Exploring Prague on a student budget

Eastern Europe has grown in popularity over the last few years as a destination for backpackers and student travellers.

The flights are cheap and the cost of staying there is far less than some of the more popular destinations in Western Europe. A true beauty offering history, culture and a little bit of everything in between, the city of Prague is a must visit this year. Here are our top ten tips for exploring the best sites and activities without breaking the budget. 

1. Take in the view from Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague, and it won't cost you a penny to see it. Just stroll on and take in the amazing sights of the city! It is best to go early in the morning or late at night to avoid the big crowds, and maybe take a trip up the Charles Bridge Tower (for a mere 3 euros!) to get a 360-degree view of the city. 

2. Take a free walking tour

There are plenty of sightseeing tours in Prague, but many have become total tourist traps. So instead of losing valuable cash, opt for a free walking tour instead. Several companies, such as Discover Prague Tours, Sandemans New Europe and Good Tours can help you out with expert local guides who will show you the hidden nooks and crannies for free.

3. Visit Prague Castle

Prague Castle is a must see. The biggest ancient castle in the world, it is gorgeous to look at. Since it's a popular tourist site, this is one of the more expensive sites on our list, but at 350czk which is roughly about £12, it's absolutely worth it.

4. Admire the view from Petrin Lookout Tower

Terrazzo via Flikr

You'll have to hike up Petrin Hill to get to it, but the view from the top of the tower is well worth it. And for only £6, you'd be silly to miss out on this amazing photo opportunity.

5. Explore the Jewish Quarter

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The Jewish Quarter of Prague, Josefov, is one of the most historic places to visit in Prague. It has been inhabited by the Jewish community for over a thousand years and has survived Nazi control in WWII. You can tour the area for free, but will have to pay small entry fees to get inside the synagogues and the cemetery.

6. Enjoy a Puppet Theatre Show

A slightly more expensive attraction, but one not to be missed. The Czech Republic is famed for its marionettes (though note, the operas are staged in their original Italian!) and a trip to see these colourful dolls in action is well worth the extra expense. Tickets cost 590czk (only £20) for adults and 490 czk (£17) for students and children.

7. Visit one of the many museums

There are over 280 museums in Prague, so there is definitely something for everyone, no matter what tickles your fancy. Over the summer, the city puts on Free Museum Nights, letting you and your travel partner into a choice of 50 museums after dark, completely free.

8. View the astronomical clock

One of the more typical tourist attractions, but nevertheless one to be seen, is the astronomical clock. Over 600 years old, this gorgeous piece of architecture is worth a visit and it won't cost you a single koruna to do so. The clock has an hourly show from 8am to 8pm where apostles emerge from its face.

9. Scale the Old Town Hall Tower

The lookout from the Old Town Hall Tower offers a stunning view of Prague's Old Town, and for a relatively cheap price as well, 110 czk which is only £4!

10. Visit the world's most beautiful library

The Klementinum is one of the largest building complexes in Europe, and contains a decadent Baroque library, the astronomical tower and the Vysehrad Codex. Tours of the building cost between 200-900 Czech Koruna (for families), so that's only £7-£10 for a single person and £30 for a family. Very reasonable, no?