Time Off
Six hundred years of architecture, unharmed by war or nature, make Prague one of the most aesthetically pleasing cities in Europe. Disappearing behind the Iron Curtain for most of the latter part of the 20th century, Prague re-emerged after the Velvet Revolution of 1989 and is today one of Europe's most visited attractions. The city is compact and easy to navigate, from the Old Town Square where classical concerts and traditional marionette theatre shows are regularly held to the two citadels from which the modern-day city has grown. Philosophers read Kafka in Bohemia whilst history enthusiasts feast upon castles and cathedrals, dating back to medieval times. In summer, visitors can take advantage of boat rides down the river, under the spectacularly adorned Charles Bridge.
Prague Attractions
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
Hradčany, Prague 1
The home of Bohemian heirs between the 11th and 17th centuries. The enormous Vladislav Hall is still the site of the country's most important ceremonies. The castle stands majestically aloof above Prague yet symbolises the beauty and elegance of the capital.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Staré Město, Prague 1
The Old Town Square is surrounded by examples of beautiful architecture, from the Gothic town palace to the fairy-tale Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. One side is taken up with market stalls selling local glass and puppets.
Reduta Jazz Club
Národní 20, Nové Město, Prague 1
Tel: +420 2 249 33487 | Fax: +420 2 249 33486
The Reduta Jazz Club is one of the most popular jazz venues in Prague, with live music performances every evening.
State Opera (Státní Opera)
Wilsonova 4, Nové Město, Prague 1
Tel: +420 2 961 17392 | Fax: +420 2 242 12243
Seasonal ballet and opera performances. This venue is extremely popular, making advance booking essential.
National Theatre (Národní divadlo)
Národní 2, Nové Město, Prague 1
Tel: +420 2 242 27981 | Fax: +420 2 242 24351
Prague's premier venue for opera, ballet and plays. The people of Prague joined together to finance the theatre after state funding was refused, making this truly a people's venture.
Šternberg Palace (Šternberský Palác)
Hradčanské náměstí 15, Hradčany, Prague 1
Tel: +42 2 205 14634
The Czech National Gallery's art collection is held over several buildings. The Šternberg Palace houses the Gallery's exhibition of early European art, including works by Goya, Rubens and Rembrandt.