The European capital of architecture as it is known. Prague surprises you once you put your feet on its territory. Bisected by the Vlatava river, Prague is the major tourist destination in eastern Europe receiving almost 7 million visitors yearly. Prague is unique, a medieval city with loads of history and tones of romanticism. Catching places and gothic architecture. The Czech capital is a destination you can't miss in your European trip or a perfect spot to visit if you live in the "Old continent". And, yes a cheap destination before you ask yourself the magic question once you decide to start a journey.
In the next lines, you will find some places that worth visiting before heading to Prague. The city is easily reachable by foot, get some comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk through its charm streets.
Prague Castle:
Located in Hradcany (the castle district in Czech) and built in the 9th century. It is the residence and office of the current President of the Czech Republic. Also, one of the most complex and beautiful sights in Prague. The entry to the yards and gardens are free although buildings such as St. Vitus Cathedral, St.George Basilica or the Old royal palace can be visited only with a ticket. You can purchase a ticket for 350 Czech koruna (around 13 euro). Since the castle is on a hill, it is a perfect place to take the best pictures of the city.
St. Vitus Cathedral
It is part of Prague Castle complex. This stunning and great church built almost 600 years ago is the icon of religion and cultural life in the Czech Republic and the place where saints, kings and emperors of Bohemia were buried. Also, it's the largest church in Prague. Enjoy walking around the gothic cathedral and admiring its stained glass windows and stunning architecture.
John Lennon Wall:
Once you have visited the Castle Prague complex and delighted your eyes with its magnific history, let's change the topic and talk about a famous British musician.
Wait, am I not in Prague?
Yes, you are.
But if you walk 15 mins towards the centre, you will reach John Lennon Wall. You might be wondering which role does John Lennon plays here, also why he has a wall?
Here is the story.
When the communism ends in the 1980s, students decided to write John Lennon lyrics and quotations to express their complaints. The decoration of the wall and the connection with Lennon is a symbol of freedom and political struggles.
Today, it is the main attraction for tourists and street musicians who come there to homage the artist.
Backpacker tip: If you are a Beatles fan, there's a pub at the end of the wall called John Lennon Pub with all the hits of the Beatles. Great spot to take a break and have a beer.
Charles Bridge:
Not far away for John Lennon Wall is the famous and most photographable Bridge in Prague. The legend says that Charles IV, king of Bohemian emperor, planned every detail of the bridge included its 30 statues. Charles Bridge, which construction started in 1317 and finished in the 15th century, is now the spot of many artisans and painters.
Walk across the bridge and enjoy the magic views of the city. It's also possible to take a River Sightseeing Cruise for 14 euro and go around the Vltava river.
Backpacker tip: Between the 30 statues around Charles Bridge, there's one to be considered. Its name is John of Nepomuk. People have been touched it for ages because it's supposed to bring good luck and makes you come back to Prague. Do you want some good luck for the rest of your trip?
Kafka Museum:
Do you know that Prague is also well related to Literature?
Do you ever hear about Franz Kafka? He was a german-speaking bohemian novelist born in Prague, an icon in XX century and famous for its book The Metamorphosis. The museum which is steps away from Charles Bridge host many first editions Kafka books as well as photographs, original letters and drawings made by the novelist. It also displays a multimedia exhibition. The entrance fee is 200 Czech crowns (around 8 euro).
Backpacker tip: before you get into the museum, stop by the artwork of two men pissing in a pond and take the best pictures.
Old town square:
It is the oldest and most significant square in the town. Founded in the 12th century and has been hosted many historical events. It is incredibly beautiful and charming. Moreover, it is considered one of the prettiest European squares.
Nowadays, it is the main attraction for tourist, families, students and friends who are willing to hang out around, eat or have a drink. It's also an ideal place for people-watching and talented musicians who entertain people sitting in the benches and passers-by.
Astronomical clock:
Are you impressed by the architecture around the square? Then, you will be fascinated by the Astronomical clock, the pride of Prague. This medieval clock, constructed in the 15 century is the third oldest clock in the world and the oldest still operating. Despite being damaged and repaired during its lifetime, it is still preserved. There's an hourly show of the small wooden figures moving which will keep your attention for a while.
Jewish Quarter:
Walk towards the Jewish Quarter, which hosted the largest Jewish community in Europe. The Jews were not allowed to live anywhere else in the city and ordered to settle only in this area. In the 19th century, many buildings were destroyed due to the city restyling. However, there are some buildings such as the six synagogues and the big cemetery which are still preserved.
Dancing house:
If you thought that Prague was all about old architecture, you are probably missing one spot in the city. That's the famous Dancing House, also known as Fred and Ginger building. This iconic Landmark built in 1994 by Vlado Milunic and Frank Owen is a symbol of the Czechoslovakian transition from communism to democracy. Located by the Vltava river, this house has a restaurant, a gallery, a conference centre and a sightseeing terrace where you can enjoy the stunning panorama of Prague.
Try Czech food and Czech beer:
You might be wondering about the typical Czech food and drinks. Then, it's time to go for a walk around the city and find a place which sells Trdelnik. T...what?
The name might sound complicated but, if you walk around the centre, it's easy to find small shops in almost every street offering it.
Trdelnik is a rolled dough wrapped around a stick, grilled and covered with sugar and cinnamon. There are different types of fillings you can choose and add.
Last but not least, you can't leave Prague without trying its tasty beer, most of the time cheaper than water. Czechs drink the most beer per capita in the world. Moreover, they affirm they have the best beer. Now it's time for you to test it. The large variety of bars in the city offer mostly the well known Czech lagers such as Budweiser or Pilsner Urquell as well as craft beer from the microbreweries around the country.
Is it expensive?
Absolutely no!
The average price of a pint of beer is 35 koruna (around 1.50 euro).
Are you in for a beer or two?
Backpacker tip: If you are a beer lover, you should visit the Prague beer museum which offers more than 30 beers on tap.
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