PRAGUE HOTELS

PRAGUE – WHY GO?

Spires, squares and statues help make Prague a stunner. You can’t beat a sunset stroll across the Charles Bridge – one of Eastern Europe’s iconic sights – lined with its brooding statues in the evening light while the city skyline unfurls behind.

Today’s Prague is not surprisingly a magnet for culture-hungry tourists (not to mention the weekend party crowd), and savvy city lovers come here out of season or in winter (when snow and crisp blue skies set everything off a treat) to see it at its best.

Prague’s historic centrpiece is Old Town Square – the city’s former markeplace – with its 15th century astronomical clock. Crowds gather to watch it strike the hour, when figurines of Christ and the 12 Apostles march in and out. You can climb the old town hall tower for an unbeatable view of the city’s rooftops.

From here, take in the winding cobbled streets and baroque buildings of Mala Strana (the “Lesser Quarter”) before heading for the historic Jewish quarter, with its evocative old Jewish cemetery. A jumble of crooked headstones and adjacent museum are poignant reminders of the city’s religious past. Prague’s ninth century castle – fetchingly lit up at night – meanwhile is home to St Vitus’s cathedral, with its gargoyles and looming towers.

Do go to a classical concert in Prague (they are held at a number of churches), and take in a performance at the Opera House. And make time for a local Czech beer, of course – best enjoyed in one of the city’s convivial beer gardens.