Prague offers seniors an exciting blend of history, culture, and fun. Discover top activities and travel tips for seniors visiting this city.
A desire for adventure and exploration doesn’t diminish with retirement and age – it often grows stronger. If you’re a senior looking for an exciting destination to explore, Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic AKA Czechia, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the most notable activities seniors can enjoy in Prague and provide important travel preparations for Aussie seniors making the journey.
Exploring Prague: A Seniors’ Paradise
Praha, as the locals call Prague, is a vast place and there’s only so much to savour in just one day, requiring several days to tick off notable things to do. Let’s check out the landmarks right in the city itself first:
Charles Bridge (Karlův Most)
One of the most iconic landmarks in Prague, Charles Bridge, is a must-visit. The entire span is bordered with statues and boasts breathtaking views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle. It’s an easy and enjoyable walk for seniors.
Prague Castle (Pražský Hrad)
Touted as the largest coherent ancient castle complex in the world at over 70,000 square kilometres, Prague Castle also serves as the main government complex, where the Czech president holds office. While there are some inclines, most of the castle grounds are wheelchair-accessible, making it accessible for seniors with mobility problems. Notable landmarks within the complex to look around include the St George’s Basilica, St Vitus Cathedral and its South Tower, and the Golden Lane street, where noted author Franz Kafka’s house still stands. The Castle has a pricing list available here.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské Náměstí)
Founded in the 12th century, Old Town Square has borne silent witness to many public assemblies and events over the years. The Old Town Hall and its clock tower commands a view and numerous cafés border the area.
Old Town is also home to a number of memorials, including the Jan Hus Memorial at the centre and a set of 27 white crosses at the foot of the Old Town Hall. Those crosses are in honour of the leaders of the Bohemian Estates rebellion, who were executed in June 1621 – a 28th cross was later added in the name of another member who reportedly committed suicide before their scheduled execution.
Gardens
Prague is well-known for its parkland, worth a look for seniors aiming to destress in a sea of green. Here are some notable locations to check out, as noted by David Angel of Delve Into Europe.
Prague Castle has the Gardens Below Prague Castle, four small gardens that are actually interlinked and are located on a slope. One of them also leads to a panoramic viewdeck near the castle’s Black Tower Gate. The Royal Garden is north of the main castle complex, but is often passed over by tourists.
Petřín Hill, just off the west bank of the Vltava River, has a number of gardens to look out for. The Seminary Garden on the lower slopes is popular for its white blossom trees during springtime and unbelievable sunrise view. Further up the slope is the Růžový sad or Rose Gardens and the Petřín Tower.
The Franciscan Gardens is just off Wenceslas Square in the city centre. The current space is left over from a mediaeval garden, and is a favoured place of residents going on their lunch break.
The Wallenstein Palace Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) is unique for its precise geometrical design. Built from 1623 to 1630, the garden also boasts of a large moat once used for boat rides. Some visitors may even encounter a white peacock just walking around the area.
Museums
Explore Prague’s rich history through its museums with the following having a strong following of visitors. The following are a few options.
The National Museum (Národní muzeum) in Václavské nám. 68 is the largest museum in the country at 1,300 square metres, hosting an array of exhibitions, artefacts, and documents spanning Czech history from the eighth century onwards.
The National Gallery Prague (Národní galerie Praha) is the second-oldest art gallery in Central Europe, sporting works from Czech and international artists. Its collection is also spread out across several locations in the city.
The Franz Kafka Museum chronicles the life and works of the late author, such as the first editions of his books and discussions on his lovers. The museum also offers 3D exhibitions of Prague as it was often described in Kafka’s works. It may be expected that the museum will also organise special shows to honour Kafka on his 100th death anniversary this year.
Theatres
Seniors with a love of theatre may have something to look forward to in Prague.
The National Theatre (Národní Divadlo) is the country’s main opera house, offering opera, ballet, laterna magika, and drama shows across four stages. The Obecní Dům municipal house has the Smetana Hall for concerts. Marionette lovers will feel at home in the National Marionette Theatre. Located in an Art Deco building in Old Town, the theatre is known for puppet shows that have become a hallmark of Czech culture.
River Cruises
Travelling to Prague is not usually complete without a cruise along the Vltava River. Many operators offer comfortable boats with onboard dining, allowing you to enjoy the sights while savouring a meal or a drink. These cruises will last from 60 minutes to as long as three hours, and will pass under the numerous bridges in the city.
Day Trips
Even when you are staying in Prague proper, the Czech countryside has much to experience. Consider day trips to nearby towns like Kutná Hora, famous for the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church), or Český Krumlov, a picturesque town with a UNESCO-listed castle. Some operators also offer trips to the Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland National Park, which boasts of sandstone formations and a view of the Czechia-Germany frontier.
If you are interested in the history of Czechia’s former Communist rule, there’s also a tour package that includes visiting an actual nuclear bunker, the jail cells of the former Czechoslovakia’s StB secret police, and discussions on the Warsaw Pact invasion of 1968 and the 1989 Velvet Revolution.
Consult your travel agency for other specific packages.
Traditional Czech Cuisine
A culinary treat awaits seniors visiting Prague. Goulash is the most popular dish in the area, a saucy mix of beef and vegetables topped with slices of bread. Pork knuckles are a close second, served with horseradish and cabbage, as well as potato soups in a hollowed-out bread bun.
Spas
Seniors going to Prague may be in for a wellness retreat with a number of spas in and around the city. A unique treatment to look forward to is the beer spa, where you are immersed in a tub of warm beer, malt, and hops, with proponents claiming it offers benefits such as firmer skin, muscle relaxation, and increased metabolism. Czechs, though, vouch heavily for the spa town of Karlovy Vary, which is nestled in thermal springs.
Travel Tips for Seniors
Before embarking on your adventure to Prague or any other international destination, it’s essential to make thorough travel preparations, especially for seniors.
Pre-travel Checkup
Visit your healthcare provider for a pre-travel check-up. Discuss your travel plans and ensure you’re physically prepared for the journey.
Medications and Vaccinations
Ensure you have an adequate supply of prescription medications for the duration of your trip and they are in their original packaging, per Australian Border Force exit rules. Check if any vaccinations are required or recommended for your destination. Create a list of your medications, including their generic names, dosage, and instructions. Carry this list with you, along with your prescriptions.
Travel Insurance
You will have to take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover medical emergencies, booking cancellations, and lost belongings. Verify that it includes coverage for seniors and COVID-19 infection, even though Czechia no longer has pandemic entry restrictions.
Travel Companion
Consider travelling with a companion, especially if you have mobility issues or health concerns. A companion can provide support and assistance when needed. Czechia also offers seniors above 65 years old free public transport in Prague as long as they carry their passport. A PID card is available for 60-64-year-olds. A companion to help you in walking will be critical, as much of Prague’s streets are cobblestoned, which is notorious for slip-and-fall incidents.
Mobility Aids
If you use mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs, ensure they are in good condition and suitable for travel. Research accessibility in your destination.
Travel Documents
Your passport must still be valid for at least three months after you exit the Schengen Area and six months after your planned return to Australia. Make copies of essential travel documents, including your passport, visas, travel insurance, and itinerary.
Currency and Banking
Inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent any issues with card access. Consider exchanging a certain amount of Australian dollars for the Czech currency, koruna, to shoulder immediate expenses upon arrival, but have an emergency stock of currency in secret but accessible locations on your person. Take note as well, that the Czech customs service mandates declarations for inbound passengers if you carry at least €10,000 or equivalent amount in other currencies.
Local Emergency Contacts
Have a list of local emergency contacts ready, including the hospital and police station nearest your accommodation, the Australian consulate in Prague, and the Australian Embassy in Warsaw, Poland, which oversees consular operations in the Czech Republic and Lithuania.
Packing Essentials
Pack comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes for your trip. Consider clothing for varying weather conditions, a universal power adapter, and backup power supplies for your gadgets.
DFAT Travel Advisory
Check the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) travel advisory for the Czech Republic for any updated safety information or travel alerts, via the Smartraveller portal.
Conclusion
Prague offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure that is perfect for seniors looking to explore new horizons. By immersing yourself in the city’s rich heritage, savouring its cuisine, and enjoying leisurely strolls along the Vltava River, you can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. With thorough travel preparations and attention to your health and safety, your journey from Australia to Prague can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience that showcases the beauty of international travel, no matter your age.
The A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage
A journey from Australia to Czechia is within reach for seniors through the A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage. A Travel and Holidays fund can cover among others, your accommodation and flight expenses, on top of any other support funding you have.
Please contact the A.S.A.G. at 1300 002 724 or send an email to info@asagfirst.com.au to plan your travel finance options. You can also use the equity assessment tool below.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice. A.S.A.G. is not affiliated with any mentioned brands or companies.