Top things to Czech out in Czech Republic

Our urge to visit Prague (or Praha as it is called in Czech) started after seeing this exquisite Bohemian city in the popular bollywood movie ‘Rockstar’. Prague forms an important backdrop in this movie, which you can see in AR Rahman’s songs like the foot tapping ‘Hawa Hawa’ and soothing ‘Aur ho’.

Here are top five things you can plan on your next visit to Czech republic

  1) Wander through the Prague castle

If you haven't’ seen the Prague castle then you haven’t been to Prague.This is the world’s biggest ancient castle complex and is so vast that if you wandered through these castle grounds you would need almost one whole day just to glance through the castle. 

The most prominent building you see inside the Castle complex is the St. Vitus Cathedral (in pic). This towering Gothic masterpiece which took almost six centuries to complete was completed in phases by different architects. Once inside the cathedral you cannot miss the beautiful stained glass windows on all sides. This castle complex is an architecture student’s paradise with Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic architecture all at one place. You got to catch the view of the entire city from the castle which is a sight to watch.

2) Cross the Charles bridge

This stone bridge which connects Old Town and lesser Town is on every tourist's’ wish list. You can see Baroque statues along the bridge on either sides. One of the statues is that of the Czech martyr saint, St. John’s, who was executed by being thrown into the river. Today a plaque beneath his statue is touched by numerous tourists. Locals believe shining this plaque brings you good luck and ensures another trip to Praha! The view of the Prague Castle across the bridge is simply spectacular. If you have the time see the view both during day and night.

Charles bridge is also famous in this modern age for having survived one of the worst floods which hit Europe in 2002. Locals will show you the marks of water levels which submerged most of this historic city.

Video courtesy: T-series

So if you wanna run towards your love like Ranbir kapoor did in Rockstar on the Charles bridge, then stop dreaming. Unlike what you see in this song, this stunning bridge across the Vltava (pronounced as Voltava) river always has swarms of tourists, that crossing the bridge without elbowing one another is in itself an unimaginable task. But a trip to Prague isn't complete without walking across this bridge. If you have the time you can take a boat cruise on the Vltava river and then head to Old town!

3) Tour the Old town square and see the Astronomical Clock

The main buildings you see in Old town square are The Old Town hall, Church of Our Lady before Týn, The Church of St Nichols. But of these the Prague astronomical clock is the most popular tourist attraction. Join the hundreds of visitors and see this legendary astronomical clock which works until today after almost six centuries. This famous clock is not only known for its impeccable time and date but also the sun’s position and the the phase of the moon.  

4) Get charmed by Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov (pronounced as Chesky krumlov), considered as one of the most charming places to see on this earth before you die is a day’s trip from Prague (around 170 kms from Prague). The city’s main attraction remains the castle complex which is the second biggest in Czech Republic. Be sure to check out the fluffy brown bears inside the castle complex. They remind you of your childhood stuffed teddy bears!!

The rest of this UNESCO heritage town is situated as you walk down from this castle. Walk along lazily in the narrow cobblestone streets and get enchanted in this beautiful town which makes you feel as if you have walked into a fairy tale. Take a tour inside the castle if you have time.

If you happen to see vendors selling the traditional Slovak- Czech pastry, Trdelník then be sure to try it. It is a dough rolled onto a cylindrical pin, cooked on flame and finally dusted with sugar or a variety of toppings to choose from.

5) Relax in Kutná Hora

Kutná Hora, yet another town which is a part of the UNESCO’s world heritage sites makes a soothing trip to go, away from the hustle bustle of Prague. Although this town has lost its past glory, with the church of St.Barbara (in pic) and the Bone Chapel (in Ourlilgallery), this town is still a must visit. You can see the entire town by walking through its lanes and bylanes.

If you have the liking for beer don't forget to taste the local Beer in Czech republic If you are collector then buy Bohemian glass wares. They are pretty famous and can be found close to Old town.

Tips:

• Have Czech korunas in hand if you travelling from abroad.
• There are package tours to Český Krumlov and Kutna hora which might include the bus ride, lunch and entry tickets depending on what package you choose.
• Beware of scams  with Taxi drivers

One visit to Prague and some of the equally beautiful towns around Prague you'll be sure that the Czech Republic surely is truly a country rich in well preserved UNESCO heritage towns.

Happy Czeching!!