Excursions

Compared with London, Paris, or Rome, Prague is small enough to be quite manageable. Fortunately, it escaped much of the damage that World War II inflicted on other major cities, so historic sites such as Hradcany (Prague Castle) were spared.

For orientation purposes, there is a river running north-south through the city center. The famous Charles Bridge (Karluv most) spans the River Vltava, and is alive with people year-round. Be sure to stroll across the Charles Bridge at night for the magnificent view of the illuminated Prague Castle. During the day you can climb the towers on both sides of the bridge (the tower on the Old Town side provides superb views of the bridge and the spires of the Old Town).

Although Prague provides efficient tram service, walking is the best way to see the city. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and explore the compact medieval center with its wandering maze of cobbled lanes, ancient courtyards, and dark passages, overlooked by the Gothic spires of the Týn Church in the middle of Old Town Square. This beautifully restored monument towers over the square, the statue of religious reformer Jan Hus, and the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall. Be sure to climb to the top of the Old Town Hall tower for the spectacular view.

Not far from the Old Town Square, you will find the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) with a number of interesting sites including the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest working synagogue in Central Europe.

If you are keen on cycling, avoid the city center and head for the less populated areas, you will be rewarded by the freedom and mobility that a set of wheels can bring. Or rent a rowboat or pedal boat on the Vltava River and gain an interesting new perspective on the city.