A city of history, politics, romance and culture, the Czech capital of Prague has earned itself many nicknames over the years, including both the 'Golden City' and also the rather descriptive 'City of a Hundred Spires'. Prague is situated at the very heart of eastern Europe and for many was filled with Communist and Soviet gloom.However, when Prague become the capital of the recently independent country in 1993, it was a city reborn and today you can enjoy a wealth of restored historical buildings, a celebrated musical tradition and a noticeable, exciting atmosphere. During your stay, look out for the many cubist houses within the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), the tranquil oasis that is to be found in the Petrin Gardens, and also the contrasting hustle and bustle all around Wenceslas Square.
Following a significant increase in tourism levels during the early 1990s, the Prague International Travel Agency came into being in 1991 and is now the number one source of tourist information within the city. If you wish to book a hotel, arrange Prague apartments, take a guided tour of the Old Town (Stare Mesto), or obtain theatre tickets, then this is the place to come. Alternatively, head to the Old Town and pay a visit to the Town Hall, where you will find a tourist office, along with art exhibitions and tours of the assembly room, the council chamber, the Gothic chapel and the famous Astronomical Clock (Orloj), installed more than six centuries ago.
Prague Tourist Information and Tourism: Top SightsWenceslas Square is where many of Prague's most famous sights reside and this is actually more of a promenade than an actual square. Along this stretch you will encounter the famous Hotel Europa, the magnificent Koruna Palace, and the State Opera House. Other top attractions in Prague are to be found around the Little Quarter Square, which is very much dominated by St. Nicholas Church and the Liechtenstein Palace. Close by, why not take a ride on the city's Victorian Funicular Railway to the top of Petril Hill, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas from its Observation Tower. More information about Prague Tourist Attractions.
As the capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague rightfully contains many of the country's most spectacular buildings. The Royal Palace is one such structure and was home to the Bohemian royal family from the 11th century until the 16th century. Check out the Old Town Square (Staromestské Námesti) and its palatial buildings, and be sure to visit Prague Castle, where the story of this much-loved city actually began. The castle stands high above the Hradcany district and much of its complex is enclosed by medieval castle walls. More information about Prague Landmarks.
With information about the city and the country, the numerous museums cover a diverse selection of topics. The Museum of the City of Prague is a particular favourite of history buffs, while the many thousands of toys and games exhibited at the Toy Museum suit all ages, dating back some 150 years. For art lovers, several galleries are especially notable, namely the Czech Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum and the Prague National Gallery, where you can feast your eyes upon works by acclaimed artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Picasso. More information about Prague Museums and Prague Art Galleries.
Tourists venturing outside of Prague will be greeted with a series of medieval fortresses and historic buildings, which live just a few miles from the city environs, within the Bohemia area. Highlights include Konopiste Castle, Krivoklat Castle and Karlstein Castle, which presides over the River Berounka, in the nearby village of Karlstejn and just a few miles to the south-west. More information about Prague Attractions Nearby.More Prague Information / Fast Facts and Orientation
- Country: Czech Republic
- Location: central Bohemia
- Status: capital city
- Area: approximately 191 square miles / 495 square kilometres
- Population: approximately 1.2 million
- Language: Czech
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)
- Time zone: GMT +1 (summer time GMT+2)
- Country dialling code: +420
- Telephone area code: 02
- Average daily Prague January temperature: 1°C / 34°F
- Average daily Prague July temperature: 23°C / 73°F
