For those of you who read the article about the best European destinations to head to in winter , you’ll probably have read that I am desperate to go to Prague, or the lovely ‘Praha’ as the locals call it. Don’t even ask me why – I’ve always been a big one for travelling and love experiencing new places, people, cuisines and cultures, but I did a bit of light reading on Prague a couple of years ago and I’ve never looked back. I intend to head there next year at some point without a doubt, and here are the five reasons why.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Prague
Amazing Architecture
Prague wasn’t really touched in World War II, which is why its classic, gothic architecture has remained intact while most of Germany’s old buildings were sadly lost. And thank God, because it really is something extraordinary. To be totally honest, I think just Googling ‘Prague skyline’ was the thing that really attracted me to this stunning central European city. The oldest buildings which still stand in Prague are in the Romanesque style (extremely old!), and there’s plenty of Renaissance and Baroque style structures within the city. However, the favourite of locals and most tourists has to be the Gothic style , which Prague is renowned for. There’s no denying that, architecture wise, Prague has to be one of the best cities in Europe.
Can’t-Go-Wrong Prices
Contrary to popular belief, Prague isn’t actually the cheapest place in Europe, but it’s definitely one of the more cost effective tourist destinations. Known all across the world for the cheap (and very strong) beer, Prague also offers lots of delicious local cuisine that you have to try when you go there. Problem is, you may have to do your research before you head off, and find out which restaurants the locals like. This way, you’ll pay much less than you would at the typical ‘tourist trap’ restaurants, and the food might even be better. Nevertheless, Prague is the perfect place to go if you’re on a tight budget.
Historical Galore
For those of you self-confessed historical geeks reading this, let me just say: good for you! I love all things old and am absolutely fascinated with old buildings and interesting monuments, and I think everyone should be at least slightly interested in the history of a place they’re visiting. Unless of course you’re on a girl’s holiday and your primary aim is to drink, drink, and then drink some more. I’ve been there, done that, and I can’t say I really cared about anything else. BUT, whenever I go to a European city I love exploring museums and seeing historical monuments. Prague is the perfect place for this, and this stunning city is actually home to one of the oldest, and still fully functioning, astronomical clock. It’s over 600 years old, and is definitely worth seeing. And I can’t not mention Prague Castle , which is, according to the Guinness World Book of Records, the biggest ancient castle in the entire world. This old structure dates all the way back to the 9th Century, and looks like something from a fairy tale book.
Unique Nightlife
We all know that Prague is renowned for its appeal to hundreds of stag groups, and more are heading to the cheap Czech capital each and every year. Not only is the beer strong and cheap (what more could you want, right?) but some people actually consider Prague to be the ‘sex capital of Europe’, as opposed to Amsterdam . Okay, so Praha does have its fair share of ‘adult bars’ and strip clubs, but there’s actually all sorts of places to go at night, and a place to suit every type of visitor. There’s lots of live music options, and plenty of places to enjoy a local beer in calm, quiet surroundings.
Unforgettable Music
Although its music isn’t the aspect of Prague that it’s most famous for, it’s actually everywhere in the city. From people playing acoustic guitar and singing in bars, to the soothing tones of the church choirs, to traditional folk music from all over the continent playing in the streets, there really is something to suit everyone’s tastes. Okay, so it might not be the primary reason you visit Prague, since there are other places in Europe that are way more famous for its music, but this aspect of the city is definitely a bonus.
I think I’ve done a pretty good job in establishing why I want to go to Prague so much, and why you lovely folks reading this should, too! If you do, I hope you leave me a comment below telling me what you loved and didn’t love about Praha.
