Soak up the festive atmosphere in Prague!

Medieval streets, stunning architecture, delicious food. Most of the famous monuments, such as St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge and numerous churches and palaces were built in the XIV.-th century under the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV. The Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge of the city with its stunning Gothic bridge towers, it used to be called the Stone bridge. It was only during the early XIX.-th century that the bridge acquired its current name, after Emperor Charles IV. The bridge used to serve as a place of execution. First it looked much simpler, more functional, most of statues were erected during the rise of baroque only. Today it’s a pleasant, romantic place packed with tourists.

Charles Bridge

Close to the Old Town Square,  there were stunning buildings all around, I especially loved the  Prague astronomical clock, which is definitely the greatest treasure of the city. The oldest part of the clock dates back to 1410 when it was made by clockmaker. The background represents the Earth and the sky. You will also realize the signs of the zodiac and walk of the Apostles every hour.

Christmas mood

The Christmas markets are open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square everyday from the beginning of December till 6th of January. Children love the animals stable, where you can stroke sheep, goats. The atmosphere is lovely, be prepared for the crowd though.

Old Town Square

Wenceslas square

Art-Nouveau

If you are interested in art, I highly recommend you visiting the Mucha exhibition. Czech Art Nouveau artist, Alfons Mucha,  is well-known for his graceful women paintings, delicate colors and sophisticated style. At the back you can watch a short movie on his life. Spend an hour wandering around the gallery and admiring the Czech talent’s posters, paintings and sketches!

Dining tips

First evening I just fall in love with the restaurant called U Malvaze: really traditional with rustic design and creative interior. I prefer local food, so I had Bohemian-style braised beef with bread dumplings and cranberries. It was delicious.

The other place I tried for lunch was the Tri Stoleti, I had a delicious soup there called Goulash and a different kind of dumplings again.

Airport shopping

At the airport, I had time to look around, I've found this amazing shop, called Manufaktura. It turned out that it’s a Czech concept with original, high-quality cosmetic products and spa accessories made of traditional Czech natural ingredients. I loved the Wine collection with the beneficial effects of grape seed. Unique conception indeed.

However it was my second time in Prague already, I hope to return anytime soon. There is so much more to discover.