For a break where medieval meets modern, all roads lead to Prague

There are few European capitals as picturesque and captivating as Prague. Built around centuries-old castles, squares and bridges on the Danube river, it’s an intoxicatingly romantic city bursting at the seams with fascinating history, while also maintaining one foot firmly in the 21st century, with a vibrant cafe and restaurant scene and cultural attractions galore.

It's also easy to get to Prague from the UK. The Czech capital is just under two hours away from London via frequent flights with British Airways. What's more, with British Airways Holidays, you can book your flights and hotel all in one place.

There’s one sight that dominates the city of Prague, and that’s its 9th-century castle. It’s best seen early in the morning, so grab an early breakfast and make your way over as soon as you can – that way, you’ll get to enjoy the grounds before the crowds move in. It’s the perfect time to cross the romantic Charles Bridge, too, as the warm glow of morning light falls over the river. 

There’s plenty to see within the walls of the castle – it is, after all, the largest castle complex in the world. A highlight is St. Vitus Cathedral, the landmark that stands right at the top of the hill, among a mass of spires and turrets. But don’t miss Golden Lane, a tiny alleyway of preserved houses that you can peek inside. The surrounding gardens are also beautiful, with great views of the city below.

From the castle, make your way back into the city, following the steep and cobbled laneways back to the Lesser Town (Mala Strana), where the people-watching is an entertainment in itself – sit in one of the squares with a coffee and watch the world go by. 

Prague is a great city in which to get lost, so put away your phone and follow your nose. Take a walk along the river’s edge and pop into any waterside bar or café for a drink, or wander aimlessly in the Old Town and take in the gothic architecture. Alternatively, take one of the vintage trams along the Tram 42 route, a cooler version of a hop-on, hop-off bus that takes you to all the top sights in the city. 

Prague is known for its two handsome squares – Wenceslas and Old Town. Luckily, they’re only a 10-minute walk from each other. Start off at Wenceslas Square (more of a rectangle, in truth) and head to the statue of Saint Wenceslas, before checking out the shops and bars that line its edge. 

Things are a little more traditional at Old Town Square, admire gothic and baroque buildings with quirky features like the Astronomical Clock, a medieval timepiece that shows a procession of the 12 Apostles when the clock strikes the hour. It’s the oldest of its kind in the world, and part of the Old Town Hall.

While you’re there, pick up a Trdelnik nearby, a sweet pastry that’s cooked while wrapped around a stick then doused in cinnamon sugar. 

Beautiful as it is, it would be a shame to visit Prague and just stick to the Old Town. The neighbourhoods just on the outskirts of the city are thriving, and the fact that they’re raised up is an added bonus – you get fantastic views of the city if you’re happy with a bit of a workout.

Take a walk up to Letná Park and you’ll find a panoramic view of the Old Town, with its terracotta rooftops and spires poking up from the skyline. There are also sculptures and a buzzing beer garden at the neo-classical restaurant Letensky Zamecek, so you can sit in the dimming afternoon sun and sip a glass or two as the day draws to a close.

One of the most prominent landmarks in Prague is PetrinTower, which was loosely inspired by the Eiffel Tower. Climb the 299 steps to the top and you’ll be met with fantastic views of the city and beyond.

Fancy something a little more quirky? Head to Zizkov Tower, a brutalist structure built as a television mast that now houses an observatory and restaurant. 

To book your city break to Prague, please visit ba.com/prague

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