Kidnapped by communism for forty years until 1989, Prague has emerged as a dazzling, beautiful and fascinating city destination. The capital of the Czech Republic sits slightly west to the centre of the country and is neatly divided by the river Vltava with the city’s oldest parts snugly set in its curve. Holidays in Prague offer a city with a multi-layered history. Prague is also a living textbook of European architectures. Prague is a walking heaven with cobbled streets and so many diverse sights. If you’re pushed for time, pay for an escorted walk. They leave from the astronomical clock at the town hall in the old town. If you go it alone devote time to Prague Castle which is almost a town in itself, Charles Bridge for the best city view and Wenceslas Square.
Excellent beers (lagers really)
Unhurried exploring by foot
The two-hour river cruise
People watching from the many cafes and pubs
Cheap sightseeing from atmospheric trams - especially numbers 17 and 18
Visiting the main sights at midday when they are most crowded. Instead visit your key sight of the day earlier in the morning.
No special visa is required for EU citizens If you take a taxi agree the fare before you set off.
The city’s weather can be very variable because Prague lies in a transitional area between maritime and continental climates. Summer is generally hot and showery with top temperatures hitting around 22°C/72°F (although 35°C/96°F is not unknown), winter is cold and snowy falling to around -10°C/20°F (although -20°C/10°F is not unknown).
Flights to Prague from the UK take around one hour and forty-five minutes.
Driving is on the right and car rental agencies easy to find. Parking in the city centre is limited, many areas are pedestrianised and the narrow winding streets can be difficult to navigate.