The El Camino Travel Guide to Prague, Czech Republic
Written by Kayla Doris
Picture Prague and you’ll likely think of Gothic towers, medieval landmarks, and its cobbled town square. It’s true—Czechia’s capital is one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved cities, having survived much of the bombing that took place during World War II. But its present-day creative culture is equally exciting, and shouldn’t be missed if you arrive only looking for the past. Beyond the tourist-favorites of the Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, Prague’s neighborhoods are full of quietly cool pockets. There’s the trendy Letna district full of indie galleries, mid-century design shops, skate parks, and local beer gardens; the industrial Karlin neighborhood where factories have converted to bistros, design studios, and minimalist wine bars; and the grittier, up-and-coming Holešovice where you’ll find alternative cultural spaces and warehouse cafes. Of course, the city has always been a hub for design—in the early 20th century, Prague embraced the Art Nouveau movement before veering into Czech Cubism (it’s the only city in the world with Cubist architecture), and it’s long been known for its heritage in glasswork, typography, and furniture—so it comes as no surprise that creative energy still pulses through the city today.
We’ve collaborated with local experts, Jan Valenta—founder of Taste of Prague, and Veronika Kropacova—showroom and production manager at In August Company, and included tips from members of the ECT Clubhouse, Caro Griffin, Jennifer Felts, and Sogol Lohi, to curate a list of insider recommendations for eating, drinking, shopping, and sightseeing your way through the city.
Eat
When you’ve had your fill of local flavors, head to Sansho in New Town to enjoy mouthwatering Asian fusion dishes. Described by ECT member Jennifer Felts as “cozy, delicious and ethically sourced,” the kitchen focuses on sustainable meats and market produce with bold flavors—think pineapple and kimchi rolls, dry-aged pork belly and watermelon, and octopus fried rice. Don’t miss the cocktail menu either, which includes a BBQ pineapple and jalapeno margarita, and a chilli cherry and ginger sour.
Also included in the guide:
“Perfectly executed Czech pub cooking” according to a food expert
The best duck in town (considered a beloved dish in Czechia)
A little-known market where you can enjoy bun cha and coffee with condensed milk
Image credit: In August Company
Stay
Check into one of the city’s newest openings at Sir Prague, a 76-room boutique stay along the Vltava River where every detail celebrates the city's culture. The rooms and suites feature whimsical touches like hand-painted Cubist art, tiled bathrooms, traditional Czech pieces, and textile furnishings. On-site, you can make use of its grand library, modern gym, and outdoor courtyard. Breakfast is served daily—at the time of writing, its all-day dining restaurant, Seven North, is yet to open. Find it located in New Town.
Also included in the guide:
A hotel for design lovers with striking architectural and interior details
A family-owned hotel that has just 10 individually designed suites inside a 17th-century baroque townhouse
Image credit: Sansho
Shop
“In August Company is the brainchild of Karolína and Teodorik, a real-life couple,” says Taste of Prague founder, Jan Valenta. “It’s a small design studio that makes simple, yet beautiful household items - anything from cups to posters, tea ceremony ware, candles, linen items or tote bags. And it’s become nearly a household name to the point you will see a few of their pieces whenever you visit friends at home. Their small shop is a fantastic opportunity to visit Bubeneč, one of the most beautiful residential districts in Prague, just a few steps north of the Prague Castle.” Keep an eye out for event listings on their website if you’re interested in taking part in ceramic workshops and matcha tea ceremonies. Note—the showroom is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Also included in the guide:
A design studio that creates classic Czech materials (porcelain, cut glass, and crystal) with a subversive twist
Sustainable fashion and consciously sourced jewelry
A designer’s showroom that sells sculptural bags and timeless fashion pieces
Image credit: The Kin
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