Prague is a city that has been high on my list of places to visit. I finally had the chance after a business trip to Frankfurt. Only visiting for a day is hardly doing it justice, but one day is better than zero. I’ve done several trips like this as a tag on business trips to get a little leisure time and a new city/country to explore.
Panorama of Prague from the castle
I booked a one way flight on Czech Airlines from Frankfurt to Prague. It was cheap, like $95, but I didn’t earn any miles in any programs. It was an evening flight, so after I finished my work, I headed to the airport. This was my first departure from Terminal 2 at Frankfurt Airport after countless trips through Terminal 1. There weren’t any lounges I had access to from the Schengen gates in Terminal 2, but I managed fine in the busy areas. Like many flights in Frankfurt, we were at a bus gate.
Czech Airlines A319 Frankfurt-Prague
The only Budweiser I will drink…as served on Czech Airlines
I arrived in Prague after the regular bus service from the airport into the city center had ended, so I just booked an Uber. As usual, this was easy, and I was fine with the $16 fare for convenience sake. The driver was nice, and spoke excellent English thanks to living in the states for a time. I was staying at the Sheraton St. Charles Square. I’ll review my stay there later. After a busy week of work, I didn’t do much after I arrived, other than work on my plans for maximizing my time on Saturday.
Touring Prague Old Town
Even though it wasn’t sunny for my day in Prague, the weather was cool, but dry, and fine for getting around on foot. I was excited to have the day to visit Prague, as it has long been high on my list of places to visit. After some breakfast in the hotel, I went out to explore. The Sheraton isn’t really in a historic area, but it is only a 10 minute walk from the old city. Along the way, I saw countless beautiful buildings, and a Hooters franchise. Sigh.
Old Town Square, Prague
Given the early hour, the streets were pretty clear, in a way I had the city to myself. Plus, late January is not exactly prime tourist season. Here are some photos from my walking tour of the old city:
Beautiful design on façade of building
Charles Bridge
I eventually made my way to the Charles Bridge (Czech: Karlův most), one of the more famous landmarks in Prague. The bridge connects the old town with the Prague Castle.
Old Town bridge tower
Here are some views from the bridge:
Once across the bridge, I climbed up to the castle. This is currently the home of the President of the Czech Republic, and has been home to various other heads of state through the years. It is considered the largest ancient castle in the world.
The complex is huge, and has armed guards in front.
There are several churches on site and St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most impressive
Touring makes one thirsty
After touring the castle, I headed back across the bridge towards the old city and had some lunch. I was also ready for some Czech beer, and eventually found a brewpub for some tasty beer and a meal.
Another landmark I wanted to visit on my tour was the Dancing House. This unique structure was designed by Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry. It stands out especially from the more classic and Gothic architecture of most of the rest of the city.
The Dancing House (Tančící dům) in Prague
The National Museum in Prague
“Hanging Out”, a sculpture by controversial Prague artist David Cerny
Departing from Prague
Eventually my time was up, and I had to return to my hotel, collect my bags, and then head to the airport. I took another Uber, had enough time for a lounge and some shopping. I had access to the Menzies CIP lounge, which was one of the worst lounges I’ve experienced. It did have showers, but food selections we weak and the lounge itself was small, and their seating areas were pretty worn. I didn’t spend much time here, so at least I was able to get a snack and drink before my flight.
Views of the Menzies CIP Lounge in Prague Airport.
Before heading to my gate, I did a little shopping, and noticed some odd liquor options. No I did not purchase any…
In all, it was a lovely day in Prague. I’m fortunate to have been able to visit this great city, even for a short time. I’ve made several of these quick day trips around business travel. I’m of the opinion that even a few hours in a new place is better than none. Thanks for joining me!
