Embarking on a journey to Prague promises an exhilarating adventure filled with vibrant culture, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. From strolling along cobblestone streets adorned with medieval architecture to indulging in delicious Czech cuisine and immersing oneself in the city’s lively atmosphere, Prague offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern excitement. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, discovering hidden gems, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this medieval city, a trip to Prague is sure to be an unforgettable escapade filled with fun and excitement at every turn.
A Journey Through Prague’s History
Prague Castle, aside from being one of the most beautiful and most popular tourist attractions in the Czech Republic, is the largest castle complex found anywhere in the world. A national monument, the castle is a symbol of the Czech Republic. Founded in the 9th century, it has remained intact for the last 11 centuries, despite occasionally being attacked or damaged. The castle has undergone several improvements and modifications over the course of the centuries, resulting in its present-day iteration. Originally the castle was used as the residence of the royalty of bohemia, but since 1918 it has served as the seat of the president. The castle complex encompasses almost 70,000 square meters or 750,000 square feet, with plenty of areas to explore. Sightseeing tours are recommended due to the size of the complex and number of attractions, including the following: the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane and Daliorka Towers, and several others, including courtyards and gardens. The castle attracts between 1.4m – 1.8m tourists a year. The standard entrance fee costs 450 CZK or about $20 USD. The castle is open to visitors all year long, but be sure to check the official website, as hours vary depending on the month of your visit. A perfect way to introduce yourself to Prague and its history, be sure to explore all of the sights and take pictures.
Charles Bridge, also know in Czech as Karluv most, is another one of Prague’s most visited destinations. Like Prague Castle, it is also centuries old and will transport you back to the past. The bridge is Prague’s oldest and was built to replace the damaged Judith Bridge damaged by floods in 1342. Construction of Prague bridge started in 1357 and was finished in 1402. The bridge has been referred to as Charles bridge since 1870, as it was Charles IV who commissioned the building of it initially. A good way to explore the city, stretch your legs, and learn about the history and culture of this beautiful city. Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture are common sights across Prague. A city of contrast, with modern buildings, side by side with medieval style and elegance of the past generations.
The National Museum of Prague hosts a very impressive collection of art and information. In fact, the museum is made up of five separate museums: The Natural History Museum, The Historical Museum, The National Museum Library, Czech Museum of Music, and the Naprstek Museum. The National Museum includes objects dating from the present day back to several billion years ago. It houses collections of paleontology, geology, mammals, fish, invertebrates, birds, botanicals, and many other items and artifacts that will help to broaden your understanding of Prague and the Czech Republic. There are too many objects to list in this article, so better to explore for yourself! However, do yourself a favor and check out the Naprstek Museum. It’s dedicated to Asian, African, and American Cultures, and explores the spiritual legacy of non-Europeans. The only such museum in all of the Czech Republic. Ensure that you’re properly prepared for your visit by checking out the museum website. Tickets are very affordable and can be purchased online. The website is robust and can help you plan your trip accordingly, providing additional collection details and what museums might be of interest to you.
Eat Well and be Merry
Now that you’ve had a chance to explore the historical side of Prague, maybe it’s time to unwind and relax. La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise offers you the perfect opportunity to explore the world of Michelin-starred Czech cuisine. If that is too rich for you, Lokal might be more your speed. Lokal offers casual pub-style dining, where you can also enjoy a few drinks and experience the local Prague culture. If drinks are your goal, take a trip to Hemingway Bar and fuel up for your future adventures. The Czech’s are ranked as the country that drinks the most beer in the world per capita, which increases your chances of making some new Czech friends. As always, have fun and drink responsibility.
As you wrap up your trip to Prague, you’ll carry memories of its sights, flavors, and lively atmosphere with you. Whether you’ve been awestruck by Prague Castle, enjoyed dancing in its bustling squares, or simply wandered its charming streets, the city’s charm has left a lasting impression. As you say goodbye to this picturesque destination, remember that Prague’s timeless allure will always welcome you back for another adventure. Your experiences in this magical city will be treasured for years to come.
