It may seem as if Prague has been open forever, but in reality, foreign tourists have been visiting Prague for just twenty years. Its time as a closed city is a mere blip, though, in its 1,100 history as one of the most important cultural and trading cities in Europe. Soviet domination from 1945 until 1990 was harsh but short-lived.
Happily, it survived much of WWII intact but for several raids by the USAAF in 1945. Thus, the Prague of today is rich with heritage; its UNESCO-listed old city draws more than 4 million visitors annually and it is hugely popular for weekend breaks in Europe for people across the continent.
As far as short breaks in Europe go though, you need to have your superman fast trainers on - there's an awful lot to get around and most of it is within walking distance of the old town.
Prague is home to quite spectacular attractions. Among them the Charles Bridge (you'll recognise it from every movie you've even seen set in Prague), Prague castle, Old Town Square, the Lennon Wall (we love a good Beatles fan spot) and the countless galleries and museums.
Food is Czech, wholesome and plentiful. You'll find modern European fusion or traditional fare. There are plenty of international choices too. Prices are moderate, even around Old Town Square and Prague Castle. Beer (this being the Czech Republic) is superb and cheap.
Prague is an easy and enjoyable city to just roam around. The old town in particular has something quite spectacular around every corner.
Eating out in Prague - cheap, expensive and everything in between
Food is one of the highlights of Prague, in terms of quality, but also in terms of price. If you've travelled on city breaks to other capitals you'll be well aware of the 'avoid the tourist hotspots' mantra, yet here in Prague, even in the busiest areas will you find value. That said Josefov, just north of the square is where you'll find the best choice and the best value.
The budget options - speaking of Josefov, on Rámová 5, Josefov is Orange Moon, a kind of Asian fusion restaurant. Terrific food and terrific value. Even Old Town delivers value. Coctail-Café Restaurant on Karlova 6 is pizza, seafood and traditional Czech food at better than you'd expect prices. Plus... it's good!
Mid-price options - on Národní 37, Nové Mesto, lies Káva Káva Káva, perhaps the friendliest cafe in town. They do a great breakfast (and you get free internet to boot). At Újezd 22, Malá Strana, Pivnice U Švejkù serves up hearty, wholesome fare that everyone will enjoy. (The choice is excellent!)
Splurge - Terasa U Zlaté Studně is one of the 'hidden secrets' of the Lesser Town. We like it because the view from the roof top dining area is so special. It's quiet and not an 'it' restaurant, but the chef knows his stuff and the selections are inventive without going overboard.
What to wear, when to go
Prague is a typically cold, central European city - wet in winter, lots of snow showers and little sunlight! In summer however the place comes alive. The days are long and warm with average temps getting into the mid-twenties.
It rains less than Rome or Paris and spring and autumn are changeable - rather warm followed by a definite cold change.
Prague is designed for weekend breaks
It's easy to settle into Old Town and not go beyond it - there's so much to see and do. However, venturing out to neighbouring boroughs will reward the traveller. The food is better and there are many quirky boutiques to find.
Old Town - this is the heart of Prague. It's a living film set and you can just easily wander for the day. There are cobblestone lanes, old churches, beautiful houses and spires on every street corner. There's plenty to see including the Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock, the Carolinum, the Municipal House and the Estates Theatre. Pretend you're in a fairy tale and enjoy!
Lobkowicz Palace - is close to the east entrance of the Prague castle complex and has been wowing travellers for centuries. As a museum it offers an excellent overview of Czech artefacts, but the building itself is an attraction in its own right, particularly at night when it's all lit up. Watch the changing of the guard if you have time, and time it right.
St. Vitus Cathedral - the most beautiful church in Prague has soaring ceilings, stained glass galore, tombs (ooh yeah), and that gothic feel loved by every Dracula movie ever made.
Prague Castle - home to Czech princes for more than 1,000 years, Prague Castle is the fairy tale castle you always dreamed of ending up in (if your name is Rapunzel). Stunning outside and in, Prague Castle is more a complex of buildings than one single sight. Today it houses the office of the President, St Vitus' Cathedral, magnificent courtyards and gardens, shops and restaurants. It's the most popular site in Prague for good reason. Plenty of kodak moments to go home with.
Petrin Tower - if you want to see the city in all its medieval glory you have to go straight to the top. The Petrin Tower is similar in look to the Eiffel Tower, you can climb to the top and glory in the views.
The must see - is the Charles Bridge. Walk across it and enjoy the views, revel in the entertainment and the statues. You'll see a brilliant view of the lit-up castle if you cross it at night. Our recommendation? Cross it as many times as you can at different times of the day. There's a different feel to the place every time.