Just wanted to thank everyone who offered advice and suggestions before our recent trip there. We spent 4 days in the town of Pilsen before heading into Prague for 6 days. Pilsen is a nice city with many wonderful places to eat around the historic square.
Prague was very crowded and busy which we thought we had avoided the summer crush but still managed to enjoy.
If you fly into Prague Airport, try to avoid using the orange colored ATM- they are part of a monetary exchange service and charge extra high fees for use. The AE bus to get to the train station was packed full and very warm and stuffy-not a fun ride. Prague train station was a bit challenging to find the right track for the train you needed, but some kind english-speaking strangers helped us.
We stayed at Hotel Anna in Prague through a few suggestions from people using this site and it was very pleasant. Many small pubs, bars and restaurants within walking distance. We VERY much enjoyed the beers that were offered at every place.
The Prague Castle is amazing and a must see, but be careful of all the many stairs there (I fell down the last concrete step and twisted my ankle and sprained a wrist). St. Vitus Cathedral is beautiful. We did not use the audio guide because while you pay for the device using a credit card, you are required to pay a deposit in cash, and we didn't have that much cash on us.
Lobkowicz Palace was one of the highlights for us! The Czech history was inspiring to learn. We caught a concert that evening in Old town at the library Mirror chapel- strings, pipe organ and soloist-select pieces from major composers everyone would recognize and the acoustics were fabulous.
Did a river cruise and Charles Bridge museum. Did the Staropramen brewery tour! Vysehrad Fortress and St. Peter and ST. Paul Cathedral also great, though the casements were off limits in the fortress-they were setting up some sort of glass exhibition. Took the funicular up to the Prague "Effiel tower". Peaceful area once you got away from all the school children groups who were on day trip! Our last day we went to the National Museum. Many, many exhibits and rooms- was disappointed that no guide maps were available to navigate the many rooms.
We used public transportation everywhere we went- very clean and efficient.
Tried many different foods and most were delicious.
Also did a walking tour our first day there- helpful information.
Beware of the many smokers- it's surprising how many people smoke there.
Sorry for the length. Thanks again to all for the many helpful suggestions. Hope anyone planning to go has a wonderful time!
Old town square can be a bit disorienting with the crowds and the many streets.