Prague is one of the most magnificent cities in Europe. Czech Republic’s capital and largest city, Prague has a population of about 1.3 million. It is one of central Europe’s most important cultural and historical centres and has been throughout much of its 1,100 years of history. Prague is the ultimate destination for a cheap city break. Provided you avoid the tourist traps which tend to be located around the Old Town Square, you’ll find Prague to be extremely cheap by most western standards. Plenty of cheap flights from the UK and other countries are available as well.
1. Prague Castle
One of the largest medieval castle complexes in Europe, Prague Castle was the seat of Czech monarchs and is today the residence of the Czech government. It is easily the most popular tourist attraction in Prague. The complex is enormous and you’ll need a few hours to explore everything that it has to offer.
It comprises three courtyards and many separate buildings. Particularly impressive is the St. Vitus Cathedral, a landmark which you can see from all over the city. It is also possible to climb the cathedral tower for some stunning views of the city.
2. Charles Bridge
One of Prague’s major attractions and one of the busiest, the best time to visit Charles Bridge is during the early hours of the morning, particularly if you’re visiting during the peak season. At all other times, it is absolutely packed with tourists.
The fantastic fourteenth century stone bridge spans the Vltava River and it is only open to pedestrians. It connects the main area of the Old Town to the Prague Castle district on the other side of the river. There are no less than 75 statues on the bridge.
3. Old Town Square
Right in the centre of Prague’s stunning Old Town is the Old Town Square with many of its buildings dating back from the fourteenth century and earlier. The square is one of the most impressive in Europe and it gets very crowded during the season.
The best time to visit is late evening or early morning to avoid the crowds. Sites in the Old Town Square include the Astronomical Clock, St. Nicolas Church and the Tyn Church. In the middle of the square is the Jan Hus statue, built in 1915 to mark the 500th anniversary of its namesake.
4. Josefov (The Jewish Quarter)
Prague was once home to a very large Jewish minority. The main Jewish Quarter, known locally as Josefov, is located between the Vltava River and the Old Town Square. Many of the buildings date back to the thirteenth century.
Throughout much of the city’s history, the Jewish population were not allowed to live anywhere else, so the district became very overcrowded. The district has many interesting historical sites such as the High Synagogue, the Jewish Town Hall, the Jewish Cemetery and various other synagogues. Josefov is also the birthplace of the author, Franz Kafka.
Petřín is a 1000-feet high hill in the centre of Prague looking over the Vltava River. It offers one of the best vantage points in the city and it is one of Prague’s favourite recreational areas. The peak of the hill can be reached by the funicular railway from the Malá Strana district of the old town.
The line was opened in 1891 and it has a length of 383 metres. A trip on the funicular is covered by a regular Prague city transport ticket. Also at the top of the hill is the Observation Tower, offering magnificent views of the city.