Prague is a top favourite city break and, since the fall of the Iron Curtain, is one of the most visited destinations in all of Europe. Capital of the Czech Republic, the city is small, compact and utterly pretty and picturesque. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is easy to understand as the architecture is stunning and some of the city’s landmark buildings are awesome.
Spanning the Vltava river which intersects the city, the famous Charles Bridge was also the location to shoot Mission Impossible with Tom Cruise vaulting from the steps to the cobbled streets below. These days, the Charles Bridge is still a focal point of the city and is lined with local artists selling drawings and paintings and its the perfect place to pose for a holiday photograph.
The lovely area of Mala Strana (lesser quarter), Old Town Square with the gorgeous Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral, Jewish Quarter and Wenceslas Square are all beautiful points of interest and should be on everyone’s itinerary. The writer Franz Kafka lived in Prague and is remembered in a museum and his grave can be seen in the new Jewish Cemetery.
The Church of Our Lady of Tyn, a fairytale-like structure, said to be the model for Disney’s Cinderella Castle, is worth a visit to participate in a church service and listen to the sweetest music. In fact, Prague is well known for performances of classical music and there are many locations throughout the city to enjoy recitals.
The local restaurants are high on atmosphere and a hearty stew with dumplings or a meaty goulash washed down with a local Pils, will set you up for a tough day of sightseeing. Little statues of the Infant Jesus of Prague are popular souvenirs as are handmade puppets and, of course, stunning Bohemia crystal and glassware.
Walking along the cobbled streets, the ambience in Prague is one of great tradition blended with a soupcon of modernity. It is impossible not to get caught up in the delightful local flavour though as history greets you at every turn.
Prague is also a great destination for Christmas Markets which start in late November and run until January. Travelling to a Christmas Market in Prague couldn’t be easier with direct flights from Dublin.
Visit our website to find out more about weekend breaks to Prague.
