Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe. Nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Spires”, Prague is a living museum of old architecture that have been amazingly well-preserved, especially considering the many wars and conflicts that have taken place in this city’s recent past. Today, a visit to Prague and you’ll get to enjoy the experience of strolling down cobbled streets and exploring the amazingly well-preserved old castles, palaces, cathedrals, bridges, gardens, and houses that date back to the medieval, gothic, and baroque era.

Perhaps the most famous site of Prague is the Prague Castle built in the 8th century. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this is the biggest ancient castle in the world and where you’ll find many of the crown jewels of the Bohemian Kingdom on display. Next to the castle is the St. Vitus Cathedral, the St. George’s Basilica, as well as several royal gardens and towers. There is also a picture gallery and several castle museums. The Prague Castle rises above the city and offers panoramic views of Prague from its many towers.

The Old Town or Staré mêsto is another icon of Prague. It is the city’s historic center where you’ll find the famed Astronomical Clock, the Estate Theatre (where Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni was first performed), and several old churches and buildings.

The “Lesser Town” or Malá Strana district is also popular. It is below the Prague Castle and is conjoined by the famous Charles Bridge built in the 14th century. The winding cobbled streets of Malá Strana will lead you to several baroque palaces, houses, and churches – hence the district’s nickname as the “Pearl of Baroque Architecture”. In this district, you’ll also find the St. Nicholas Church and the Petřínská rozhledna or Petřín lookout tower, a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower.

Prague is also known for its popular river cruises. Many of them are in the evening when you can float romantically along the Vltava River while enjoying dinner and music. The shopping in Prague is respectable. The Na Prikope street is Prague’s most expensive shopping street and there are shopping arcades like the Black Rose and the Palac Myslbek. The Christmas Markets are also a famed attraction of Prague. In December, the Old Town Square is lined with vendors selling food, drinks, arts, and crafts.