With its winding cobbled stone paths, expansive palaces and soaring steeples, you could only really be in Prague. Known as the City of a Thousand Spires, the Czech capital is one of central Europe’s quintessential architectural and historic gems.
First settled during times prehistoric, the city itself has a lineage that stretches back almost 2,000 years. In that time, it has been home to the Holy Roman Emperors, acted as the temporary seat of the Hapsburg Empire and, for much of the 20th century, remained one of the most reluctant sign-ups to the Soviet Union.
As to allure of the city, well it’s very much down to its singularly romantic ambience and its remarkable architecture. Given the city’s turbulent history over the last century, its somewhat surprising that both have remained largely intact.
Any visit to the Czech capitol must begin with Prague Castle, designated by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest castle. Spanning a site of some 70,000 square metres, it’s the perfect destination for those falling behind on the Fitbit front.
Its history is every bit as commodious as its acreage – since its initial construction in 870, it has been the seat of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors and, more recently, Czechoslovakian Presidents.
In 2016, the latter-day Czech government added its own refinements to this ancient monolith, instituting a series of strict security protocols that kept terrorists out and kept tourists standing in a very long line for a very long time. In light of that, you’re best advised to head to the castle as early in the day as possible.
While exploring the entire complex is perhaps a little overly-ambitious, make sure you take in the gothic delights of the St Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and St George’s Basilica. Afterwards, grab a light bite at the Lobkowicz Palace Café and savour its panoramic views of the city.
Then, for a change of pace, head towards Malá Strana. Here, tucked into a small leafy, cobbled street, you will find the famed John Lennon Wall. In the ‘80s, young Czechs snuck in here to air their grievances via the medium of multi-coloured graffiti and sundry spontaneous artworks, including a massive portrait of the murdered Beatle
From here, hop across the River Vltava to the bustling cobbled streets of the Old Town Square. While there any number of bridges that span the waterway, the best bet is the charming Charles Bridge.
Dating back to the 14th century and built by the command of King Charles IV, it’s the most scenic way to cross the river. Along the way, you also get to admire a continuous stretch of stunning baroque statues as you near the Old Town Bridge Tower on the far side. Head to its rooftop for panoramic 360-degree views over the ancient capital.
Directly opposite, you’ll find the Charles Bridge Museum, which provides an enlightening insight into the bridge’s long history. While there, grab tickets for the guided vodouch cruise – there’s no better way to enjoy a picturesque Prague sunset.
Next, it’s on to the Old Town Hall, the setting for one of the city’s most popular – and perhaps most overrated – tourist attractions: the Prague Astronomical Clock. With mini-me’s of all 12 apostles parading above the dial as every hour is struck, it was a true mechanical marvel when first built back in the 15th century. Even today, it still inspires a degree of slack-jawed admiration among the less sophisticated sightseers.
With an attack of the munchies all but inevitable, you can be thankful that Prague seldom runs short on the delicious eatery front. Among the most highly-recommended is the Michelin-starred La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, serving high-end interpretations of traditional Czech dishes. For those craving something a little heartier, there is always Kantýna, a boutique steakhouse with a refreshingly down-to-earth approach to dining out.
Once suitably replete, it’s time to hit the local nightlife and, with quaffing pretty much the local Olympic sport, well you’re spoilt for choice. A good starting point, though, is the ever-popular Lokal Dlouhaaa, a basement beerhall where the local black bitter flows freely well into the small hours.
Text: Tenzing Thondup
