The second-largest city in the Dominican Republic, with colonial architecture from 1495, tobacco factories, and the Cultural Center of León Jiménez art museum.
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, draws visitors with its well-preserved medieval core. Walk across the Charles Bridge early in the morning to see statues of saints and avoid crowds. The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square puts on a brief show every hour as wooden figures emerge. Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world, houses the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral. Spend an afternoon in the Jewish Quarter to explore synagogues and the old cemetery dating back to the 15th century.
Exploring Prague Castle and Surroundings
Start your visit at Prague Castle, a sprawling complex overlooking the Vltava River. The castle grounds include St. Vitus Cathedral, where stained-glass windows illuminate the nave with colorful light. Walk through Golden Lane, a row of small historic houses once occupied by castle guards and goldsmiths. Time your arrival for noon to watch the ceremonial changing of the guard at the main gates. From the castle’s terraces, you get clear views of red rooftops and church spires across the city. Nearby, the Wallenstein Garden provides shaded paths and a large pond filled with carp.
Walking Through Old Town and Charles Bridge
Old Town’s cobblestone streets lead past Baroque churches, Gothic towers, and open squares filled with street performers. The Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, draws crowds hourly as its mechanical figures rotate. Cross the Charles Bridge slowly to examine its 30 stone statues, many weathered by centuries of rain and wind. Street artists and vendors line the bridge during daylight hours, but visit at sunrise for quieter moments. Along the riverbanks, you can rent a paddleboat or join a short cruise to see the city from the water.
Local Food and Drink Spots
Try traditional Czech dishes like svíčková (beef in cream sauce) or roast duck at pubs near Old Town Square. Many beer halls serve Pilsner Urquell or darker lagers brewed locally. For a sweet snack, look for trdelník, a rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon, sold at street stalls. Cafés in the Lesser Town district serve strong coffee and slices of honey cake in cozy, wood-paneled rooms. Avoid restaurants directly on major tourist streets—smaller side alleys often have better prices and fewer crowds.
Day Trips from Prague
Take a 40-minute train ride to Kutná Hora, where the Sedlec Ossuary chapel holds chandeliers and decorations made from human bones. Karlštejn Castle, a 14th-century fortress surrounded by forests, sits 30 kilometers southwest of the city. Český Krumlov, a three-hour bus ride south, has a Renaissance-era castle and a river winding through its compact center. Each destination makes for an easy return trip within a day. Check train schedules in advance, as some routes have limited service outside peak seasons.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Prague’s public trams and metro run frequently, with tickets valid for 90 minutes after validation. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Czech phrases like “thank you” (děkuji) is appreciated. Summer months bring larger crowds, so consider visiting in April-May or September-October for milder weather. Keep small coins handy for public restrooms, as many charge a fee. Most museums and attractions close on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
