Prague: City of Spires
What I Loved
From the moment we got off the plane, I knew that I would enjoy my time in Prague. Despite getting lost in the beginning and accidentally withdrawing nearly my whole bank account (tip: look up the conversion rate cause it’s much different than the euro or even forints), I was overwhelmed by a sense of peace that the city provided. Prague was and still remains to me a fairytale like city. The architecture, landscape and people are all breathtaking as well as blissful.
Based on a count from the 19th century, Prague was named the City of a Hundred Spires by Bernard Bolzano. Today there are an estimated 500+ spires. In comparison to the city’s less common nickname, City of Gold, I can easily see how this nickname fits. Nearly everywhere you turn there is a spire in sight, and each one adds to the storybook-like feeling of Prague.
To Do
One of our first stops in the city was checking out the famous Church of Our Lady Victorious, known for having the infamous wooden statue of the Infant Jesus. From there we explored different gardens and shops in the area. Throughout our trip, we walked nearly everywhere! On our first day we roamed the streets going anywhere that seemed interesting. By night fall we found ourselves at the Opera House. On day two we thought it’d be best to do a walking tour so we could actually know the significance of the different landmarks we were seeing. Our tour took us through the shopping district of the city, to the old city square, the Prague astronomical clock (a medieval clock installed in 1410, making it the 3rd oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still in operation), the famous statue of Don Giovanni, and to Charles Bridge.
During our trip we also took a paddle boat ride on Vltava which was on of my favourite moments of the trip. And what better way to close out that relaxing day than to take a self-made tour through the Prague Castle complex? The views from the castle were unreal! While it’s a little confusing getting up there, I think everyone should budget time for exploring the castle grounds. Finally, when in Prague it is a tourist’s obligatory duty to visit the John Lennon wall, you won’t regret it.
To Eat
When in Prague, definitely try to experience traditional Czech food. Some famous dishes to be on the look out for include: Beef Steak Tartare, Schnitzel with Potato Salad, Goulash, Kremroles, and Kolaches. I was told that Czech dishes were rich and filling with minimal vegetables. While this may seem daungting for some, I loved the more traditional dishes. From the dishes I tried, the Goulash was my favourite! However, I have noticed when traveling throughout eastern Europe that quite a few countries take ownership of this dish. Do you know who is right? Let me know in the comments below!
There wasn’t a single meal I ate in Prague - no matter how simple - that I did not like. Yet, what really surprised me was how much I enjoyed the coffee. For those who know me well, I am not a coffee drinker by any means, but living in Italy makes you grow an appreciation for coffee. And I must say that the coffee I had in Prague was a very close second to that which I experienced in Milan.
There is a lot to love about the city of Prague, and so much to do when you visit. I hope to go back very soon for more good food and another relaxing adventure!