Date travelled: 5-8 June 2006
The city of Prague is known as the city of spires, and rightly so. Set deep in the Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, Prague offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and excellent nightlife.
From the airport, take bus 100 to Zlicin Metro station, then take the Metro to the centre, which costs about 80CZK (about £1.50). I stayed at the Arpacay Hostel, which is a short tram ride or Metro ride from the centre.
Once you have got your bearings, get yourself a 24 hour Metro ticket from any station, price 100CZK (about £2). Head to station Museum, where the Prague National Museum is located.
Prague National Museum.
The Museum is situated on the far end of Wenceslas Square. There are plenty of nice coffee shops along here, so it's well worth a gentle walk.
Wenceslas Square.
Head back onto the Metro, and get off at Namesti Republiky. Here is the Municipal House, which was once the main military college of the former Czechoslovakia.
The Municipal House.
Right by the Municipal House is the Powder Tower, which is one of the 13 fortified entries into Prague's Stare Mesto (Old Town).
The Powder Tower.
Walk under the tower, and follow the cobbled road all the way to the old town square.
Prague Old Town Square.
The Old Town Hall is situated here. Have a look at one of the walls. You will see Prague's famous astronomical clock, where everyday at midday, tourists watch its intricate movements.
The Astronomical Clock.
After a break at one of the café, head back onto the Metro towards Malostranska, and walk up the steps to Prague castle, which overlooks the city.
The View From Prague Castle.
You will notice in the picture above a bridge. This is Charles Bridge, a famous 15th century river crossing that spans over the Vlatava, and during the day, the bridge is lined with small market traders and musicians.
The beer in the Czech Republic is in my opinion the best in the world. Brands such as Staropramen, Budvar, Ostrovar, Pilsner Urquel and Krusovice to name but a few, all available for about 20CZK (40p) for a large bottle in the supermarket, or about 50CZK (£1) in pubs and restaurants.
The Staropramen Brewery.
If you're in Prague for a good night, head to Karlovy Lazne, which is the biggest club in Central Europe, and is situated right by Charles Bridge. With an entrance price of 100CZK (about £2), 5 separate dance floors, beer prices of around 50CZK for a large (£1), and open until 5am, you're sure to have a good night!
View of Prague Castle & Charles Bridge, taken at 5am after leaving the club!
If you had a late one last night, and you need to clear your head, head towards Petrin Hill, at the west of the city. If you can't stomach the walk up the hill, take the Funicular railway, single 20CZK (40p). At the top, you will see Petrin Tower, build in 1891 as part of the Jubilee Exhibition.
Petrin Tower.
You can take a lift ride up the tower, and witness some excellent views over the city and beyond.
The View From Petrin Tower.
So if you're looking for a mini break you'll never forget, head to Prague!
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