Czech Republic in Late Feb!

[freddaniell]

Hello All. I will be flying into Prague on Feb 24th and leaving on the 5th. This was a last minute trip and I haven't planned my itinerary yet. I know I want to spend a few days in Prague as well as Czesky Krumlov, but beyond that I have no plans. Are there any other cities worth checking out while I'm there? I'm not opposed to going to other countries (in fact, I'd love to), but since I will there for only eight days, I don't want to spend all my time traveling.

Also, are there any attractions that are not open during the winter. Does anyone know of a site I can visit to arrange travel to Czesky Krumlov from prague. Any other advice or must does would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

[madamtrashheap]

Welcome to GFE freddaniell!

8 days in the CZ will be great! And yes, it's a super-chilly Winter in Europe at the moment so rug up! (Although it's "warmed" up recently, days are above 0C now!). Prague is gorgeous in Winter and there are lots of things to see, do and eat. As far as getting to Cesky Krumlov, it's a train ride (about 5 hours) or around a 4 hour bus ride, so simple enough.

Another place you might consider visiting as a day trip is Kutna Hora, about 1hr30mins on the direct train. Or you could look at visiting Plzen (Pilsen) for a day trip if you feel like delving into the history of Czech beer - it's the home of the original Pilsener-style of beer and of course to Pilsner Urquell. The train takes around 1hr45mins.

You're correct to wonder if some places close for Winter, as this can sometimes be the case, but it's more likely that they simply operate on Winter timetables which means reduced hours (eg open at 10am close at 4pm instead of open 9am close at 6pm) but you'll have to check with each sight's website (or the main Czech tourism one) to make sure you get to see the things you had planned. Don't forget the Jewish Quarter in Prague is closed on Fridays.

The Ray in Prague section will be helpful too and email Ray for other ideas as he is our man on the (cold) ground there!

[freddaniell]

Great Advice. I'm real excited. One more question. Do you have any good Hostels to recommend? I'm looking for something a bit smaller. Ever heard of Miss Sophies?

Thanks again.

[madamtrashheap]

I haven't heard of Miss Sophie's, but check its reviews on places like Hostelworld.com or Trip Advisor for an idea on location, facilities, etc. The Home page of GFE has a listing for Hostel Reviews and Recommendations, so just click on there and go to the ones in Czech Rep. for some more ideas. Had a look at Miss Sophie's website and it looks good, relatively new property, modern decor and not a bad location but it's not right in the heart of things (would take around 20mins to walk to the Old Town). At least there's a Metro station nearby.

If you do decide to stay there, please make sure you write a review and post it on GFE for future reference.