Travel Writer’s Guide To Prague
This Travel Writer’s Guide To Prague was created specifically with the needs of a writer in mind. A traveling writer needs to know the history, where to find inspiration, a great place to write, and a great place to lay their head. That way all your energy can funnel into creating!
History
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city with a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years. The city’s history can be traced back to the 9th century, when the Czech tribes settled in the area.
In the 10th century, Prague became the seat of the dukes of Bohemia, and by the 12th century, it had become an important political, cultural, and economic center in Central Europe. During the 13th century, under the reign of King Ottokar II of Bohemia, Prague experienced a golden age and became one of the most prosperous and powerful cities in Europe.
In the 14th century, the city was under the rule of Charles IV, who was a patron of the arts and sciences. During his reign, Prague flourished as a cultural center and many important buildings, such as the Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral, were built. It was also during this time that the first university in Prague was founded.
In the 16th century, Prague became a center of the Protestant Reformation and the city was home to many important figures of the movement, such as Jan Hus. However, the Counter-Reformation led by the Habsburgs would eventually end the city’s religious diversity and freedom.
In the 18th century, Prague became a center of the Czech National Revival and the city’s Czech-speaking population began to assert their cultural identity. This would be further marked by the Prague Spring in 1968, a period of political liberalization, which was violently suppressed by the Soviet-led invasion, marking the end of any hope for democracy under communism.
In the 20th century, Prague was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II and then became the capital of Communist Czechoslovakia after the war. The fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 brought about the Velvet Revolution and the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, leading to the formation of the Czech Republic and Prague once again becoming the capital.
Today, Prague is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. It continues to be a major economic, political, and cultural center in Central Europe.
Inspo
Prague is a city with a rich literary history, having been home to some of the greatest writers of all time, including Franz Kafka and Milan Kundera. It’s no surprise, then, that the city is a popular destination for writers looking for inspiration and a place to work on their craft. Here are some of the most inspiring places for writers to visit in Prague:
The Kafka Museum
Located in the heart of the Old Town neighborhood, the Kafka Museum is a must-visit destination for writers and fans of Kafka’s work. The museum is housed in a beautiful medieval building, and features a range of exhibits that explore Kafka’s life and the cultural and historical context in which he wrote. Visitors can see original manuscripts and correspondence, as well as learn about Kafka’s relationships with his family and friends. The museum also offers a number of workshops and events, including writing workshops and lectures by literary experts.
The Charles Bridge
The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague, and it’s also a great place for writers to find inspiration. The bridge is lined with artist stalls and street performers, providing a lively and vibrant atmosphere for writers to tap into their creativity. The bridge itself is a work of art, with beautiful statues and decorations adorning its walls. The views of the city from the bridge are also breathtaking, making it a great spot to take a break and find inspiration.
The Prague Castle
The Prague Castle is a stunning complex of buildings that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. It’s a great place for writers to find inspiration and work on their craft in a peaceful and serene setting. The castle is home to a number of beautiful gardens, churches, and galleries, as well as a number of museums that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The castle is also home to the St. Vitus Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic cathedral that is well worth a visit.
The Old Town Square
The Old Town Square is a bustling hub of activity in the heart of the city, with street performers, food stalls, and a beautiful medieval astronomical clock. It’s a great place to people watch and find inspiration for writing. The square is surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings and churches, including the Church of Our Lady before Týn, which is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in Europe.
The National Library
Located in the Strahov Monastery, the National Library is a stunning building that is home to a vast collection of books and manuscripts. It’s a great place for writers to do research and find inspiration for their work. The library features a number of beautiful reading rooms, as well as a number of exhibits that explore the history of Czech literature. The library is also home to a number of events and workshops, including writing workshops and lectures by literary experts.
The Mucha Museum
This museum, located in the heart of the city, is dedicated to the work of Czech artist Alphonse Mucha, who was known for his Art Nouveau style. The museum features a range of exhibits that explore Mucha’s life and work, as well as a number of original paintings, drawings, and prints. The museum is a great place for writers to find inspiration and learn about the Art Nouveau movement.
The John Lennon Wall
Located in the Malá Strana neighborhood, the John Lennon Wall is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of peace and love. The wall is covered in graffiti and messages of peace, and it’s a great place for writers to find inspiration and tap into their creativity. The wall is also a great spot to take a break and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
Writing Places
Prague is a city that has long been a source of inspiration for writers. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque streets have served as the backdrop for countless books, poems, and plays. But what makes Prague particularly appealing to writers is its thriving café culture.
For writers, there’s nothing quite like the ambiance of a cozy café to get the creative juices flowing. In Prague, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from, each offering its own unique atmosphere and charm. Here are just a few of the many cafes that are perfect for writers looking to find inspiration in the city:
Café Louvre
This historic café, located in the heart of Prague, has been a favorite among writers and artists for over a century. The café features high ceilings, large windows, and an elegant Art Nouveau decor that is sure to transport you back in time.
Kavárna Slavia
Located on the banks of the Vltava River, this café offers stunning views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. Kavárna Slavia has a long history of welcoming writers, and it is said that Franz Kafka, among others, would come here to write.
Grand Café Orient
This café is located in the Old Town and it’s a must-see place for its design and history. With its Art Nouveau interior, the Grand Café Orient has the perfect ambiance for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while they write.
Kavárna Kavárna
This café is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s worth seeking out. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Kavárna Kavárna is the perfect spot for writers looking for a quiet and relaxed place to work.
Můj Šálek Kávy
This café is a favorite among local writers and artists. It’s cozy, has a great atmosphere and delicious coffee. You might even find yourself in the company of fellow writers or artists, making it a great spot to network and exchange ideas.
This beautiful cafe is located in the Malá Strana neighborhood and is known for its stunning Art Nouveau interior and its delicious pastries. The cafe is a great spot for writers looking for a quiet place to work, and it also has a beautiful outdoor terrace that is perfect for working on a sunny day.
As the name suggests, this cafe is a popular spot for writers and readers, and it’s a great place to find inspiration and work on your writing. The cafe is located in the Old Town neighborhood and is known for its cozy atmosphere and its delicious coffee and pastries.
Located in the Old Town neighborhood, this charming cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and its delicious cakes and pastries. It’s a great place for writers to find inspiration and work on their craft in a peaceful and serene setting.
Travel Tips
Where To Stay
Prague is a city with a number of vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Prague:
- Old Town: The Old Town neighborhood is located in the center of the city and is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Old Town Square and the Charles Bridge. The neighborhood is known for its charming cobblestone streets, beautiful medieval buildings, and vibrant nightlife.
- Malá Strana: Located on the left bank of the Vltava River, Malá Strana is a beautiful neighborhood that is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and its peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more laid-back and quiet neighborhood, but it’s still close to all the main attractions.
- Žižkov: Located to the east of the city center, Žižkov is a vibrant and bohemian neighborhood that is known for its lively bars and clubs. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more laid-back and alternative atmosphere.
- Hradčany: Located on the hills above the city center, Hradčany is home to the Prague Castle and a number of other beautiful landmarks. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more peaceful and serene neighborhood, but it’s still close to all the main attractions.
- Holešovice: Located to the north of the city center, Holešovice is a vibrant and up-and-coming neighborhood that is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more modern and trendy atmosphere.
We highly recommend Buddha Bar Hotel in Prague, as it has all the accommodations you could think of in an amazing location. Some rooms are equipped with a working area, as well as a outside balcony area. Additionally, breakfast is included in the Siddhartha Cafe just downstairs. A great place to spend the morning writing while enjoying endless coffee, or mimosa. At night, the bar and restaurant downstairs is one of the most ornate and lively in all of Prague.
Getting Around
There are a number of ways to get around Prague, depending on your preferences and needs. Here are a few options:
- Public transportation: Prague has an extensive network of public transportation, including buses, trams, and the metro. Public transportation is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on board the vehicles.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Prague, and they can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. It’s a good idea to agree on the price before getting into the taxi to avoid any misunderstandings.
- Bicycles: Prague is a bike-friendly city, and it’s easy to rent a bike to explore the city. There are a number of rental shops throughout the city, and bike lanes and paths are widely available.
- Walking: Prague is a compact city, and many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to get around the city and see the sights, and it’s especially convenient in the central neighborhoods of the city.
- Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and Bolt are available in Prague, and they can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
- Trams: Prague’s historic trams are a popular way to get around the city, and they offer a unique and enjoyable way to see the sights. Tram tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on board the trams.
- Renting a car: If you’re planning to explore the surrounding countryside, you may want to consider renting a car. There are a number of rental agencies in Prague, and it’s a good idea to book in advance to get the best rates.
When To Go
The best time to visit Prague depends on what you’re looking for in a trip. In general, the peak tourist season in Prague is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The weather is warm and sunny, and the city is bustling with visitors. During these months, the city’s many outdoor festivals, events, and concerts take place, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
If you prefer milder weather, the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) months are also good options to consider. During these months, the weather is usually comfortable, and the city is less crowded than during the peak tourist season.
In winter, the city can be quite cold and the sky is mostly cloudy but the city still gets visitors. The Christmas markets are very popular in December and the city is decorated with lots of lights and ornaments. Also, the New Year Eve celebration in the city is quite famous too.
Overall, it depends on your personal preferences and travel style. If you’re looking to experience Prague at its liveliest and take part in the city’s many outdoor events, the summer months are a good choice. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful visit, the spring and fall months are a great option. And if you are a fan of the winter, you might enjoy the city charm in the cold season. Just be prepared for the weather, which can be quite chilly.
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