The fairytale capital of Czechia has a lot to offer the traveler.
Built on the banks of the Vltava River, Prague is, as Goethe put it, the «most beautiful jewel in the stone crown of the world». Its distinctive blend of Baroque and Gothic architecture, the deeply atmospheric Old Town, the iconic Charles Bridge, the fairy-tale castle, its towers and churches make you fall in love with this city at first sight. Classical music concerts,jazz clubs and beer halls add their own special color to the travel experience.
The fairy-tale capital of Czechia is a beloved destination, so we’ve put together a list of the best experiences Prague will treat you to.
Old Town Square
Beautiful Baroque-style buildings, striking landmarks, cafes and restaurants set the scene in Old Town Square, in the heart of Prague. The best-known sight is the magnificent Astronomical Clock on the Gothic tower of the Old Town Hall, where tourists crowd to watch the show put on by the moving figurines every hour.
The iconic Charles Bridge
This historic bridge is a jewel of the city. It was built in 1357, and between the 15th and 19th centuries it was the only bridge linking the Castle with the Old Town. It is 516 meters long and almost 10 meters wide, supported by 16 arches and adorned with 30 statues. Crossing Charles Bridge you will enjoy, besides the unique view, performances by dozens of musicians.
The fairy-tale castle
On the other side of the Vltava rises the Castle, which looks as if it came straight out of a fairy tale. It is the largest medieval complex in Europe and the oldest seat of the Czech kings. Prague Castle includes St. Vitus Cathedral with its elaborate Gothic architecture, the Basilica of St. George, palaces such as the Lobkowicz Palace and the Old Royal Palace, as well as various museums and art galleries. In the picturesque Golden Lane of alchemists and goldsmiths with its colorful houses, time has stood still in the 16th century.
In the alleys ofMala Strana
Stroll the cobbled alleys of Mala Strana, the district beneath the castle. Picturesque streets, Baroque buildings, squares, leafy gardens and plenty of cafes, little shops and riverside restaurants set the scene in Prague’s most charming neighborhood.
The flavors of Prague
Goulash, knedliky dumplings, smazeny syr (fried cheese),klobása (sausages) and kulajda soup are some of the local treats you shouldn’t miss. Naturally, pair them with an ice-cold Czech beer. Also, don’t forget to try trdelnik, a cylindrical grilled pastry in which you can add various fillings.
The historic cafes
Prague’s iconic cafes will transport you back in time. The historic Café Louvre counted Kafka and Einstein among its regulars. Also famed is Café Savoy with its impressive decor, as well as the atmospheric Cafe Slavia with its wonderful view of the Castle.
Cultural strolls
Audiovisual material, diaries,letters and manuscriptsby Franz Kafka are housed at the Kafka Museum in Mala Strana, which will inform you about the Czech writer’s relationship with the city. The Mucha Museum is located in the Baroque Kaunicky Palace and is the world’s first museum dedicated to the life and work of the Czech Art Nouveau artist Alfons Mucha.
Attend a Black Theatre performance.Black-clad performers against a black backdrop and colorful objects floating through the air create a striking spectacle (see more here). Book tickets for a classical music concert in a church or to see opera or ballet at the Estates Theatre, at the State Opera and at the National Theatre in Prague.
City views
Escape to the hill of Vysehrad, in the south of the city, where Prague’s second castle stands. It has quiet, lush little parks and offers panoramic views of the river and the Old Town. The verdant hill of Petrin, above Mala Strana, also offers wonderful views of the city. It is one of the locals’ favorite places,where they come to play with their dogs,read orhave a picnic. At the top of the hill there is a replica of the Eiffel Tower, as well as a lovely rose garden.
Christmas in Prague
It’s hard not to fall in love with Prague if you visit in winter, especially at Christmas. The city’s largest open-air market is set up in Old Town Square. Grab a mug of steaming wine and wander among its wooden chalets. Sample spit-roasted pork and grilled sausages, listen to Czech carols and browse wooden toys, handmade jewelry and traditional marionettes. Also famous is the market on Wencelas Square, while you can also stroll to the smaller ones at Namesti Republiky, Namesti Míru and Havelska Trziste. Completing the festive scene are the open-air ice rinks that pop up around the city, such as the one in front of the Town Hall.
