Must Visit In Prague: A Comprehensive Guide

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city full of captivating history, stunning architecture, and unique cultural experiences. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, Prague has been enchanting visitors for centuries. Located on the banks of the Vltava River, Prague is home to over 1.3 million people. Known for its historic churches, castles, and bridges, the city also has a thriving art scene and vibrant nightlife. With its cobblestone streets, quaint squares, and charming cafés, Prague is a city that can be enjoyed by all types of visitors.

History & Culture

Prague has been at the center of European history for centuries. It was the capital of the Holy Roman Empire in the 13th century and was the seat of power for Bohemian kings throughout the Middle Ages. During the Gothic period, Prague was a center of culture and learning. Its university was one of the most famous in Europe, and scholars from all over the continent came to study at its renowned colleges.

The Renaissance period saw a period of growth in Prague, as well as an influx of Italian and German immigrants. This resulted in a rich mix of cultural influences that still exists today. During the 19th century, Prague was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire which brought a boost to its economy and helped fuel the city’s growth and development.

After World War II, Prague became part of Czechoslovakia and then after the dissolution of that country, it became the capital of the newly formed Czech Republic in 1993. Today, Prague is a modern city with a vibrant and diverse culture. With its unique blend of Czech and Germanic traditions, architecture, music, and cuisine, it is an amazing place to visit for anyone interested in exploring a unique culture.

Things To Do

Prague has a rich history and culture but it also offers many other activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Prague:

Explore the Old Town & Castle District

The Old Town and Castle District are among the most popular attractions in Prague. The Old Town Square is lined with ancient buildings such as the Church of Our Lady before Týn, which is one of the oldest churches in the city. The square is also home to the famous Astronomical Clock which dates back to 1410. The Castle District is home to Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral which are two of the most important sights in the city. The castle complex includes a number of palaces, gardens, and other buildings which offer visitors a glimpse into Prague’s past.

Visit Charles Bridge

The iconic Charles Bridge is one of the most photographed sights in Prague. The 600-year-old bridge spans the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with Malá Strana (Lesser Town). The bridge is lined with statues of saints and other figures which makes it an ideal spot for photography or just for taking a leisurely stroll.

Stroll Along Vltava River

The Vltava river winds its way through Prague’s city center and offers beautiful views along its banks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river or take a boat tour to explore its many bridges and historic sights from a different perspective. There are also several parks located along the banks of the river which are great for picnics or just relaxing in nature.

Climb Petřín Hill

Petřín Hill is one of Prague’s most popular attractions. The hill is home to a number of gardens and parks as well as lookout tower which offers stunning views of the city below. Visitors can also ride up on a funicular railway to reach the summit in just a few minutes.

Explore Jewish Quarter

Prague’s Jewish Quarter is located in Josefov and offers visitors a glimpse into Jewish history and culture. The quarter is home to several synagogues including the Old-New Synagogue which dates back to 1270. Visitors can also explore the Jewish Cemetery, Pinkas Synagogue which houses a memorial to Holocaust victims, and other historical sites.

Tours to Experience

Visitors to Prague can further explore its unique culture by taking guided tours or participating in activities that are tailored to their interests. Here are two popular tours that are worth checking out:

Prague City Tour

The Prague City Tour is a great way to get acquainted with Prague’s historic sites and neighborhoods. The tour includes visits to some of the city’s most iconic sights such as Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, and more. Guests will also explore some lesser known attractions such as Petřín Hill and Josefov’s Jewish Quarter. The tour also includes stops at some of Prague’s best cafés and restaurants where guests can sample local delicacies such as trdelník (a type of pastry) or goulash (a hearty Czech stew). Book a Prague City Tour here.

Czech Beer Tasting Tour

Czech beer is known for its unique taste and Czechs are proud of their traditional beer-brewing techniques that have been passed down over generations. A beer tasting tour allows visitors to sample some local brews while learning about their history and production processes. The tour includes visits to some of Prague’s oldest breweries where guests can learn about traditional beer-making methods such as lagering and decoction mashing. Guests will also get to sample some delicious local beers such as Pilsner Urquell (the world’s first pilsner beer) or Kozel (a dark lager beer). Book a Czech Beer Tasting Tour here.

Conclusion

Prague is one of Europe’s most exciting cities with centuries of fascinating history and culture waiting to be explored. From its cobblestone streets and captivating architecture to its vibrant art scene and delicious cuisine, there are endless opportunities for visitors to enjoy all that this city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historic sites or sampling some local beers, there is something for everyone in Prague! So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!