Stanstead to Prague: A few days away in the Czech Republic

 

Prague had always been one of those places I’d wanted to visit, and spending four days there felt like the perfect amount of time to get a real feel for the city. It’s a place that feels like a fairy tale—winding cobbled streets, grand old buildings, and an atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and just soak it all in.

We arrived in the afternoon and, after settling into our accommodation, headed straight for the Old Town Square. The first thing that struck me was how incredibly well-preserved everything is. The Astronomical Clock is as impressive in real life as you’d imagine—watching it chime the hour was a little surreal, but be prepared for crowds. We also had our first taste of trdelník, that famous chimney cake. It’s touristy, but let’s be honest, who can say no to a warm, sugary pastry?

The Charles Bridge at sunset was next. It’s probably one of the busiest spots in the city, but it’s still magical. Street musicians and artists line the bridge, and the views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle are stunning.

The next day was all about the castle. It’s massive—more like a little village than a single building. St. Vitus Cathedral, with its towering spires and colourful stained glass, was the highlight for me. Walking through Golden Lane, with its tiny, quirky houses, felt like stepping back in time. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around here, so wear comfy shoes!

We also discovered some of the quirkier sides of Prague. The Lennon Wall was one of my favourites. It’s constantly changing, full of graffiti, messages of peace, and random little doodles. Nearby, there’s a weird little art installation called the Piss Sculpture, which is exactly what it sounds like—two men peeing into a pool shaped like the Czech Republic. Strange but very Prague.

Food-wise, we indulged in all the Czech classics. Goulash served in a bread bowl was a hearty favourite, and of course, we washed it down with plenty of hot chocolate. Czech Hot chocolate is really as good as they say, and it’s ridiculously cheap too. 

The Jewish Quarter was another highlight. The Old Jewish Cemetery is such a unique and moving place. The layers of gravestones stacked over centuries tell their own story, and it’s impossible not to feel the history here.

By our last day, we slowed things down a bit. We wandered through Letná Park, which has some of the best views over the city. Sitting there with a coffee, looking out at Prague’s sea of red rooftops, was the perfect way to end the trip.

Prague is one of those cities where it feels like there’s something to discover around every corner. Four days gave us a great taste, but it’s definitely a place I’d love to return to. If you’re considering a trip, just go. You won’t regret it.

(One week after we returned from Prague, the World entered Lockdown, stopping international travel on and off for two years. . .)