Prague

Prague, Czechiacities

Few European capitals wear their history quite so visibly. Prague's Old Town (Staré Město) unfolds across cobbled squares and Gothic spires, with the Astronomical Clock drawing crowds every hour on the hour — worth seeing once, but don't linger too long on the tourist circuit. Cross the Vltava River on Charles Bridge at dawn, before the selfie sticks arrive, and you'll understand immediately why this city captivates so many people. The view back towards Prague Castle and the terracotta rooftops of Malá Strana is genuinely arresting. The city rewards those who wander beyond the centre. Vinohrady, a ten-minute tram ride from Wenceslas Square, offers tree-lined boulevards, local wine bars, and a far more relaxed pace. Žižkov, just east, is grittier and cheaper, with neighbourhood pubs serving honest Czech lager — Pilsner Urquell or Kozel on tap — alongside svíčková, a slow-braised beef sirloin served with creamy sauce and bread dumplings that absolutely justifies a second helping. Food here is hearty and affordable by Western European standards. What sets Prague apart from Vienna or Budapest is a certain rawness beneath the beauty. There are tourist traps everywhere near Old Town Square, particularly overpriced restaurants with laminated English menus. Avoid those entirely. Duck into side streets, look for places with Czech-language chalkboards, and you'll eat far better for half the price. Getting around is straightforward. The metro, trams, and buses operate on a single ticketing system, and a 24-hour pass costs just a few euros. Walking is realistic across most central districts, though the cobblestones are uneven and heels are a poor choice. Pickpocketing is a real issue on the 22 tram and in crowded squares, so keep bags close. Spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October) offer the most agreeable weather and slightly thinner crowds. Pack layers regardless — the weather shifts quickly here.

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