Czech Republic’s capital city of Prague is also its largest and is divided into two parts by the Vltava River. The city has a historical town at its core and is filled with colourful baroque styled buildings. There is a lot of rich influence and history surrounding this city and you can see this through the buildings of Prague, with many Gothic churches and medieval architecture. Prague has a standing in important historical events as it was the capital of the kingdom of Bohemia and played a major role during the Habsburg Monarchy.
Prague
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Due to Prague being a political, cultural and economic hub, there are many sites to see within the city. A lot of these attractions survived destructive events during the 20th-century and as a result Prague’s historic centre was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic centre consists of a number of architectural sites including Charles Bridge which crossed over the city’s Vltava River and connects Prague’s old town with the new towns. It is named after King Charles IV who started its construction in 1357. The Prague Castle is a stunning complex of architecture dating back to the 9th century. It contains Roman and Gothic influences and it is also the official office of the president of Czech Republic.
Prague’s Old Town has a wonderfully rustic feel to it as you navigate down its cobblestoned streets. Many of Prague’s main attractions are located in its Old Town, including the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Tyn and Prague’s medieval Astronomical Clock, which is a 600-year old clock located by the city hall and it displays the twelve apostles when the clock strikes.
Czech cuisine may not be well known, but there are plenty of delicious dishes to try and what better way to culturally explore the city than by pleasing your taste buds. Try Trdelnik also known as chimney cakes is rolled dough which is wrapped around a stick. The dough is then roasted over a flame until it is crispy and then finally topped off with sugar and a walnut mix which gives this traditional dessert its sugary taste. There are loads of stands dotted around Prague which make and sell Trdelnik. Or taste Svickova which is essentially braised beef served with dumplings. This is a traditional Czech dish and is a widespread meal throughout the country. This is the perfect meal if you’re looking for something that is creamy, sweet and savoury all in one.
The best way to witness the culture and history of Prague is by walking through it’s Old Town. Here, you’ll see the different periods and styles that have influenced the city over the years, from Baroque, Medieval and Gothic. Due to Prague being a hub of political, cultural and economic activities in Central Europe for years, this is reflected throughout the city. Prague is full of theatres, opera houses, open national parks as well as old architecture and more contemporary buildings. It’s the perfect city that mixes the old with the new. Prague is a fantastic base for up and coming artists and musicians, with current features of art, street art and live music. The city is also home to a rock and roll scene which is gaining steam and can be heard in many of the live venues around Prague.
Prague is a great city with a lot of sightseeing to do, but when the night falls Prague comes alive. You can find two ends of the spectrum in Prague, from traditional beer halls which feature musicians playing the accordion to modern night clubs. If you choose to venture to the night clubs of Prague, you will find that house and techno are the principal music types that are played. Head to M1 Lounge located in the Old Town Square or for live music MeetFactory Music which hold a huge capacity of fellow party-goers. Prague is home to traditional pubs but if you’re looking for a more contemporary bar, you’ll definitely find them in the city. The majority of bars can be found in the center of Prague, which means a spot of bar hopping is on the cards.
Prague is a fun place to do some shopping as the city is full of small boutiques and little market stalls. Small shops are dotted about the Old Town where you can fish out bargains. In Prague boutiques you can find collections from up and coming designers and various styles to suit many tastes. Little markets have bits and bobs which would be great souvenirs to remember your city break in Prague. Vintage and antique items with Bohemian prints can be found, along with illustrations and books. Wooden keepsakes and herbal soaps are folk-like items that you will find in small shops and markets.
Ultimately, Prague is a wonderful city break location. It is suited to absolutely anyone, whether it is families, young groups of travellers or couples who’re looking for a romantic break away. Whether you’re a fan of architecture or a history buff, you’ll find aspects of Prague that you’ll love and appreciate. A weekend break in Prague is a great length of time to spend in the capital in order to see all the important spots. From the city’s Old Town to the Astronomical Clock, there are some fascinating things to see and do. Check out our last minute deals or our cheap holidays to find something that suits you.