Prague Weather

Web camera picture

Charles Bridge and Prague castle web-cam current picture.
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Prague Current Time (GM1)

Prague consists of five historical towns and a ring of modern suburbs. The historical sights of interest are in the centre, very near to each other, so the best way to explore and really enjoy the charming atmosphere of Prague is by walking. Prague is quite a safe place, so you can promenade along the streets at any time of the day or night. On the other hand, in the old narrow streets it's easy to get lost and most of the maps and signs are in Czech! Eastern Europe still has many secrets that are not mentioned in guide books.

Discover Prague in a company of local friendly person who is communicative and knowledgeable. If you want to know Prague better than the mainstream tourists, the best investment is your personal guide. As you pay per hour, the time is yours and you can walk leisurely, stop for pictures, refreshments, or walk briskly to see as much as possible. The choice is yours!

When is the best time to visit Prague?

I would recommend the mid of June and the end of August. Very pleasant, less bustling, a little bit chillier are: March, April and October, November. In December, January and February is Prague less crowded, cheaper, romantic with the snow, feels cold, (some castles are closed). The most hot and expensive time in Prague is July and August, these months are ideal for touring out of Prague. Last 3 years many people travelled "of season" so even May and September surprised with crowded streets.

How many days shall you plan?

Give yourself at least 3 days to fully enjoy the town of Prague and 2 days to explore the Czech countryside. To see the best Czech Republic sights and attractions would take at least 2 weeks. Once you are in the heart of Europe – Prague you can easily see more of Europe during the one day trip (Dresden, Vienna, Salzburg, etc.)

How to avoid the crowds?

The famous sights as the Castle, Jewish Museum, Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, get really crowded from 10 am to 3 p.m.. If you want to avoid it: Wake up early and see the bridge (before 9 am), do some sightseeing and than just rest in some peaceful garden or on Petrín hill, visit some gallery, enjoy the boat tour, visit the sights out of the centre as Troja or Zbraslav chateaux, Vyšehrad castle, Břevnov monastery. Even a nap in your hotel is better than overcrowded streets ... than continue the sightseeing of the centre after 3pm. With your personal guide you can of course learn how to use the secret streets and avoid the crowds even during the midday.

When is the best time to visit Prague?

I would recommend the mid of June and the end of August. Very pleasant, less bustling, a little bit chillier are: March, April and October, November. In December, January and February is Prague less crowded, cheaper, romantic with the snow, feels cold, (some castles are closed). The most hot and expensive time in Prague is July and August, these months are ideal for touring out of Prague. Last 3 years many people travelled "of season" so even May and September surprised with crowded streets.

Important advice

• Never change money in the street, it is dangerous - fake money, criminal offense! Use a bank or ATM ("bankomat"). The best rates are usually offered at the exchange bureau on the corner of Kaprova and Maiselova Street.
• The Emergency number is 112 from any telephone (free of charge).
• Prague demands to be wandered through, so bring some comfortable shoes.
• Use the cheap and efficient public transport service. Tickets for 32 CZK (2 USD) are sold in tobacco kiosks, metro stations, etc. They cannot be purchased directly on vehicle! Fares info
• Taxi mafia - drivers tend to overprice. Taxis ordered through a dispatcher are cheaper. Reputable Taxi AAA, phone: 14 0 14, out of Prague - call 222 333 222. Taking taxi in the street always ask for a receipt ahead, check if they switch on the taximeter and say some word in Czech. The fare must be marked in the car. Usual prices: 1 km – 22 CZK, from airport to hotel 500-700 CZK, from hotel to Prague Castle 200-300 CZK.
• Winter time visit - do bring winter clothes, gloves, cap, scarf, warm socks etc.
• Prevent a pickpockets opening your bags - use little lock, underwear wallet, etc. Watch your valuables anywhere you feel trapped in crowds.
• Small calculator may be very helpful (converting currency, kilometers, Celsius).
• Make sure your appliance (hairdryers, camera charges, laptops, etc.) have a switch to change the voltage to 220V! If you need a converter - come prepared.
• Avoid the tourist traps. Restaurants and shops located near the famous sights (Charles Bridge, Astronomical clock, Castle) are usually the most expensive.
• To receive a package of free maps and brochures contact the local Czech Tourist Authority. For USA travelers - send a check for $4 for the postage to: Czech Tourist Authority, 1109 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10028. You can also reach them by phone 212-288-0830.