Prague

Overview

Prague is called the city of a hundred spires, and its remarkably intact medieval architecture makes the whole city feel like a fairy tale.

History

Prague was founded in the 9th century and served as the capital of the Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of Bohemia, flourishing under Charles IV in the 14th century. Because it escaped large-scale bombardment in the Second World War it is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, retaining Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings. The Prague Spring reform movement of 1968 was crushed by Soviet forces, and the Velvet Revolution peacefully ended communist rule in 1989. Its historic centre became a World Heritage Site in 1992.

Highlights

• •Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in Europe
• •The medieval astronomical clock striking the hour
• •Charles Bridge with its stone sculptures over the Vltava
• •An evening stroll through Old Town Square as the lights come on
• •Bohemian atmosphere in the winding lanes and hidden cellars

Practical tips

• •Avoid the peak tourist crowds
• •Try Czech beer and pork knuckle

Practical information

Best time

April to June

Tickets

Prague Castle combined ticket about CZK 250 to 350; Old Town Square free

Opening hours

City open all day; the castle roughly 9:00 to 17:00

Local food

Roast pork knuckle, bread dumplings and Czech beer

Getting around

Metro lines A, B and C and trams cover the city, and the old town and castle are walkable

Visa

The Czech Republic is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa. Appointments are tight in peak season for popular cities such as Prague, so apply early.

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