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Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip!

There are so many things to do in Prague! In day 4 of our Europe Trip, we’ll describe all the attractions and things to do right here in Prague!

Day 4

We arrived in Prague at about 8pm via a flight from Amsterdam. It is wise to arrange for transport in advance because our driver was already awaiting for us at the airport when we arrived. The other good thing about this airport transfer was that it includes a guided tour of Prague as well! And so we checked into our Hotel – Hotel Roma that evening.

Hotel Roma is an italian themed hotel. We got it for a steal through a combined flight and hotel purchase – $70Euros/night!

Breakfast Buffet Spread Hotel Roma Prague

The breakfast in European countries are pretty much the same – cheese, ham, bread, eggs, sausage, fruits and cereals. Well, for the price, it’s really a steal as it comes with breakfast for 2, proximity to the Funicular and walking distance to all major attractions!

As we were still early for the complimentary tour, we took a short walk about town and took some photos of the Charles Bridge as well as the Vltava River.

Charles Bridge and Vltava River

Snow capped hills near Hotel Roma Prague

When we shot this photo, we were still unaware that it was the hunger wall. We thought that it was just another fortification of the city. Turns out that King Charles the 4th wanted to feed his people due to a great famine during that period, so he hired them to construct the wall, at the same time feeding them. Great King eh?

The tour starts daily at 11am. As we were still early, we went shopping! Kate bought a pair of boots at the shopping malls along Wenceslas Square. Fashionable yet keeps one warm in the cold months.

We were there close to 11am and met our tour guide for the day – Monika. She’s a local, born and bred in Prague and she is VERY experienced. Plus she speaks good English as well. We were told to hang around and watch the Astronomical Clock at 11am sharp. She told us that the tour would start after the “performance”. This was what we saw…

12 Apostles of Astronomical Clock

After the cock crowed, a trumpeter appeared at the top of the Astronomical Clock to announce the hour on all 4 sides of the tower…

Trumpeter of the Astronomical Clock

After the “performance”, Monika started the tour proper. Since we were in the heart of Old Town Prague, she told us a few stories here…

360 View of Old Town Prague

Church of our Lady at Tyn Old Town Square Prague

You may notice that the towers of the Church of our Lady before Tyn are different – one thin and one fat. Monika joked that the architect was actually drinking and got a little bit tipsy that evening, which is why the measurements got out. But the truth is, the fatter tower actually represents Eve and the thinner one Adam.

Calendar of the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square Prague

If you notice closely, the Astronomical Clock actually has very very small divisions on the outside discs. They represent each day of the calendar year! 😮 This means that as the clock moves (telling time), the discs move and tells the day of the year! The Astronomical Clock is indeed the work of a genius.

Wall that extended to St. Nicholas Church Prague Old Town

St. Nicholas Protestant Church Old Town Square Prague

You may also notice a piece of wall near the Astronomical Clock that is abruptly sheared off. The original wall actually extended all the way to St. Nicholas Church which is a distance away. It was destroyed during WW2.

Building where Albert Einstein played violin Prague Old Town

The blue and grey building, also located in the old town square was actually a place where Albert Einstein used to chill out and show off his violin skills!

We then moved away from the Old Town Square. These are some of the interesting things that Monika pointed out to us along the way…

Outside the Concert Hall (where plays are only in German), there is a statue (see bottom right of picture above). This was done by the lover of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wherever he performed.

Oldest part of the University built by Charles the 4th Prague

Hand of the Thief - St. James Church Prague — Hand of the Thief – St. James Church Prague

Legend has it that a thief came to steal from the Church of St. James. When he was about to leave, the Madonna grabbed his hand and did not let go till the next morning. The people came and saw the thief but had no way to release him except for cutting off his hand. The Madonna then released the hand. Subsequently, the hand has been hung as a warning to other thiefs.

House signs such as this used to tell others the job of the one who stays inside. Here, the golden rings usually symbolises gold smiths. We then headed to the Jewish Quarter…

Jewish Clock Prague - Read Counter Clockwise for the time — Jewish Clock Prague – Read Counter Clockwise for the time

Soon, it was lunch time and we had our lunch at Yes Burger.

After the delightful meal (tender burger patty made on the spot), we met up at the book tunnel inside the city library…

The book tunnel also has another name – Never Ending Tunnel because of the 2 reflecting mirrors on both ends of the tunnel, creating an illusion of a tunnel with no end in sight. As we passed the library, we saw

Statue of Jesuit Student protecting the Library

Girl playing with paper aeroplane Prague

We then came to the entrance of the Charles Bridge

Another Entrance to Charles Bridge Prague

Apparently, the gate has some astronomical meaning behind it. It was deduced by astrologers that the bridge should be built according to the odd number pyramid 135797531 for good luck. The moon, sun and star level also has some meaning to it.

Statue of Charles the 4th Prague Charles Bridge

From the Charles Bridge, you can enjoy magnificent views of the city as well.

View from Charles Bridge

Taking turns to touch statues on Charles Bridge Prague

There are also several statues on Charles Bridge that is rumoured to bring good luck and children! Further down, we arrived at Kampa Island (where Tom Cruise jumped out of restaurant in Mission Impossible 1) as well as home of Monster Vonnique!

Location of Kampa Island - Shooting grounds of Mission Impossible 1 — Location of Kampa Island – Shooting grounds of Mission Impossible 1

Monster Vonnique is a story that parents tell their children when they’re naughty. Monster Vonnique would catch its naughty victims, drown them and keep their spirits.

Monika our Tour Guide and Lockamania in Prague

The lockamania that spread to many cities including Prague whereby lovers would place locks together as a symbol of belonging and “binded” to each other.

The John Lennon Wall of Prague has a really interesting yet sorrowful story to it. As a symbol of peace and love, someone started to draw John Lennon on this piece of wall. However, the government was oppose to such freedom, started to repaint the wall. People then came to draw again and again, so much so that the government at its peak, had to station guards to arrest/beat anyone who drew on the wall. Today, this wall (and its pictures) changes all the time but usually there’s still a picture of John Lennon on it.

All seeing Eye of the Knight of Templar Prague

After that, we headed to the highlight of the entire tour – Prague Castle! To go there, we travelled by Nerudova. The slope is quite steep so please wear proper shoes ya? There were also more house signs on this street…

Looking back down Nerudova Street Prague

Amazing View from Prague Castle

You may also catch the change of guards at Prague Castle as well!

Change of Guards at Prague Castle

There are also other interesting things to note in Prague Castle…

St. George's Basilica Prague Castle — St. George’s Basilica Prague Castle

Here’s an important tip : When you leave Prague Castle, you will be made to choose at this point…

By choosing to go left (via the vineyard), you will continue to enjoy the fantastic view of Prague as you descend down and leave the castle. If you were to go right, the walls would be too high and you’ll just miss the views as you go back down to the city.

We were recommended by our receptionist that evening to have dinner at Olympia.

We had the roast pork as well as the Beef Goulash

Yummy roast pork which was very tender at Restaurant Olympia Prague

Beef Goulash Restaurant Olympia Prague - A little salty but the bread and potato patty were chewy and tasty — Beef Goulash Restaurant Olympia Prague – A little salty but the bread and potato patty were chewy and tasty

All in all, the dinner was about $20euros but the food was simply amazing. Dont miss the roast pork!

Day 5

The next day, we headed up to Petrin Hill via the Funicular.

The Funicular up to Petrin Hill from Ujezd Station Prague

It was pretty cold that morning but the sun was up, brightening up the day.

We headed to Petrin Tower but the lift was down, so we did not go up the tower. We stayed in the souvenir section and browsed a little…

1st Floor of Petrin Tower - Did not go up as the lift was spoilt! — 1st Floor of Petrin Tower – Did not go up as the lift was spoilt!

We also visited the Mirror Labyrinth (aka Hall of Mirrors)

Mirror Maze in Mirror Labyrinth Petrin Hill Prague

There was a mirror maze as well as a laughter hall where convex and concave mirrors create funny reflections of you. On the way down to the Monastery to have our lunch as some freshly brewed beer, we saw a picture perfect moment…

Amazing view of Prague at viewing point outside monastery

Lunch at the brewery was fantastic as well! We had the chicken as well as the crepe with ice cream! mamamia!

Restaurant and Brewery Petrin Hill Prague

Inside Restaurant and Brewery Petrin Hill Prague

Enjoy a pint for less than 50Czech Koruna!

Chicken St Nobert (140cz) Restaurant and Brewery Petrin Hill Prague

Pancake with Caramel Beer Ice Cream (99cz) Restaurant and Brewery Petrin Hill Prague

Please dont miss out on the pancake with caramel beer ice cream! It is probably the best dessert we’ve had ever!

Taking the advice of Monika, we decided to visit a restaurant she recommended for svickova, beef in whipped cream, creamy brown sauce and cranberry…

The beef was tender, flavourful and the mix of cranberry,whipped cream and sauce is something new but interestingly nice for us!

We headed back to Charles Bridge and did some shopping at Pariska Street before heading to Municipal House for tea…

Pariska Street - Luxury Shopping Prague — Pariska Street – Luxury Shopping Prague

It is also recommended to have tea at the Kavárna obecní Dům aka Municipal House Cafe. It was a new experience for us as we dont usually do tea time plus the atmosphere was classy. Check it out…

Classy feel in Kavárna obecní Dům – Live piano in the background

For more of what we ate, check out the post of Municipal House.

In the evening, we headed back to Wenceslas Square to try out the roasted pork knuckle!

Huge Pork Knuckle - 416Czk — Huge Pork Knuckle – 416Czk

The pork knuckle was HUGE! It is also good for 2. Goes well with some beer from the menu.

Melantrich and Lobkowixz beer at 80czk each

We rounded off the evening with a stroll past Charles Bridge in the dark. Romantic.

Romantic Walk at night along Charles Bridge

Day 6

We slept in today and decided to go to the pub near the hotel to try out the smoke duck. Turns out that it was delicious as well!

Yummy smoked duck with tender meat and crispy skin served with potato dumpling and radish for 215czk

The interior of the restaurant is somewhat like a tavern. You literally descend a flight of stairs into a basement. Cool.

Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

Attractions in Prague

Prague Castle – The most iconic architecture in Prague
Petrin Hill via the Funicular – Amazing View of Prague and Hall of Mirrors Awaits
Municipal House Prague – Enjoy a cuppa at Kavárna obecní Dům while reveling in the arts
Wenceslas Square Prague – Shopping , Dining , Cinemas and more
Charles Bridge Prague – Beautiful Architecture with Stories and Legends to Tell
Old Town Square Prague – History, Astrological Clock and more
Astronomical Clock Prague – Work of A Genius

Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Last Words

There are so many things to do in Prague. Many attractions in Prague as well! Prague is definitely one of our top European cities. The city is rich in history, have links to modern culture, exceptionally good food and unforgettable scenic spots.

Take a short trip to Prague, the next time you are in Europe. You’ll definitely enjoy it!

Hotel Deals

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

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Remember to leave your comments for 2bearbear Singapore Travel Blog in our comments section below!

Updated on January 3, 2021December 21, 2012Astronomical Clock Charles Bridge Czech Republic Europe Municipal House Old Town Square Petrin Hill Prague Prague Prague Attractions Prague Castle Singapore Travel Blog Things to do Things to do in Czech Republic Things to do in Europe Things to do in Prague Travel Wenceslas Square

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic!

There are so many things to do and attractions in Prague! Here we will take you through the top 6 attractions and things to do in Prague which we think all visitors to Prague should not miss!

1. Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral

At the top of our list is Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral!

This iconic castle can be seen from many parts of Prague as it sits atop overlooking the entire city! At about 600m long and 150m wide, it is the biggest ancient castle in the world! Do take time to check out Golden Lane as well as other intricate architectures within its compound.

Tip: Dont miss the change of guard on the hour!

2. Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

360 View of the Old Town Square in Prague

To take a step back in time, a visit to Old Town Square would definitely do the trick. The square is laden with historical architectures and structures, each telling a history of their own. The highlight of the square is Astronomical Clock where it will have a little “performance” on the hour!

Tip: Observe the intricacies of the Astronomical Clock, it tells 3 different times and the calendar date as well!

3. Charles Bridge

Many would say “what is a visit to Prague without a visit to the scenic Charles Bridge?”. Indeed, you can take in the sights and have a leisurely stroll down this ancient bridge. The Prague Castle, Hunger Wall and Petrin Hill can be easily observed from here.

Tip: Be on the look out for pick-pockets and try not to buy souvenirs from here as they are usually pricier as compared to other souvenir shops.

4. Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill not only offers magnificent views of the entire city of Prague. There are other smaller attractions such as the Petrin Tower, Hunger Wall, Funicular as well as the Hall of Mirrors. Of course, the best view of Prague can be seen from here.

Tip: Take a stroll from here to the monastery and have a freshly brewed beer!

5. Wenceslas Square

Statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse (National Museum Wenceslas Square)

For night life and shopping, look no further than Wenceslas Square! Here you will find pubs, restaurants, entertainment venues and lots of shopping opportunities. A statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse (in front of the National Museum) lies at the northern end of the square.

Tip: Check out the Koruna Palace and its glass dome!

6. Municipal House

Used to be the seat of Bohemian Kings, the Municipal House today houses exhibitions and is also a venue for performances of the arts. For visitors, do take time to enjoy the intricacies of the building, on the inside and outside.

Tip: While you’re here, why not enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the Kavárna obecní Dům / Municipal House Cafe?

Hotel Deals

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

If you enjoyed our content, “Like” us on Facebook Today!

Remember to leave your comments for 2bearbear Singapore Travel Blog in our comments section below!

Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
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Attractions in Prague

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Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021December 14, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe Golden Lane holiday Places of Interest Prague Prague Castle Singapore Travel Blog St George's Basilica St Vitus Cathedral Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Prague Castle – The most iconic architecture in Prague!

The most iconic architecture in Prague has got to be the Prague Castle. Every corner you turn to, there it is – The Prague Castle!

Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world at approximately 600m long and 150m wide. It is also where the kings, emperors and presidents of the Czech Republic used to have their offices. Given its excellent views overlooking Prague, it is no wonder that the Prague Castle is the most visited tourist attraction in Prague.

It is important to note the difference between St. Vitus Cathedral and the Prague Castle itself. Many people mistake the pointed structure from afar as the Prague Castle…

Technically, St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the Prague Castle and this is the entrance to the castle.

Videos of the first to third courtyards of the Prague Castle

First Courtyard inside Prague Castle

Second Courtyard , President’s Office in Prague Castle

Third Courtyard in Prague Castle featuring St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral

Video of St. Vitus Cathedral Prague Castle

The structure on the right is the St. Vitus Cathedral. We’re actually taking a picture of the private linkway where the king would enter into the balcony for service – without being uninterrupted.

St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest church in the country and it contains many smaller chapels and works of art – including the stained glass windows of the church. There is a little known fact about the roof of the St. Vitus Cathedral. It is said that a portion of the roof was hit by lightning before and it was thereafter restored. However, if you take a closer look, you would see that part of the roof no longer contains the gothic design like the rest of the cathedral, but more of a baroque architecture (do correct us if we’re wrong here!).

Golden Lane

Golden Lane is a series of small colourful shops that used to be the housing for the palace guards. Today, it is a tourist attraction for guests to see how small and amusing the interiors can be! A little tip for our readers : you can actually enter Golden Lane for free. Just hang around till the closing hours (1800 during the summer months and 1600 during the winter months) and you get to go in for free! Make sure you enter just after the closing hours to have a glimpse inside the houses while the shop keepers are still around!

Other Attractions in Prague Castle

The other attractions in Prague Castle includes

Notice the thin and fat structure of the Basilica (click here to find out why). Also, you will notice that in this square (of the Basilica), you can find different era of architectures including renaissance, gothic, baroque as well as art noveau!

Amazing View of Prague from Prague Castle

Not only can you enjoy spectacular views overlooking Prague, you can also see the hourly change of guards of the Prague Castle!

Change of Guards @ Prague Castle

Last Words

There are actually many many more things about the Prague Castle that you can find out about. For instance, did you know that this old castle was actually a inner room for jousting competitions?

If you have other interesting stories, do share it with us!

How to get there to Prague Castle

By Foot

There are actually 2 ways to walk up to Prague Castle by foot. You can either follow the old castle stairway from Malostranska Metro Station OR commence from Lesser Town via Nerudova Street (which is a steeper but more enjoyable walk)

By Tram

Take either the 22 or 23 up to the hill and alight at Prazsky Hrad (which is Prague Castle)

Hotel Deals

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

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Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
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Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021December 7, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe Funicular holiday Hunger Wall Mirror Labyrinth Petrin Hill Petrin Tower Places of Interest Prague Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Petrin Hill via the Funicular – Amazing View of Prague and Hall of Mirrors Awaits!

What is a visit to Prague without a trip up to Petrin Hill via the Funicular? At Petrin Hill, you can enjoy amazing views of Prague, scale the Petrin look-out tower, head for the hall of mirrors (mirror maze) or simply stroll along the hills to Strahov Monastery.

Attractions at Petrin Hill

Funicular

Video of Funicular Ride up to Petrin Hill

Ujezd Station (near to Hotel Roma Prague)

We were quite early this particular morning. Air was still cold but the sun was coming up. We were actually the first to take the funicular. There were a few others who took the first train up the hill as well – maybe workers at the restaurants? If you’re early like us and not sure what to do, there’s actually a mini museum depicting the history of the funicular. An interesting history…

Petrin Tower and Hunger Wall

The main attraction atop of Petrin Hill would be the Petrin look-out Tower.

The Petrin Tower was built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition. It is purposely reconstructed as a mini replica of the Eiffel Tower (looks familiar eh?). The tower is 60m high and has 299 steps to the top platform.

The wall you see in this picture is also known as the Hunger Wall. It was said that the wall was built by Charles the 4th, not as a means of defence but actually to employ the poor people and to feed them – hence the name Hunger Wall.

Mirror Labyrinth

Again, we were early and we had to wait till the Mirror Labyrinth opened (opens at 10am daily except during winter months, opens on saturday and sunday only). It contains a maze of mirrors as well as some contoured mirrors for whimsical (laughter hall) effects.

Dioramic Picture commemorating the clash between the Swedish Army and Jesuit College

This scene commemorates the battle of students with Swedes on Charles Bridge in 1648.

Enjoy a Stroll and Chill out with a pint at the Brewery

Atop Petrin Hill, not only can you enjoy a lovely stroll overlooking amazing views of Prague

View from Petrin Hill

You can also enjoy a pint at the local brewery!

Last Words

We hope you’ve enjoyed our short little synopsis of our trip up Petrin Hill. Do share with us other interesting activities or sights that you’ve enjoyed here!

Hotel Deals

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

If you enjoyed our content, “Like” us on Facebook Today!

Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

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Updated on January 3, 2021November 30, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe holiday Municipal House Places of Interest Prague Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Municipal House Prague – Enjoy a cuppa at Kavárna obecní Dům while reveling in the arts!

Egg liquer and pineau des charentes louis bouron (Municipal House Cafe Prague)

The location of the Municipal House Prague used to be the seat of Bohemian Kings in the 14th and 15th Century. It was then demolished at the end of the 19th century. In its place, the current Municipal House was built between 1906 and 1912.

What to do at Municipal House Prague

If you observe carefully, the mosaic above the entrance is actually a homage to Prague. It is set between sculptures that represent the oppression upon the Czech people. Other sculptures at the top represents various areas of the arts such as history, literature, painting, music and architecture.

The real reason why we’re here is actually to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the Kavárna obecní Dům, commonly known as the Municipal House Cafe. Here, you can enjoy the lavish setting , live piano accompaniment in the background, excellent service as well as the opportunity to just immerse yourself in the history and art nouveau designs exuberated by the Municipal House.

Menu of Kavárna obecní Dům / Municipal House Cafe

We ordered the Menu 1 and Menu 3 (approximately 8 euros each) and we had the apple strudel with vanilla ice cream, the traditional “sachers” cake with whipped cream, tea as well as some liquer.

Apple Strudel with Vanilla ice cream (Municipal House Cafe Prague)

Traditional sachers cake with whipped cream (Municipal House Cafe Prague)

A tea set up (Municipal House Cafe Prague)

We were pleasantly surprised at the set up of the tea set. Simple yet classy. The cake and strudel was good as well. The whipped cream was the kind that you know is freshly made, not too sweet, just nice. Lastly, we ended off the meal with liquer. We have never tried egg liquer EVER, so it was interesting to have tasted the egg liquer. Quite nice actually. Sweet alcohol with a tinge of egginess to it.

We’ll now leave you with a video of the interior of the Municipal House Cafe. Enjoy the atmosphere (albeit a short one)!

Inside the Kavárna obecní Dům / Municipal House Cafe

Hotel Deals

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Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

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Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021November 23, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe holiday Places of Interest Prague Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square Prague – Shopping , Dining , Cinemas and more!

Wenceslas Square was constructed in the 15th century during the time of Charles the 4th. At that time, it was used as a horse market. Since then, Wenceslas Square is a regular venue for parades is today a much visited tourist attraction.

Location of Wenceslas Square Prague

Wenceslas Square is home to the commerce of Prague having shopping arcades, cafes, restaurants and other entertainment venues. Here you will see other attractions such as the Neo-Renaissance National Museum at its Northern end. Also, the Koruna Palace with its covered shopping arcade and glass dome is a much visited venue as well. A short walk away is the Na Prikope as well as Parizska Street where one can continue with much more shopping!

National Museum Prague (End of Wenceslas Square)

It is actually quite difficult to spot Koruna Palace in the midst of all the shopping arcades. Bright lights shining and “sale” signs drawing us to shops such as Mango and H&M. We finally had to resort to asking one of the sales assistant on the location of Koruna Palace. She then as-a-matter-of-factly pointed to the building on the opposite side of the street. We were staring at it all these while and did not realise it!

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Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
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Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021November 21, 2012attractions Charles Bridge Czech Republic Europe holiday Places of Interest Prague Prague Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Charles Bridge Prague – Beautiful Architecture with Stories and Legends to Tell

Charles Bridge is definitely the most prominent and iconic structure in Prague. Everyone visits Charles Bridge. In fact, without a visit to Charles Bridge, one can be considered not to have visited Prague.

Location of Charles Bridge Prague

History of Charles Bridge Prague

Charles Bridge crosses the Vltava River and this connection made Prague an important centre of trade between east and west Europe. Initially, the bridge was called the Stone Bridge or the Prague Bridge. It was only known as Charles Bridge (as we know it today) since 1870.

This entrance is particularly interesting because of the 3 levels that it has. The Moon, Sun and Star Level. These were suggested by astrologers of the time and it was recommended that the odd number pyramid was to be used (i.e. 135797531) for the construction date of the bridge.

There’s an interesting fact about the Charles Bridge. It was actually built initially, as a functional construction for jousting tournaments! Can you believe it?! At that point in time, there werent many decorations except for a simple crucifix. However, the desire of the Catholics for ornamentation resulted in 30 statues built between 1600 and 1800AD. Today, there are 75 statues along the bridge.

Reconstruction on one of the statues on Charles Bridge Prague

Things to do at Charles Bridge Prague

The bridge is 516 metres long with 16 pillars and 3 bridge towers. In the day, there would be many souvenir shops, performing artistes, painters and even pick-pockets (beware!) on the bridge.

Try not to buy your souvenirs here as they are usually more expensive than elsewhere in the city. Kate can attest to that right? :p

Also, from Charles Bridge, you can see many other prominent attractions of Prague…

The Famous Prague Castle seen from Charles Bridge Prague

"Money Meter" right at the back - Moves in April — “Money Meter” right at the back – Moves in April

The Prime Minister's House Prague — The Prime Minister’s House Prague

Hunger Wall and Petrin Tower in the distance

Stories and Legends of Charles Bridge

There are also many stories about which statue to touch to become a millionaire. If you touch other statues, you will have children OR your husband will become obedient husbands. Well, the story goes that one day, a tour guide was bringing a group of tourists along Charles Bridge, he started to say that “if you touch this statue, you will become rich!”. MANY tourists started to touch the statue! The other tour guides heard about it and started to come up with variations of these stories!

For instance, this statue of John Nepomuk (thrown into the river Vltava) has 2 stories to it. IF you touch the statue on the right, you will be rich! (notice that the statue has been touched till it changed colour!). IF you touch the statue on the left (think it was a dog), then your husband will be obedient!

Videos and Charles Bridge at Night

Charles Bridge at night is also worth a visit. The lights of the street lamps bring out the feel of the olden day Prague. A romantic stroll with your other half in the evening is in order if you’re in Prague.

Here are some videos of Charles Bridge. Enjoy!

Charles Bridge from a distance with view of Vltava River

Charles Bridge at Night

Charles Bridge in the Day

Hotel Deals

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

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Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

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Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021November 14, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe holiday Old Town Square Places of Interest Prague Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Old Town Square Prague – History, Astrological Clock and more!

The Old Town Square is the old city centre of Prague. It was at the old town square that the cross roads of several long distance roads met. Hence at that time, the old town square of Prague was known throughout the world in the 11th century and was also a market place.

360 View of the Old Town Square in Prague

View of Old Town Square at night

Today, the old town square of Prague is home to an array of pubs and cafes as well as major attractions such as the Astronomical Clock, Church of our Lady Tyn as well as the St. Nicholas Protestant Church.

See Top Face - Astro Clock is able to tell 3 different times! — See Top Face – Astro Clock is able to tell 3 different times!

If you observe carefully at the towers of the church, you will notice that one of the tower is actually “fatter” than the other tower. Our guide – Monika, joked that the architect was tipsy that night and drew out the wrong measurements. The fact is that the “fatter” tower actually represents Eve (pregnant) while the thinner tower represents Adam.

The Jan Hus statue is located right in the centre of the Old Town Square. It was erected on 6 July 1915 to mark the 500th anniversary of the reformer’s death.

You may also notice white crosses on the floor near to the astronomical clock. It represents the protestants that were executed during persecution.

Crosses to represent protestants that were executed

Also, if you notice carefully, you’ll see that the wall beside the Astrological Clock is actually partially “sectioned” off…

This originally extended all the way to St. Nicholas Church. However, it was hit during WW2 and this is what remains of it today.

Another interesting fact about the Old Town Square is this building…

Referring to the blue and grey building, this was a place where Albert Einstein used to chill out when he was in Prague. He even played the violin there to show off! 🙂

There are actually so many things to do in Prague and especially in this Old Town Square, it is so full of rich history! Take time to discover them!

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

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Updated on January 3, 2021November 7, 2012Astronomical Clock attractions Czech Republic Europe holiday Places of Interest Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Astronomical Clock Prague – Work of A Genius!

The Astronomical Clock is also known as the town hall clock. Situated in the Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock is the most iconic and popular part of the square. The tower dates back to 1338 and the clock was installed in the early part of the 15th century.

The Astronomical Clock is unique because of the amazing features that it has PLUS the fact that it was made about 700 years ago, makes it even more amazing. Here are the features…

The Walk of the Apostles at Astronomical Clock

Every hour on the hour, there will be a show of figures of the Apostles and other moving sculptures. Take a look at the video…

The Walk of the Apostles – Astronomical Clock

The show ends with a rooster crow, much to the amusement and delight of the audience.
Thereafter, a trumpeter will appear at the top of the tower to announce to the city (on all 4 sides of the tower), that it is the next hour has arrived.

Trumpeter of the Astronomical Clock

Astronomical Clock as as Calendar

Yes! It is true! Take a look at the picture here…

If you notice, on the outer most ring, there are days inscribed there. In this way, each and every single day of the year is displayed on this clock! All this while the clock ticks away, tells the time, moves the hands of the clock and the discs on the calendar!

The Astronomical Clock tells 3 different times! – The Astronomical Dial

Firstly, the position of the golden hand over the Roman numerals on the background indicates the time in local Prague time. Secondly, the position of the Sun over the curved golden lines indicates the time in unequal hours. Last but not least, the position of the golden hand over the outer ring indicates the hours passed after sunset in Old Czech Time.

Can you believe it?! This clock must have been designed by a genius!

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

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Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

Attractions in Prague

Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price

Updated on January 3, 2021October 31, 2012attractions Czech Republic Europe holiday Hotel Roma Places of Interest Singapore Travel Blog Travel Travel Blog Travel Tips vacation

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price!

After our visit to Maastricht, we took the train back and caught a flight to Prague. There, we booked a ride to our hotel in Prague – Hotel Roma.

Location of Hotel Roma Prague

Hotel Roma is located along Ujezd road and is a really convenient and cheap place to stay. Each night costs about 90euros. Given that breakfast is provided and that it is within walking distance of all the main attractions (funicular is just opposite!), the price is really value for money.

The lobby has a huge tank that houses a mini shark (:o) as well as many clown fish (Nemo!). There’s somewhat a touch of class as you enter into the lobby.

The receptionists spoke excellent English and we were quickly checked in and given directions to our room. There is a lift that took us to our level. Along the way, pictures such as this (see below) brought out the ambience of Rome…

The room was spacious and had a TV with cable. The toilet did not come with a bath room though.

We had our breakfast the next morning (breakfast starts from 7am to 10am) and the breakfast area was nicely laid with bright red table cloths. The spread was typical of European breakfasts – Cheese, Ham, Eggs, Fruits and Cereals.

All in all, Hotel Roma is definitely a place recommended to stay as it provides a good “HQ” for your visits to all major attractions in Prague. The price is good and breakfasts are included as well.

Next, we’re headed out to old town!

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Prague right here!

If you enjoyed our content, “Like” us on Facebook Today!

Posts related to Prague Czech Republic

Top 6 Things to do in Prague and Attractions in Prague Czech Republic
Attractions and Things to do in Prague : Day 4-6 of Europe Trip

Attractions in Prague

Hotel that we stayed in Prague

Hotel Roma Prague Czech Republic – Great room at an excellent price