Hello everyone, I am kooline92, a Korean living in Hungary.
I recently returned from a magical trip to Prague, Czech Republic. One of the great joys of living in Hungary is the opportunity to explore neighboring European countries, and this visit to Prague truly created unforgettable memories. It’s a city where the beauty of the Middle Ages coexists with a vibrant modern atmosphere. Shall we embark on this journey together?
The Start of Romance: Overwhelmed by the Grandeur of Prague Castle
My journey in Prague undeniably began with Prague Castle. This majestic complex, which began construction in the 9th century and has undergone numerous expansions and renovations, felt like a living history textbook. Here, you can witness various architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque.
The walk up to the castle was a bit steep, but the panoramic view of Prague that unfolded as I reached the castle walls was breathtaking enough to make me forget all the effort. The red roofs and towering spires looked like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
The interior of Prague Castle is truly vast with plenty to see. The highlight for me was undoubtedly St. Vitus Cathedral. Its enormous scale and intricate stained glass left me in awe. The light streaming through the stained glass filled the interior with a mystical ambiance, and I stood there for a long time, lost in its beauty.
Inside the castle grounds, there are various buildings like Golden Lane and St. George’s Basilica. I was particularly impressed by the charming shops and tiny houses in Golden Lane. It felt like stepping into a storybook. I even bought a small souvenir there to commemorate the experience. Prague Castle truly offers enough attractions to spend an entire day exploring without regret.
tip:Reserve your tickets on the website. https://www.katedralasvatehovita.cz/
A Bridge Through Time: Immersed in the Artistry of Charles Bridge
After descending from Prague Castle, my next destination was the Charles Bridge. As a symbol of Prague and one of its most romantic spots, the Charles Bridge spans the Vltava River, lined on both sides with thirty statues of saints.
As I walked across the bridge, the sounds of street musicians filled the air, and the bustling activity of portrait artists and souvenir vendors added to the lively atmosphere. The view of Prague Castle and the Vltava River from the bridge was simply stunning. Especially at sunset, the golden light painted a picturesque scene that made me stop and gaze for a long time.
Each statue is said to have its own story, and I paused specifically at the statue of St. John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that touching the bronze plaque beneath this statue brings good luck and ensures your return to Prague. You could see how many people had touched it, making it smooth and shiny. I, too, made a wish and touched it. The Charles Bridge is beautiful by day, but at night, the streetlights and the illuminated Prague Castle create an even more romantic atmosphere. I highly recommend visiting both during the day and at night.
Traces of Time: The Marvel of the Astronomical Clock
Located in Prague’s Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock is another iconic landmark of Prague. Created in 1410, this clock is an astonishing culmination of scientific and technological prowess, displaying not just time, but also the positions of the sun and moon, seasons, and the zodiac signs. On the hour, the clock’s mechanism comes alive, with the figures of the Twelve Apostles moving, creating a spectacle that draws crowds of tourists.
I made sure to arrive early to secure a good spot and gaze up at the clock tower. Finally, the chimes announcing the hour rang out, and it was truly fascinating and delightful to watch the apostle figures appear and move in the small windows above the clock. It was astonishing to see such intricate technology from centuries ago still functioning perfectly.
Don’t forget to climb the Old Town Hall Tower next to the clock tower to take in a panoramic view of Prague. The 360-degree spectacle of red roofs, with Prague Castle visible in the distance, makes you understand why Prague is called the “City of a Hundred Spires.” It’s the best spot to capture the beautiful Prague cityscape in a panorama.
Prague Culinary Journey: Eating Like a Local at Recommended Restaurants
A trip wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the local cuisine! The two restaurants I visited in Prague offered truly special experiences. If you want to soak in the authentic Czech atmosphere, I highly recommend checking out these two spots.
U Medvidku: An Authentic Local Experience with Live Music
My first recommendation is U Medvidku. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place with a long history, serving as a brewery and even a hotel. Especially in the evenings, the staff members play musical instruments, providing live entertainment. It truly allowed me to immerse myself in the local Czech spirit.
Google map:http://Křemencova 11, 110 00 Nové Město, 체코
Here, I tasted traditional Czech dishes: Goulash and Pork Knuckle (Koleno). The goulash had a rich broth with tender meat, offering a deep flavor, while the pork knuckle was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You absolutely must try their Dark Beer, which they brew themselves. Its rich and deep flavor was superb. With lively music, delicious food, and refreshing beer, it was a perfect evening meal in Prague. It’s truly a great place for families or groups of friends.
Lokal U Bile Kuzelky: Fresh Beer and a Lively Vibe
My second recommendation is Lokal U Bile Kuzelky. This place is conveniently located right next to Charles Bridge, making it very accessible. ‘Lokal’ is a popular restaurant chain with several branches across the Czech Republic, and this particular location boasts a unique atmosphere.
Google map: http://Míšeňská 12, 110 00 Malá Strana, 체코
The biggest highlight here is their exceptionally fresh Pilsner Urquell draft beer. They store it in specially designed large tanks to maintain optimal freshness. When ordered, the beer is poured into a clear glass, full of foam and perfectly chilled – it was simply fantastic. As the Czech proverb says, “Beer begins with foam,” and indeed, the rich foam made the beer smooth to drink and enhanced its aroma.
The food menu also features traditional Czech dishes reinterpreted with a modern touch. I ordered the Prague Ham and Fried Cheese, which paired incredibly well with the beer. If you’re looking for a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere where you can mingle with locals while enjoying delicious beer and food, I highly recommend this place.
Leaving Prague…
My brief but intense trip to Prague left me with unforgettable memories. The ancient history woven into its classic architecture, the artistic soul embedded in every street corner, and the warm, lively people all contributed to its charm. Prague truly possesses a magnetism that goes beyond just being a beautiful city.
I feel incredibly grateful to have such a gem of a city so close to Hungary. If I get the chance to visit Prague again, I’d love to wander through its alleys more leisurely and discover even more of its hidden charms.
If you ever get the opportunity, I wholeheartedly encourage you to visit Prague, Czech Republic, and experience a magical time just like I did! I’ll be back with another travelogue soon. Nasvīdanou (Goodbye in Czech)!
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