Prague: 10 things to do for less than €10

Excellent views at Prague Zoo. Photo: Donald Judge

The prices aren’t what they used to be in Prague, but this city in the Czech Republic still offers a variety of cheapo-friendly activities. Here’s a list of a few of them that are sure to keep you entertained, with a few crowns left over to spare.

1. Prague Zoo – Lions and tigers and a new baby hippo! These are just a few amongst the 5,000 animals that you can Czech-out (sorry) at the Prague Zoo. One of the country’s most popular destinations, the zoo’s cost for admission is just 150 Kc (around 6 Euro).

2. Prague Beer Museum –  This museum just opened this year and while it might sound like a tourist trap, it’s an excellent opportunity to sample from 30 regional beers on tap. Prices for individual beers range from 28 to 55 kc for half-liters. Try the 5-beer sampler (priced according to what brews you choose).

3. DOX Museum of Contemporary Art – Opened in 2002, DOX offers the some of the cities most interesting contemporary arts exhibitions. Once you’ve had a look, head up to the café and sip your drink on the rooftop terrace. Don’t miss the design shop where you can buy authentic Czech design goods and choose from a great selection of books from the Bendox Bookstore. 150 Kc.

4. Petrin Observation Tower – Located on the opposite hill from Prague Castle, walk up the 60 m Petrin Observation Tower – a small version of the Eiffel Tower– for stunning views of the city (100 kc). To get there, take the funicular from Ujezd Street for the price of a public transport ticket.

5. Cafe Slavia – A favorite gathering place for artists and intellectuals since the late 1880’s, Café Slavia is a Prague icon. Along with a coffee and dessert, look out at the National Theater or the Vltava River from Slavia’s Art Deco interior.

6. The Castle Grounds – There’s no need to pay admission to enter the various areas of the castle when you can enjoy it from outside while strolling its lovely gardens. Along with offering some stunning views of the city below, you might stumble upon a music concert or other cultural offering.

7. Historic Tram – Nostalgic line number 91 runs from April through mid-November on weekends. Departing from the Stresovice depot, the rides takes you through the city center. The fare is just 35 Kc. For timetables, have a look here.

8. A walk along the river – A wide stone path runs along the river, where you can view the city’s architecture from a riverside perspective or watch the swans and boats passing by. There are a couple of places to stop for a drink along the way and very often you’ll come upon art installations. It’s free to follow the river through the city.

9. The Municipal Library – Prague’s 42 branches are free and open to the public. Head to the central library on Marianske Square where you can find a moment of quiet and a selection of English books to peruse. At the entrance lobby, take some time to look at the book tunnel sculpture by Slovak artist, Matej Kren.

10. The vineyard at Grebovka – Officially called Havlickovy Sady, this beautiful park – referred to as Grebovka by the locals – is home to a lovely villa, a glass cafe and a functioning vineyard. Perched on the hill just beside it is Grebovka Altan or gazebo. Sip some wine and take in the view of the trees and the city in the distance.

Do you have your own tips for keeping it cheap in Prague? Tell us in the comments below!