However, all other countries in the European Union have their perks that sometimes remain underrated as they are overshadowed by those that lure in hordes of people. And one of those spots is Prague, the picturesque Czech Republic landmark so small yet ironically boasts of a rich culture through their magnificent scenery.

Old Town Square, Prague, The Czech Republic by Claire for Europe Explored

Extraordinary Prague

Some travelers have even declared that this is not your ordinary one-stop destination. If you’d like to explore and immerse yourself in their heritage, you’ve got to stay for quite some time. A visit to Prague is best enjoyed by staying for a couple of days. This will allow you to fully bask on the Prague experience without having to rush anything.

You will be amazed by the sights of this lovely capital city and will literally put a halt on your wandering feet. Bask in that feeling and savor the symphony created by elegant architecture and greenery through its elaborate palaces, castles, and lush gardens. It will take you to a story of their rich heritage, which will certainly entice your visual and mental senses.

The Old World Charm

Surprisingly, Prague is beset with these wonderful sights as it has survived both world wars. It’s just quite unthinkable how a place would be able to evade the war’s destructive forces. Prague was able to preserve its natural old world charm, one that is absent in cities today that are replete with modern architectural landscapes. Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance style structures still prevail, and these are what make Prague as mesmerizing as it was. It doesn’t fall short as well in terms of contemporary designs as Art Nouveau, Cubism, and other modern styles are also part of the backdrop.

Golden Street at the Prague Castle by Claire for Europe Explored

Landmarks in a Sweep

Prague Castle

The prime landmark in Prague is the Prague Castle, known to be the world’s largest castle. This is a monumental stop, as it shall take you to the time of old Czech rulers. It serves as a home to the Republic’s president, and has a slew of galleries that feature European architecture and artwork.

Old Town Square

Another stop is the Old Town Square, which features the famed 600-year-old Prague Astronomical Clock that is shadowed by the Tyn Church’s twin towers. A historic focal point of business, it served as a marketplace for European trade. Other spots in this area are the House at the Stone Bell, Kinsky Palace, St. Nicholas Church, the Old Town Hall, and the Monument to Jan Hus.

Charles Bridge

And for a dash of romantic flair, there is the Charles Bridge, one of Europe’s oldest stone bridges. This offers a breathtaking overview of the city as well as a colonnade of Baroque statues with astonishing Gothic towers on both ends. Apparently, this is a favorite haven for musicians, artists, and photographers, as it provides as an inspiration for their artwork.

Early morning on the Charles Bridge by Claire for Europe Explored

Life may not be a walk in the park, but Prague is one huge park-like wonder that you can greatly appreciate through walking. You need a great deal of patience and endurance to last long walks though. Roam around Prague and do the exploration on foot as this will provide you with unrestricted views and access to the city. Allow Prague to take you to the pages of history with a mesmerizing journey of their heritage and amazing landscape.

This article is written by Ravi S. who loves wearing Cat Eye Sunglasses when traveling.

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Old Town Square

No wonder that this is one of the Czech Republic’s greatest attractions. Every day it brings hundreds of people and charms them with the scary looking Gothic Tyn Church and the world famous astronomical clock. It was installed in 1410 and it is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world. It is interesting that there are only a few people who can actually repair it. On the square you can also visit an exhibition of Salvadore Dali and, of course, enjoy the magnificent ancient-looking buildings.

Astronomical Clock (Orloj), Old Town Square by Claire for Europe Explored

Prague Castle

With St. Vitus Church and The Golden Lane, Prague Castle is again one of the most attractive places in the capital. It is the biggest castle in the world at about 570 meters in length and an average of about 130 meters wide. Other highlights within the castle complex include the Old Royal Palace, which has excellent historic and architectural displays, Basiica of St George, the Lobkowicz Palace. It takes a few hours to enjoy a trip around the castle. But it definitely worths the time!

Prague Castle by Claire for Europe Explored

Charles Bridge

If you really want to sink into the atmosphere of the city, Charles bridge is one of the places you have to see. With its 621 meters length and 10 meters width, it offers one of the greatest and most memorable landscapes of Prague. There are 30 baroque statues, which will take you on a trip back in time. Among the most notable sculptures you can find statuaries of St. Luthgard, the Holy Crucifix and Calvary. Throughout its history, the Charles Bridge suffered several disasters and witnessed many historic events, but today its unique history and architecture welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Charles bridge, Prague by Claire for Europe Explored

Czech National Museum

At the top of Wenceslas Square is the main building of the Czech National Museum. It contains fascinating exhibits and stuffed animals and presents. The National Museum houses almost 14 million items from the area of natural history, history, arts, music and librarianship, located in tens of buildings. During the World War II it was destroyed by a bomb, but the collections survived. So, if you are a connoisseur of mineralogy, paleontology, botany and mycology or if you just want to spend some time admiring the extensive exhibits on the history of theatre, for instance, this is something you should visit for sure!

National Museum, Wenceslas Square, Prague by Claire for Europe Explored

Petrin Hill

This is a hill at the centre of Prague and rises 130m above the left bank of Vltava River. It is a small version of the Eiffel Tower and can be easily seen from almost every part of the city. Petrin Hill offers fascinating views such as Strahov Monastery, 14th century Hunger wall and a memorial of the victims, suffered during the Communist regime. It is literally the highest point of the capital and if you are interested in going there, we must warn you, that it will take around an hour to go up there. But it will worth every step!

Prague from Petrin by Claire for Europe Explored

Jack Sheamus’ big love is travelling and researching new places. He really loves to explore new things. He works for Camberwell cleaning specialists and that is why he can afford to travel.

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Since she’s originally from Central America and we are blessed to travel to South America on a regular basis, we wanted to try something new to both of us.  Additionally, my family fled parts of Eastern Europe before World War II, so we decided to forgo the normal beach and sun spots, for a city with much more history: Prague.

Old town square, Prague, Czech Republic by Claire for Europe Explored

The capital of the Czech Republic (America’s of a certain age are likely still calling it Czechoslovakia) Prague is a historic city, largely spared destruction during both world war’s because Czechoslovakia was among the first conquered countries during both wars. That leaves the country will an interesting and still developing culture, as well as one of the most picturesque cities in the world.

My memories of Prague are still vivid despite being there close to a decade ago.  My first memory is that of my wife being in essence trapped at the airport, behind two huge metal doors which shut, as they allow only one person at a time to pass through customs.  Eventually they figured out a quirk or two with her passport and we were in a cab going toward the city center.  It’s an interesting and thought provoking drive.  You leave the airport and see row, after row, after row of Soviet era housing projects.  Then, almost majestically you see the spire of the Castle looming over the river in the distance.

Vltava river and Prague Castle, Czech Republic by Claire for Europe Explored

As you get closer to central Prague, the streets turn to cobblestones, traffic slows and you are instantly entered into a city which looks like something of a fairy tale.

Since we there on our honeymoon and had close to a week to explore, we decided to rent a small hotel room with a winter garden across the street from the Castle.  The area is more residential than the area by the historic city center, where most tourists spend their time.  But, it’s cheaper (we paid about $60 for around 250sq feet) and feels a lot more authentic.

Of course, getting down to the square and the city center is pretty easy and it involved about the prettiest part of a walk I’ve ever been on, being able to wander across the Charles Bridge, which was built in the 14th century.  It’s gorgeous and is a good reminder of something that the locals told us often: Paris is the other European city built around a river.

Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic by Claire for Europe Explored

Lastly, I have to mention the one thing that sticks out in my mind more than anything else.  I own and operate a wine business, so I’m not exactly afraid of alcohol.  That being said, it was incredible to see the amount of beer that the locals go through.  In fact, they go through so much, my wife learned rather quickly that the universal sign for I’m Done! Is putting your coaster on top of your mug. I won’t admit to ever having done that myself, but the beer was memorable for a number of reasons.  After all, the Czech Republic is home to the original Budweiser and Pilsner seems to be being made on virtually every street corner.  The quality of course, would make even the best microbrew here in America, blush!

Mark Aselstine is the owner of Uncorked Ventures.  He loves to travel and is insane enough to bring his toddler on international flights, thereby amazing his fellow passengers when they realize the toddler knows exactly how to behave.

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1. Prague Castle and Charles Bridge

The best picture of the Prague Castle and Charles bridge can be taken from the Bridge of the Legions (Most Legií) close to the National Theatre. Its very popular alternative is renting a boat or water bike in Žofín Island and take pictures from the waters of Vltava river.

2. Prague Bridges from Letná Park

Another place that is ideal for breathtaking pictures is Letná park, located on a hill situated just beside Vltava river. If you are looking for some quiet place with amazing views of Prague, then include Letná Park into your itinerary. Here you can also taste some of the best Czech beers as there is a beer garden as well. Letná park is the second largest park in Prague (just after Stromovka) and is easily accessible from the city centre even on foot.

3. Charles Bridge from Malá Strana

In fact there are numerous places where you can take amazing pictures of Charles Bridge from but there is one secret place that you will be really surprised with. Furthermore it is likely that you will not be disturbed by anybody as this place is quite hidden and unknown and use to be totally free of people. It is located at the bank of Vltava river, in the courtyard of Franz Kafka Museum on Malá Strana. Here you can also see popular tourist attraction – fountain of two pissing guys, which makes people laughing. Our place is on the right side of this fountain. Go to the very right corner at the river and you will be amazed. Best time to come here is in the evening, or in the dusk.

4. Old town square from Old Town Hall Tower

Very popular place for taking pictures of Old Town square and its surroundings is a tower of Old Town Hall, right above Orloj (Astronomical Clock). It will not be hard for you to find this tower, you just need to follow the crowds of people which certainly take you to Old Town Square.

So now you are aware of the places in Prague you need to visit with your camera, the last thing you have to do is to find some Prague boutique hotel and there will be nothing else that could stop you from getting really memorable and unique experiences.

Photos were taken by admin.

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Old Town Square, Praha / Photo by admin

1 – The Alchymist Grand Hotel
Part of a row of Baroque houses, the state of the art Alchymist hotel is decorated in a neo Baroque style. Its suites are also enhanced by spas and restaurant options. Located in the centre of the city, the Alchymist is also an ideal starting point for exploring Prague.

2 – Romantic Hotel U Raka
Sampling the best of medieval and Gothic Prague, the 18th century Romantik Hotel Uk Raka features a winter garden and a courtyard. Located in one of the quieter areas of the central city, the Romantik Hotel Uk Raka is particularly ideal for honeymoon stays.

3 – The Golden Well Hotel
Influenced by Renaissance styles, the Golden Well Hotel has 19 suites, and is located within a short walk of the Old Town Square. The Golden Well Hotel is also distinguished by its restaurant selection.

4 – Old Town Square Hotel
Perhaps the best choice for those wanting to stay in Prague’s historic Old Town Square, this hotel has been recognised as a world heritage site. As well as its luxury suites, the Old Town Square Hotel also includes lounges, cafes, and an international range of wines.

5 – Hotel Yasmin
Distinguished by its bold graphic design, and located at Wenceslas Square, the Hotel Yasmin includes a world class restaurant, as well as the Yasmin garden, which is open from March to October every year. The hotel also includes free WiFi for guests, as well as a health club.

6 – Design Hotel Sax
A retro hotel located near to the Charles Bridges, the Design Hotel Sax is within easy reach of Prague’s leading attractions. The hotel’s 14th century roots are offset by high quality modern facilities.

7 – Savic Hotel
Recently renovated, the Savic Hotel has its own internal courtyard, and an al fresco terrace for outdoor dining.

8 – Ventana Hotel
A converted townhouse in the centre of Prague, the Ventana Hotel’s marble decoration and stone staircases are complemented by richly appointed rooms with built in wardrobes, and by skyloft views over the city.

9 – Hotel Neruda
Found near to Prague castle, the four star Hotel Neruda features high quality room decoration by Borek Sipek. Notable features include large rooms in wood and glass, as well as quotes from the hotel’s namesake Jan Neruda.

10 – Grand Hotel Bohemia
A key feature of Prague’s Old Town, the Grand Hotel Bohemia is ideally placed for exploring the city. The luxury hotel also includes ballroom events. The hotel is also distinguished by its Franz Josef restaurant, which features world class dining from chef Michal Chermak, and an adjoining Bohemia lounge.

Travelling from country to country and visiting Prague, Matt Mynors is a travel enthusiast and freelance copywriter currently writing for UK based company Room For Romance.

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Photo by zamek-hradec.cz

Slavic people settled at this place already at the end of 8th century. In the 11th century Slavic settlement turned into a royal castle of the Přemyslids. After next 200 years it was rebuilt by Czech King Premysl Otakar II. into the palatial castle protected by a massive fortification. In 1531 the castle burned down, but despite major repairs still holds its medieval appearance.

The total reconstruction was done in the late 16th century by Kaspar Pruskovský from Pruskov, who in 1585 inherited this property. At the castle was established ornamental garden with a breeding pond Pilar.

In February 1796 a renaissance castle was badly damaged by fire. A year later started its reconstruction, which not only brought substantial changes to exteriors, but also a fundamental change in the surroundings. The chateau was rebuilt into the form that has survived with minor changes until today. One of the first guests in the renovated castle was composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who stayed here between 1806 – 1811. A little later the castle even welcomed Niccolò Paganini and in 1846 and 1848 also hosted the pianist and composer Franz Liszt.

The second half of the 19th century brought another neo-Gothic transformation. The most important building of that time was an economic extension of the Red Castle dating from 1874 – 1895 and the White Tower.

The castle Hradec nad Moravicí became in 2002 a national cultural monument, and is an important center of social events.

For further information visit official site of Chateau Hradec nad Moravicí (only in Czech ).

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Bouzov castle is also possible birthplace of the Czech King Jiří z Poděbrad (George of Poděbrady), whose family – the lords of Kunštát – owned this castle from 1396 until the end of the 15th century. At the end of the 16th century almost the whole castle was destroyed by fire. The owners of the castle had not fully reconstructed it, but they tried to sell it. But there was nobody who would like to buy such a “ruin” so they forced Grand Master of the Order of the Teutonic Knights to buy it. In the 19th century the castle was rebuilt by a young Grand Master archduke Eugen of Austria in the style of German Neo-gothic. For the reconstruction was responsible Viennese architect Georg Hauberisser who designed the castle as a symbol of medieval traditions and the Teutonic Knights.

He built a new two-storey palace, demolished and restored the old high cylindrical tower. A magnificent furniture, including chairs, beds, tables and even a ceiling, was moved here from various castles. There were built the moat, walls with battlements, drawbridges and great medieval gates. At the same time was also equipped with very modern features, as it had functional bathroom, practical kitchen and phone. However until today it is not electrified.

Bouzov castle is now considered one of the most popular and most visited monuments in the Czech Republic. The castle was a place of several fairy tales, including Arabela, Fantaghirò, and Before the Fall, so if you want to get to the fairy tale for a while, do not wait and come!

The castle is opened from April to October during weekends and holidays only but daily from May to September and the basic admission is around €8. For further information visit official site of the castle (in Czech only).

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Inside you will find around 700,000 items on display, which relate to the history of music both in the Czech Republic, with items belonging to the world famous Czech composers Dvořak and Smetana, and around the world, such as an original score by Mozart. There is a programme of temporary exhibitions passing through the museum throughout the year, so even returning visitors can find something new to see.

A lot of the collection is old manuscripts and recordings, as well as instruments, and there is plenty for the music lover to browse through while also enjoying the beauty of the grand assembly hall.

If you would rather listen to music than learn about it, there is a programme of concerts each year in the assembly hall which take full advantage of the hall’s ambience and fantastic acoustics. These concerts are usually live classical music and opera, and if you are planning to visit Prague it is certainly worth seeing if there are any concerts you could attend during your stay.

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The Gothic appearance of the castle was changed by several reconstructions, especially interior which is now more in Baroque or Rococo style. The tour leads through fifteen rooms, richly furnished mostly with stylish furniture, with valuable paintings and carpets. Visitors can see here a unique collection of 545 copper engravings, depicting the entire history of the Thirty Years’ War, but also a collection of historic weapons, art porcelain, hunting trophies, and many other attractions. During the season there are thousands of tourists, who have the opportunity to use also hiking and biking trails. Today the castle is owned by the Sternberg family.

The castle in open from April to October and basic admission fee is 100CZK (€4). It is situated only about 40km from Prague, so if you have one free day while visiting Prague, this castle is a great idea to spend it.

For further information visit Official website of Český Šternberg Castle

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Houses were occupied until the Second World War, but the area was protected already for several years, and no changes which would change the character of the street or houses were allowed. The writer Franz Kafka lived here in the house no. 22 between 1916-1917. The last owners and the tenants moved out in 1948, and despite of receiving high quality houses, they left with protests.

Golden Lane was reopened to the public on 1 June 2011 after one year of reconstructions. It is probably the most romantic and famous part of Prague Castle. You can access the Golden Lane if you buy a ticket for a Long (350 CZK) or Short (250 CZK) Tour around the Castle.

You can take really interesting Virtual Tour by visiting the following website:
https://virtualni.praha.eu/nocni/zlata-ulicka.html

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