A Tale of Two Cities: Memories made from Prague to Berlin
Travel often brings out the most vivid experiences when shared with friends, especially those with whom you’ve shared past hardships and triumphs. Recently, I embarked on a thrilling adventure through Prague and Berlin, accompanied by three close friends from my army days. The camaraderie, laughter, and sheer joy of exploring these iconic cities together were unparalleled. Here's a detailed journal of our journey across these two stunning European capitals.
Prague: Where Every Corner Tells a Story
Our trip began in the mesmerizing city of Prague, a place where every street and alleyway seems steeped in history, yet vibrates with youthful energy and modern nightlife. Arriving in early March, we were greeted by the crisp spring air and a city buzzing with anticipation of the season's change.
As every journey should, ours started with the perfectly light yet filling breakfast at “Dante’s Bistro” with the kindest staff and eye candy price, but hey its Prague… just about every price is going to more attractive than the last.
A Night to Remember at Dirty Nelly’s
One of the highlights of our time in Prague was undoubtedly our evening at Dirty Nelly's, a unique four-story Irish bar located in the heart of the city. Each floor of Dirty Nelly's presented a different theme, creating an eclectic and exciting atmosphere. This wasn't just any Irish pub; it was a melting pot of cultures with people from all corners of the globe sharing stories over pints.
The night we visited, we decided to partake in the karaoke event happening on one of the floors. Energized by the crowd and perhaps a bit emboldened by the friendly atmosphere (and a few beers), we chose to perform a lively rendition of "Sweet Caroline." To our delight, the entire crowd joined in—singing, dancing, and celebrating together. It was a moment of pure joy and unity, reflecting the spirit of our friendship and the infectious vibe of Prague.
Dancing the Night Away at Karlovi Lazne
No visit to Prague would be complete without experiencing Karlovi Lazne, central Europe’s largest club. Located near the famous Charles Bridge, this historic bathhouse turned nightclub spans five floors, each offering a different musical genre. We explored each level, dancing to everything from classic hits on the 'Oldies' floor to thumping electronic beats on the 'Dance' floor. The energy of the place was electric, a perfect match for our high spirits.
Cultural Delights and Daytime Wanderings
During the day, we immersed ourselves in the rich history and culture of Prague. We wandered through the Old Town with its Astronomical Clock, visited the majestic Prague Castle, and walked along the Charles Bridge, marveling at the statues lining the historic structure. Each site offered a new perspective on Prague's layered history, from medieval times to the present day.
in my personal opinion, the most memorable tie of the trip was in Prague when one of my mates woke up early with me and we just walked with a cup of coffee for hours in the crisp air talking and listening the the most beautiful sounds of live street musicians of all ages and genres along the Karl bridge, old town, local parks and eventually meeting the group on the top of a local landmark “Vyhidka horni bastion”, we took the most pastoral photos before going to get breakfast at the best spot in town “Venue” right by the old town square.
Don’t worry, we wont send you of without telling about the best hotels in the city!
(click the hotel names to check them out)
Four Seasons Hotel Prague - Combining historical architecture with modern luxury, the Four Seasons is ideally located at the edge of the Vltava River, offering spectacular views of the Prague Castle. Its central location provides easy access to many of the city's historic sites.
Mandarin Oriental - Situated in a former monastery, the Mandarin Oriental blends historical charm with contemporary luxury. Located in the picturesque Mala Strana district, it offers a peaceful retreat with a luxurious spa housed in a Renaissance chapel.
Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa - Nestled in a magnificent Baroque house near Prague Castle, this hotel offers a truly opulent experience. The hotel features richly decorated interiors and provides exceptional service, along with a highly praised spa.
Aria Hotel Prague - Perfect for music lovers, the Aria Hotel is uniquely themed around music, with each room dedicated to a specific style or artist. It also boasts a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
Hotel Josef - Known for its modern, minimalist design, Hotel Josef is located in the heart of Prague, close to Old Town Square. It offers bright, airy rooms and a fresh, contemporary atmosphere.
Berlin: A Modern Metropolis with a Storied Past
The Culinary Delight of The Bird
As we traveled from Prague to Berlin, the shift in vibe was palpable. Berlin’s modern, gritty energy contrasted with Prague’s medieval charm. Our culinary highlight in Berlin was undoubtedly The Bird, a New York-style steakhouse known for serving the best burgers in the city. The burgers were thick, juicy, and cooked to perfection, paired brilliantly with a selection of craft beers. It was a taste of home that recharged us for more exploration.
Treasure Hunting at Mauerpark Flea Market
One of Berlin’s most famous weekly events is the Mauerpark Flea Market. Every Sunday, the park fills with vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and antique furniture to handmade jewelry and artwork. We spent hours browsing the stalls, each finding unique souvenirs to commemorate our trip. The vibrant atmosphere, live music, and friendly vendors made the Mauerpark Flea Market a standout experience in Berlin.
Reflecting on History
Berlin’s history, particularly its role during the Cold War, was evident as we visited remnants of the Berlin Wall and the poignant memorials dotting the city. These sites served as powerful reminders of Berlin’s past, offering a moment of reflection amid our lively trip.
Enjoying Berlin's Nightlife
Berlin's nightlife, much like Prague’s, was vibrant and diverse. However after 4 nights of intense parties & bar crawls, sadly we just couldn’t bring ourselves to carry on in berlin even though Berlin without a doubt has one of the most extreme and ecstatic party scenes, so I would definitely recommend learning from our mistakes and saving some (if not lots) of energy for your nights in Berlin.
Instead we ended up going several authentic German pubs and bars, each with its live music, unique vibe and crowd, although they weren’t the extravagant parties’ we heard of, they were no disappointment and we still had some of the best nights of our lives together (maybe some of the credit should go the the mouth watering local beers that we couldn’t stop ordering).
Best Hotels in Berlin
Hotel Adlon Kempinski - Located right next to the Brandenburg Gate, Hotel Adlon Kempinski is synonymous with luxury. It has a storied history and offers impeccable service, multiple restaurants, and a sumptuous spa.
The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin - This hotel is famous for its exceptional service and luxurious accommodations. Located at Potsdamer Platz, The Ritz-Carlton features elegantly appointed rooms and a top-notch wellness area.
Precise Tale Berlin - is a boutique hotel in Berlin's Mitte district, blending contemporary design with historical elegance. It offers luxurious amenities like a spa, fitness center, and on-site dining, along with a bar serving innovative cocktails. The hotel is ideally located near major landmarks and next to Chef Restaurant Olga, a top dining destination. Known for its exceptional service, Precise Tale Berlin provides a culturally rich experience through events showcasing local artists. Perfect for travelers seeking a deep connection with Berlin's vibrant culture and history.
25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin - Perfect for the young and young at heart, this hotel offers a quirky, modern design and a laid-back atmosphere. It is adjacent to the Berlin Zoo and offers rooms with a view of the animal enclosures or the city skyline.
Das Stue - This luxury boutique hotel is housed in a former embassy building. It offers a quiet, sophisticated base with an excellent fine dining restaurant and views of the Berlin Zoo.
Choosing the right hotel can dramatically enhance your visit, whether you're looking for historical grandeur, modern luxury, or a unique thematic experience. Both Prague and Berlin offer exceptional options that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
The Bonds That Travel Strengthens
This trip was more than just a tour through two beautiful cities; it was a journey that strengthened the bonds between friends who had already shared so much. From singing karaoke at Dirty Nelly's in Prague to dancing in Berlin's techno havens, each moment was a reminder of the joy and freedom that comes with exploring the world with friends by your side. none of us were first timers in Prague, although 4-5 days is definitely enough we could all agree the every time we visit the just gets better and better.
Our adventure through Prague and Berlin was filled with laughter, discovery, and a renewed appreciation for each city’s unique beauty and history. It was a reminder that while destinations may be marked off a map, the true journey lies in the experiences shared along the way. Whether it’s the high energy of a bustling nightclub or the silent reverence of a historic site, traveling with close friends turns every moment into a cherished memory.
