Prague Information

First and foremost Prague is a very beautiful city, some of the architecture dates back over 600 years remains untouched and it is one of the few European cities that was largely undamaged by World War II. It's compact medieval centre remains a maze of cobbled lanes, ancient courtyards, dark passages and churches, all watched over by an 1,100 year old castle.

Since the the lift of communism, Prague has become one of Europe's top tourist destination. In addition to the traditional pubs and eateries, a wave of gourmet restaurants, cocktail bars and trendy cafes have sprung up. Of course you can still feast on pork and dumplings washed down with a beer.

To counter Prague's venerable past, the city's social life is incredibly youthful, mixing young Czechs in search of urban adventure with hordes of 20 something ex pats in search of the romanticism of Golden Prague. Naturally not everybody is happy with the changes Prague has gone through, and like most central Europeans, Czechs like to moan especially over a pint or two of beer. Though veteran travelers complain that their secret has been discovered by the world, Prague still carries on as it always has.

Prague sits on the Vltava River, the Czech Republic's longest river. Central Prague consists of five towns: Hradĉany, Malá Strana, Staré Mêsto, Josefov and Nové Mêsto.

The castle district of Hradcany site on the hill above the west bank; the 13th century Mala Strana - Little Quarter - is located between the river and the castle; Stare Mesto - Old Town - lies on Vltava's east bank; the former Jewish ghetto of Josefov; and Nove Mesto - New Town (new in the 14th century) - is to the south east of Stare Mesto.

Within these historical districts - linked by the landmark Charles Bridge - are most of the city's attractions. The whole compact maze is best appreciated on foot, aided by Prague's public transport system.