 |
| Ile de Kampa |
In the two weeks following Christmas, Justin and I are taking a short vacation exploring New York City then flying out to Europe. As part of my planning, I wanted to do a little bit of research and, while I was at it, share a few ideas for things to do in the places we will be visiting with you, my readers. Earlier this week I shared about New York and Paris. Today, I have moved on to Prague.
1. Try trdlnik (sweet rolls with sugar and cinnamon)!
And maybe go on a food tour. Because food. :)
2. Walk across the Charles Bridge.
Beginning construction in 1357, this bridge has a lot of history including having a very different name all the way up until 1870. It resides over the River Vltava and was the only means of crossing the river until 1841. The Charles Bridge connects the Prague Castle and the Old Town areas of Prague and was an important trade route between Eastern and Western Europe (Wikipedia).
3. Stand in awe of the astounding Prague Castle.
One of the largest castles in the world, the Prague Castle occupies an area of almost 70,000 m². The castle contains a large variety of exhibits including including the National Gallery collection of Bohemian baroque and mannerism art, exhibition dedicated to Czech history, Toy Museum and the picture gallery of Prague Castle, based on the collection of Rudolph II (wikipedia).
4. Glance into St Vitus's Cathedral.
A Roman Catholic metropolitan cathedral in Prague and the seat of the Archbishop of Prague, St Vitus's Cathedral is a prime example of Gothic architecture with beautiful stained glass windows and a tower that reaches 96.5 meters high!
 |
| Swans visiting the Charles Bridge! |
5. See the Dancing House, Lennon Wall and Astronomical Clock.
Some things you just have to see to believe.
6. Explore the Klementinum.
They have a unique tour available that includes access to the Baroque Library Hall, the Mirror Chapel, and the Astronomical Clock Tower from which you can see all of Prague. Apparently, the sites in this tour are very beautiful, but no photography is allowed. :(
7. View Vyšehrad.
The first settlement in Prague? Who knows? The fort does contain one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city though, and that, by itself, may make this a place worth visiting.
8. Take a river cruise for a unique view of the city.
There is nothing quite like seeing a city from the water. You have to agree with me on that. :)
9. Check out the local garnet jewelry.
Mined from the city of Turnov located just northeast of Prague, if you buy any garnet, make sure to get a certificate of authenticity.
10. Walk through gorgeous Petřín Park.
Is it as beautiful in the winter? Only one way to find out!
While these are only a few of the many, many things there are to do in Prague, they have succeeded in getting me excited about a city I knew very little about before starting my research. Have you visited Prague before? If so, what were some of your favorite things to do there? If not, what would you do if you could go? I'd love to hear! :)
** I'm participating in Susannah Conway's December Reflections. Are you? Today's post was #20 a response to "warmth" (and how we will be seeking it!). :)
