Prague – Always Charms Everyone

14Dec
by Kamila Pala

Three Michelin stars – that’s what Prague would get from me as a city that offers its visitors and admirers from all over the world its “menu”, as I like to say. Prague has a unique history with preserved architecture that takes us on a historical journey through the centuries, ranging from the Gothic style, through Baroque, Rococo and Art Nouveau up to its contemporary architecture. Prague is a popular “full jar” of culture and entertainment that offers immersive experiences in theaters, museums, concerts, and festivals of classical and modern music. Additionally, Prague is known for its tasty traditional cuisine and the 400 different variations of its world-famous draft beer. The fact that Prague is such a beautiful and fascinating place is also evidenced by the great interest that tourists and filmmakers show, especially from the USA.

Who doesn’t know the world-famous movies of Casino Royale, Mission: Impossible, Anthropoid or Amadeus? This autumn, Prague hosted the famous writer Dan Brown (the plot of his latest book is set here) and the actress Julia Roberts.

It is empowering to know that many famous artists lived and worked in this very city. You might have heard of the writer Franz Kafka, Milan Kundera, or the composer W.A Mozart, Antonín Dvořák, Bedřich Smetana, and Leoš Janáček, as well as the amazing Art Nouveau painter Alfons Mucha, additionally the film director Miloš Forman.

Last year, over 8 million foreign tourists visited Prague. While most of them were from our neighbors Germany and Poland, a large proportion were from Great Britain and the USA. Nevertheless, people from all over the world come to admire the majestic beauty of Prague, which is the largest city (1.4 million inhabitants) and the capital of the Czech Republic (almost 11 million inhabitants).

Which places are most popular and recommended by me?

  1. Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monumental complex, with St. Vitus Cathedral, was founded over 1,000 years ago and still remains very impressive! The complex includes the Old Royal Palace, three churches, and a monastery. Make sure not to miss the Golden Lane or the Dalibor Tower. You may also enjoy the beautiful Palace Gardens! Today, Prague Castle is also a seat of the President.
  2. The fairytale-like Lesser Town (Malá Strana) offers romantic streets and old pubs or teahouses. You should walk along the river, where you can admire the beautiful art exhibition in the Kampa Museum or even stop by the legendary Lennon Wall.
  3. The beautiful Charles Bridge, commissioned by King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1357, spans 16 arches and is lined with 30 Baroque statues. Whilst it remains open all day and night, the most impressive views are during sunrise and sunset (there are many great restaurants on the bank of Prague’s Vltava River with a romantic view of the Charles Bridge).
  4. The Old Town (Staré Město), with its fabulous Old Synagogue and Josefov (UNESCO World Heritage Site), is also worth the visit. I particularly love the Old Town Squarewith its Astronomical Clock (Orloj), where saints emerge from trapdoors every hour.
  5. Petřin Lookout Tower offers a unique view of the entirety of Prague, especially of Prague Castle and the Vltava River, around which the entire city was built. It is actually a mini replica of the Eiffel Tower in Paris!

ONE DAY TRIP – Very attractive and most visited are the medieval castle Karlštejn, the historical city of Kutná Hora, the traditional spa city of Karlovy Vary, and the fabulous city Český Krumlov. 

A FEW WORDS about the FOOD and DRINKS!

Traditional Czech cuisine is based on meat dishes that include roast pork or duck with bread dumplings and stewed cabbage, but the queen is without a doubtsvíčková – braised beef sirloin in a rich root vegetable cream sauce, served with bread dumplings, cream, cranberries, and lemon. Typical and popular are fried cheese (smažák) or local grilled sausages sold on the streets (klobásy)! There is absolutely nothing else that can go so well with heavy food as beer. Whilst all beers in the Czech Republic are fantastic, my personal favorite is Pilsner Urquell. I am sure that you will love the local beer. The best (traditional) places to visit are U Vejvodů or U Fleků – brewery and restaurant complexes situated in the Old Town. The Czechs regard their locally produced beers as a national treasure, and it is often cheaper than mineral water in pubs! The most popular amongst locals are Gambrinus, Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen, Radegast, Krušovice, Velkopopovický, and Kozel. You really need a lot of time if you want to taste all 400 types of Czechbeer! And how about some local dessert? Czech desserts include a variety of chocolate and fruit pastries, tarts, and crêpes! My favorite is apple pie (štrůdl)! Becherovka (a herbal bitter) or Fernet are the most popular local digestives. Do not hesitate to try them!

WHEN to VISIT?

Prague is an attractive city worth a long weekend visit all year round! The spring and Easter season are very tempting, but the romantic summer sitting by the river and walks through parks and castle gardens remain just as popular. What about the colorful autumn with its exhibitions and concerts – why not? But Prague remains truly romantic for me during Advent and Christmas. The Christmas decoration of the city and the Christmas markets, where the smell of mulled wine and Christmas carols mix, are simply unforgettable.

Merry Christmas to everyone.

32 thoughts on “Prague – Always Charms Everyone”

  1. SRIKANTH's avatar

    SRIKANTH

    What a stunning and heartfelt tribute to Prague, Kamila! 🌷🤝 You haven’t just described a city; you’ve woven its soul into words, making it come alive for any reader. Your “Michelin star” analogy is perfect—Prague truly is a feast for all the senses, and you’ve laid out its grand menu with the passion of a true connoisseur.

    You masterfully blend the monumental history with the living, breathing culture—from the stones of the Castle to the vibrant buzz of a pub serving the “national treasure” that is Czech beer. It’s clear this comes from a place of deep love and knowledge. You make us hear the hourly chime of the Astronomical Clock, taste the rich svíčková, feel the crisp air on Petřín Hill, and sense the magic of a Christmas market.

    Thank you for this gorgeous invitation to explore Prague, not just as a tourist, but through the eyes of someone who appreciates its art, its history, its flavors, and its timeless romance. It’s a reminder of why the city captivates millions, and you are a wonderful ambassador for its charms.

    Wishing you a very Merry Christmas as well, and many more strolls across the Charles Bridge at sunset.

    Warmly,
    Srikanth

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  4. Kveta Henzen's avatar

    Kveta Henzen

    Beautiful contribution about the most beautiful city in the world, from one of the best connoisseurs. Prague is really beautiful, so proud to be born there 🥰.

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  8. Dalo Collis's avatar

    Dalo Collis

    A beautiful write-up and scenes of my favorite European city… The photos you have really capture the wonders of Prague and the Czech Republic ~ so happy to hear you had a wonderful time there, and shared those amazing moments. Wishing you a fantastic holiday season 😊!

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    1. Kamila Pala's avatar

      Kamila Pala

      Dear Dalo, I am always pleased by your reactions to my new blog…especially when it’s so pleasantly positive :)! I know what expect from Vienna (neighbor cousin) but Prague always surprises me with something new…bye Kamila and I wish peaceful Christmas time.

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