Prague City Breaks 2012

Splendind Architecture

One of the largest cities in Central Europe, for centuries Prague was capital of the historic region of Bohemia. Today, splendid architecture is mingled with a young and vibrant atmosphere that draws millions of tourists every year.

UNESCO World Heritage List

Regarded by many as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Prague's historic centre has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. However, its long history has made it a complex and overlapping group of areas dating from different time periods. Different district systems have developed over the centuries, which can be bewildering to the non-native traveller. Most guides use the "old" district system of ten numbered districts. The oldest areas of the city are Praha 1 and 2, where many of the city's major attractions are concentrated.

Ruzyne International Airport

The city is easily accessible, with Ruzyne International Airport located twenty kilometres from the city's centre, just a 30-minute journey away. Prague is also connected to the European EC train network, and its main international bus station is Florenc. Within the city public transport is convenient and the city is famously `walkable'. You can enjoy the old and new city on foot, starting from Wenceslas Square and heading to the Old Town Square.

Charles Bridge and the Jewish Quarter

Charles Bridge is perhaps Prague's most famous landmark. Construction work began in 1357, and today the beautiful, towering structure stands out in the city's skyline and the bridge hosts many artists and vendors selling gifts and jewellery. In Old Town Square, crowds gather every hour to watch the astronomical clock.

Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, comprises several historical sites on a slope overlooking the city, including the Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica and St. Vitus's Cathedral, a 600-year-old Gothic-style building. A little further afield is the Jewish Town and synagogues, which dates back to the 13th century, the site of Kafka's house and the Old Jewish Cemetery.

Czech National Gallery

There is plenty in the way of culture: you could head to the Czech National Gallery or the Centre for Modern Art, each boasting extensive and beautiful collections. At night, many opera and Black Light Theatre companies perform in Prague and there are jazz and blues clubs. In December, the Christmas markets host arts, crafts, food and drink, and Prague gifts.

This magical city, full of cathedrals, glittering towers, cobbled lanes, courtyards and churches, has become a major tourist hotspot in recent years-and it isn't difficult to see why.