Curious how to explore Prague as Dan Brown’s iconic professor, Robert Langdon? The author himself shared a guide to experiencing the Czech capital through his character’s eyes, but be prepared for a rather lavish itinerary.
Dan Brown, whose new book, *The Secret of All Mystery*, is set for release on September 9, outlined a Robert Langdon-inspired Prague experience on social media. This isn’t a budget-friendly tour; it seems Langdon, a professor from Harvard University, has a taste for the finer things in life.
A Taste of Langdon’s Prague
Brown’s recommendations kick off with a visit to the National Library of the Czech Republic’s Klementinum. This Baroque library, described as housing “ancient books, manuscripts and maps, as well as architectural elements,” is noted as a perfect setting for Professor Langdon. The library is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with a basic entrance fee of 380 Czech crowns.
For a more accessible experience, Charles Bridge is suggested as a free activity. However, for dinner, Langdon’s preference is the rooftop terrace at CODA, a restaurant whose name echoes the Czech word for “code,” a concept dear to the symbology professor. The view is highly praised, but CODA is decidedly upscale. Appetizers and soups range from 330 to 4,800 crowns (the latter for black caviar), with main courses averaging around 1,000 crowns. Desserts also come with a significant price tag, like the 330-crown honey cake.
Selection of Summer Ala Carte MenuKulajda with forest mushrooms – 330 crowns Caesar salad – 420 crowns Grilled duck Foie Gras – 690 crowns LOVEČKOVÁ GNOCCHI – 680 crowns Sea wolf – 1,250 crowns Duck breast marinated in koji – 950 Lamb back and slowly roasted hanger – 1,190 crowns Stuffed curd dumplings – 330 crowns Source: CODA |
After dinner, the guide points to Prague’s nightlife, specifically recommending the Black Angel’s Bar, distinct from the typical pub crawls. Cocktails here start at 200 crowns, with options like the Bohemian Manhattan priced at 325 crowns.
Luxury Lodging for the Discerning Traveler
When it comes to accommodation, the Robert Langdon experience steers clear of three-star hotels or standard Airbnb rentals. The character, famously portrayed by Tom Hanks in the film adaptations, is accustomed to a higher caliber of luxury. Brown’s guide identifies the Four Seasons’ Royal Suite as Langdon’s preferred dwelling in Prague, with a cheeky suggestion that he might not be traveling solo.
The Four Seasons is renowned in Prague. While a standard room might cost around 18,000 crowns, the Royal Suite is in a league of its own. These are the hotel’s most exclusive accommodations, featuring multiple bedrooms and prime views of the Charles Bridge and the Vltava River. Information regarding the suite’s price isn’t readily available online, and inquiries to the hotel’s press spokesperson reportedly went unanswered. However, it’s estimated that such an opulent stay could cost hundreds of thousands of crowns per night. Reports from 2024 suggested a typical Royal Suite price of approximately 200,000 crowns nightly, positioning it as accommodation for the truly “chosen.” Even opting for less extravagant lodgings, following this new novel’s guide suggests a Prague visit will be a significant financial undertaking.
