Prague Unplugged: Castles, Trains, and a Touch of the Unexpected

I recently swapped my usual desk view for cobbled streets, gothic spires, and the smell of cinnamon from outdoor market stalls — destination: Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires. And let me tell you, Prague didn’t just live up to its fairytale reputation — it added a few plot twists I’ll never forget.

Royal Starts & Vintage Rides We kicked things off in style with a private tour in a vintage car straight out of an old movie. We trundled through Prague’s narrow streets toward the magnificent Prague Castle — one of the largest ancient castles in the world (fun fact: it dates all the way back to the 9th century!).

Wandering through Golden Lane, a charming little street of tiny houses once home to goldsmiths and even Franz Kafka for a short time, we felt like we’d stepped into a storybook. Seriously, it’s like Diagon Alley met medieval Bohemia.

Music for the Soul Inside the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral, we were lucky enough to catch an orchestra recital. The acoustics in that space? Unreal. It was spine-tingling in the best way. If Prague’s architecture doesn’t move you, the music surely will.

Market Magic & Trains with a Twist From there, we wandered through the Easter markets, which were buzzing with energy. Local crafts, painted eggs, warm trdelník pastries — it was a feast for the senses. And speaking of feasts…

Dinner at Vytopna Railway Restaurant was a ride (literally). There, your food and drinks are delivered by model trains that zoom across a network of miniature tracks weaving through the tables. It’s kitschy, it’s clever, and honestly? The food was amazing and we loved every minute.

A Sunset to Remember Later, we boarded a sunset river cruise on the Vltava, watching the sun dip behind the Charles Bridge and the castle light up like something from a postcard. Pro tip: bring a jacket — those river breezes can be pretty chilly!

Off the Beaten Path: Bohnice Now, here’s where things got a little more unusual — and unforgettable. I took a guided tour of the Bohnice Psychiatric Hospital and its hauntingly quiet cemetery. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but for those intrigued by forgotten stories and eerie histories, it was a highlight. The contrast between Prague’s polished tourist spots and the eerie, abandoned cemetery was both sobering and fascinating.

Quick Fun Facts About Prague: Prague’s astronomical clock (installed in 1410) is the third-oldest in the world — and still ticking.

Beer is cheaper than water in most restaurants.

The Charles Bridge is guarded by 30 statues — touch the one of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck.

Final Thoughts Prague is more than castles and cobblestones — it’s full of contrasts. It’s where fairy tales meet forgotten cemeteries, and orchestras play beneath soaring cathedral arches while your dinner arrives by toy train. Whether you’re after romance, mystery, or just really good pastries, Prague will surprise you — and stay with you long after you leave.

Ready to plan your own quirky adventure? Drop me a line and let me tailor-make your next trip.