Prague survived the centuries almost untouched, and it shows: Gothic spires, a river of red roofs, and a castle on the hill. Czech is tricky, but "dobrý den" and "děkuji" earn real warmth.
- Charles Bridge at dawn — the statue-lined medieval bridge over the Vltava. At 6 a.m. it's empty and misty and yours; by ten it's a river of selfie sticks.
- Prague Castle & St Vitus Cathedral — the largest ancient castle complex in the world. The cathedral's stained glass — one window by Mucha — stops you in your tracks.
- Old Town Square & the Astronomical Clock — on the hour the 600-year-old clock puts on its little parade of apostles. Watch it once, then climb the tower for the view.
- Petřín Hill — a funicular up to gardens, a mini "Eiffel Tower" and the best panorama of the spires. Bring a picnic in spring when the orchards blossom.
- Josefov — the old Jewish Quarter, with Europe's oldest active synagogue and a hauntingly crowded medieval cemetery. Deeply moving.
Even a stumbling "na zdraví!" (cheers!) over a Czech beer wins friends fast. Find a Czech speaker below and get a head start on those consonant clusters.
