Prague - beyond the Velvet Revolution

Prague is the equal of Paris in terms of beauty. Its history goes back a millennium. And the Pilsner beer? It’s arguably the best in Europe, and cheaper than mineral water. Capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague is bisected by the Vltava River. Nicknamed 'the City of a Hundred Spires,' it's known for its Old Town Square, the heart of its historic core, with colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches and a curious medieval Astronomical Clock, which gives a surprise animated hourly show.

the good news is it's easy to explore Prague in just a few days.

Breakfast - With exploration in mind, be sure to fortify yourself with a carbs-laden breakfast at charming Café Savoy ( Vitezna 124/5 150 00 Prague).

Prague Castle -  is perhaps Prague’s top tourist site: the beautiful architecture will take your breath away, and the history of the towering buildings will do the same. While the site is referred to as a singular castle, there are numerous striking palaces and buildings on site, each unique and more beautiful than the next. There are also grand and spectacular gardens worthy of exploration.

Charles Bridge - Beyond the Old Town Square is pedestrianized Charles Bridge - a cobble-stone confection lined with statuettes of Catholic saints and often packed with artists selling their wares.

Old Town Square – check out the Church of St. Nicholas and be sure to witness the animated hourly show at the medieval astronomical clock tower. In the square, you’ll often find snack and souvenir vendors. Just off the square is

Naplavka Farmers Market (Naplavka, Prague 2) - If your trip to Prague falls over a weekend, go check out the local farmer’s market. The Naplavka Farmers Market is laden with the usual market fodder - fresh fruits and vegetable stall, but also great food and drink. The market is located on the riverfront, affording a great location to go and have a riverside picnic.

The Prague Beer Museum (Dlouha 720/46, 110 00, Prague 1-Stare Mesto) - is the perfect stop for the lunchtime ale-lover. There are over 30 beers on tap available for tasting, so plan a visit that revolves around lunch washed down with some of Prague’s finest amber nectar.

Museum of Communism (Na Prikope 10, Prague 1, 110 00) - highlighting the rise and fall of communism by theme: The Dream, The Reality, and The Nightmare, learn about Czechoslovakia’s unique politics and involvement with the former Soviet Union. Populated with art, papers, photos, and recreations of a Soviet era factory, interrogation room, and classroom, the museum affords a powerful retrospection about the city’s not-so-distant past.

Lunch or dinner (or any excuse really) – Hotel U Prince (Staroměstské nám. 460/29, 110 00 Staré Město, Prague) – Head to the terrace, for great views across the Old Town Square, great drinks and inspired cuisine.