Journeys & Discoveries

There are cities you visit and cities that stay with you. Prague clearly belongs to the second kind. For a few days, I let myself be carried along by its cobbled lanes, its striking architecture and its atmosphere that is both lively and peaceful. Here is why the Czech capital has become one of my favourite destinations, and why I warmly recommend a visit.

A beauty that catches the eye at every turn

From your very first steps, you understand why Prague is nicknamed the city of a hundred spires. Gothic sits beside baroque, art nouveau answers medieval facades, and every street corner looks like a postcard. Charles Bridge, with its statues and its view over the Vltava, is a must, especially early in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are still absent. A little higher up, Prague Castle looms over the city and offers a panorama I will not forget any time soon. The visit inside, on the other hand, left me a little disappointed: there were huge crowds and you move through it assembly-line style, without much chance to take your time. Personally, I would not do it again, but the site and the view alone are worth the climb.

The charm of an old town out of time

What won me over most is the charm that radiates from the old town. You happily lose yourself in its little streets, stumbling upon a square, a hidden courtyard, or the astronomical clock that chimes the hour before an attentive crowd. The Malá Strana district, just below the castle, has a romantic and quiet side that makes you want to wander with no particular destination. It is the kind of place where you take your time.

A surprisingly calm and pleasant city

Unlike other major European capitals, Prague keeps a soothing pace. Some tourist spots are busy, of course, but you only need to move a little away from the centre to find calm again. Districts like Vinohrady, with their cafes and parks, feel like a city where life is good. Prague is also known for being safe, which makes evening strolls very pleasant. If you are looking to travel without the stress and bustle of overcrowded metropolises, it is an ideal destination.

Eating and drinking well, a real pleasure

Let’s talk about the food, because Prague pleasantly surprised me on this front too. Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting. I loved svíčková, that beef served with a creamy sauce and bread dumplings, as well as goulash paired with its local beer. And speaking of beer: the Czech Republic is a real paradise for enthusiasts, with high quality brews and prices that make you smile. For those with a sweet tooth, trdelník, that rolled and grilled pastry, is sold on nearly every street corner.

Where we stayed and our favourite cafe

We stayed at the Michelangelo Grand Hotel, and it was an excellent choice. The room was comfortable, quiet and impeccably kept, and the location was ideal: a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with the tram right next door to reach the rest of the city easily. In the mornings, being true late risers, we were in no hurry: since the cafe only opens at eleven, it worked out perfectly for heading over to enjoy our hot chocolate at a leisurely pace and easing into the day.

A few streets from the hotel, heading up toward the old town, we found our ritual: Choco Café, a small cosy cafe on Liliová street entirely devoted to hot chocolate. Seated around its big wooden tables, we savoured it in a whole range of variations, thick and generous, exactly the kind of comforting break we wanted after a morning of wandering. We went back more than once, and for that alone, it is worth the detour.

A destination that stays affordable

Another nice surprise: Prague remains very reasonable on the budget front, especially compared with Paris, London or Amsterdam. You can eat well, sleep comfortably and enjoy the city without breaking the bank. It is a real plus for a weekend as much as for a slightly longer stay.

A wealth of culture and history

Prague is also a dense and fascinating history. Between the Jewish quarter of Josefov, the classical music concerts offered just about everywhere, and the many museums, there is plenty to feed your curiosity. We especially enjoyed the Kafka Museum, which I warmly recommend for diving into the writer’s world and the Prague that inspired him. Even walking with no set plan, you constantly come across buildings steeped in history.

A city best discovered on foot

One last thing I really appreciated: Prague is easy to explore on foot. The main districts are close to one another, and walking remains the best way to take in the mood of the place. When your legs get tired, the trams are handy and full of charm.

A romantic getaway, ideal for couples

If I had to sum up Prague’s atmosphere in one word, it would be romantic. The cobbled lanes, the bridges over the Vltava, the small cosy cafes and the evening lights make it a perfect destination for two. Once night falls, you only need to wander to come across beautiful views, like the illuminated Saint Wenceslas monument watching over its great square. And to enjoy it fully, I recommend going off season: with fewer people and softer light, the city reveals an even more intimate charm. It is the kind of place where you want to stroll without rushing, hand in hand.

So, should you go to Prague?

Without hesitation, yes. Prague brings together everything I look for in a trip: beauty, charm, a calm and romantic atmosphere, good food and a reasonable budget. If you are still hesitating over your next destination, let yourself be tempted, especially off season and as a couple. You will surely come back, like me, wanting to return.