Short Breaks to Prague (Prague City Break)

Short breaks in Prague have become increasingly popular in recent times and the city has evolved into a major tourist destination. It is easy to see why: the city has a rich history, picturesque cobbled streets, and an eclectic architectural style all of its own. Add to that a lively night life, and you have all the ingredients you need for a perfect break away when on a Prague city break.

For many visitors one of the major attractions is Prague Castle, a massive complex with palaces, courtyards, and a cathedral. You can walk down Golden Lane, with its tiny, and brightly coloured, 15th century houses, including the one in which Franz Kafka often stayed, and wander around the Royal Gardens at the back.

Take the time to cross the Charles Bridge and walk around the Old Town Square and the old Jewish Quarter before visiting the modern shops and restaurants of Wenceslas Square. Wherever you go, you will note the jumble of architectural styles, blending together in a pleasing harmony.

If you want to take in a bit of shopping, you have all the big names as well as smaller shops selling local specialties, including Bohemian crystal, and spirits such as Absinthe and Slivovitz. You could take a boat trip along the river, possibly including lunch or a jazz accompaniment in the evening. If you want panoramic views of the city, take the funicular up the hillside, or eat at one of the many rooftop restaurants.

Then it is time to sample the nightlife. You could choose a hearty meal of goulash and dumplings, with the famous Czech beer, or a meal in one of many international restaurants. Perhaps you will follow this with a tour of the many pubs and clubs, or a visit to the opera, ballet, or a concert. The possibilities are endless.

Things to Do and See When on a Prague City Break

Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge crosses the Vltava between the castle and Old Town areas. Viewed from the Old Town, the bridge can be seen with Prague Castle looming in the background. The bridge itself is lined with 30 large statues, and during the day a hive of activity, with many visitors to Prague heading between the castle and Old Town, taking in this scenic route.

National Museum (Národní Muzeum)

The grand National Museum building in Prague sits imposingly at one end of Wenceslas Square with the Wenceslas Monument just in front of it. In addition to this main building, the museum comprises of additional buildings which are distributed throughout the city. Further details about the museum can be found at http://www.nm.cz/Visit-Us/.

Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is a must-see area for any traveller in Prague on a city break and home to a number of city attractions. The colourful buildings implement designs of a gothic or baroque influence, and serve to create a distinctive setting in which to sit down and enjoy a drink or something to eat, with the Týn Church towers dominating the surrounding skyline.

Prague at Night

The medieval city of Prague is magically transformed at night, with the lights illuminating its landmarks and streets, creating a picturesque setting for an after dinner stroll. Whether you are looking for an idyllic restaurant to enjoy the local cuisine, or a bar or nightclub to enjoy a Czech beer – Prague’s nightlife has something for everyone when on a city break.

Prague Castle

This huge castle is amongst the largest in the world and is made up of a number of attractions that includes the Church and monastery of St George and the Czech Crown Jewels. From its elevated position, the castle faces out over the Vltava river and is visible from many parts of the city. For information about opening hours, guided tours, as well as further information about the castle itself, please visit their website at http://www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle/prague-castle-tourist-information/visit-of-prague-castle.shtml.

Prague Zoo

Located towards the North of the Old Town, Prague’s zoo has been voted one of the top 10 zoos in the world, and is home to a number of species from all over the world. Please visit their website for further details regarding opening hours and the daily feeding and activity schedule: http://www.zoopraha.cz/en.

Vltava River Cruise

With a cruise along the Vltava River you get to see Prague from an entirely different perspective from the comfort of a boat. In addition to the option of lunch during the day tours, you could also take an evening tour which includes dinner as part of the experience. Cruises depart every day throughout the year, while tickets can be purchased in advance.

Wenceslas Square

Situated in the New Town area of the city, Wenceslas Square is dominated at one end by the National Museum and Wenceslas Monument, and runs all the way down for 750m, even bordering the Old Town in some places. Due to the sheer size and location, most visitors to Prague find themselves walking along this area at some point (either inadvertently or by design), and there are a number of places to sit down, have something to eat or drink, or do a bit of shopping.

Winter Markets (Christmas in Prague)

Winter in Europe doesn’t have to mean staying put indoors, with Prague arguably at its finest during the winter months – particularly during Christmas time. The Christmas markets which fill both the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in the New Town are worth experiencing and wonderfully decorated to get you in the Christmas mood.

Where to Go When on a Prague City Break?

Hotels in Prague