PRAGUE
Prague
Home to some of the best Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture in Europe, glimpses of history at every turn, and uniquely rich cuisine, Prague delights visitors with an unforgettable atmosphere
WRITER: LUCY PILGRIM | PROJECT MANAGER: ALFIE WILSON
Prague, known by locals as Praha, has attracted travellers from far and wide for centuries. Spanning the banks of the Vltava river, the ‘Golden City’ is considered one of Europe’s most charming metropolises, and for good reason.
Adorned with a storied past, visitors are transported into a world that has borne witness to a bohemian crusade, the rise of the Holy Roman Empire, and the fall of Communism in 1989.
Although many of the continent’s capitals feature cobbled, winding paths, none are as quintessentially beautiful as those in Prague, where a spell-binding concoction of Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic architecture fringes the Old Town Square and its inviting
branching alleys where the city’s true character lies.
A narrow maze of romantic streets reveals the longstanding history of merchants and tradesmen that remain unspoilt thanks to the bustling taverns, boutique stalls, and small hotels that continue to open their doors to discerning travellers.
Returning to the magnificent square, tourists won’t help but notice the towering Church of Our Lady before Týn, which first began construction in 1370, and the iconic Astronomical Clock, whose quaint, novel mechanical figures fascinate those who gaze upon its face from below.
The list of stunning monuments continues with the historic centre of Prague, which is the city’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and features the Old Town, the
Lesser Town, and the New Town. Significantly, the centre contains Prague Castle, the globe’s largest castle complex. Overlooking the sprawling streets and offering more than just dark, protruding spires, the castle is one of the Czech Republic’s most significant cultural institutions.
The vast expanse of the Vltava river is another truly unmissable sight, best witnessed from the famous Charles Bridge, named after Holy Roman Emperor King Charles IV, further adding to the city’s historical affluence.
Moreover, Prague effortlessly combines the desires of both history lovers and modern travellers, catering seamlessly to the needs of meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) tourism and offering the perfect blend of business and leisure.
The city also has enviable sustainability credentials as one of the greenest capitals in Europe, showcased by one of the best public transport systems in the world and numerous verdant spaces where visitors can soak up summer sun.
Prague’s food scene, meanwhile, offers hearty dishes that are sure to warm up travellers on a cold winter’s day and tantalise their tastebuds. Indeed, the city offers a plethora of unique and traditional eateries that unveil the rich flavours the nation is known for.
Brimming with historical character, a luscious culinary palate, and warm hospitality that would make any visitor feel welcome, Prague has become a distinct European city bustling with joyous travel memories yet to be made.
Industry Insights Prague Convention Bureau
ROMAN MUŠKA Managing Director, Prague Convention Bureau
A proactive not-for-profit, the Prague Convention Bureau (PCB) is committed to strengthening positive awareness of the city as the ideal convention and incentive destination. Managing Director, Roman Muška, highlights Prague’s best events offerings and why it should be at the top of business leaders’ lists
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, could you talk us through the purpose and mission of the PCB?
Roman Muška, Managing Director (RM): The PCB was established in 2008 by several founding members with the aim of creating a strong alliance that could promote Prague as an ideal meeting destination and a goal to cooperate with various stakeholders to bring more expert events to the capital.
These objectives have remained through the years and are still key for the PCB’s daily operations, combined with a current focus on hot topics such as technology and sustainability.
OT: In your opinion, what makes Prague the ideal convention and incentive destination?
RM: It is a combination of various factors that makes Prague an ideal convention and incentive destination. Firstly, its outstanding location in the very heart of Europe makes the city a hub for all kinds of travellers.
Prague’s infrastructure can accommodate the most demanding events with meeting options that combine historical features of the city with modern, cutting-edge technology. Whatever type of meeting a client plans, local suppliers are fully equipped to deliver on even
the most stringent requirements, whether it’s high-tech audiovisual technology on-site or all-in-one services for hybrid or virtual events.
Prague’s universities and research centres also make the city an ideal destination for expert meetings on topics such as life sciences, emerging technologies, or creative industries.
An additional bonus, Prague is a very compact and walkable city, with all the monuments, venues, and congress centres in close proximity
to each other, connected by one of the world’s best public transportation systems. All that combines to make the city a very attractive destination for various events.
OT: In what ways does the PCB support businesses looking to host an event in the city?
RM: The PCB’s team supports event planners in many different ways. We are ready to help with any kind of information you need about Prague.
Industry Insights
We act as an intermediary between clients and local service providers and offer administrative support for communicating with third parties, including local government authorities. We also help event planners promote their event across the country, and of course, we are happy to arrange site inspections according to clients’ requirements.
Since its establishment, the PCB has also run its Ambassador Program that brings together experts in various fields, including science, technology, medicine, and social sciences, amongst others. The programme creates a platform for sharing knowledge and experience by hosting congresses and conferences and preparing expert panels for these events.
Together with our Congress Ambassadors, we regularly bid for all kinds of conferences.
OT: How would you say the business travel sector in Prague has evolved over the last five years?
RM: The business travel sector has experienced several ups and downs in the last five years, from a record-breaking year in 2019 through the COVID-19 pandemic with almost non-existent business travel and the subsequent war in Ukraine, to 2024 where the numbers slowly increased towards pre-pandemic levels again.
There are several trends we can see post-pandemic, such as the extreme need for flexibility – events are often booked very last minute and there is a high demand for on-site events and face-to-face meetings. Numerous
venues also used the pandemic break for renovations, so we are pleased to see the quality of services rising.
OT: How does the bureau work with CzechTourism to ensure clients’ needs are met?
RM: CzechTourism has a dedicated department, the Czech Convention Bureau (CzCB), focused on the MICE segment that serves as an umbrella organisation for all 14 regional convention bureaus in the country.
Together with CzCB, we cooperate on various
“PRAGUE’S INFRASTRUCTURE CAN ACCOMMODATE THE MOST DEMANDING EVENTS WITH MEETING OPTIONS THAT COMBINE HISTORICAL FEATURES OF THE CITY WITH MODERN, CUTTINGEDGE TECHNOLOGY”
– ROMAN MUŠKA, MANAGING DIRECTOR, PRAGUE CONVENTION BUREAU
promotional activities, starting from our presence at the national booth at major MICE trade shows to farm trips for international meeting planners. Whenever we are asked by our colleagues from CzCB for advice or assistance with site inspections or specific clients’ request for proposals (RFP), we are ready to help with our destination know-how.
OT: Business travel aside, what attractions or destinations in Prague would you personally recommend?
RM: All first-time visitors are naturally willing to see the main attractions such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, or Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock. My personal recommendation would be to visit quieter places such as the Vyšehrad district, where you can visit the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul or just walk in a beautiful park and admire unique, panoramic views.
Another enjoyable vista is from the opposite side of the Vltava river, where the Petřín Tower, a smaller copy of the Eiffel Tower, is located. My last personal tip, just a few steps away from the often-overcrowded Charles Bridge, is a calm oasis called the Klementinum with an astronomical tower and one of the most beautiful baroque libraries in the world.
OT: How do you support businesses in implementing sustainability across their operations?
RM: We encourage our partners and members to implement sustainability, especially through best practice sharing.
A few years ago, we launched a specialised mini section of our webpage dedicated solely to sustainability and introduced the #SustainabilityInSpires hashtag for all communication related to topics of socioeconomic or ecological responsibility.
There is also a similar hashtag on our blog, through which we regularly distribute news about Prague’s sustainable initiatives. We also encourage our clients to proceed with environmental options for their events, for which we introduced a special filter in our venue finder that selects partners following sustainable principles.
OT: What makes Prague the go-to destination for business leaders looking to hold an event in 2025?
RM: As already mentioned, several brand-new or renovated venues and hotels in Prague are worth choosing for events in 2025. Additionally, those who have visited the city in the last few years are welcome to explore these new spots, and I truly believe that they won’t regret coming back to the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’.
What’s more, Václav Havel Airport Prague systematically works on expanding the number of direct routes to and from the city for areas not only in the region, but also intercontinentally, so it is even easier and cheaper for delegates from distant markets to attend events in the city.
OT: Finally, are you optimistic about the future of business travel in Prague?
RM: Yes, of course, we are all very optimistic about the future development of business travel in Prague.
From our statistics, we can see that the number of conferences and incentive groups is growing, and this year’s demand seems to be very positive. We only need to continue doing what we already do and hope that no global externalities will stop this positive outlook.
+420 224 235 159 info@pragueconvention.cz www.pragueconvention.cz
IN FOCUS
PRAGUE’S MOST PRIZED DISHES
Known for its hearty nature and ability to invoke an inner warmth, Prague’s food scene is a delicious representation of the generosity and care of the city’s people, who are committed to crafting the perfect dish comprising rich and full-bodied flavours that visitors crave long after they’ve left.
ONE DISH GREATLY associated with the national culture and widely beloved across the country is beef goulash (hovězí guláš), a thick, steamy, and deliciously rich stew that has become a mainstay of the city’s restaurants. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, Czech goulash is traditionally crafted with more meat than vegetables, slow cooked to perfection, and typically accompanied by freshly baked bread.
The humble Prague sausage (pražská klobása), meanwhile, offers a satisfying and juicy snack packed full of flavours that dance on the tongue. Although many variations can be found across Central Europe, the Prague sausage stands out for its heat-filled spices, including
paprika, cayenne pepper, caraway, and garlic, as well as high-quality smoked local meats.
The height of Czech food decadence is Svíčková, a dish traditionally made using succulent beef tenderloin and root vegetables combined with a thick creamy sauce and accompanied by bread dumplings, fresh whipped cream, and cranberry sauce.
This distinctly Czechian cuisine is typically reserved for special occasions such as weddings, bringing Prague’s culinary traditions alive on the plate. Travellers can experience such a meal at Café Imperial restaurant in the capital’s centre, which is regarded as the best spot to sample Svíčková.
RECOMMENDS
Eat:
FOR DINING OUT MEDIEVAL STYLE…
Hidden in the depths of a candlelit tavern, U Pavouka offers a restaurant experience like no other. Over two and a half hours, guests are treated to a feast of five courses with a choice of pork, poultry, and fish, as well as vegan and vegetarian options, topped off by unlimited drinks.
If this wasn’t enough, diners are immersed in hours of merriment for all the senses, showcasing the best in medieval music and entertainment, including jesters, belly dancers, and sword fighters, creating a vibrant and unique atmosphere.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to be engulfed in medieval fun, looking for something different to do with the family, or wanting an unforgettable night with friends, U Pavouka is the place to go.
Do: FOR WITNESSING STUNNING ARCHITECTURE ON THE WATER...
Don’t miss out on the chance to absorb the capital’s architectural prowess and memorable history with
Prague Boats, which prides itself on being one of the few river tour providers to offer fully electric boat options, helping boost sustainable tourism in the heart of the city.
The company has a wide range of boating experiences to choose from, whether it be a gentle, meandering sightseeing boat ride peppered with historical tales or a romantic restaurant cruise that pairs breathtaking, starry views with impeccable fine dining. Why not rent a boat for a special occasion, making precious memories along the way?
Sleep:
FOR A GREEN OASIS IN THE GOLDEN CITY...
Just a short stroll from the banks of the Vltava river, Mosaic House is an ultra-modern, stylish, and affordable hotel that has something for everyone, offering the ideal escape from the bustle of the city, a perfect mix of business and leisure and the tempting indulgence of a private spa.
Embracing the tranquillity afforded by an abundance of greenery covering the roofs and terraces, the hotel creates a harmonious atmosphere through the thoughtful use of natural
resources, stylistic minimalism, and functionalistic architecture.
Guests can enjoy small, cosy, and stylish rooms designed with great attention to detail, creating the ideal place to unwind thanks to amenities such a smart TV, rainfall shower, and state-of-the-art coffee machine.
Additionally, Mosaic House believes that extraordinary ideas are created in extraordinary spaces, which is why the hotel has a number of areas ideal for smaller networking and social events.
Landmark Attractions
Dancing House
Locally known as Ginger and Fred, the Dancing House’s Deconstructivist architecture and illusionary structure was created using 99 uniquely shaped concrete panels, topped with a twisted metal structure, aptly named Medusa. The building’s contorted form is the brainchild of Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić and Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry, who transformed the riverscape in 1996 when the structure was completed. The Dancing House is free to visitors and hosts a hotel, restaurant, bar, and gallery.
Golden Lane
Nestled among the courtyards of Prague Castle, Golden Lane is an ancient path to a collection of the city’s secret tales, myths, and legends. Built in the 16th century as part of the castle’s northern fortification, this quaint, cobbled street of micro houses offers a kaleidoscope of colours and provides a unique glimpse into everyday life 500 years ago.
Kinský Palace
Overlooking the Old Town Square, Kinský Palace exudes decadence, built between 1755 and 1765 and gilded with a pink and white Rococo facade. Originally home to the Kinský noble family from the Kingdom of Bohemia, it later housed a secondary school attended by Franz Kafka, a well-known Czeck writer in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Getting There and Around
AS A HUB for both tourist and business travel, Prague is very wellconnected across the continent, with plenty of travel options to begin your dream holiday. The most common form of arrival is via Václav Havel Airport Prague, an international airport connected to adjacent European countries as well as further afield and conveniently located approximately 17 kilometres from the city centre.
Alternative transport options from the airport include an airport express bus that travels to Prague’s central
station, or travellers can use the shuttle bus. Both of these options run on a regular basis and offer a more costeffective option than booking a taxi.
With one of the best public transport networks in Europe, travelling around Prague could not be easier. Residents typically utilise the extensive metro system, which is primarily built around three colourcoded transport lines that span every corner of the city.
For those that would rather stay above ground, Prague’s tram system is
a highly reliable and convenient option, offering a service every eight to 10 minutes during peak hours. Travellers can even jump onboard one of the beautiful vintage trams that frequent the city, allowing holidaymakers to travel in style whilst they gaze at some of the city’s stunning sites.
Added convenience is afforded by a comprehensive bus system. Both trams and buses also offer a nighttime service that meets the needs of night owls and those enjoying the city’s thriving nightlife.
