Prague survived the 20th century's wars almost intact, leaving behind a city of breathtaking architectural layering — Romanesque crypts beneath Gothic churches beneath Baroque palaces, all compressed into a walkable medieval centre. Charles Bridge at dawn, with its 30 saints watching the Vltava, is one of Europe's quintessential morning rituals. The Old Town Square's astronomical clock still draws crowds on the hour, while the Josefov Jewish Quarter tells a complex, deeply moving story of Central European history. Prague's restaurant scene has matured enormously — Field and La Dégustation Bohême Bourgeoise offer world-class tasting menus — and the Czech beer culture, anchored by centuries-old Pilsner Urquell and Bernard breweries, remains without peer.
- Suggested duration: 3–4 days
- Best time to visit: May to June and September to October for warm days and manageable crowds; Christmas markets in December are magical.