Mojito CZK 110.00
Jakubská 2 | Praha 1 | +420222316128
No fixed opening times (I’ve never seen the place closed though)

It was a coincidence that I found a hidden vegetarian restaurant so close to the Charles Bridge. I was expecting an average looking place with decent food and prices. When I first walked in, I realized I found a very special place. Every time I go out for lunch or dinner, Lehka Hlava (Clear Head) is the first option in my mind.

There are two main rooms in Clear Head and both are incredibly well designed. I especially enjoy eating in the “blue room” under the stars by the fireplace. And there is no better feeling than drinking my favorite drink called Sahlep and letting myself warm up by the fire. If you need a little more privacy, there is also a private and nicely decorated room for about six people with a central glass table illuminated by colored lights.

Clear Head is a sister restaurant of Maitrea (check the Maitrea article) so, if you are unlucky and there is not a table for you in one, you can try the other (and the experience will be just as good). I recommend making a reservation in advance for both Clear Head and Maitrea.

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Clear Head | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Vegan) | Main meal CZK 140
Boršov 2/280 | Praha 1 | +420222220665
Mon – Fri 11:30 – 23:30, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 23:30

Dobra Tearoom on Wenceslas Square was the first tearoom I visited in Prague. Although the very first time I noticed the existence of the Dobra Tea chain was in Burlington, Vermont in the United States. The memory of it is quite funny as you don’t expect seeing a Czech company in the US, especially a tearoom. So it was obvious that after coming back to Prague I had to see the “mother” of all Dobra Teas.

There are two Dobra tearooms in Prague and I would personally prefer the one in Ostrovni street before the one on Wenceslas Square. It is still a nice option if you’re in the very center of the city and want to have some real tea.

If you’re walking down the Square trying to squeeze your way through the crowds of people it can get a little overwhelming. And here she is, right on the busy street. What a relief when you sit down to sip one of her finest teas. In winter, the tearoom provides a cozy place to relax and warm up when your feet are cold and tired from sightseeing. In summer, the shadow of the terrace will cool down both your glowing cheeks and your mind.

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Dobrá Čajovna | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Pot of Tea CZK 100
Václavské náměstí 14 | Praha 1 | +420224231480
Mon – Fri 10:00 – 21:30, Sat – Sun 14:00 – 21:30

It hasn’t been that long since they opened a new Dobra Tearoom. Another of Dobra Teas was born at Ostrovní Street. It is smaller and I find it cozier than the one on Wenceslas Square (check the Dobrá Čajovna article). So if I have a chance to choose I always go to this one.

Another reason why I prefer the „daughter tearoom” is the smell of hookah that adds to a relaxed atmosphere, which you can’t experience in the other Prague’s Dobra. Otherwise the menu is really similar if not the same in both.

Dobrá čajovna at Ostrovní offers more space where you can sit right on the carpeted floor bolstered with cushions. Except for that there’s also a nice private space I call „the nest”. You climb a wooden ladder to get there and then you can sip your tea or smoke your hookah undisturbed.

If you fall in love with the tea you got, you can also buy it right in the tearoom altogether with a tea pot and cups. And if you can read Czech, I recommend buying and reading a book written by one of the owners of Dobra tearooms called Milec Čaje. It is a fascinating story about tea travels that makes you want to grab your backpack and go to explore the tea plantations in Asia yourself.

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Dobrá Čajovna at Ostrovní | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Pot of Tea from CZK 70
Ostrovní 26 | Praha 1 | +420776097949
Mon – Fri 12:00 – 23:00, Sat – Sun 14:00 – 23:00

Františkánská zahrada (Franciscan garden) is a lovely park area, rather hidden between Jungmannovo námestí (Jungmann Square) and Václavské námestí (Wenceslas Square).

By entering this peaceful spot you just leave behind all the noise and rush of the busiest streets of the Prague centre. Surrounded by the abundance of verdure and colorful flower patches it is very tempting just to sit down on one of the plenty of benches and relax.

Local people come here mostly to hang out, eat their take away lunches, read, work, study or even sunbathe. In one of the corners there is also a playground for children.

The history of this place begins in 1348 when the first phase of the construction of Nové Mesto (New Town) took place. The garden was originally much larger and belonged to a Carmelite monastery, which then in 1604 came into possession of the Franciscans, who used it for growing herbs, flowers, vegetables, spices and trees.

It wasn’t open to public until 1950 when the Franciscans were displaced by the Communists. Then it became a useful shortcut between the two squares. The contemporary look of the garden comes from the general reconstruction between 1989 and 1992.

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Františkánská zahrada | Relaxing | Free
Jungmannovo námestí 18 | Praha 1
15 Apr -14 Sep 07:00 – 22:00, 15 Sep – 14 Oct 07:00 – 20:00
15 Oct – 14 Apr 08:00 – 19:00

Langhans gallery is located in the historical premises of the Langhans palace, very close to Centrum FotoŠkoda (check the Centrum FotoŠkoda article).

It is relativelly small and modern, quite hidden in the complex building. It focuses on photography, mostly contemporary works from the 20th century, foreign as well as Czech.

Normally an exhibition lasts about two months so the gallery offers about 6 exhibitions a year. Sometimes you can find posters in the metro, especially in the station Můstek – the closest one to the gallery.

One floor of the gallery serves as a library or maybe more a reading room. Its collection now consists of more than six hundred contemporary titles from many renowned publishers. It’s nice to sit there for a moment after seeing the exhibition and just browse a couple of books for some additional inspiration.

How to get there? After finding Centrum FotoŠkoda (check the Centrum FotoŠkoda article) it’s easy. Centrum has two main entrances, between them there is a small yard with a third entrance to the store. On the right end of the yard you will see a narrow glass door. Go inside and follow the straight corridor. It leads to the inner yard where on the right side again you’ll find the gallery.

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Galerie Langhans | Art & culture | Entrance students CZK 30.00
Vodičkova 37 | Praha 1 | +420222929333
Tue – Sun 13:00 – 19:00

Mánes is definitely one of my favourite spots when I’m in an artistic mood. I usually visit this gallery without any planning in advance. The exhibitions have never let me down.

The building is technically located above the river, “filling the gap” between Slovanský ostrov (island) and Masarykovo nábreží (street on the riverbank). It comprises not only the gallery but also a restaurant, club and even a concert hall.

The complex was built in functional style, typical for the 1930’s when the construction was finished. It was sponsored by the Mánes Union of Fine Arts (founded in 1887 and named after a Czech romantic painter Josef Mánes) which then organized many exhibitions and other artistic sessions there. The association was forcibly disbanded in 1956 when it became troublesome for the communist regime.

The exhibitions are mostly contemporary art; usually photographic but I have seen paintings there as well. I like that it is possible to see the exhibition hall from the street outside, so you can immediately “get a sample” of what is inside and eventually decide whether to go see it or not.

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Galerie Mánes | Art & culture
Masarykovo nábreží 250 | Praha 1 | +420224930754
Tue – Sun 10:00 – 18:00

This is a high-class gallery. I have even noticed discussions with numerous voices claiming that there have been lately much better exhibitions in Rudolfinum than in the National Gallery. I’ll mention Gottfried Helnwein – Angels Sleeping and Gregory Crewdson which were really one of the best exhibitions I have ever seen.

The gallery is located in one of Prague’s most beautiful buildings – Rudolfinum. It is a Neo-Renaissance concert hall open in 1885 as a multifunctional cultural institution. The construction was organized by Ceská sporitelna (one of the main banks in Czech Republic) on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

When walking by you will definitely be offered concert tickets by the street vendors. I must say that concerts of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in Rudolfinum are a great cultural experience as well.

As for the actual exhibitions, don’t hesitate to visit the gallery’s website to see what is on. Right now “Herbert Tobias (1924-1982)“ exhibition is on the program until March 23rd. More information here.

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Galerie Rudolfinum | Art & culture | Adults CZK 120.00
Alšovo nábreží 12 | Praha 1 | +420227059309
Tue – Wed + Fri – Sun 10:00 – 17:30, Thu 10:00 – 19:30

Well, some might say it is pointless to feature such a place on Spotted by Locals. After all, The Hard Rock Café can be considered a chain like many others – and we don’t cover Starbucks or McDonalds, right? But for once, let us make an exception.

Why? Because it is one of the few places in Prague where you can get a real hamburger. Because there are really good shows with great musicians. Because it is the largest European HRC (they claim 1900 square meters) and really full of various items which belonged to famous musicians – from Bob Dylan to Korn or you can sit just next to Depeche Mode keyboard.

The place is large, since the historical building – few steps from the Old town square – is built with big proportions, elegant stairways and gallery on the first and second floor. And yet it doesn’t feel hollow or cold, but classy and comfortable. Especially if it is not you who pays – cause this is the downside of the experience. Bottle of a mediocre Moravian wine costs over 300 CZK, and hamburgers around 400 CZK.

Reservations are recommended if you want to sit next to an exact item of history of rock music!

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Hard Rock Café | Bars, Music | 0,75l Veltlín – Moravian wine CZK 335
Malé náměstí 3 | Praha 1 | +420224229529
11:30 – 01:00 daily

Hard de Core is an ideal place for interesting “souvenirs” from Prague, and heaven for those like me – who enjoy a salt shaker in the shape of a zeppelin or earrings that look more like light bulbs. I go there on regular basis – once or twice a month. Just to look, check-out, see what`s new, what`s up. Get my senses delighted. Have fun

Anyway, go in and have a look yourself. This shop is small in size but has some great things on offer. It is an art workshop, design studio and a boutique. Hard-de-Core also offers weekend art classes for adults and classes for kids from the age of 2.

Step inside – into the world of original Czech design in the form of fashion, accessories, ceramics, interior decorations, notebooks and jewelry. You find pieces by well-known names like Maxim Velčovský and there is also plenty of stuff from newly established designers and artists.

What they share is an unusual idea, originality, and cleverness in the final design. No matter what is it made of – porcelain, glass, metal, plastic or textile – you choose and your taste is the arbiter. Have a look at their gallery. But better is to go in yourselves.

Hard-de-Core is also good place for original hand-made Czech fashion. And if the size does not fit perfectly it is possible to have it adjusted, according  to your wishes.

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Hard-de-Core | Art & culture, Shopping | Free
Senovážné náměstí 10 | Praha 1 | +420777094421
Mon – Fri 11:00 – 19:00, Sat 11:00 – 17:00

I am a big fan of Indian cuisine and everything Indian. So it is pretty obvious that there would be at least one Indian restaurant among my spots.

I do not come to Himalaya as often as I wish because of the prices. If you want to enjoy your lunch and do not want to spend too much money, this place would not be the right one, at least not for me as a student. But! If you want to have a nice dinner for a special occasion, and you like Indian cuisine, your taste buds will be in a culinary heaven.

Would you like to try this place but have neither money nor time for fancy dinners? There is a Himalaya fast food right around the corner from the restaurant and their mango lassi is just as delicious! You can either sit down there and slowly enjoy your fast meal, or you can take it away, hop on the tram 14 with it and eat in the Stromovka park. What a lovely plan!

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Himalaya | Restaurants (Indian ) | Main Meal CZK 250
Soukenická 2 | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 11:00 – 23:00, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 23:00

Proudly standing on the corner of Celetná and Ovocný trh, the House at the Black Madonna is a true home of Czech Cubism. It is worth seeing as this art period was, in Czech, strong and fruitful. “Sharp points, slicing planes, crystalline shapes. These are the trademarks of the Czech Cubists – a unique, avant-garde group, feverishly active in Prague between 1910 and 1914.”, says Modernista. There is a stable exhibition of the artwork of e. g. Otto Guttfreund,  Emil Filla, Josef Čapek (brother of Karel Čapek, the writer) and Josef Gočár, of course, the author of this amazing bulding.

After the art-seeing, to revive your stamina, have a coffee or snack on the first floor, in the Grand Café Orient. You can choose from deserts and sandwiches, fresh juices and hot chocolate – and all will be served in design porcelain. Even the ashtrays and sugar bowl are cubist designs. And if you get trapped by the elegance of straight lines and edges, you can buy your own piece in the downstairs shop, Kubista.

If you want to know more about Czech cubism, there’s an article about Czech cubism on the Spotted by Locals main website.

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House at the Black Madonna | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Snacks | CZK 100
Ovocný trh 19 | Praha 1
Gallery Tue – Sun 10:00 – 18:00 | Café Mon – Fri 09:00 – 22:00, Sat – Sun 10:00 – 22:00 &source

Another of my favourite places with a very convenient location – only about 10 minute walk from both Václavské námestí (Wenceslas Square) and Karlovo námestí (Charles Square). This one is great for occasions when you’re not feeling like going to a restaurant or pub but you want to eat and drink something anyway, especially something sweet

Italská cukrárna (Italian candy store) offers a wide range of ice-cream sundaes (about 20 kinds) – all with excellent Italian ice-cream (which can be sold separately) – almost 30 different flavors of milk shake, various cakes and other hot and cold beverages. The prices are, with regard to the location, more than pocket friendly.

Candy stores like this one used to be very frequent in Prague and people would go there with children. Now everyone just goes to fast-foods and candy stores are dying out. I think it’s a great pity – that’s why I try to support them by going there.

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Italská cukrárna | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Milk shake CZK 25.00
Vodickova 4 | Praha 1
10:00 – 19:00 daily

Just below the Prague castle there is a so called “Deer-ditch” a beautiful green spot. This name comes from the deer hunts that used to take place there since the 16th century. Later the ditch was split into two by a rock dam. However, in 2002 a very classy tunnel once again draw those parts together. Since the 20’s until the 50’s, the ditch worked as place for bear-keeping. Later, it was made a military area, not open for public.

Not sooner than in the 90’s it was once again made accessible for the public. And that is definitely remarkable, since the place is unique and worth visiting. Although a ditch, there are also places such as a look-point favoured by president Masaryk already.

Through the ditch runs the small creek “Brusnice” plus there are some streams you can even drink from. I very much recommend visiting this place on a warm evening, it feels very relaxing. However, beware, the place closes at 6 pm and then becomes a military-secured area. From a personal experience I can’t recommend climbing over the fences…

And also important to know – Jelení příkop is entirely closed for visits during the winter!

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Jelení příkop | Relaxing | Free
Jelení příkop | Praha 1
Apr 1st – Oct 31st 10:00 – 18:00 daily

Whenever I feel like going out at night, doing some culture thing, I check out jlbjlt.net. Concerts, exhibition openings, projections, theatre, performances, dance, workshops – jlbjlt.net is my virtual spot, where I always find something interesting.

All events are well described, I can filter them by choosing a city (e. g. Prague) or the kind of event I feel like (dance, exhibition, …). Each event is often accompanied by an downloadable invitation or flyer, you can link it with your iCal, Facebook (fcbk) or by clicking on the gmap link you will find the given place on … yes, Google map

Even though the original is in Czech, Google can provide a pretty understandable translation, so jlbjlt.net in english is available. Only a few mistakes can be found and it is still comprehensible.

So when in Prague, support a culture of marginal interest, but of considerable importance!

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JLBJLT.net | Art & culture, Festivals & events
http://jlbjlt.net/ | Praha 1
24 hours daily

The whole concept made a great impression on me the first time I entered the place. Find a great Lebanese cook, all possible activities around travelling and mix it with good humour and customer-oriented approach (eh, the last sounds horrible, but here they really mean it). There are always cool pictures from somebody’s travels everywhere, in fact, each piece of menu contains a lot of different photos – so just browsing it from front to the back is like an adventure.

The meals are tasty and everything but over-priced (lunch menu prices under 100 CZK). Karavanseráj specializes in Lebanese and Indian cuisine, you can mix various small meals into your very own set, there are of course many vegetarian meals. I can for example recommend some delicious pastry with lamb or cheese for a starter, then a kebab with salad and after the dinner: hookah (cigarettes are not allowed though). One room is a tea-room, and it also serves for various special events. Various photo exhibitions change often, you can grab a magazine (not only National Geographic, but many other) and not to forget – each Thursday belly-dancers!

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Karavanseráj | Art & culture, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (lebanese/Iindian) | Mutton Biriyani CZK 149
Masarykovo nábřeží 22 | Praha 1 | +420224930390
Mon – Thu 10:00 – 23:00, Fri 10:00 – 00:00, Sat 12:00 – 00:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

Visiting this cinema is almost a tradition for me. It is actually the first one I’ve ever been to in my life – Lion King was on and I just turned 5 years old At that time there were no multi/megaplex cinemas in the Czech Republic and Svetozor was just an “ordinary cinema”. Since then it started to be more focused on art films as well as festivals. Two screening halls are in service.

Every week there is a premiere of an art film, Mondays are reserved for screening of documentary films and Wednesday nights for minor and experimental genres such as video art, net art, animation, commercials, video-clips, short films etc. Also there are special screenings for seniors, children and the deaf.

Svetozor is not only a cinema. There is a bar underground (open of course NOT only for people with cinema tickets) used as a photographic gallery at the same time. Free WI-FI Internet is available as well. If you’re thinking of going, check the program.

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Kino Svetozor | Bars, Cinemas, Festivals & events | Ticket from CZK 60.00
Vodickova 41 | Praha 1 | +420224946824
Bar Mon – Fri 12:30 – 23:00, Sat – Sun 10:30 – 23:00

Újezd is an area where many of the Prague locals spend their time. There aren’t many tourists, it’s in the centre, there’s number of nice bars and cafés, the Petřín hill is just across the road…

One of the best-known bars is (surprisingly) called Klub Újezd. Open since 1990, it is a night-life classic. It started as a music club but live music performance was forbidden some ten years ago. It’s no big deal, though – it is a great place to visit anyway.

Currently, Klub Újezd is a three-floor bar. In the basement there is a small bar, a few tables, a DJ’s stage and a table-football. The first floor is more spacious with a large bar. But, if you plan a party, you should definitely make a reservation to the second floor which feels somehow most comfortable of all. It, among other, offers a very nice sight at the street and Petřín hill.

What makes Klub Újezd unique, are the decorations and paintings. For instance, on the walls there are paintings of strange persons with disfigured faces – as well as many other, sometimes even more pleasant scenes. Plus, the whole club works also as a free gallery – of photography, usually.

Thanks to its very late closing-hours, Klub Újezd is a very common place for late-evening or early-morning chill-outs. Add very reasonable prices and you’ve got a place you have to visit!

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Klub Újezd | Art & culture, Bars | Pilsner, 0,5 l CZK 35.00
Újezd 18 | Praha 1 | +420257316537
First floor bar 11:00 – 04:00, The rest 18:00 – 04:00 daily

Half way between the Charles bridge and Národní třída, you will find a café I very much recommend visiting. It is called Krásný ztráty and it has become quite famous here, so famous in fact, that a regular TV talkshow is being recorded there. Krásný ztráty is a place where a lot of interesting people gather. It is one of the few places where you can find students, intellectuals and celebrities at once.

Although it is called café, once again it has the character of a regular restaurant. They cook all day and the food is great, although the prices are quite high. I can particularly recommend visiting this place for a breakfast or a brunch. The place is calm with a very nice design of interior. So if you are in the centre and need to work a bit, you know where to go (they have free wireless LAN).

Apart from being a café, a bar and a restaurant, Krásný ztráty is also a wine shop a book shop, a gallery and an occasional music club or theatre stage. There are many events taking place there so you might want to check that out at their website.

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Krásný ztráty | Art & culture, Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (General)
Náprstkova 10 | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 09:00 – 01:00, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 01:00

Do you also regret that your mom has thrown away all the cool clothes that she once used to wear and you could be wearing these days? I do sometimes. On those days I go to the Laly vintage shop.

If you have a bit of a fashion-designer inside of you and you are lucky to find something that can fit your wardrobe, you will not have to spend too much money here on it either. Laly vintage shop offers everything from coats, skirts, sweaters, jackets, pants to crazy hats, strange shoes, funny scarves and hootchy-kootchy night-suits.

Honestly, I do not usually buy anything in Laly, but it is more of an event for me to go to explore what was worn in the past. If you want to just check this place out or even plan on doing vintage shopping here you should not miss the Anagream bookstore (check the Anagram article) right next door which is just as cool.

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Laly Vintage | Shopping | Dress CZK 300
Štupartská 3 | Praha 1 | +420234767779
Mon – Sat 11:00 – 20:00, Sun 11:00 – 19:00

As (almost) every woman I like to go shopping for clothes. I try to combine the visits in classical fashion chains with the ones at young Czech fashion designers shops – with clothes from them, you have quite a chance that you won´t meet half of Prague in the same outfit. I took in affection the brand Leeda. Every time I go there, I buy something new (and that is also the reason why I should not go there too often).

Leeda is an original Czech brand, created by a duo of designers Lucie Kutalkova and Lucie Trnkova. Their collections are thematically tuned and you can always find some extravagant models as well as normally wearable to the office and for leisure time.I find interesting that Leeda is also cooperating with people from other creative areas (art, architecture, graphical design etc) – eg. the world-known architect Jan Kaplicky was concerned in one of the collections named Leeda Kaplicky.

From time to time Leeda throws fashion parties to sell out old collections. It’s always a small event with a nice atmosphere – the small shop and its surrounding is full of people, chatting over a glass of wine and some chips.

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Leeda | Shopping | Top CZK 1290
Bartolomějská 1 | Praha 1 | +420224234056
Mon – Sat 11:00 – 19:00

One of my favourite galleries in Prague is situated in Školská street, just a few meters above the Cafe Therapy restaurant (check the Café Therapy article). Leica Gallery Prague is run by a non-profitable company of the same name and its objective is not only organization of quality photographic exhibition, but also running workshops for public and other activities.

In process of the time that LGP is open, I have seen a number of great exhibitions held by them. Besides their own showroom (which they acquired two years ago), LGP has been using various exhibiton spaces (such as the Prague Castle in the past or Mánes). A recent exhibition that I really like was the retrospective of Robert Vano. I actually saw it twice – in Mánes and in LGP as well – it has been so successful that they decided to prolong it.

LGP has an added value – the café which is part of the showroom. The coffee there is surprisingly good. And if you are in the mood for something else, you can for sure enjoy a glass of wine and browse some of the art books and magazines they have there. One nice bonus – if you are the cafe´s visitor, you can enter the exhibition without the admission fee.

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Leica Gallery | Art & culture, Coffee & tea | Gallery entry CZK 50
Školská 28 | Praha 1 | +420608963523
14:00 – 22:00 daily

The first time I saw the Lennon’s Wall was when the picture of it was printed as a postcard and sold in one of the bookstores downtown. It could be a regular wall with graffiti on it (most not even that well done), but what I like about this place is the controversy, which the paintings and writings of complaints evoked during communism and also the location itself. After the death of John Lennon, this wall became a symbolic monument to him. Obviously, the communist government didn’t appreciate it quite as much as the people were painting and writing symbols of love and peace.

You can find the Wall off of Charles Bridge in the area called Kampa. This is an interesting juxtaposition because while both the Bridge and the Wall are historic, Lennon’s Wall is usually overlooked by the average tourist despite it being so close to Charles Bridge. Just walk down the stairs and share your message of love.

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Lennon’s Wall | Art & culture | Free
Velkopřevorské náměstí | Praha 1
24 hours daily

Lotus is a very special place. It is a yoga and meditation center, a shop and also a library. I often go there because of the last thing mentioned. Lotus is located in a building off of Old Town Square, on the third floor. You ring the bell at the door and by walking in, you enter a different world.The library offers various books on Buddhism, history, eastern philosophy, yoga and meditation. You can read both in Czech and English. You don’t have to borrow anything, you can just sit down for a minute and read whatever you’re interested in.

I’ve never tried a yoga lesson or meditation in Lotus so I can’t say too much about it. However, I’ve seen the spaces for yoga and for meditation and I have also practiced with some of the teachers who have classes there. Thus, I can put 2 and 2 together, and recommend a yoga class or a meditation session there.

I find this spot interesting and, if you’re concerned with yoga, meditation or books and are trying to find a yoga studio or a good bookstore in every city you go to (like I often do), you will be pleased as you can find all of it at once right here.

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Lotus Center | Art & culture, Relaxing, Festivals & events | Yoga class CZK 150
Dlouhá 2 | Praha 1
According to the schedule

In one the most famous Prague passages is the no less famous café Lucerna. Lucerna is in fact a whole complex of buildings belonging to Havel`s family – the one from which the first Czechoslovakian president Václav Havel comes from.

This architectural jewel in Art Noveau style was built by Stanislav Bechyně in years 1907-1921. It`s worth exploring the whole complex, and then relax in the café upstairs, which is literally just behind the statue of St. Wenceslav flogging the dead horse (made by enfant terrible of Czech art scene, David Černý, also the author of Entropa (check the Entropa article).

Why do I recommend this spot? Because it is one my most favourite places in the centre of Prague, Despite its lazy waiters and acid wine – which actually both got much better recently – it fulfills my need for an esthetic and stylish enviroment. I love sitting by the window, watching people passing underneath while sipping my coffee or wine. They also have a very useful free wi-fi spot.

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Lucerna café | Art & culture, Bars | glass of wine CZK 40.00
Vodičkova 36 | Praha 1 | +420224215495
10:00 – 00:00 daily

According to the restaurant’s website, Maitrea Buddha is translated as loving kindness. This is obvious when you take a look at the menu of vegetarian, vegan foods, various beverages and the design of the whole place which keeps the principles of feng shui. The Buddha’s fountain which you can find downstairs adds to a calm yet vibrant atmosphere. For me and my friends, coming to Maitrea doesn’t only mean getting something delicious and healthy to eat but simply being able to enjoy the ambience of the space.

It can be hard to try a traditional Czech meal if you are vegetarian. However Maitrea’s menu offers traditional Czech cuisine that you can try even if you are not a meat lover. My favorite drinks to get are home-made lemonade when is hot and a fresh mint tea for colder days. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, the selection of burritos and quesadillas and the great flavor of their guacamole will delight your taste buds.

Maitrea is located really close to Old Town Square so if you are looking for a place to go, want to experience something different and don’t want to spend too much money, Maitrea would be a great choice. I would recommend making a reservation as the place is really popular. And don’t forget, if you happen to be an ordained clergy, a monk or an enlightened person you will eat for free here!

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Maitrea | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Vegan) | Main meal CZK 140
Tynská ulicka 6/1064 | Praha 1 | +420221711631
Mon – Fri 11:30 – 23:30, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 23:30

Little Buddha, as its name suggests, is a restaurant run by a Buddhist, who spent a couple years in the Shaolin monastery. But shhh, do not talk too much .-)

It’s located just across from the restaraunt is the Questenberg hotel, which has a facade reminiscent of a church, though in fact it used to be a hospital. Also the house in which the restaurant Malý Buddha is placed has an interesting history: the walls date from Romanesque, gothic, renaissance, and baroque times. Touch them – and maybe you will be able to hear the voice of the centuries.

But before the sound of your empty stomach outvoices the more subtle whisper of time, let`s have a look at the menu: if vegetarian, you will be pleased. If meat lover, you will adore it. The deserts do not linger for long.  All perfectly rounded up with reasonable prices, Malý Buddha is a perfect place to stop, when sightseeing around Prague Castle and its neighbourhood.

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Malý Buddha | Snacks, Restaurants (Oriental) | Main course CZK 120.00
Úvoz 46 | Praha 1 | +420220513894
Tue – Sun 12:00 – 22:30

I like to think that I’m supporting honest ideas and clear intentions. I think the owners of Mamacoffe had such intentions and connected their passion for coffee with supporting fair trade.

I’m not a coffee fan so coffee wouldn’t be the reason to come to Mama Café even though they have so many kinds – all fair trade. But I rank with the tea lovers so there is a wide variety for me to choose from. Mama also offers different fresh juices, milk shakes and exotic cocktails. If you’re lacking energy after a long day of sightseeing, you can cheer yourself up with a fair-trade energy drink. You can also get some of the delicious pastries they offer from their own bakery.

Mama Café reminds me of teashops and cafés that I’ve been to in the US. It is bright and nonsmoking and it’s almost always full. So if you want to be sure you have a place to sit, you can make a reservation. There are also different exhibitions and events happening there, so you can check out their website.

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Mamacoffee Café | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Milk Shake CZK 49
Vodičkova 6 | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 08:00 – 22:00, Sat – Sun 10:00 – 22:00

The fact that I am not originally from Prague probably gives me a slightly different perspective on things. Or, it just simply takes longer for me to realize where things are and especially what they are about. It was like that with the babies as well. Unlike other people living in Prague who probably noticed the babies crawling on a TV tower right after their installation, it took me almost two years.

From time to time I would hear people talking about them but would never connect the gossip with the real thing. When I saw them, I was pretty impressed. I honestly do not know what the real intention of the artist David Černý was, but for me it signifies a great metaphor of today’s modern world and the role that children play in it.

I think the babies’ sculptures should not be missed while visiting Prague. The best way to do this is to go to Kampa, where you can find three of them crawling by the river. Seeing the infants or literally touching them will add to the art experience. Coming up to their rather scary faces creates a shocking reaction both in me and other people looking into their nonexistent eyes.

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Miminka | Art & culture | Free
Kampa | Praha 1
24 hours daily

Just by the river, near Klárov, there is a place many tourist guides will lead you to. It is a nice small square where there is the famous Franz Kafka museum. I haven’t visited it once, although I am a fan of Kafka’s work. Maybe it actually is worth visiting but I want to draw your attention elsewhere.

What I am talking about is the strange-looking sculpture in the middle of the square. You will find there two cooper persons peeing into a strange bowl. Their waists move so that it looks even more life-like. The funniest part which a lot of people don’t realize, though, lays on the ground. Those guys pee into a bowl shaped like the Czech Republic. Once again, this proves David Černý’s (artist of Entropa i.e.) skills and vision.

We Czechs aren’t a particularly proud nation. On the other hand it seems that from time to time we don’t have a problem with making fun of ourselves, which I find quite appealing. Artist like Černý thus have many fans, me among them. Others might possibly find his work insulting or obscene.

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Miska Republika | Art & culture | Free
Cihelná 2 | Praha 1
24 hours daily

Kampa is a very beautiful area in the downtown of Prague – just near Újezd. It mainly consists of a large park from where there is a nice view of the river and the other part of the city.

People go to hang out there, smoke a water-pipe, throw a frisbee… It is also a place of culture, though. There is quite a nice museum there and most importantly a lot of outdoor exhibitions take place at Kampa – such as for instance quite recently an exhibition of various phone booths.

Not to be forgotten, there is a great refreshing place there. It is situated inside what used to be a water-mill. Its atmosphere is truly charming. Plus there is a pleasant backyard. In the summer though, I prefer to have a beer draught into a plastic cup and go outside to chat at the benches or sit on the grass.

Many interesting or famous people are spending their evenings in Mlýnská kavárna. For instance, David Černý, the author of Entropa (check this article about Entropa), Miska republika | +420608444490
12:00 – 00:00 daily

Thailand is a great country but I guess that not many people can afford to go there more than once a year (well, once a year would be actually a great frequency .

When I´m craving for some good Thai food and don´t want to prepare it by myself (you can buy almost all needed ingredients in the Sapa market), I usually go to the Modrý zub. The noodle bar is situated just in the town centre a few steps from the Wenceslas square.

The space is divided into the nice front place with regular service and few simple places to sit next to the kitchen which I prefer – I like to watch the “boys” preparing the food.

Speaking about the menu, they have a nice selection of starters (try some of the soups or the spring rolls), noodles, spicy curries, salads and other thai delicacies. Last year they also added a couple of dim sum stuff, check them out! But my favourite remains the classic phad thai - rice noodles with tofu, chicken, vegetables and peanuts.

And if you do not have time to eat on place, you can always take the food away in the characteristic white and blue paper box!

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Modrý zub | Restaurants (thai) | phad tai CZK 165
Jindřišská 5 | Praha 1 | +420222212622
open almost 24 hours daily

I like receiving presents, but giving them even a little bit more. If I have a problem with gift selection or am only looking for some inspiration, I go to Naoko. I always stay there for a while – the shop is packed with many interesting things to see and buy, hence I have to watch my wallet carefully. If you like things with idea and uncommon design, you will definitely like Naoko.

Naoko is situated in Revoluční street (near the shopping centre Palladium) and has two shops side-by-side. The first is Eat & Drink, where you can find various things designated to cooking, eating and drinking. The second one, Home & Fun, is full of household and garden accessories, stuff for amusement and sport and last but not least funny „personal” accessories (if as a kid you were craving for a bath duck and never got it, you have a chance to compensate this with style

Naoko has a nicely done website, which works as an e-shop as well. The website is in Czech only, but you can check it to see the range of goods and also the prices.

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Naoko | Shopping | Bath duck CZK 280.00
Revoluční 24 | Praha 1 | +420222312567
Mon – Fri 10:00 – 19:00, Sat 10:00 – 17:00

How? Buy a ticket to National Museum (Národní muzeum) at the top of Wenceslav square (Václavské náměstí) and visit their Mineralogical and Petrological Exposition in the 1st floor.

I love to dive into a collection of more than 10 000 unique gems, stones, tektites, meteorites, rocks and minerals of all kinds, from all over the world. In five halls I can travel through space and the centuries, while my breath draws little misty marks on the perfectly polished glass of vitrines.

Apart from the breathtaking colours, shapes and organic structures there are the original showcases, made dustproof in the 19th century, and still working.

This long-term exhibition is divided into a couple of sections: the first hall hosts minerals from the whole world. Here ae the minerals in very precise order  in between which I love to admire the very precious exhibits of silver sulphides. I remember them most because of the black board, that unveils their silverish beauty, that needs to be protected against the light.

Other sections include a world-significant assembly of meteorites and tektites plus moldavites (a Czech speciality); a systematic collection of rocks and a modern exposition of gemstones. Two whole halls are dedicated to Czech minerals and samples of Czech non-ore stones.

Their opening hours vary. Every first Monday of the month you get in for free.

P. S.: Smoking is prohibited in the whole building, although is now legal to have in your pocket up to 5 g of marihuana.

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National Museum | Art & culture, Relaxing | Basic admition fee CZK 150
Václavské náměstí 68 | Praha 1 | +420224497111
Check the website for opening times

I love going to the opera. I love all the rituals. It starts when buying the tickets. Then I dress up, do my make-up, hair style. And then, armed with my little Christian Dior purse, I slip into the shoes that I had on me in La Scala while visiting Milano. And I am ready to enjoy the glass of champagne during intermission, all those stand-ups and sit-backs while letting people pass to their seats, and leaving a tip for the person selling the programme. Of course you can get in in jeans and a sweater – but I think you definitely miss half of the fun.

The National Theatre, has an impressive exterior while inside it is all cloaked in king crimson velvet, gold and rich stucco ornaments. National Theatre is is one of the symbols of national pride, mirroring itself in the Vltava river. And it does have an interesting history. The support for building the theatre that came from the whole nation was more like a political proclamation. And when it got burned down in 1881, in 47 days (!) there were all the money and resources collected again, to be reopened 1883.

Tickets for today’s programme can be bought 45 minutes before the beginning of each performance at the evening box office, which is at the back of the theatre in the narrow corridor leading to Ostrovní street between the old/historical building and Laterna Magica (the glassy cube).

Spotted by Locals tip: If you love ballet, choose one with choreography by Petr Zuska (this season it is Extreme or Solo for Three). You won’t regret it.

Also there is a Čapek’s Makropulos turned into an opera by Leoš Janáček in cooperation with English National Opera London. I do recommend that!

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National Theatre | Art & culture, Music, Theaters | Ticket from CZK 50.00
Ostrovní 1 | Praha 1 | +420224901448
Box office 10:00 – 18:00 & 45 min. before the beginning of a performance

Have a drink or two and maybe meet some friends. That’s one of the reasons why I pop into the NoD bar time to time. The  other important reasons are the concerts, exhibition openings, and performances.

Experimental space NoD is connected with Roxy (see this article), a famous Prague club, and one of the oldest. Roxy downstairs, NoD upstairs. A perfect combination for those who feel frisky day`n`night.  NoD defines three subdivisions: theatre NoD, gallery NoD, and multimedia NoLab. They are connected by their openness to any good quality projects, efforts to uncover strange juxtapositions and dialogs.

When you arrive, get a drink first. The huge bar cannot be overlooked. Do not worry where to sit, there will always be a space, by the bar itself or on the platform next to the bar, or by the alcoves with jungle plants. And let me know, if you manage to work out any sensible connection between the neo-classical stuccos on the ceiling and the crazy paintings on the walls!

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NoD | Art & culture, Bars, Music, Snacks, Theaters | Show from CZK 100
Dlouhá 33 | Praha 1
14:00 – 22:00 daily

When I want to be just by myself and think about my personal stuff or „restart the system”, I often go for a long walk. Even if walking alone, I never feel lonely – I have a personal date with the city. Sometimes, I just let Prague to gently guide my steps, sometimes I´m more dominant and have a precise idea of my trace.

One of my favourite path is situated at Hradčany (Prague Castle’s neighbourhood). In contrast to the crowded Prague Castle and the famous streets nearby, Nový Svět (New World) is a surprisingly quiet place where you can easily get „lost”.Nový Svět used to be a poor, but picturesque quarter of Hradčany which always attracted artists – many of them lived or are still living there.

There is a lot of things not to be missed at Nový Svět – check out the door handles – there are a couple of really interesting ones. If you have kids or just would like to get back to childhood, there is a playground discreetly hidden behind the wall lining the alley (however it´s closed in winter).

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Nový Svět | Relaxing | Free
Nový Svět | Praha 1
24 hours daily

If I want a small treat or a snack break downtown, I often go to Ovocný Světozor (ovocný = fruity), which is strategically situated in the passage Světozor just nearby a cinema. Ovocný Světozor has been here till the seventies (under a slightly different name) and its popularity continued till nowadays.

You can find several branch stores across the city, but the central located one in Světozor is the most popular one. I like their „watery” ice cream (it´s rather a sorbet than a proper ice cream) which is one of the most popular items there and people are often waiting in queue for it. If it is a sunny day, I recommend you to take your ice cream away and sit in Františkánská zahrada.

Ovocný Světozor has a big assortment of cakes (especially the fruity ones) and ice cream cups. As far as the cups are concerned, you can choose between the ones on the menu or compose your own one choosing from fruits, ice creams and topping components.

If you are not in the mood for something sweet, try the Czech „tapas” – chlebíčky. What is a „chlebíček”? Something typically Czech (Czechoslovak), not really healthy (often with mayonnaise), but incredibly tasty :-) Technically speaking, it´s usually a piece of white bread roll, covered with different stuff -

butter, ham, salami, cheese, eggs, cucumber, potato salad etc. – there is many types of chlebíčky. Don´t be afraid to try them!

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Ovocný Světozor | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Chlebíček CZK 18.00
Vodičkova 39 | Praha 1 | +420224946826
Mon – Fri 08:30 – 20:00, Sat 09:00 – 20:00, Sun 11:00 – 20:00

One of my top viewpoints of Prague. Nested in the greenery of Petřín gardens, just below the Strahov monastery, with Prague castle on the left, the Vltava river valley in front, and a miniature Eiffel tower on the right -  stands this pure white statue of Panna Marie z Exilu (Our Lady of Exile).

You can reach it either by walking down through Úvoz street, taking the very first gate into Petřín on your right hand side (if walking up Úvoz, then it would be on your left). Take the asphalt path leading up and on the next crossing take the one following the contour line – sooner or later you will see a brown-white sign “SOCHA PANNY MARIE Z EXILU”. The way up to the statue is just a dirt path.

The second route means walking through the garden of a restaurant just below the Strahov monastery. At the very far end of the garden will be the above described sign. Do not be confused if you cannot see the statue untill the last moment!

The name of this statue can be interpreted in two ways: 1/ it was financed by emigrate Czechs living in the U.S. or 2/ there is a group of people who want to reestablish a marian column that used to be in Old Town square – and this statue should have been on top of it. So today’s placement can be understood as a kind of exile – from its home at Old Town square.

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Panna Maria z Exilu | Art & culture, Relaxing | Free
Strahov, Petřínské sady | Praha 1
24 hours daily

Some twelve years ago, the perhaps most famous Czech author of cartoons died. His name was Jaroslav Foglar and he was famous for his cartoon books „Rychlé šípy”, about a group of honest and genuine boys. Their adventures took place in a city quarter which haven’t really existed. However, it is said that the so called „Stínadla” (shadow-city) were inspired by the narrow and dark lanes in the area between Národní třída and Národní divadlo.

Along with Újezd this is also an area where most of my favourite bars, pubs and Café’s are. One can imagine that some hundred years ago, there have been lots of passages through the backyards of the houses and such. Almost all of these (which used to be really popular all around Prague) have been closed until these days, though. Luckily, there is one really cool passage still open, at least most of the time.

It is a true shortcut, if you want to get to the tram stop „Lazarská” from inside this area. However, I walk there just about any time I have the chance. It leads from the lane „Opatovická”, to „Spálená” street. You will be walking through a backyard which will feel like as if time has stopped running there seventy years ago. Of course, it is a bit filthy and smelly place, but that helps building its character. If you have the chance, see for yourself! Just don’t get locked up inside.

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Průchod u Lazarské | Relaxing
Opatovická – Spálená | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 09:00 – 21:00

When I think about the times when Roxy was one of the very few options in Prague for a decent evening, when I felt like some dancing, it makes me feel like I am getting old. Hush, that`s not the topic

Opened in 1992 under the name of Roxy, after a thorough reconstruction led by architect Jan Mayer, this place become alive again. In 20`s and 30`s it was a shining pearl at the Old Town, full of people in its restaurant, cinema and a ballroom.

Today, after another rebirth in 2002  after being damaged by the enormous floods, the Experimental Area Roxy/NoD now offers a full variety of concerts, dance music, gallery presentations, internet café with wi-fi connection, theatre, films, performances and workshops. For some of their best gigs have a look yourself.

If you are into clubbing and are in Prague for couple days, Roxy is definitely the place to go – next to Radost FX (see this article). Have a look at the programme to see if anything interests you. They have regular Free Mondays and Midweek Lounge, where entry is free.

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Roxy | Art & culture, Bars, Cinemas, Music, Theaters
Dlouhá 33 | Praha 1 | +420224826296
Depends on given programme

Compared to my other spots this one is more touristy and often alive with people but still very special.

Vltava’s river bank in Prague is, just like in many other cities, a frequently used area for walks, relaxing, sunbathing or meeting up. Smetanovo nábreží, named after Bedrich Smetana, Czech composer, is name of the right river bank stretching between most Legií (bridge next to the National theatre) and Charles bridge.

It was Prague’s first river bank built of stone. Now it is a lively street with trams and cars and sidewalks on both sides. The sidewalk adjacent to the river offers benches to sit and there are trees planted all along the street.

I like to sit down and do my studying there, especially in summer when it’s very hot and there’s a cool breeze by the river. But not many people usually do this, most visitors just stop for a moment to take a “classic” photo of Prague with the Castle and Charles bridge while passing by. In autumn and winter the spot gets rather windy and I wouldn’t recommend to sit there for a long time.

The view is really magnificent, especially in the morning and evening when the sun is low, and it tastes better when relaxing on a bench and the weather is nice.

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Smetanovo nábřeží | Relaxing | Free
Smetanovo nábřeží | Praha 1
24 hours daily

For sweet lovers with refined taste, patisserie St. Tropez is a very dangerous place, where your passion for chocolate can fully break out.

Under the name Passion Chocolat the French married couple Musso ran their company at Vinohrady neighborhood, where they closed in autumn last year. Luckily for all their fans (and others) they only changed address and after a couple of endless months they reopened at Dům U Nováků (just a couple footsteps from Wenceslas square).

The interior of the patisserie feels airy and holds our interest with the prep place where you can observe the production…fortunately all the goodies are separated by a glass wall. The place is strictly non-smoking.

Croissants for breakfast, cakes and tarts of various flavors to afternoon coffee or cup of tea, delicious chocolate pralines or gateaux to order – everybody will find his in St. Tropez.

If you have a dilemma, which one among the many sweets you should choose, try to take a couple of mini-sweets (I also recommend the macarons, e.g. the lavender one) and then let the smiley madame Nadine pack for you the one which you will like the most in its classic size.

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St.Tropez | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Mini cake CZK 25
Vodičkova ulice 30 | Praha 1 | +420222524333
Mon – Fri 08:00 – 19:00, Sat – Sun 09:30 – 19:00

This is a place where I like to go for lunch with friends that I don’t see very often. It is very nice and stylish, they have great beer and delicious meals. The choice of beer is quite wide – you can pick Pilsner Urquell, Velkopopovický Kozel dark, Gambrinus, Master dark, Master semi-dark, mixed (half Kozel, half Gambrinus) or also alcohol-free Radegast Birrel.

They offer vegetarian dishes, main dishes, pasta, fish, poultry, salads and also a broad choice of side dishes. The interior is decorated with wall paintings in Josef Lada style mostly depicting characters from the legendary book by Jaroslav Hašek (it was translated into 54 languages).

The restaurant is basically right next to the famous Prague’s brewery U Fleku. Also it is very close to the river bank so I recommend taking a short walk along the river to the National theatre after finishing your meal. On your way there you are going to pass the Mánes gallery (check the Manes gallery article).

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Švejk restaurant U Karla | Restaurants (Czech) | Soup of the day CZK 28.00
Křemencova 7 | Praha 1 | +420222515889
11:00 – 23:00 daily

Built by count František Antonín Nostic-Rieneck in classicist style, was opened in 1783 with 1000 seats. Later, to make it more comfortable, the number of seats were lowered to today’s 659. After the count`s death, the theatre was given to Czech estates, and renamed from the ‚Nostic Theatre’ to the ‚Estates Theatre’.

As the history of this one is very different from that of The National Theatre (check the National theatre article), the atmosphere of the Estates Theatre is also different. All furnished in white, pale blue and gold, I feel like I am in a cultural paradise of the high-class Prague bourgeoisie from the end of 18th century. All cherubic bottoms are perfectly rounded

Once I was taken behind the scenes, where the singers and orchestra were preparing for Die Zauberflote  (The Magic Flute). Seeing the Queen of Night sipping her drink, Sarastros chatting with Tamino and the First Violin smoking her last cigarette before the show, that was something I will never forget.

And then there was the show – their production of The Magic Flute is truly breathtaking. Maybe what counts here is the enormous success that W. A. Mozart experienced with his opera buffa Le nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro). Afterwards which he wrote Don Giovanni especially for this theatre, and for those he named as “my Praguers who understand me.”

Have a look at their programme and choose your evening tale!

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The Estates Theatre | Art & culture, Music, Theaters | Tickets from CZK 50.00
Ovocný trh | Praha 1 | +420224228503
Box office 10:00 – 18:00 & 45 min. before the beginning of a performance

English books, relaxing atmosphere, and Harney & Sons Tea. What else do you need when the clouds in Prague are rainy and the feet tired? If you are an American and feel homesick, the Globe is the perfect place to go. And if you do not find yourself in any of the conditions mentioned above, you should still give this place a try.

I personally find The Globe ideal because a café and a bookstore combined is exactly what I look for when I am traveling.

If you are more into Czech beer than natural tea or watching TV more than reading books, there are still options for you in The Globe. You can buy Pilsner on tap for a pretty good price during their happy hours and watch the big screen with the side of hot wings.

I like the appearance of the place because of the high ceilings. So even though the café part of The Globe is smoking, it does not usually bother me.

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The Globe | Coffee & tea, Relaxing, Shopping | Hot Chocolate CZK 50
Pštrossova 6 | Praha 1
Sun – Wed 09:30 – 00:00, Thu – Sat 09:30 – 01:00

Many would swear Pilsner Urquell is the best beer in the world. And if nothing else, it is one of the few Czech brands recognized worldwide. Pllsner also often brings new standards – and this can be said about The Pub franchise. The main idea is self-serving of great unpasteurized Pilsner beer. Each table has its own tap and you can “log in”, so you see how many beers you have, how many you consume as a table and how many is the amount for the whole pub. All this you can watch on screens which shows combination of statistics of the pub and the whole The Pub chain

Turning drinking into a game is usually fun (if you know how to drink!), and here you have one of the best environment to do so. The upper part is strictly for non-smokers, the downstairs you can smoke as much as you want. Together it makes 20 tables. The machine by the tap allows you to order some of their meals too – not very cheap, but you sit in a special place in the center, so considering this, it is not overpriced.

In my opinion The Pub Prague 1 (there are also others) is the best because of a very convenient location, a relaxed lounge bar (situated before the Pub itself), wide range of meals and trendy feeling and atmosphere all around. A new approach towards legendary brand that works.

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The Pub | Bars, Snacks | Pub Burger CZK 189
Veleslavínova 3 | Praha 1 | +420222312296
Mon – Thu 11:00 – 02:00, Fri 11:00 – 03:00, Sat 12:00 – 03:00, Sun 12:00 – 00:00

I admit writing about this “moving spot” is quite self-centered. I also admit this tram terminates pretty much right in front of my house. And it is also true that I can jump on it a few steps from the office where I work. BUT! This tram is still very dear to me not only because of the facts mentioned above.

I especially like it when it’s not overcrowded and I can take a seat that will provide me with a great view of the Prague castle when crossing the Štefánik’s Bridge.

The tram then continues alongside the Vltava river and turns left passing a pseudo-Gothic church that is worth seeing. If you’d rather walk around, you can do so and get off the tram at Výstaviště stop, which is really close to a beautiful park Stromovka.

The tram then goes on to the river again and climbs up a steep hill. If you are standing at that point I would recommend finding a seat if you don’t want to fly around the handle.

The uphill ride can get pretty intense. If you manage to look out of the window you will enjoy a view of one of Prague’s residential areas. Once you get to the top you can take a subway from Kobylisy back downtown.

Did you not have enough adrenaline? There’s still the downhill ride waiting for you!

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Tram 14 | Art & culture, Relaxing | A tram ticket CZK 18
Na Poříčí | Praha 1
According to the schedule

Slightly on the more expensive side, but I used to go there, hungry after midnight, when I felt the need for some decent meal. Specially when temperature drop low below zero …

In a perfect location, just in the centre, Ultramarin gets pretty packed every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Those who sit all day long in front of their computers now sit here all evening long, in front of their drinks with friends – untill they find what are they longing for.

Do not be surprised by clubby music from somewhere down below – this place has got a good size cellar which is divided into a small dance floor and restaurant area.

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Ultramarin | Bars, Snacks, Restaurants (intern.) | Daily menu CZK 120
Ostrovní 32 | Praha 1 | +420224932249
Restaurant 07:00 – 04:00 daily | Club 18:00 – 04:00daily

This is one of the coolest places I’ve ever seen in my life. I searched for its history but it is even harder to find something on that than to find this spot. Make sure you have the directions and a map when you go there as it’s really a hidden one.

So what is it like? Imagine a huge once dancing hall now filled with almost 30 Billiard tables, 2 bowling lanes and a number of other games! Sounds unusual? Yes, it is. Also, when you get there, don’t forget to look up to the ceiling – you’ll be at least surprised.

Every person who enters receives a bill where all the expenses are put down continuously (incl. games, beverages etc.) At the point of leaving you just show your bill to the staff and pay for it. This means you have to keep your bill until you leave the place, even if it’s empty, otherwise the staff won’t let you out (penalty of 1500 CZK is the way out in case of losing the ticket).

Here is the list of all activities you can do in V Cípu:

Carambol, Pool, Snooker, Russian Pyramid, Bowling, Darts, Table Tennis, Table Football (Foosball), Air Hockey, Backgammon, Chess, all kinds of card games.

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V Cípu | Bars, Relaxing | Billiard / 1 Hour CZK 119.00
V Cípu 1 | Praha 1 | +420720152044
13:00 – 02:00 daily

Vesmirna (the Universe) is a lovely café close to Wenceslas Square. It’s a perfect place to go when I need something small to eat or have a drink. The café also functions as a work-training project for mentally disabled people, who are always really nice and one of the reasons why I like this place so much.

There is a wide variety of pancakes on their menu, which is what I usually get. And of course Sahlep, my favorite winter drink. Vesmirna offers soups of the day, which have very favorable price. Similar to most tearooms, there’s a space where you can sit (or lie down) directly on the carpeted floor at a low table, which can feel especially comfortable after a long day sightseeing and walking around the city.

If you’re looking for gifts to bring back home, you can buy some right in the café as they sell jewelry, hand-made pottery and other things. If you need to connect with the rest of the world or even outer space, there’s free wi-fi provided.

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Vesmirna | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Pancake CZK 79
Ve Smeckach 5 | Praha 1 | +420222212363
Mon – Fri 10:00 – 21:00

You will not only find bars and cafés at Újezd. On the corner, there is also a shop you might not have seen before. In Czech, this kind of shop is called „vetešnictví” (literally „junk-shop”) and they were quite popular some hundred year ago. There are not many left these days and that makes this one even more special (I bet it has been there for at least a century)

In this shop you can get just about anything. Old postcards, sewing machines, musical instruments, books, maps, dishes, coffee pots, beer bottles – to start with. Everyone will probably find their sort of thing and won’t leave bare-handed. The prices are naturally very low, although perhaps if you start speaking some other language than Czech, you might get a mark-up.

When you come in, it feels like another world. Most of all in winter, when it is freezing outside, it is a great place to vait for a tram to come… The room is very dark and crowded with all kinds of stuff. I would recommend visiting on a cold winter day, it is particularly nice to go and see this warm and dark place, then. Oh, and if you are really broke, you can sell some stuff too…

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Vetešnictví na Újezdě | Shopping
Vítězná 12 | Praha 1
Mon – Fri 10:00 – 17:00, Sat 10:00 – 12:00

Many bars, pubs and restaurants in Prague may be called “hidden” simply because they are secluded, out of way, at places where nobody would expect them. U Sudu, on the contrary, is located in one of the busiest streets in Prague, very close to the all day long crowded Wenceslas Square. Still I would call it hidden since the main part of it is well covered by the inconspicuous outside looks!

Your first impression after peeping inside from the street will most probably be “a tiny wine bar”. It is not before turning right at the bar that you start to uncover its secrets. There is a quite spacious, yet cosy room equipped with a piano which is free to use.  However, the true nature of this place awaits downstairs. The steps are rather steep and the ceiling is low so watch out. Pass the “foosball room” and continue downstairs, there you will find a medieval cellar filled up with tables – the atmosphere of this spot is really one of a kind.

There are several more rooms in the underground part, and also two more bars so you don’t have to climb upstairs every time you need a drink. The capacity of the whole “wine bar” is 300 places.

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Vinárna U Sudu | Bars | Pilsner Urquell 0,5 l CZK 36.00
Vodickova 10 | Praha 1 | +420222232207
Mon – Thu 08:00 – 04:00, Fri – Sat 08:00 – 05:00, Sun 08:00 – 03:00