I am finally jumping on the bandwagon and heading for Prague for a few days in late May. At this point much has been written and said, but if you have anything instructive or whimsical you'd like to share, now's your chance. Dekuji!
CHS do not miss the music on offer all over prague. Especially check out the schools of music having student performances which range from classical tradition, to jazz-prague style.
Ahoj
You may already know these but
a) get the metro out to Jiriho z Podebrad and have a drink in U Sadu. A great traditional pub that also does food and has a nice outdoor area. On your way you'll pass the Sacred Heart Church. While you're there check out the TV mast with its incredible statues of climbing babies (certainly fits the whimsical.)
http://www.usadu.cz/index.php?sekce=mapa
http://www.allpraha.com/d/33527/Sacred_Heart_Church/
http://www.allpraha.com/d/30368/TV_Tower_Praha/
b) take a stroll through Letna Park, with great views back over the city. A couple of my own photos here. Not great photos but they give you an idea.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanstpaul/2242595810/in/set-72157604342834708/
c) don't miss the Lucerna passages just off Wenceslas Square, and in particular the statue of King Wenceslas on an upside down horse
http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/p/m/267839/
I'll be there myself in late May, so let's hope for good weather!
Cheers
Alan
Except for some of the more arid regions around the Mediterranean, always be prepared for at least some rain. Impossible to predict what kind of storm you'll encounter, but it will likely rain at some point during your trip.
Thanks! I'm certainly looking forward to taking in some musical entertainment while in Prague. Any venues in particular strike your fancy? Any tips on getting tickets?
And Alan -- Great tips! I will surely investigate further.
"Any tips on getting tickets?" There are at least two central ticket offices, one located by the entrance to Tyn Cathedral, and one across the street from St. Nicholas Church. They can provide you information and tickets on everything from the Vivaldi and Mozart concerts that only tourists attend to the more prestigous Prague Philharmonic and Czech National Opera.
Another unique Czech experience that most tourists miss are the Turkish-themed tea rooms popular throughout the country.
Speaking of weather, we will be there May 13, for 3 days. I've been watching the temps, and of course, they go up and down at this time of year. I'm wondering more about rain. Any ideas of whether we need to be prepared for major storms, or gentle rain, etc.?
Jo-Anne
I've spent a week or so in Prague during May every year for the last five years and every time there had been at least a couple of hours when it has absolutely poured with rain. On the up side it has generally cleared really quickly and has been sunny and warm later in the day.
You might be lucky, but I would be prepared for it to be very wet at some stage.
Cheers
Alan
What is a good stopover on the way to Munich from Prague? Regensburg?
Just bought tickets to see Verdi's Aida at the Prague State Opera. Anyone have any opera house tips or anecdotes?
Tips for the Prague State Opera: It has a sumptuous red & gold interior. Make sure your dressed nice so that you blend in :) I don't mean that to sound rude, but you'd be surprised how many tourists wear jeans & t-shirts to the opera.
Have a great trip! Prague is a gorgeous city, maybe the most gorgeous city in Europe.
I was just in regensburg and it is beautiful! In Prague now and the crowds are driving me crazy! Nice in the evening though as there are less people. It is a beautiful city, but I am finding it quite carnival like.