A visit to Prague had been on my wish list for a while. I love this city for its history and architecture. Among the most medieval cities, I’ve encountered, it is a place for the free spirited gypsy souls. Prague is the capital city of Czech Republic.
This historical, bohemian city of cobbled streets is truly cultural and filled with rustic bridges, ancient cathedrals and courtyards. I spent some of the best days in Prague on my short trip there. Some of the must-see spots are the Charles Bridge, Old Town, St Vitus Cathedral, Lennon Wall and New Town. Since walking is the best way to explore Prague, I recommend you wear extremely comfortable shoes. These are some of the must-visit places on your visit to Prague.
Stroll across the Charles bridge: I still cannot get over my memories of this bridge as every bit of it was mesmerising. The beautiful Gothic features that lines the bridge were amazing. Only a 10-minute walk from old town, this beautiful walking bridge is centuries-old. I visited it once again at night and it was a spectacular sight with the illuminated buildings. You can get great views from the bridge and the entire atmosphere is wonderful. I could have stood there all day and night, watching the Vlatava River flow, as people walked, boats chugged across, and the city became an enchanted vision to behold.
Old town: This Old Town Square is at the centre of historical Prague. Well connected via train, stand in the middle of the square and look around at the most fascinating sights of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. It is also popular for its vintage cars and horse carriage tours. I tried both. I would recommend a vintage sightseeing tour, definitely.
Medieval world wonder: The Prague Astronomical clock is a medieval clock that was first installed in 1410 making it the third oldest clock in the world that is still working. Whenever the clock strikes an hour, the figures of the 12 Apostles get into throes of action. It still amazes people from all over the world with its procession, moving statues and visualisation of time. A large number of tourists gather here to get a glimpse of the clock all around the year.
The Prague castle and St. Vitus cathedral: An ancient symbol of the Czech lands, Prague Castle is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest castle in the world. The giant castle on a hill is a fortress and is more of a small walled city with beautiful narrow alleys, historical buildings and St. Vitus Cathedral Church. This church has some of the best stained glass paintings. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony every hour from 7 am till 8 pm (summer season) and till 6 pm in the winter.
The old town: The Wenceslas Square is adjacent to the old town, in the new town. It used to be a horse market in the Middle Ages. There is always something happening here, street performance, live music and art exhibitions. Take a segway to explore this side of the town. A segway offers you an extraordinary experience of walking through Prague without walking.
Prague national library: These piles of books stacked one above the other is a haven if you’re a book lover like me. This visit to the national library is a must-do.
Your message on Lennon wall: This wall is located in the beautiful little quarter neighbourhood. After his assassination in 1980, they began to paint Lennon’s images and graffiti. The wall represented not only a memorial but also a monument of free speech and a non-violent rebellion of the Czech youth against the Communist police who cleaned the wall. The wall is owned by the knights of Malta who allowed the graffiti to continue. You can take this tour on a tram.
Food and drink in Prague: The most popular meat in Prague is undoubtedly the succulent pork. But being a vegetarian, I tried a lot of healthy salads and vegetarian food. Prague is a beer drinkers (Pilsner) paradise. The pubs and bars have some of the finest beer in the world. One must try the mulled wine served at most cafes. The street food here is very addictive. Try Chlebicky (classic open-faced sandwiches) or Trdelnik, rolled cylindrical pastries, served hot and coated in cinnamon and sugar that just melt in your mouth.
— The writer is a Chakra psychologist and an entrepreneur.
