General description
Prague is one of the only eastern cities that, in the last 600 years, has not been damaged by war or natural disasters. As a result, the city’s architecture is a historical monument, impressive in all respects. Prague is divided in half by the Vltava River. The Hradcany and Malá Strana districts lie on the steep slope on the left side of the river. Hradcany, sitting at the top of the slope, was once the residence of the old Prague aristocracy. Malá Strana is below Hradcany and serves as the religious and governmental center of Prague. Outside the right side of the river, the flatter and greener plain, are the districts of Staré Mesto, Josefov and Nové Mesto. Staré Mesto is the center of Prague’s architectural beauty, centered on Staromestské námesti square. Josefov, the city’s Jewish quarter, is located within Staré Mesto. Nové Mesto is the trendiest district in Prague and the most popular with tourists.
Sights
Staromestské námesti square is worth visiting for its brilliant historical architecture alone, but there are also specific sites within its walls that attract tourists. The Astronomical Clock puts on a show every hour, and it’s worth taking a few minutes to see how it works. Josefov is home to the oldest active synagogue in Europe and the extensive old Jewish cemetery. The Charles Bridge that connects both sides of the river is a popular tourist attraction. Finally, the castle and cathedrals located in Hradcany are still standing representations of Prague’s aristocratic history.
Night life
Most of Prague’s markets, restaurants, cafes and pubs are located in Staré Mesto, which is a great place to eat and drink. There are three types of restaurants in Prague: typical restaurants, wine restaurants (the most exclusive dining options) and pubs (which serve food but are mainly concerned with drinking). Pubs are great places to enjoy some of Prague’s local beers, but most close early. For late-night drinking, you’ll have to head to one of the city’s nightclubs, located mainly in Nové Mesto. Although Prague is home to a large number of department stores and shopping centers, its markets are the best places to buy souvenirs. Many of these are centered in Staré Mesto and around the Charles Bridge. The president of Prague is a playwright, and therefore the theater scene from him is driving. If you’ll be in town in the second half of May, check out the International Music Festival, a week-long celebration of food, dance, and classical music.