🇨🇿 Prague, Czech Republic: Part 1

✈ Arrival in Prague: A Rough Start

I spent six days in Prague, Czech Republic, this time traveling with my mom.

Day 1: A Bad Start
From the airport to the hotel there was no direct bus, so we had to take a bus and then the metro. On the metro, conductors stopped us to check our tickets. The tickets were in Czech, and it turned out we had accidentally bought senior half-price tickets. We explained and offered to buy the correct ones, but they didn't allow it, we had to pay a fine. The fine was supposed to be 2000 CZK, but they reduced it to 1000 CZK (about 500 NOK). It was still frustrating, as we'd acted in good faith.

💡 Tip: Always doublecheck ticket categories on public transportation in Prague. Use apps like PID Lítačka or ask staff at kiosks if unsure, they're used to tourists asking.

We then walked (in circles!) until we finally found our hotel: Residence Bologna, booked through Booking.com. The total was 5267 NOK for two people for six nights. We arrived an hour before check-in, so we left our bags and explored a bit, even had some ice cream to cheer ourselves up.

Once we checked in, the hotel room was huge, clean, and tidy, though we'd already made a small mess with our luggage! The only downside: it smelled of cigarette smoke. It wasn't clear if it was from outside or someone smoking in the room. Because of my asthma, I started coughing a lot.

💡 Tip: If you're sensitive to smoke or scents, ask for a non-smoking floor in Prague hotels. Always check room reviews for mentions of odors before booking.

Still, the location was fantastic, walking distance to the National Museum, Old Town, the main square, and the shopping streets.

🏰 Day 2: Shopping, Museum, and Old Town

We started with a trip to the Old Town Square, where there was a small market. The highlight is the Astronomical Clock, a medieval clock on an old town hall. We didn't catch it striking the hour (when apostles pass by the windows above it), but it's worth timing your visit for that moment.

We then visited the Illusion Art Museum Prague. Tickets cost about 139 NOK for adults, with a student discount if you show your ID. This was Prague's first museum dedicated exclusively to illusions and art, many exhibits were interactive, and the staff encouraged taking photos to see the effects better.

💡 Tip: This museum is great for all ages. Go early or late to avoid crowds, and bring a charged phone or camera, photos reveal many hidden details.

Afterward, we did some shopping and relaxed back at the hotel.

💀 Day 3: Kutná Hora and the Bone Church

We took the metro to the main train station, then a train to Kutná Hora to see the famous Bone Church. Unfortunately, we made a huge navigation mistake. After walking for over an hour and a half, we realized we'd gone to the wrong church, St. Barbara's Church, on the opposite end of town! The church and surrounding views were beautiful, but we didn't go inside to save time. We caught a bus back toward the Bone Church near the train station.

At the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church), tickets were sold at the information counter. No photos were allowed inside, but you can find plenty online. To be honest, it was a little underwhelming, I expected more rooms. Still, the atmosphere was special: chandeliers, garlands, and stacks of bones made from about 40,000 skeletons. It's a tourist attraction, but also an active cemetery, so remember to be respectful.

💡 Tip:
The Bone Church is close to the train station, double-check your map to avoid a long detour.
Buy regular vs. express train tickets correctly, express trains require a separate purchase even if you use PID Lítačka for local transport.
Students get discounts on transport and attractions, but always carry your student ID.

🛠 Final Thoughts on Part 1

The first few days in Prague were a mix of mishaps and highlights: a frustrating fine, but amazing sights like Old Town and the Illusion Museum. Kutná Hora was special, even with the wrong-turn adventure. Prague's history, architecture, and transport quirks make for a memorable experience, just prepare well, ask when unsure, and keep an open mind when plans go sideways!