So goes the opening line of 1965 released song Prague by Rika Zaraï, an Israeli singer who not only sang in French, but English, Hebrew, Spanish, Italian and German. Rika lived most of her life in Paris where she made a career as a singer, songwriter, musician and author.
Prague is a great place to visit at any time of year but the winter always seems so magical. Come the evenings the buildings in the centre are lit up and somehow it enhances their beauty.
Then at the end of your evening you can head for a cosy restaurant or maybe a bar where you can drink “probably” the best beer (pivo) in the world.
The Prague Beer Museum offers 31 beers on tap so you have plenty of choice.
Many visitors will head for the Old Town Square for refreshment. It is equally stunning both in the day and at night. The Square has remained relatively unchanged since the 10th Century. Here in the summer and for the hearty in the winter you can sit out al fresco and watch the world pass by. Standing or sitting in the square you can view the beautiful arcitecture. There are usuallly a few street performers and traders to enhance your experience.
I personally became familiar with the layout of the city via countless hours playing Forza on my Xbox. If you can get access to one have a go and you will get a great feel for the city. Many a time have I outbraked myself and crashed into the building above. One of the most familar sights from the games is that of the Charles Bridge in whose reign in 1357 the construction was begun. It wasnt formally called the Charles Bridge until 1870. The distinctive stone arches are similar in principle to the stone bridge in Regensburg and is now a UNESCO heritage site. Until 1841 the bridge was the only means of crossing the river Vltava and this led to Prague becoming an important centre on the east-west trade route. The bridge connects Prague Castle with the Old Town. Starting in 2019 it is currently undergoing a 20 years process of inspections, repairs and restoration.
Whilst in the square do not miss a chance to see the Astronomical Clock. It was installed in 1410 and whilst it is the third oldest in terms on construction, it is the oldest working one in the world. It is mounted on the south wall of the Old Town Hall. The clock mechanism has three main components — the astronomical dial, representing the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, the statutes of various saints and a calendar dial showing the months. According to legend the city will suffer if the good operation of the clock is neglected, so you can understand why it is in excellent working order today. In fact it was restored in 2018.
On the opposite side of the Charles Bridge is Prague Castle, the most visit attraction in the Czech Republic. Not only in this area is the castle itself but the St Vitus Cathedral, St George’s Basillica and Golden Lane. There has been a castle on this site since the 9th century. The St Vitus Cathedral is the largest religious building in Prague and it was here that the kings and queens were crowned. St George’s Basillica was the second church of the castle. Here you will find the tomb of One of them belongs to prince Vratislav, father of St. (Good King) Wenceslas.
Contact Maggie today to book your city break to beautiful Prague.
Pay with the card that gives you complimentary access to over 1,200 airport lounges across more than 130 countries worldwide as standard plus reward points – The American Express Platinum Card*.
Any links with an * by them are affiliated, which means get a product via this link and a contribution may be made to us.