Arrive in Prague, and you could be forgiven for thinking that you've strayed into a fairy tale. For Prague is impossibly pretty, with pastel houses, gothic spires and golden statues, but behind the fairy tale lies a gritty past littered with revolutions, nazi occupation and communist austerity. It won't spoil your trip though, for it's hard to feel sad in this magical city.
| You could be forgiven for thinking that you've strayed into a fairy tale.... |
Many hotels in Prague are within walking distance of the city centre. Prague hotels now include many worldwide chains, and have significantly improved and expanded in number, thanks to the explosion of tourism that the city has seen in recent years. Perhaps ideally, the compact layout of the city means that most of the hotels in Prague are close to most of its main attractions, but some areas, such as Hradcany, the area around Prague Castle, are quite hilly and with less simple access, and so only suitable for sprightly travellers. In most instances, though, you can step out of your hotel in the evening, and into the pulsating nightlife, or, by day, into a whirl of street vendors and shops, culture and heritage.
The Old Town Square, once shoulder to shoulder with market traders, is now bustling with holidaymakers, and no wonder. The pastel coloured merchant's mansions have pavement cafés spilling out from beneath the arches, and every hour a crowd waits for the moment that the Old Town Clock strikes. The trap door opens, and Christ marches out followed by his 12 Apostles, while the skeleton of death tolls his bell. Afterwards, wander down to Charles Bridge, which crosses the Vltava River at the very heart of Prague. Guarded by imposing towers at either end, it is flanked by over 75 brooding statues which watch your progress as you cross this evocative bridge. Come at dawn or dusk for the most eerie experience, or during the day to catch street performers and the entertaining jazz band.
High on the skyline above the bridge sits Prague Castle, a huge and ancient complex with a palace, a monastery and the gothic St Vitus Cathedral. Be sure to see the Golden Lane, where tiny, colourful houses are tucked into the arches of the castle wall, and now house souvenir shops. However, for authentic Czech souvenirs, explore the dinky streets of the Mala Strana district beneath the castle walls, for here you will find puppets, wooden toys and hand painted eggs.
With so many sights to see, you'll need some sustenance, and with goulash, roast pork, dumplings and sauerkraut on offer, the hearty local cuisine will offer just that. The Czechs invented the first clear, golden lager in Europe, so you'll find excellent beer to wash it all down. And Prague's bars and restaurants beat the lot when it comes to atmosphere. Many are tucked into vaulted cellars with open stoves and live jazz bands. This is a city of music, with opera, ballet and classical concerts throughout the year.
Tempted? You should be, for this city is very special indeed.
