Written by Ray Si – Proud IGLTA Member
Exploring LGBTQ+-friendly destinations is always exciting, recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Prague and was pleasantly surprised by the number of LGBTQ+ establishments available, although many were hidden away, waiting to be discovered.
With three nights in Prague, you'll have enough time to explore the city's highlights and visit iconic attractions such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.
However, if you are interested in exploring the city at a more relaxed pace or want to delve deeper into Prague's cultural offerings, consider a good tour and an outstanding hotel.
The hotel recommendation came highly recommended from Luxury Balkan Travel Club a reputable organization that promotes LGBTQ+ friendly tourism in Eastern Europe. They provide valuable travel resources and information while advocating for equality and safety within the LGBTQ+ tourism community.
Considering their recommendation, I had the opportunity to experience the luxury of the Falkensteiner Hotel, in Prague. This premium-collection hotel provided me with an exceptional stay, starting from the moment I arrived. The Falkensteiner Hotel in Prague is known for its unique and trendy design, creating a feeling of entering a trendy jungle. This "kitsch" atmosphere can add a fun and vibrant touch to your stay, making it quite a camp experience (no tents just plush beds!).
With its jungle-inspired decor and stylish elements, this hotel offers a distinctive ambiance that sets it apart from traditional (Old Town) hotels. The combination of exotic patterns, lush greenery, and trendy furnishings creates an immersive and playful environment. This design choice can evoke a sense of adventure and excitement, further enhancing your overall experience.
What made the hotel even more appealing was its prime location. Situated in the heart of Prague's Old Town, it was incredibly convenient to explore the city's many attractions on foot or by public transport. During my stay, I was able to easily find several LGBTQ+, although these places were not widely advertised, they were all easy to find and within walking distance.
One of my favorite spots was The Monkey Bar, an all-day bar which can be accessed from the hotel. This bar is the hangout for blind dates, anniversaries, and everything in between. Accompanied by live music, DJ sets and an amazing ambience. The comfortable atmosphere made it easy to strike up conversations and make new friends if travelling solo.
The Big Bus Tour can be a convenient and efficient way to explore Prague and get a glimpse of its sights and culture. The tour offers recorded and precise commentary, which can provide valuable information about the city's history, landmarks, and local culture. It allows you to hop on and off at your own pace, making it adaptable for any short trip to Prague.
Ultimately, whether you choose to take the Big Bus Tour or explore Prague in other ways, it's important to strike a balance between sightseeing and experiencing the city's unique atmosphere. Taking the time to soak up the culture and ambience of Prague will undoubtedly enrich your overall travel experience.
Yes, Prague does have a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and Vinohrady is a popular neighborhood known for its gay-friendly atmosphere and host for The Czech Republic’s Pride. Located about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town, Vinohrady offers a range of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and venues, making it a hub for the community.
Diverse and inclusive, Vinohrady is known for its lively nightlife, with many LGBTQ+ establishments concentrated in the area. It's worth mentioning that the neighborhood is not limited to the LGBTQ+ community, and people of all backgrounds are welcome to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and inclusive spaces.
Apart from the nightlife, Vinohrady also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, such as Riegrovy Sady, where you can relax and enjoy the outdoor scenery. The neighborhood also has charming residential streets, lined with stunning Art Nouveau buildings, giving it a unique character.
Prague is renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, offering a wide range of entertainment options for visitors. Whether you're interested in theatre shows, opera, or galleries, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy.
Theatre in Prague is diverse and exciting, with both traditional and contemporary performances. You can catch classic plays, experimental shows, or even puppet theatre, which is deeply rooted in Czech culture.
Prague is particularly known for its talented Czech artists, many of whom run and have their galleries throughout the city. Visiting these galleries provides a unique opportunity to discover the local art scene and get a glimpse into the country's artistic heritage and contemporary expressions.
One of the most notable features of beer culture in Prague is the prevalence of Pilsner-style beers. Pilsen, a town about 40 miles south of Prague, is the birthplace of this popular beer style, and it's commonly available in the city. Enjoying a Pilsner in Prague is like having ramen noodles in Japan or macarons in Paris — it's an essential experience. Alcohol-free is also available so no one misses out!