If you follow the $10 series in my blog from the beginning, you probably know that the first city that I covered for the series is Prague.
Now that it's been a couple of years since the first post published, I'm excited to connect with Alexandra of East Coast Contessa as she's going to share with us more and more things to do around Prague for $10 USD!
So, what other things could we do within the budget in the capital city of Czech Republic? Go czech this out! 😛
How to Stretch Your Dollars in Prague
When considering a trip to Europe, many travelers see dollar signs and an empty wallet. While this might be the case for some, it's completely possible to stretch dollars and save money without sacrificing a good experience.
As an expat who has lived in Europe for nearly two years, I have mastered the art of “making the most with the least” even in some of the world's most expensive cities.
Below, I outline a one-day itinerary for Prague with a maximum spend of only $10USD (yes, it's possible!)
Czech Currency: The Koruna (CZK) $1USD = 25CZK
Transportation (allot 80czk)
One of the many amazing things about Prague is it's public transportation system. Buses, trams, and an impressive subway system are available for the taking (or riding) for affordable prices. Prague is a city that can be easily explored by foot.
However, to truly see some of the most breathtaking sights with a budget in mind, you'll need to allocate 80CZK for two to three separate trips across the city. One perk is that once you purchase the ticket and allocate it for any mode of transport, it's good for 30 minutes.
This means you can transfer lines on the same mode of transport, or switch (from the tram to underground, for example).
I prefer the tram for sightseeing, but any method will do. Let's get to exploring!
Stop 1: Gingerbread from Perníčküv Sen (small cookies start at 30czk, but also free samples!)
The tradition of baking fresh gingerbread is a long-standing one in the Czech Republic. On most street corners and in alleyways one can find a gingerbread shop either by sight (or smell!)
In the Staré Město neighborhood is Perníčküv Sen, one of Prague's most well known “pernicky” shops offers an array of cookies, cakes, and baked goods.
You can purchase a small traditional cookie for as little as 30czk, or a large decorated cookie or buchty for as much as 200czk. For the sake of sticking to a budget, the small cookie will be enough (and don't forget the generous free samples located at the front counter!)
Stop 2: Colloredo-Mansfeldský palác (20-60czk)
After getting your sweet fix for the morning, make your way through Old Town Square on foot. Walk past the astronomical clock, quickly stopping to admire the world's oldest Cuckoo clock.
Keep straight on the path until you arrive at Colloredo-Mansfeldský palác across from the Charles Bridge. From its exterior, it doesn't look like much, but looks can be deceiving. Inside sits a stunning baroque style palace with ceiling frescoes from the mid-1700's.
It's rumoured that Mozart himself performed in the palace's ballroom during his time in Prague, so don't miss a peek inside (the walk up the stairs is worth it).
Entry fees start at 20czk for students, 40czk for armed forces and government employees, and 60czk for adults.
Now, make sure you have your walking shoes on. From Colloredo-Mansfeldský palác you'll follow Google Map directions to Holesovice in Prague 7. Your destination: Letná Park.
This will take 25-35 minutes depending on your pace. You can also take Tram number 1, 2,17, or 18.
Stop 3: Letenské sady (free park)
This peaceful little hillside park offers stunning views of the Vltava River, Letná, and four of Prague's bridges. The Charles Bridge, Svatopluk Cech Bridge, Mánes Bridge, and the Legion Bridge connect to New Town and are all visible from the overlook.
Getting to the park overlook is easy. You can either take the stairs (about 80-100 of them), or take tram numbers 9, 12, 15, or 22.
While the views are free, there's a walk-up bar that serves wine and pilsner in the evenings during the warmer months if you feel like spending an extra buck. However, you can also BYOB it and set up your own picnic while you enjoy the epic views.
For your final stop on your $10 Day Tour of Prague, you'll need to walk just a bit further. Walking towards Prague Castle, 15 minutes from Letná Park lies the Strahov Monastery.
Here, you'll discover even more epic views of the “City of 100 Spires” from a different perspective. On the way, you can also stop by Prague Castle for a quick gander. You'll have to pass through security, but exploring the grounds of St. Vitus Cathedral is free.
Stop 4: Strahov Monastery (80czk)
One of the oldest and most important architectural landmarks in Prague, the Strahov Monastery was founded in 1143. Consisting of an on-site brewery and the famous Theological Hall, the gardens and walking paths below also provide some of the most all-encompassing views of the city.
Upon paying the entry fee of 80CZK, you're free to explore the internal structure. Begin with the Philosophical Hall (you're not allowed to go inside unless on a private tour), and make your way through the collection of odd memorabilia and centuries-old books that line the hall.
At the end of the hallway, you'll find the Theological Hall. You're also not allowed to fully enter the library without a tour guide, but you can admire the hundreds of books inside a room that has been featured in many movies and TV series (most recently Outlanders!)
Outside, you can choose to grab a beverage at the on-site brewery, or make your way back down into New Town through the gardens and walking paths beneath the monastery.
Armed with $10 (or 253CZK), hopefully these tips will help you fully enjoy one of the most beautiful cities in Europe even while on a budget.
Contributor: Alexandra from East Coast Contessa.
Alexandra Booze is the editor of the travel and lifestyle blog, East Coast Contessa. Since 2016, she has worked with more than 450 brands from across the globe and traveled to 33 countries. Originally from the United States, she currently resides and works in Spain.
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