Solo-ish Summer 2025 days 35-37: Three days of Prague Culture, Castles, and Czech Cuisine

After a travel day that was more of a “cultural experience” than a comfortable commute, our group arrived in Prague with a renewed appreciation for air conditioning. Our journey from southern Poland began with a three-hour public bus ride followed by a train whose car had no power—meaning no lights, no A/C, and definitely no reprieve from the sweltering heat. Let’s just say, by the time we arrived in Prague, the bar for comfort was set very low.

Thankfully, Miss Sophie’s Downtown—our hotel for this leg of the trip—delivered in every way. Clean, stylish, and yes, blessedly air-conditioned (in my room), it was the perfect place to land after a long day of travel. We quickly dropped off our bags and set out to grab our first Czech meal at a cozy, pub-style restaurant nearby. Hearty, flavorful food and ice-cold beer was just what we needed to reset and start fresh.

After lunch, some of the group opted for a walking tour to get their bearings in the city, but I decided to take it easy. With 97 days of travel on the agenda, pacing yourself is not just wise—it’s essential. Plus, I had a tour booked for the morning, and since it looks like we’ll be bringing a study abroad group to Prague, Vienna, and Budapest in December 2026, I know I’ll be back soon enough. That night, I regrouped with everyone for dinner, then crashed early.

Day Two: Postcard Prague and a Taste of Tradition

After a great breakfast at the hotel, I joined a small group walking tour that started at the Charles Bridge. From the moment we stepped onto the cobblestones, it felt like walking through a fairytale. The tour took us through the medieval heart of the city—across the historic bridge, past the colorful Baroque facades, through winding alleyways and courtyards, and finally to the Old Town Square where the Astronomical Clock stands. Every turn revealed another stunning view or centuries-old story.

After the tour, I kept lunch light (I knew what was coming later), then boarded a two-hour boat tour on the Vltava River. Cruising along the water gave me a whole new perspective of the city—Prague Castle perched high above, spires everywhere, and a peaceful break from the summer crowds.

Back at the hotel, I had time for a quick shower and wardrobe upgrade before heading to a group dinner and folk-dancing show. This wasn’t your average cultural performance—lively music, traditional costumes, and yes, audience participation! Several guys from our group were pulled onstage, much to everyone’s amusement. It was the perfect mix of entertainment and immersion.

Day Three: Monasteries, Motorsport, and a Foodie Finale

Our final full day in Prague was packed. I started with a morning walk up to Strahov Monastery, where the views of the city were breathtaking. From there, I made my way to Prague Castle, taking time to explore the grounds and admire the grandeur of St. Vitus Cathedral. My next stop brought me to Clam-Gallas Palace before, wrapping up my sightseeing with a tour of the Old Town Hall.

But the day wasn’t over yet. A few of us ducked into an Irish pub to catch the Austrian Formula 1 race (some things just can’t be missed, even in Prague!). Although my favorite driver was put out in the first lap, we still had a blast! Afterward, two of my group members and I joined a small group for a walking food tour in Prague 2—a quieter, more local neighborhood. It was a refreshing contrast to the tourist-heavy Old Town, and the food was fantastic. Think traditional Czech bites, craft beer, and plenty of local flavor, both culinary and cultural.

After the tour, it was back to the hotel for one final shower and a bit of packing. Tomorrow we’re off to Český Krumlov for a quick one-night stop before heading to Vienna.

Prague is a city that feels both timeless and alive—where Gothic spires pierce the skyline, centuries-old bridges cross the Vltava River, and every cobblestone seems to echo with history. Often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague has been a cultural and political center of Central Europe for over a thousand years. Founded in the 9th century and once the seat of the powerful Bohemian kings and later the Habsburgs, the city flourished during the reign of Charles IV, who made Prague the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the 14th century. His legacy lives on in landmarks like Charles University, the oldest in Central Europe, and the stunning Charles Bridge that bears his name. The city endured centuries of conflict, including wars, occupation, and communist rule, yet its architectural and artistic heritage remained remarkably intact. Today, Prague seamlessly blends this rich past with a vibrant, modern culture—inviting visitors to experience both the weight of history and the joy of discovery with every step.

Prague was charming, walkable, and full of surprises. Whether you’re here for the castles, the beer, the history, or just a great view, this city delivers. And with a return trip on the horizon in 2026, I’m already looking forward to round two.