My Birthday weekend sightseeing in Prague: Top places you must see in Prague
By Lydia Lawrence
Imagine, it's Autumn 2022 in the UK. We were still phasing out of what was the most bizarre time of national pandemic lockdowns, long distancing from each other, and people going absolutely crazy for toilet rolls, in supermarkets. Life became the same old repetitive routine and I'm sure, I wasn't the only one that was desperately in need of a relaxing weekend getaway.
My 19th birthday was slowly approaching, and my plan to surprise my boyfriend, at the time, in Disneyland Paris had miserably failed due to COVID-19 measures that were still in place in France. Yet it was also a blessing in disguise, as the only other place I had longed to visit was the beautiful city of Prague, Czechia. I always imagined myself wrapped up in a long white trench coat, cosy scarf and earmuffs, with a coffee in my hand, taking a calm and serene stroll along Charles Bridge beside Vltava River. It's not a surprise that I had a smile on my face all weekend, as that's exactly how I spent my birthday morning.
However, I have to admit the first day, was all hustle and bustle as we, my mum and I, spent most of the day unpacking and trying to find our way around the busy city. We first wandered into the old town square, a must-see for visitors, as I was in awe of all the beautiful architecture and unique Romanesque designs.
It seemed as though, every street corner was 'Instagramable worthy' with beautiful golden gates, tall great sculptures and unique shaped pillars on almost every building. In the centre of the old town, is where the famous Church of Our Lady before Tyn is located. I was so excited to finally see it, as I recognised it immediately, after hours of aimless scrolling on Pinterest. Even so, what really struck me was Prague's oldest astrological clock, facing all the shops & restaurants.
I was completely amazed at the sight. Everyone came together in the square every hour, on the hour, surrounding the clock and patiently waiting for the 'parade of apostles', a beautiful serenade chime, that rotates like a cuckoo clock. You simply can't visit Prague without experiencing this, the sound of applause after the chime had safely landed back into the clock, is something you cannot miss.
'Church of our Lady Before Tyn', Standing at 80 metres high (Left)
Here in the square, we also were desperate for a bite to eat, this is where you will find all of the best food places. The square is overflowing with restaurants, offering traditional Czech cuisine. If you're not looking for that; there are also many restaurants with a diverse and assorted menu. Our particular favourites were; 'La Veranda,' a quaint little restaurant off the side street, that offered upscale dining, with a friendly and calm atmosphere. Also, 'Pasta Fresca,' an upbeat and lively underground Italian place, serving the tastiest pasta dishes.
I also can't forget to mention what Prague is most famous for . . . The beer! Prague is home to the well-known beer museum, located in the heart of the square, which I would definitely recommend visiting.
The next day, my 19th birthday, was one of my highlights of the year, I relaxed and toured everything Prague had to offer. We started with a gorgeous breakfast at one of my favourite cafes, Cafe Chloe, which is known for its all-pink, stylish and luxurious decor, I was so happy when my coffee arrived with a splash of Dior art on the top, which made my day that extra special.
We then wondered on, to a breathtaking view of the Vltava River, on the river cruise open-top boat tour. The cruise took us all around from Charles Bridge, as we saw more of Prague's historical attractions; the Prague castle, Petrin Tower, the Dancing House and the National Gallery. This certainly should be on your bucket list since we also dined with an in-house buffet, serving traditional and international lunch dishes.
The most spectacular attraction that you simply can't miss out on is the baroque library, located in the Astronomical Tower.
This truly was a magical experience, as the tour guide opened up large double French doors into a grand and beautiful antique library. My mum turned to me, shocked when saying; "Isn't it like something out of Harry Potter." I laughed as this seemed like an exaggeration, but she wasn't wrong.
This was a magnificent sight with fresco designs done by Jan Hiebl, alongside 4 beautiful globes and antique decorum. Not only does it home beautiful decor, but also over 20,000 books and as a book lover i was just drooling in awe. This certainly should be on your Bucket list.
Prague's Klementinum, located in the Astrological Tower
Personally, I can confidently say my birthday trip to Prague was one of my favourites and will always be a trip I daydream about when fantasising another getaway weekend. There is so much to see, do, and visit in Prague. A weekend away certainly doesn't fit everything into one trip, so i definitely will be visiting again sometime soon. As i bid, 'Na Shledanou' (Goodbye, see you again soon) to Prague I have a newfound appreciation for all the beauty this city has to offer, in the most unexpected places.
