Friday, November 02, 2007

Five Amazing Things To Do In Prague

I recently came back from a trip to Prague and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this historic city.  For any of you who might be planning your own trip, I thought I’d give you my top five amazing things to do while in Prague!

  1. Petrin Park – What a picturesque and beautiful park!  I rode a cable car from the street right to the top and spent time at the Petrin Observation Tower.  This tower was built in 1891 and the view of the city is breathtaking.  You can also spend some time wandering around the observatory and formal gardens.  If you prefer to spend your time at street level, you can enjoy a children’s maze and gorgeous rose garden.  A truly idyllic spot to spend an afternoon.
  2. Charles Bridge – While I wouldn’t normally put the name of a bridge on a list of things to do, it simply is a must see while you are in Prague.  Buskers are there to entertain you while you enjoy striking views of the river and castle.  This pedestrian bridge was started in 1357 and in later years (between 1683 and 1928); the various statues of saints were added.
  3. Prague Castle – If you are visiting this beautifully historic city, you simply have to take the time to visit a castle.  Just don’t visit Prague Castle on Monday as it is closed.  The castle is now the residence and office for the Czech President; however, it originally housed Czech royalty.  You can spend your time roaming the galleries, gardens and the Military Museum.  Try to catch the hourly Changing of the Guard – if you want more pomp and circumstance, the elaborate ceremony takes place at noon.
  4. National Technical Museum – For a different kind of history, you might enjoy the National Technical Museum.  Filled to the gills with the history of bicycles, motorbikes, trains, aircraft, cars, racecars, and trams with informative placards for each.  Great for the technically minded individual (my husband who is an Engineer loved it!).
  5. Wenceslas Square – A great place to start exploring the city by foot is Wenceslas Square, a beautiful tree lined boulevard.  This street features the National Museum, upscale shops and lovely cafes.  Also, check out Powder Tower, the only one of the city’s 13 original, medieval gates.

Prague is easy to get around and it is best explored by foot.  The city is divided up into 22 numbered sections and for tourists; you’ll stay mainly in Prague 1 and Prague 2.  Try to choose a hotel that is located in the city center – that way you’ll have no need to rent a car (and you’ll save a few bucks too).  There is a subway system, with only three lines so you should have no trouble navigating your way.  Interestingly, the subway is built very far underground compared to most subways systems.  When the soviets build it in the 60s and 70s, the stations were built intentionally deep to also serve as bomb shelters should the need arise!

Visit one of the Prague Information Service offices to gather information about tours, restaurants, concert tickets, transportation and more.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Prague as much as I did!

Posted by Elizabeth on 11/02 at 01:25 PM
Travel Tips • Permalink
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