Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” its skyline is adorned with a myriad of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance spires that tell tales of centuries past. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming European getaway, Prague offers something for everyone. Join me as we explore some of the must-see sights and hidden gems of this magnificent city.
My journey to Prague began with an early morning flight to Prague Václav Havel Airport. Upon arrival in Prague, I took a cab to the hotel situated in the old town of the city. The journey was pretty smooth and included view of the Evropská Street which is a major thoroughfare leading into the city. We then crossed the dejvická district, which is a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and residential buildings. Further down the cab crossed the Vltava River, offering scenic views of the city and its historic architecture, including glimpses of Prague Castle. Finally when you approach the Old Town, the streets narrow, and you begin to see the cobblestone roads and historic buildings that Prague is famous for.
Day 1
After check-in at the hotel, I had some refreshments and headed out to explore around the city, below are the sites I visited on day one.
Old Town Square
- Began with Prague’s Old Town, also known as Staré Mesto, which is the historic heart of the city and one of its most visited areas. It’s renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Astronomical Clock: Located on the Old Town Hall, this medieval clock is a major attraction. Every hour, the clock puts on a show with its moving figures of the Apostles and other characters. It’s the world’s oldest working one of its kind clock.
- Týn Church: This Gothic church with its twin spires is a dominant feature of the square.
- Nicholas Church: A beautiful Baroque church, often hosting classical music concert.
Charles Bridge: A Walk Through History
Connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), this iconic bridge is lined with 30 statues and offers spectacular views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle. No visit to Prague is complete without a stroll across the Charles Bridge. One of the statues that caught my eye was the Saint John of Nepomuk. He was a top saint of the Czech Republic who was thrown into the Vltava River at the very spot where the statue stands today.
Celetná Street and Powder Tower
Celetná Street is one of the oldest streets in Prague, leading from the Old Town Square to the Powder Tower, a Gothic tower that was part of the old city fortifications. Celetná Street and Powder Tower are two significant landmarks in Prague. They provide a rich cultural and historical experience, reflecting the architectural and historical evolution of Prague. Walking from the Powder Tower down Celetná Street, you immerse yourself in the city’s past, enjoying the blend of historical architecture and modern vibrancy.
Sightseeing cruise
Later that the evening, I did the sightseeing cruise in Prague which is a delightful way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the Vltava River. These cruises typically feature comfortable seating, audio commentary available in multiple languages, and scenic views of major attractions such as Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Kampa Island, the Dancing House, and the historic part of Vysehrad. I also had a view of the Petrin Tower which is a prominent landmark in Prague that offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the city. Often referred to as Prague’s mini Eiffel Tower, it is an iconic part of the city’s skyline.
Day 2
After enjoying some delicious breakfast at the hotel, I took a cab to one of the most awaited attractions:
The Prague Castle
Prague Castle, a stunning symbol of the Czech Republic’s rich history, stands majestically overlooking the city of Prague. As one of the largest ancient castles in the world, it serves as a central landmark and an essential piece of Czech heritage. Prague Castle is not just a historical monument; it is a living symbol of Czech heritage and resilience, embodying the spirit and culture of the Czech people through the ages. Its grand structures, stunning views, and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the captivating past of Central Europe.
After the castle I headed over to the New Town (Nove Mesto), it was one the areas of Prague I loved visiting. I decided to have some lunch at the restaurant there and had one of the most popular Czech dishes – Goulash: it’s a beef stew seasoned with paprika and served with bread dumplings or dark bread, a very delicious meal :)
Later that afternoon, I walked through the town admiring the wonderful views and architectures ending up at the ‘Dancing House.’
Dancing House
The Dancing House is a very interesting architecture. It has a unique design which makes it a popular spot for tourists and photographers, who are drawn to its striking appearance and it’s beautiful view. It is a prominent landmark in Prague, symbolizing the city’s embrace of contemporary architecture alongside its historical heritage. It is definitely a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Before visiting the next attraction on my list, i enjoyed a cup of coffee with some traditional Czech sweets.
Rotating Head by David Cerny
My next visit was the ‘Franz Kafka’ an iconic sculpture created by David Cerny. The Rotating Head of Franz Kafka, also known as “K on Sun,” is an intriguing kinetic sculpture created by renowned Czech artist David ?erný. This masterpiece is a tribute to one of Prague’s most famous literary figures, Franz Kafka, and is a captivating blend of art and technology. Its location near a bustling shopping center and metro station makes it easily accessible and a point of interest for both locals and tourists.
This was my last visit of the day after which I headed to a restaurant for dinner and enjoyed a flavorful pizza with a nice pint of the famous Czech beer – Pilsner Urquell. Later that evening, I visited the old town square again, relaxed there for a bit and admired the wonderful views around me.
Day 3
This was my last day in Prague, I had an evening flight which gave me plenty time to explore the rest of the city during the day. Started with some breakfast in the morning, checked out of the hotel and made my way to Grébovka (Havlí?kovy sady), a picturesque park located in the Vinohrady district of Prague. This historic park is named after the famous Czech writer Karel Havlí?ek Borovský. It has beautiful landscapes, featuring vineyards, a grotto, and a charming gazebo. The park also includes a Neo-Renaissance villa, which adds to its historic and aesthetic appeal. It serves as a popular recreational spot for both locals and tourists, offering scenic walking paths, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city.
As I was enjoying my last walk through the beautiful streets I stumbled upon a very interesting statue of men (actually just one man) being eaten up from the core and losing a part of himself. It turns out that it is a Memorial to the Victims of Communism. It is located at the base of Pet?ín Hill, easily accessible to visitors, being a short walk from the city center. The statues are arranged on a staircase and represent different stages of decay and disintegration. The first figure is complete, but as you move down the stairs, each figure is progressively more broken and deteriorated. The Memorial to the Victims of Communism is not just a piece of art but a somber reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and freedoms. As my holiday came to an end, I enjoyed some lunch at a bistro and made my way back to the airport for my flight back to London.
Overall
Prague’s charm lies in its ability to blend the old with the new. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene create a unique and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, enjoying its culinary delights, or simply wandering through its picturesque neighborhoods, Prague offers a rich and fulfilling experience for every visitor.
This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 18th, 2024 at 1:37 pm; on the subject of Trip Reports.