Prague, or Prague, as it is known locally, is the capital of the Czech Republic. This Central European city, inhabited by Slavs, influenced by Europe and known worldwide as a major tourist destination, is exhilarating, accessible and unforgettable.
Visually, Prague is a smorgasbord of architectural styles and artistic details. From the cobblestones underfoot to the towers of its churches, each element has a double function: serving its structural purpose and attracting the eye. For today’s Prague, the third benefit of its beauty can be identified: distraction. Patterned pavements divert your attention, if not your footsteps, from dog droppings; the old town, a historical center, attracts seductively from the other side of the Charles Bridge, apparently impassable with its pressure of tourists; The grandeur of the ancient palaces makes the merchandising displays forgivable.
Districts
There’s more to Prague than its physical charm, and exploring Prague’s districts is an enjoyable way to sample the flavors of the city. The Castle District and Prague Castle, the seat of the Czech rulers, is an obvious starting point. The Cathedral of Saint Vitus, the most important church in the nation is here; Built in the 14th century, it will not fail to impress visitors that its creators were as dedicated to artistic expression as they were to religion. The Castle District gives way to the Mala Strana structures, which are clustered around the base of Castle Hill.
These were built by the wealthy, whose proximity to the king reflected their own level of influence. Cross the Charles Bridge to enter Prague’s Old Town, where fact-based legends await to be told at every crossing, and where fervent tourists search for these stories. A different kind of bustle drives the crowds in New Town, where shopping and dining take precedence over everything else.
Staying and getting around Prague is easy. Rooms in affordable hotels near the city center can be secured with advanced planning; the less affordable can be booked directly in the center for those who want to be part of the action even while they sleep. Getting from your hotel to points of interest, restaurants or shops on foot will allow you to enjoy the feeling of the city. Alternatively, the metro and trams are easy to use and taxis are plentiful.
Restaurants
Prague’s restaurant scene caters to all budgets, but may not appeal to all tastes. Czech restaurants advertising Czech cuisine focus heavily on meat and meatball dishes, and even restaurants with menus based on other cuisines offer slim vegetarian offerings. However, what these restaurants lack in selection, they make up for in atmosphere. Dine in old wine cellars, well-established smoking hangouts, chic modern upscale establishments, politically significant cafes, or even, weather permitting, outdoors on a famous square.
Prague at night
Although it may seem impossible to avoid Prague go-go-go while trying to pack your schedule packed with sights, downtime is essential. As you inspect museum collections or bookstore selections, your inner monologue will find its voice in relative calm and help you prioritize the time you have left to spend. Before falling asleep in your room, the lights and sounds of Prague will make their way through the cracks in the curtains, convincing you of the reality of your experience – you are not dreaming.
With a Pilsner, coffee or mineral water, you will have time to reflect on the newly created memories that will allow you to return to Prague at any time.
