When it comes to vibrant, bohemian and charming cities, there are many that might fit into this category, but one in particular has a special vibe. I am talking about Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.
I have recently discovered this amazing city and after my trip there, I can definitely say that Prague has a lot of things to offer. Situated along the Vltava River, “The city of 100 spires”, the way Prague is called, displays an impressive collection of beautiful churches, cathedrals and bridges. Everywhere you look you can see towers, church turrets and cathedrals.
This might seem a bit unusual taking into account the fact that over 60 % of Prague’s population does not report even a formal affiliation to any church. An interesting paradox, isn’t it? In my opinion Prague doesn’t mean only churches, cathedrals and bridges, this city is definitely more than meets the eye.
Prague hides narrow cobbled streets and sophisticated neighborhoods, but it is also a city of culture and a city that has a lot to offer when it comes to art. I had a great time in Prague and I can definitely say that there are a lot of reasons to love this city. No matter what you choose to visit or do in Prague, you should in my opinion add the following 15 things on your list:
1.The Old Town Hall with its impressive tower is the first building that you won’t be able to take your eyes off as soon as you enter the Old Town Square. If you visit the tower, the panoramic view over the entire area will definitely be a memorable experience.
2. Situated on one of the outer walls of the Old Town Hall, the Astronomical Clock is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Europe. The clock was very carefully manufactured and embellished with a lot of details and symbols. I find it very interesting that a little golden rooster crows every hour and announces the time.
3.The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn is a beautiful Gothic church which is also situated in the Old Town. Its beauty is given by two imposing spires that decorate the cathedral. Between these spires tourists can admire a type of icon representing Virgin Mary. The Tyn School is situated right in front of the church and this is the reason why you can only see its upper side.
4. Situated in the Old Town Square, St. Nicholas Church is a beautiful Baroque church which perfectly completes the scenery. This is actually the most famous Baroque church in Prague.
5. The Old Town area hosts another beautiful tourist attraction, the Powder Tower-Mihulka. This Gothic tower is 65 meters high and it is considered to be one of the original city gates and also the place where they used to store the gunpowder. This is the reason why it is also called the Powder Gate.
6.The amazing Charles Bridge lies over the Vltava River and it is one of the most famous attractions in Prague. Embellished with 30 beautiful baroque statues, this bridge is the oldest bridge in the city and also the most beautiful one.
7. Mala Strana is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Prague and a place you should definitely visit. This beautiful area which connects the Old Town with the Castle Districts, shelters a multitude of interesting and beautiful buildings.
8. The oldest water mill in Prague is also located in Mala Strana. This little water mill embellishes the channel that goes through this beautiful area. The mill creates an interesting contrast with the modern buildings.
9. St. Vitus Cathedral is a wonderful Roman Catholic cathedral situated in the courtyard of Prague Castle. This is the largest cathedral in Prague built in Gothic style. Its architecture is really impressive and it is decorated with a lot of statues and symbols.
10. Letna Park is a beautiful area where you can relax after visiting all these places. A walk in this beautiful park will give you the energy to continue exploring the city. Located on a hill, this park will offer you a stunning view over the entire Old Town. It is considered to be one of the best places for taking pictures.
11.Wenceslas Square is a vibrant area situated in the New Town of Prague. Named after Saint Wenceslas, this place will give you the opportunity to admire imposing buildings and famous stores. This is the second most famous square in Prague after the Old Town Square.
12.The Dancing House is one of the most interesting buildings in Prague. This postmodern masterpiece represents a pair of dancers, a man and a woman dancing together. The house is also called Ginger& Fred after the famous dancers Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire.
13. Prague Zoo is another place that you should definitely visit. This zoo is considered to be the fourth best zoo in the world. It covers a large area and it hosts over 5000 animals and 650 species.
14. Segway tours are very well promoted in Prague, so well that you might consider them disturbing. Everywhere you look you will see people using this self-balancing electric vehicle on two wheels. It might be interesting to explore the city like this, but I was personally impressed by the lively atmosphere that all these vehicles create when they keep on moving around you.
15. You cannot leave Prague without tasting its beer. It is said that Prague has the best beer in the world and I completely agree with this statement. Nothing goes better with beer than sausages and Prague bacon and you should try this combination if you ever get the chance to travel to Prague.
