Make no mistake, the capital of the Czech Republic doesn’t even remotely come close to your everyday tourism destination. It is the underdog of Europe’s tourism, confidently standing shoulder to shoulder with most prominent urban hotspots like London, Istanbul, Paris, and Rome.
But what really sets Prague apart from the competition is its peculiar old-world charm that you rarely get to experience across the old continent. Considering that TripAdvisor ranked it sixth as 2016’s top world destination, that speaks volumes about the city’s tourism potential, which currently lures 8.5 million visitors per year. With its unprecedented medieval beauty and iconic beer culture, Prague is undoubtedly a city worthy of any bucket list.
Culturally, the city serves as a buffer zone between Slavic and Germanic influences. Financially, it is literally one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe. Spiritually, it harbors some of the most awe-inspiring places of worship to date! Just by looking at the pictures of Prague you will feel this unyielding attraction toward the city.
Medieval castles, ancient bridges, gleaming spires, churches of delicate Gothic beauty – all are kept in pristine condition. So if you are still hesitating to visit the City of Hundred Spires, here are a few one of a kind characteristics which will surely seal the deal.
Party Opportunities That You Will Hardly Find Anywhere Else
Unfairly Prague gets its second place nearly every year as the most exciting spot in Europe for parties right after Amsterdam. But, ask all the people that spend their Prague stag do adventure and they could prove anyone wrong!
The city is thriving with pubs and cafes where you can spend your daytime party euphoria like nowhere else in this part of Europe and what’s more the night time is reserved for the most provocative moments ever.
Clubs that you can’t even imagine with party options that sometimes go beyond all the senses will satisfy even the most demanding partygoers of the world. Just come and witness with your own eyes and liver… Prague never disappoints with the fun.
Architectural Splendor
Prague was one of the luckiest cities during World War II, hands down. By being spared from bombings and the damages of warfare, most of its architectural opulence remains in its original form. And in lack of a better word, it is marvelous! Prague contains one of the world’s most diverse and preserved collections of architecture, boasting monuments and edifices in all styles available.
Romanesque, Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque, Rococo, Neo-Classical, Art Nouveau, Cubist, Futuristic – you name it, the city has it! Literally, every street, corner, square, and facade has something that your camera will love. So get those mobile phones, photographs, camcorders, or GoPro drones out and start shooting that delicious Instagram material!
Beer = God
If you check Prague’s Wikipedia page, you will notice that there is an entire section dedicated to the city’s history of beer and beer culture. Why? First off, the nation consumes the most beer per capita in the world so go figure! Second, this formidable title is a result of a deeply-rooted brew-making tradition, which stemmed in monasteries during the early Middle Ages. And third, Prague boasts not just some of the best beers in Europe but also the cheapest!
Czech pale lagers of pilsner type helped establish one of the greatest beer industries on the planet. Are you familiar with brands such as Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen, Kozel, Budweiser Budvar, Gambrinus, and Radegast? Yes, all of these renown labels originate from this country! And if you really want to delve deeper into Prague’s beer culture, take part in a guided pub crawl tour and enjoy to your heart’s delight the delicious crafts made custom by the local microbreweries.
Famous tourist landmarks
Prague is so magical, it is overflowing with captivating tourist attractions. There is never a dull moment for wanderers and explorers. However, the most imposing structure that draws the most tourists like moths to flame is the Prague Castle along with the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral. With the World Guinness record as the largest ancient fortified building, this castle complex serves as the official office of the president of the Czech Republic and the seat of the Archbishop of Prague.
Another unavoidable attraction of Prague is the picturesque Charles Bridge decorated with endless alleys of Baroque-styled statues. Explore the immaculate St. Nichols Church and the Church Of Our Lady Victorious which showcases a richly adorned wax-coated wooden statue of Jesus Christ.
If you want to know what time is it, Prague Orloj, one of the world’s oldest astronomical clocks, will tell you literally everything you need to know, including the relative positions of celestial bodies above us. Or send out a prayer at the Lennon Wall, which is covered with street art inspired both by the Beatles and the late singer’s solo tunes.
All this considering, there is no doubt that you must visit Prague at least once in your life. It has everything you need to fall in love with it again and again. And what is best of all, this love won’t cost you a fortune. So what are you waiting for? Book your plane tickets and discover this ancient Bohemian jewel for yourself!
