Prague/Czech Republic

Summer, June’2016

Took a “RegioJet” bus from Vienna to Prague.Good travel line of bus run by Czech student agency, cheap and comfortable. Free refreshment drinks were provided in the bus and had an attached toilet/WC inside it.

View from other bank of Charles Bridge
View from of Charles Bridge from one bank

Charles Bridge over the Vltava River is a historic bridge of Prague, constructed in the 15thcentury. Till 18th century it was the only means of crossing the river from the city and the Prague castle. The bridge is very nicely decorated with 30 statues depicting various saints of that time.

Starting of the first day of the tour, we took the “Sandeman” free walking tour. The guide was a real gem, but I forgot his name (Sorry 😦 ). The walk started at the Old Town square. Saw the oldest preserved Jewish synagogue/Ghetto – got to know about the history of the Prague Jews, their traditions and customs.

At the starting point: Old Town Square
Infront of the Jewish Synagogue

Almost everyone who thinks of travelling to Prague knows about the world-famous astronomical clock. The fascinating tales of the clock “The walk of theApostles” and the hourly show. The clock was installed in 1410 and is the oldest operating one. 

At 5pm in the evening, I came again to hear the clock bells. It was raining, but full crowded with people carrying umbrellas. This was/is a sight to behold.

Took the tram to the Prague Castle. Couldn’t find the ticket vending machine, so got into the tram without a ticket. Was little worried as this is not legal inEurope. The tram being too crowded we were saved.

The complex inside the castle. Bustling with tourists!!
A joyous picture. 
One of the tower face of the cathedral. A nearly 100m high tower, climbing 280 steps one can see the magnificent view of the castle grounds and adjoining areas.

The Prague Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the world. A UNESCO world heritage site, it is huge, and you may need more than a day to see the castle and the several things located inside – like churches, halls, towers etc, namely St. Georges Basilica,Old Royal Palace, Rosenberg Palace, St Vitus cathedral, changing of the guards, Golden lane are some of the important.

Many of them are accessible for free and some of them needs ticket.

The whole castle complex with its different elements are of various architectural styles ranging from Roman influence to Gothic architecture.

Had lunch overlooking the Charles bridge and the Prague Castle. Mesmerising view of the river, the bridge and the towering castle in the backdrop!!

The Old Town Square dates back to 10th century and now it is the heart ofPrague’s tourism industry – still charming with medieval feel. Almost all the European cities have a town square, here you can have coffee sitting in the many cafes surrounding the square, see street performances, take a walk, or simply enjoy the moment.

Old Town Square
Trying the Segway (e-scooter)
Another view of the Old Town Square
A street delicacy – potato ring
Beautiful caricatures and momentos on top of Charles Bridge
Trying not to live any city without checking out a few bookshops

In every part of the old town square in Prague, you will see a spiral kind of eatable thing with fillings inside. You will feel like trying it a sit is really eye catching. It is a kind of spit cake made from rolled dough wrapped around a stick. It is known as Trdelník and originates from Hungarian cuisine.

Had three different types of Trdelník/Strudel/Chimney cake. The signature sweet/desert of Prague. I agree it’s more touristic as it is sold much more to lure the tourist into thinking that it is something unique to Czech, maybe not so. Even then it is a delight to one’s taste buds!! 🙂

Tredlník – filled with strawberry & whipped cream

Had a wonderful time in this highly touristy city. The city had a altogether different look and charm when I visited it for Christmas a year later. That’s another post!!

Thankyou

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