Medieval, fascinating, romantic, filled of places waiting to be discovered and with an amazing history to be told. Prague is a surprising city – by day and night – and a very pleasant place to be.
My story with Prague was love at first sight. I had always heard about this charming city, seen pictures and thought it was a very original place to visit in Europe. It used to be on my bucket list until 2012, when it became a place where I would happily return. Perfect for a romantic weekend, Prague is one of the places I visited in my life that really surpassed my expectations.
Walking on the cobblestones streets of Prague I met the most mysterious dark alleys, and medieval buildings that made me feel I was part of an epic movie. Crossing the Charles Bridge I breathed the romantic air of a place where so many fell in love and got engaged. Sitting somewhere in the middle of the busy Old Town Square I observed life pass by, horses and carriages and a bride and a groom’s wedding photo shooting, until I realized I had found my favorite place in the city.
From the St. Vitus Cathedral and the Prague Castle I found the perfect view, where I could cherish the rooftops of a rich architecture that remained intact after the World War II. Romanesque, gothic or baroque styles, all well preserved and fully alive in the city of love, worthy of admiration.
It won’t take long until you notice the main attraction of the Old Town Square: the Astronomical Clock or the Prague orloj. Installed in 1410, it is the oldest of its kind that is still working. It represents the position of the sun and the moon, a calendar with months and “the walk of the Apostles” with dancing figures. Legend says that the city will suffer if the clock is somehow compromised.
Don’t worry if you happen to get lost among the medieval streets of Prague, it won’t take long until you realize where you are again. Try it once and you will discover something new, try it twice and you will find some more. This is how I found my favorite building in the city: the Powder Tower. Once used as gunpowder storage during the 17th century, this Gothic tower is one of the 13 original city gates.
Romance and mystery in the air: walking around medieval Prague and finding a cozy and delicious restaurant to eat was my favorite part. Enjoy the Paris of Eastern Europe, one of the Top 10 romantic cities in the world.
Do something different
- Make The Underground Prague Tour and discover a whole new city
- Visit the Chocolate Museum and leave craving for more
- If eating and cooking is what you love, visit the Gastronomy Museum
My helpful tips
- Buy the Prague Card and get a free tour, free transportation, free entry to several attractions and much more.
- Explore and explore! Don’t be afraid of getting lost.
- Official currency: Czech Koruna. 1 EUR is approximately 27 CZK.
- Try to exchange your money as soon as possible, specifically to coins; it will be really hard to get a metro ticket if you don’t have coins or a small bill.
- Hotels in Prague are not expensive; you just have to pick your favorite location, according to your needs.
- Public transportation: Tram, Bus and Metro
Enjoying the food
Goulash Soup is a Hungarian traditional dish, but you will surely enjoy having it in Prague. Especially if it is served in a bread like this one:
Prague offers a variety of medieval restaurants, where you will most probably find one of those. Anyone?
You have to try
- Trdelník: a sweet roll with sugar and cinnamon, like a pancake in a roll.
- Duck: traditional in the region, in most restaurants you will have the chance to order half a duck for yourself.
- Why not enjoy the local beers? Try the famous Pilsner Urquell, or a Gambrinus and Primus.
- Looking for a cosy and delicious restaurant? U Bakalare Pizza & Pasta, an Italian restaurant near the Old Town Square is a great idea. I still keep their business card.
Shopping in Prague
There are two main streets in the center city where you can be happy shopping:
Václavské náměstí: long street that goes all the way to the Wenceslas Square. Very busy, specially during the December holidays, when they organize a little Christmas Market totally worth the visit.
Metro Station: Mústek or Museum
Pařížská: shopping paradise. Fancing a Prada or Burberry bag? What about getting engaged with a Tiffany’s diamond ring? Here you will find haute couture and all its best friends. Not willing to spend much? No problem, take a walk and a look at the shopping windows, it’s free!
Metro Station: Staroměstská
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Have you ever been to Prague? Any tips? Planning to visit? Need advice?
Sneak Peak!
Stay tuned and follow my next trip:
Baska, Krk Island, Croatia: May 30th – June 6th
Ljubljana, Slovenia: June 6th – June 8th
Transportation: car
Who’s in: dog, husband, Go Pro Hero 3 and… my suitcase (still need to finish packing)
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