Travel Month – August
In this blog, I will share our experience during our stay in Prague, or Praha as it is locally known. Initially, we considered driving from Germany and crossing the border, but we discovered that car rentals charged significantly more when the pickup and drop-off locations were in different countries. As an alternative, we opted for a train journey, a decision we were glad we made.
The two-hour train ride from Dresden was exceptionally scenic, with breathtaking views of lush green mountains, charming villages adorned with churches, and the picturesque River Elbe. I would recommend going for the train ride if you have an option. We arrived in the evening and took a taxi to our hotel located in the Old Town area. The hotel’s proximity to various restaurants allowed us to have a quick dinner after a long and eventful day.
Day 1: Old Town
We started our sightseeing by reserving a two-hour ride in a vintage convertible after my son noticed the brochure in the hotel’s reception. Touring Prague in a vintage car is more than just transportation; it offers a captivating journey into the past. This immersive experience invites you to connect with the city’s history while enjoying the dynamic energy of its present. Our driver, doubling as a knowledgeable tour guide, guided us through the Old Town, the Jewish quarters, and the renowned Charles Bridge.
After the memorable ride, we took a quick lunch and were ready for our walking tour. The cobblestone streets of Old Town echo with the footsteps of history. As we strolled through the medieval alleys, the gothic architecture of the Old Town Square and the astronomical wonders of the Astronomical Clock took us to a bygone era. The clock is the oldest clock that is still working, and it was installed in Old Town Hall in 1410.
The vibrant atmosphere of the square, surrounded by colorful buildings and the imposing Church of Our Lady before Týn, is a living testament to Prague’s architectural legacy. The local market in the old town area also has a lot to offer from local delicacies, local crafts, and produce.
Day 1: Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge
Venturing into the Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, we encountered a profound narrative of resilience. The synagogues, including the Spanish Synagogue and the Old-New Synagogue, were beautiful. There we noticed a unique Hebrew clock with anticlockwise movement and Hebrew characters.
Our last stop for the day was Charles Bridge, an iconic symbol of Prague, that spans the Vltava River with grace and elegance. As we traversed its cobblestone pathway, flanked by statues of saints, musicians, and historical figures, we marveled at the breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The bridge, adorned with artists, musicians, and a timeless aura, served as a conduit connecting the historical Mala Strana with the Old Town.
Day 2: Prague Castle and New Town area
To discover Prague’s New Town area and the renowned Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, we decided to go on the hop-on-hop-off bus. Perched atop the panoramic hills overlooking the Vltava River, Prague Castle stands as a symbol of centuries-old splendor. The castle complex is extensive and could occupy an entire day, our limited time allowed us to explore the Basilica of Saint George (one of Prague’s oldest churches) and the Basilica of St. Vitus, a Gothic masterpiece. The soaring spires and stained-glass windows tell stories of kings, saints, and the enduring spirit of Prague. To top it off, the Royal Garden provides a panoramic view of Prague.
As we walked into the New Town area. The Dancing House, a symbol of Prague’s architectural evolution, graces the Vltava River with its unconventional and dynamic design. In the afternoon, we enjoyed a relaxing boat ride on the Vltava River and watched the beautiful sunset. As the golden hour cast its enchanting spell, the cityscape underwent a breathtaking transformation into a panoramic masterpiece. As we take our leave, we do so with gratitude for the memories made and the stories shared, knowing that Prague’s timeless charm will forever linger in our wanderlust-filled hearts.
Day 3: Back to Germany
The next day was our return journey back to Nuremberg in Germany. All the train options that we were getting had a 10-minute layover near the border. So, we decided to travel by bus instead. We tried the Flixbus option and were very glad about our choice. The 3 hours ride back was smooth and on time with two breaks in between.
Some Travel Tips:
- Check if you need a visa to enter the country.
- Old town area is convenient for stay if you want to walk around the tourist spots.
- We didn’t carry any Crown, the currency of Czech. Euro, Dollar and credit card are widely accepted in most places.
- We booked our train tickets in advance.
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