One Of The Cheapest Places To Live In Europe That Rick Steves' Son Loves

We can't all be lucky enough to have a travel guru as a father, but Rick Steves' son Andy has done a great job sharing and building upon his dad's knowledge. That's why when Andy gives his stamp of approval to a low-cost European destination, our ears perk up, and we start looking for flights. 

For years, digital nomads, students, and retirees have known that Prague, Czechia (also known as the Czech Republic), is one of the most affordable places to live in Europe. Not only is "The Golden City" easy on the wallet, but it is also chock full of historical places, food to die for, and some of the best underground bars we've encountered in any city. Plus, it's well connected to other European cities, the visa process is fairly straightforward for Americans and Canadians, the expat community is welcoming, and you'll never run out of things to do.

At a glance, Prague is a big city with a population of approximately 1.4 million people, but it doesn't feel overwhelming. Dating back over 1,000 years, the city boasts distinct architecture that creates a fairytale-like ambiance mixed with all the trappings of a modern city. Visit the towering Prague Castle, amble through the enchanting Old Town Square, or discover lesser-known districting using the cost-efficient public transportation system. While some cities feel dangerous after dark, Prague boasts low violent crime rates, and walking at night feels safe in most areas (much safer than San Francisco, for instance). 

Depending on your lifestyle and priorities, the cost of living in Prague compares favorably to other big cities in Europe. Czechia is typically one of the countries where the U.S. dollar is strong. For example, expect to pay between $850 and $1,900 for a two-bedroom apartment. However, for a better deal, we recommend staying further away from the city center, in a neighborhood like Smíchov or Holešovice. In terms of temporary accommodations, you can find a comfortable hostel bed starting from $10 per night and a basic room from $25. If you're looking for something fancier in a central location, a four-star hotel like Residence U Malvaz costs upwards of $76 per night. 

But what gets us most excited is the cost and quality of the food. Combining influences from Western Europe and neighboring countries, traditional Czech cuisine is hearty and ultra-comforting. Expect to pay $8 to $12 for lunch — a protein, soup, and dumplings — and between $10 and $14 for dinner. However, you can always find cheaper meals by going to no-fuss local spots. Did we mention that beer is cheap? $2 to $3.50 is a normal price for a draft beer, and the flavor definitely beats Coors or Miller. 

We've said it before, but public transportation is a huge money-saver in Prague. The metro is extremely easy to use and super affordable. For example, the yearly pass is usually exempt from price hikes and costs around $150 per year. As a tourist, you'll likely pay around $13 for the three-day unlimited pass. 

As Czechia becomes one of the world's most visited countries, these expat-approved activities in Prague should top your bucket list. The city is home to numerous small cinemas where you can watch blockbusters or Arthouse films — check out Edison Filmhub or Aero Cinema. During the rainy summer months, catching a film or visiting a local tea shop is a great, non-touristy way to pass the time. 

However, there are a few touristy activities you can't miss, including a visit to Charles Bridge, a 14th-century architectural marvel that spans the Vltava River. Another top destination is the Astronomical Clock, which is over 600 years old and displays the time of day plus the position of the sun and moon. However, it's best to be an early bird or a night owl to avoid the crowds and experience the sites of Prague at your own pace. 

For an activity favored by Andy Steves, visit Letná Park, a public park with breathtaking views of the city. Here, you can enjoy some of the best views in Prague without the crowds or the entrance fee. Whether you stroll along the paths, have a picnic, or snap a few photos, this park is sure to top your list of the best places in Prague.