The gothic Eastern European culture capital
With its red and gold spired skyline and quirky post-communist appeal, the Czech Republic’s vibey capital is the perfect city break location for travellers looking for some culture with their cocktails. But there’s more to Prague than cheap beer and spikey buildings. Prague is also a city with a fascinating history – the scars left by Hitler’s Germany and communist Russia are still evident, adding a distinctive flavour to the city’s architecture, food and personality.
The historic city is split by the Vltava River, linked by the 14th-century statue-lined Charles Bridge. It’s the perfect location to take in the city’s domes and towers, shop for a caricature and bank some good luck by touching the statue of St. John Nepomuk.
Why go?
Prague is famous for its beautiful architecture and the city’s gorgeous Old Town, or Stare Mesto, is one of the most picturesque in Europe, complete with cobbled streets and gothic churches. People-watch in the Old Town Square before heading to a beer hall for a traditional brew.
When to go
Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit Prague to avoid the hordes of tourists that flock to the city over the summer. Temperatures can reach up to 35C in summer and are cold in winter – but a snow-dusted Prague is a stunning sight and it’s a popular Christmas market destination despite the freeze.
How to get there
Low-cost airline EasyJet, British Airways, Wizz Air and Czech Airlines all fly direct to Prague Ruzyne International Airport, around 10 miles north west of the city centre.
Must see
Take a boat tour on the Vltava River, shop for souvenirs on Charles Bridge and visit the Astronomical Clock and gothic churches of the Old Town. Other musts are the Jewish Quarter and Franz Kafka's grave. On the other side of the river, take a ride on the funicular railway to see the Petrin Tower, a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower, and watch the changing of the guards at the Prague castle. Food and drinks can be ridiculously overpriced in the central tourist areas, so it’s a good bet to venture off onto a side street for cheap and authentic options.