Exploring Prague, Czech
Republic
Prague Castle has stood on the hill overlooking the Old Town since
the 10th century; with the city growing up around the castle, over the centuries.
A good way to begin exploration of the wonders of Prague is to take a
ride on tram 22 or 23 for a sightseeing tour of downtown Prague.
From Namesti Miru the trams travel down Jugoslavska and Jecna before
going around Spalena and Narodni.
After crossing the river (sit on the right for a view of Charles
Bridge), the trams rattle around St. Nicholas Church and several hair-pin bends before
arriving at Prague Castle.
The changing of the guard takes place on the hour, with a fanfare at
noon.
Once you've visited Prague's number one tourist attraction, walk the
Royal Route back downhill from Prague Castle, through Mal� Strana (Lesser Town), and
across Karluv Most (Charles Bridge) to Old Town Square.
The crossing of the 1,700 foot span of the bridge is an adventure in
itself! The bridge is lined with more than 30 sculptures and serves as a venue for
performances of puppeteers, musicians and artists.
The trip retraces the route taken by the carriages of the Bohemian
kings, with the difference that today the way is lined with galleries, shops, and caf�s.
On the hour, crowds gather at the Astronomical Clock of the Old Town
Hall, on Staromestsk� n�mest�, as the facade comes to life with a procession of
mechanical figures.
Take all the time you can to wander through the narrow winding streets
of Star� M�sto (Old Town).
Be sure to be wear a comfortable pair of broken-in, walking shoes as
the cobblestones and hills of Prague require that careful attention be paid to preparing
your feet for the journey.
When it is time to take a rest while sightseeing in Prague, numerous
caf�s offering food, coffee, tea, and fine varieties of locally brewed beer are readily
available.
Another activity providing relaxation, as well as a fascinating
afternoon or evening, is a tour-boat trip down the Vltava past the castles and palaces of
the region. Some tours provide a meal as well.
For the more adventurous, there is the possibility of a 'do it
yourself' boat tour via rowing-boat. Lanterns are added at night to create an aura of
romance in and around the rented dinghies.
Visitors to Charles Bridge after dark will encounter a lively scene,
as musicians and street performers congregate to celebrate the night.
An afternoon with the family in the park at the site of the Citadel on
Vyserhad also provides a break from the bustle of the city.
A 30-minute train ride south of Prague leads to the most visited Czech
landmark in the area around Prague, Karlstejn Castle - built by Charles IV in the 14th
century to protect the Holy Roman Empire's crown jewels.
This Romanesque hilltop fortress is of interest to adults and children
alike.
Mozart experienced moderate success in Vienna, but he triumphed in
Prague!
Classical music still seems to be everywhere in the city. Tickets are
reasonably priced, and the musical performances are superb.
Mozart
Prague 2006:
Celebrating 250 years since Mozart's birth.
Food in Prague is often based on Austro-Hungarian dishes.
Specialities include bramborak; a potato pancake filled with garlic
and herbs, and Prague ham. However, a wide range of culinary options exists. Among these
are American, Italian, Lebanese, and Japanese cuisine.
Shopping is a favourite pastime in Prague as well.
You will find shopping arcades on Wenceslas Square, along the
pedestrian only street of Na Pr�kope and also along Narodn� tr�ada.
Shoppers will discover a variety of quality products ranging from
books to antiques and crystal.
There are interesting craft shops on Karlova, near the Charles Bridge.
Puppets and marionettes that are works of art can also be discovered in these areas.
Prague in Summary
The beauty and classical elegance of the buildings, streets,
passageways and alleys of this 'Golden City' will provide a colourful mosaic of memories
that will remain long after the visit has concluded.
Prague Travel Tips
When you visit Prague, see the main sights but then step off the
beaten path for exciting details and discoveries that you won't find amongst the crowds.
Check out Brevonsky Klaster, Vysehrad Castle and the many hidden gardens and parks
throughout Prague.
Sent in by: Dean - My
Prague Sights.
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