Day 1: An Early Start and a Scenic Journey to Prague
Today marked the beginning of my exciting week in Prague, but first, I had to get there from Heidelberg. My day started bright and early at 4:30 AM to finish packing in the dark, one of the downfalls of staying in a hostel, to catch my bus at 5:30. One thing to be grateful for was I only had a 5 minute walk to the bust stop to embark on a long, yet easy, journey by FlixBus. I was super impressed by FlixBus. It was a double decker bus, and for an additional small charge, I was able to secure an assigned seat by the window.
Why I Chose FlixBus: Cost and Convenience
Traveling from Heidelberg to Prague can be done by train, but I opted for the FlixBus instead. Not only was it more budget-friendly, but it also surprisingly offered shorter travel times when compared to the train. FlixBus is known for its affordability and extensive network across Europe, making it a great option for travelers looking to save money without sacrificing too much comfort. The bus ride allowed me to relax and take in the changing scenery, from the charming German countryside to the historic landscapes of the Czech Republic.
Settling In: Womenβs Only Hostel
After a little over seven hours on the road, I finally arrived in Prague and made my way to my accommodation, the Womenβs Only Hostel. This cozy and welcoming hostel was the perfect choice for my stay. Designed specifically for female travelers, it offers a safe, comfortable environment with all the amenities you need after a long day of travel. After checking in and getting settled, I took some time to rest and recharge on their 3rd floor terrace before heading out to explore and find a place for dinner. When I travel I will either stay at a hostel or book an Airbnb, and I will tell you that this has been the best hostel I have stayed in so far this trip. It is clean, they have great hang out places like the Terrace and Kitchen area, have plenty of bathrooms and showers, and I love the Womenβs Only idea for safely and security.
Dinner and a Walk: First Impressions of Prague
I ventured out for dinner, and didnβt have to go far. I opted to sit outside right next to the hostel to enjoy the evening at The Dubliner.This Irish Bar was the perfect place to sit outside, enjoy a pasta dinner and a cold cider, and soak up the atmosphere of Prague. The city immediately charmed me with its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere. I immediately fell in love with the courtyards that are little treasures behind all the big streetside buildings.
After dinner, I took a leisurely walk through the nearby streets and city square, soaking in the ambiance of early evening in the city.
Final Thoughts
Though it was a long day that began in the early hours of the morning, the journey from Heidelberg to Prague was well worth it. The convenience and cost-effectiveness of FlixBus made the trip easier, and arriving in Prague felt like the beginning of a new adventure. After settling into the Womenβs Only Hostel and exploring the city a bit, Iβm already falling in love with Pragueβs charm.
I canβt wait to dive deeper into everything this city has to offer in the coming days. Stay tuned for more updates as I explore Pragueβs rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture!