Tuesday 17 February 2015

The Magic of Prague | European City Breaks

It has never been top of my list of most places I want to visit, probably because I was unaware of what the city holds beneath its borders. My view was quickly changed, this city is a magical treasure that is completely breathtaking, packed with magnificent architecture, culture, history and art.

The great thing about Prague is many of it's most famous attractions are all within walking distance of one another and even though the city is cheap you wont have to pay for taxi's back and to from spot to spot. I much prefer walking and getting lost in a new city anyway, you can get a real feel for what it has to offer so forget your map and get wanderlust. Here are the top things to see and do in Prague:

Charles Bridge 

  

Charles Bridge is spectacular, it is the most famous bridge in the whole of Prague which towers over the river Vltava, boasting 6 impressive arches and is lined with 30 Baroque statues of religious figures, angels, bishops, Jesus, the cross and more. The bridge is a total of 1,700 ft and was built in 1357 under the commission of King Charles IV. Across the bridge you will find a variety of buskers, painters, and people selling handcrafts and jewelry. It is a must see if you are ever in this wonderful city. 

St Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle


I don't think even the castle in fairy tales can compare to St Vitus Cathedral! As you enter through the portal of the western facade, opposite the passage way between the second and third courtyards of Prague Castle you find yourself gazing up at the most beautifully detailed architecture of the cathedral. The Gothic cathedral is the largest and most appreciated temple in Prague which is a interment of remains of provincial patron saints and archbishops. The walls are covered in the most impeccable detail in stone carvings while inside the high walls beam over you to form a spectacular scene. The stain glass windows cast a magical site upon the walls when the light shines though, magnifying their beauty of colour and religious stories upon the walls. I was lucky enough to catch a beautiful bride having her photos taken outside, so very pretty! 

John Lennon Wall


The John Lennon wall is a fantastic to see, even if you don't appreciate graffiti or the iconic signer and writer (although I don't think I have ever met anyone who doesn't like John Lennon). The wall is covered in famous quotes from his lyrics like "all you need is love" and "war is over" as well as images and messages from the walls visitors. Literally anyone can go and write on the wall, though we was not informed of this when we went to see it so we missed out on that part. Hidden down a back alley on the other side of Charles Bridge the John Lennon Wall is a symbol of our very own familiar culture, music, art and message of peace. 

The Astronomical Clock and Square 


Probably the most beautiful construction I have ever had the pleasure of seeing! The Astronomical clock is built on one side of the Old Town Hall Tower and dates back to the 15th century. It's best to see the clock on the hour as every hour a small trap door opens and Christ marches out ahead of his disciples, while the skeleton tolls the bell to a defiant statue of a Turk. Below the spectacular astronomical clock are 12 medallions with signs of the zodiac. The old town hall is a striking building situated in the square which holds some great cafes, restaurants, shops and bars. The square offers a variety of entertainment from buskers, people dressed as jesters and knights, painters, musicians and more. 

A River Cruise 


There are many different cruises to choose from in Prague, I was lucky enough to get a Valentines Day river cruise with a 3 course meal as a lovely surprise from my boyfriend. The cruise set sail from the Czech Bridge and sails up and down the river Vltava passing Charles Bridge. At night it is truly beautiful to see as the lights mirror from the river waters creating a magical scene. The food was great too, we had tomato and mozzarella cheese for starters followed by salmon and potatoes for our main and tiramisu for dessert with a free bottle of white wine. The tables were decorated to celebrate the romantic theme with balloons, flowers, candles and heart shaped sweets. A fabulous way to spend our last night in Prague, I am a very lucky girl! 

Prague's Pretty Streets 


Once you've seen the famous hotspots in Prague, it's time to get wanderlust and leave the map behind. Losing yourself in the pretty streets of Prague will inspire you, you will find the most beautiful buildings hidden away in the back streets alongside some freaky buskers, quirky shops, and fabulous restaurants, even adorable little micro pigs! 

The only problem I can find with my visit to Prague is it wasn't long enough! If you're looking for somewhere extraordinary packed with history, culture, art, architecture and beauty then go to Prague! Put it on your list of top places to visit and just go. 

I was lucky enough to visit Amsterdam in January as well, not at all bad two countries in just two months! I am now thinking of visiting a city in Europe every month or two, especially when I found prices in Prague to be so cheap although Amsterdam is on the more pricey side, however many cities in Europe are also cheap it just depends where you go. You can visit up to 7 different European cities in one trip with a multi centre holiday offered by eShores travel agency or something more personal to you with a tailor made European holiday. Whatever you choose, explore Europe and its wondrous cities and hidden jewels. 








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