Danube River Cruise - Prague Day 1

This morning we board the coaches for a short drive to Hradcany (Castle Hill) to begin our four hour walking tour. We leave form the Hilton Hotel Old Town and drive through new town which dates back to the 14^th century.  This area was built by merchants and regular people with wide streets all leading to Wenceslas Square, originally the horse market. 

 We continue along past Rye and Barley streets which used to be the cattle market area and today is Charles Square, the largest in the country. Down near the river we pass the Dancing House created by the famous architect Frank Ghery, as we cross over the river we enter the area where the high society lived in impressive palaces.

The Prague castle area is quite expansive and very impressive with several palaces, a monastery, gardens and a defense towers.  In the 1600’s when the Habsburgs resided here, Maria Teresa of Vienna changed the facade to a neo classical style.

 In the first courtyard sits Maria Teresa’s own private chapel.  Through a narrow passage we come upon St Vitas Cathedral, an impressive gothic structure. The interior is absolutely stunning and the ancient stained glass windows are just as beautiful today as they were when first created with rich vibrant colours.  Lucky for us the choir is practicing this morning, such a sweet sound.

Our walking tour continues through the colourful town, down the narrow cobbled roadways to the famous Charles Bridge.  There are many beautiful statues along the sides and the view of the castle area is spectacular.  The weather is warm and sunny and many people our out touring today.

We continue through the narrow streets to Old Town Square to end our tour at the impressive Astronomical Clock which dates back to the year 1410.  This is the oldest astronomical clock in the world and is still in perfect working order.  The clock shows the time, day, month and the inside circle also includes the zodiacs. 

After our tour we break for lunch at Staromestske Restaurant which sits on the edge of the square.  It’s a warm sunny afternoon so we dine out doors.  The square area is busy with tourists; we people watch and enjoy a fabulous Czech meal and a cold Pilsner. 

 After lunch it’s up to the top of the clock tower to view the city from above.  The church steeples, river, castle and much more is visible from this great vantage point.  The clock chimes while we are at the top and there is a large crowd below . The bugler sounds his horn to signal the hour.  It’s great fun to be at the top of the tower and be a part of the excitement. 

Shopping is the order today and there are a multitude of shops, malls and outdoor markets to choose from.  Bohemian glass, crystal and garnets are some of the popular items being purchased.  Everyone is enjoying their free time in the fabulous city of Prague. There are many restaurants to choose from, evening entertainment and excellent walking tours of the various regions.

In the evening the city looks magical with the dark sky and dramatically lit buildings.  It’s quite a spectacular sight to see.  It is my opinion that Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.