Picturesque Prague!

Life is hard. Sitting on the sofa, holding a smartphone, and reading about Prague, Czech Republic, it feels like a lovely, old-world castle city worth visiting. What you don't read ( at least I missed it) is that it takes hard work (mental and physical) to navigate the gravel streets, countless stairs, and numerous tram changes to see this beautiful old worldly city.

When you land in Prague, you feel at ease with the smaller crowds at the airport, which gives you a special feeling. However, once you reach the city centre, you are greeted by a sea of tourists, making you feel competitive. Such is the popularity of Prague that people come here from far and wide to party, soak in the atmosphere, and have a relaxing holiday with cheaper food and stay as compared to other capitals in Europe. Although, for me, it was one of my most hectic city breaks. I was excited to meet my old family friends, but I had to race against time to complete a list of places to visit on gravel streets, which left me tired. Mark my words, don't go to Prague if you can't manage to walk for a mile straight, looking up at beautiful and picturesque vistas. At the same time, ensure you step on the correct steps (stone), balancing your phone and yourself. And if you are still enthusiastic despite this small warning to visit, read on.

The Czech Republic, Czechoslovakia in the olden days, is now separated into the Czech Republic and Slovakia and sits comfortably in the centre of Europe. Various tribes settled here over the centuries, leaving a distinct mark on the city and the region. Prague, also called Praha, the city of spires, retains the old-world charm with its magnificent and world's largest Castle, a serene Vltava river, and the famous Charles Bridge with numerous picturesque locations, museums, and buildings of importance.

We started with the walk on the famous Charles Bridge when the evening crowds were gathering to stroll, listen to live music and soak in the weekend vibes. Although heavily crowded with tourists, the stone arched bridge, built around the 13th century, felt sturdy and serene. It is conveniently located between the Castle and the city and has stone statues on either side of famous saints worshiped over the centuries. Prague castle views from the Bridge are stunning in the evening.

We strolled through the old alleys, peeping into the souvenir shops in Old Town Square and waiting for the famous Astronomical clock to chime on the hour. The Astronomical clock is a piece of art as much as it is of science. It is one of three astronomical cloaks in the world that have been working since the early 14th century, hence a prime attraction. On the hour, the bells ring, and the windows open in the centre where the statues of saints rotate. It just lasts for a minute before the windows shut. I must admit I had a tough time calculating the time on this complex system, so I admired the beauty and intricate works.

Later, I climbed the Old Town Hall to get a top view of the city. The red brick roofs, the surrounding hills, and the Castle were breath-taking. On our way, we tried a few local desserts called 'Chimney Cakes', which are famous in Hungary and Czech. Made from white flour dough, circled on a wooden stick, and baked on a coal burner, just like barbeque, and once done, rolled in heaps of sugar. You can choose to eat it hot right away or fill in some ice cream (I tried this) or fruits etc. very unique, and the flavours vary depending on the fillings.

The next day, we managed our way to Prague Castle on the hilltop to view some of the oldest architecture in the region. It expands over a vast area covering Palace Gardens, Cathedrals, government buildings, and museums. We managed to see a few, given the crowds and the heat. The colourful soviet style buildings, the beautiful views of the city, and the gravel paths left us exhausted. The best part we enjoyed, which left a lasting memory, was the old Tram ride from the Castle to the city. A vintage tram still operating for tourists that is a slow ride, stopping at various places to look up and close the monuments, parks, and general city life.

The other famous and heavily touristy place we often visited was the Wenceslas square. Famous for the horse trade back in the day, national demonstrations, and the very prominent National Museum, the most happening area in the city. It covers vast open spaces with shops, restaurants, and open spaces to relax and catch up with friends. Navigating through the stone alleys, huge boulevards, and the newly renovated areas gave us a peek into the past and a view of the future of this beautiful city.