Travel: New Year’s in the City of a Hundred Spires (Prague)

Currently the capital of the Czech Republic, and previously being the historical capital of Bohemia, it is certain that Prague has quite a lot to offer when it comes to history, art and culture. Getting around the city is very easy by making use of the metro, trams and buses which connect the city very well. Although most of the main attractions of the city are in the city’s old town where everything is within walking distance. 

View from Prague Castle

Charles Bridge

Walking along the cobbled pavements of Prague and into the old town you will find yourself in the town square where during this time of year there is a winter market, where the distinct smells of mulled wine, roasting chestnuts, and many other cooked sweets and savories fill the square. At each hour you can join the crowds forming in front of the world famous astronomical clock which presents an enjoyable spectacle sometimes including a trumpeter blowing his horn from the top of the old town hall.  
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In-considerably one of the best experiences is strolling down Charles bridge which links the old town with Prague castle. Walking on the cobbled path between the statues looking down on you, it is utterly breathtaking. Charles bridge is in fact one of the most famous bridges in Europe. During the day there are a large number of people and tourists crossing this pedestrianized bridge, along with many artists, painters and musicians who all give life to the bridge, though I do suggest coming back to Charles bridge while on a night walk around the city as viewing this wonderful structure without the obstruction of the crowds will help you appreciate better it’s beauty.

If you are into cultural events and would like to visit an opera or ballet, there is a variety of opera and ballet houses where you can go. I went to see the Swan Lake ballet, personally this was the first ballet I went to see and I was not completely sure if I would like the performance but I was wrong and I strongly suggest even if it is not something you like, that you visit a ballet while you’re staying in Prague.

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Prague Royal Opera House

Prague is home to the largest castle in the world, dating back to the ninth century, Prague castle spans an impressive 18 acres and is home to stunning cathedrals, chapels, royal palaces and gorgeous ornamental gardens. The entrance to the castle is free, but once you are inside you have to buy entrances to the various palaces, chapels and the cathedral. Most of the buildings in the castle are much nicer from the outside then from the inside. Depending on the time of year you are there, some of the places are not very well adapted to take in large crowds of people, with for example the royal palace having the entrance and exit through the same rooms and corridors, leading to people being stuck in crowds trying to get in and out.

Once you’re in the castle, I suggest you visit the cathedral which is astounding. Standing at the end and looking up at the Gothic architecture. Another attraction you cannot miss when visiting the castle is the golden lane, originally a lane way of goldsmith’s shops that once served Prague castle but now the Golden lane is one of the finest collections of traditional medieval buildings found in the Czech Republic. It is possible to visit some places within the castle because there are different kinds of tickets which you can buy that allows you entrance to different attractions within the castle.

Winter Market in Old town square

Prague is one of those European cities that one must make time to visit, there is so much culture, music and architecture. Also like most other European cities you can get a ‘Prague card’ which includes entrances to museums, a 2 hour historical tour, and discounts to other tours, concerts, attractions and restaurants. For information about the Prague card or other attractions I suggest visiting their website HERE.