A Weekend in Prague: My First Visit to the City That Stole My Heart | Travel Guide
Discover the magic of Prague through my first visit! From Old Town's cobbled streets to Prague Castle's grandeur, explore hidden corners, local pubs, and the city's effortless charm. Complete travel guide with insider tips, photos, and unforgettable memories.
The City That Stole My Heart
Some cities surprise you. Others captivate you slowly.
Prague? It didn't waste any time — it had me at "Ahoj."
This trip, back in August 2021, was my first time in the Czech capital. I had no idea that it would end up being my most visited city in Europe — a place I'd keep coming back to for its effortless charm, walkable streets, and that magnetic blend of history and fun. I went with my friend Udit, and together we crammed in as much as two days could hold… and somehow still had time to relax.
It was also the trip where I started experimenting with video editing, capturing moments not just for the memories, but for the stories they could tell.
The Journey & First Impressions
We arrived ready to make the most of every minute. Prague is famously well-connected with its trams, metro, and buses — so we bought the unlimited city travel pass. Back then it was a bargain, and it still is today. For around €5–€6 per day, you can hop on and off anywhere without worrying about tickets.
The first thing you notice is the city's storybook architecture — every turn feels like stepping into a painting. Pastel façades, intricate details, and the quiet confidence of a city that's been here for centuries.
Prague Castle - the historic heart of the city
Our Prague Adventure Unfolds
Here's how our whirlwind weekend unfolded, discovering the magic of Prague one landmark at a time:
Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
The heart of Prague beats strongest here. We wandered around the famous Astronomical Clock, St. Nicholas Church, and the lively streets spilling over with musicians, cafés, and street performers. The square has this incredible energy that makes you want to linger, soaking in the atmosphere.
Church interior - showcasing Prague's religious heritage
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
A city within a city. The castle grounds, the Gothic splendor of St. Vitus Cathedral, and the panoramic views over the Vltava are unforgettable. We spent hours here, exploring every corner and marveling at the sheer scale of this architectural wonder.
Charles Bridge
Early morning walks here are magical — just you, the statues, and the soft light over the river. This iconic bridge connects the Old Town with Lesser Town, and it's where you'll find some of the most beautiful views of Prague.
Prague tram - the city's efficient public transport system
Modern Prague & Hidden Gems
- Dancing House Gallery – A quirky modern contrast to Prague's old-world charm, designed by Frank Gehry.
- Statue of Franz Kafka – A surreal tribute to the city's literary giant, located in the Jewish Quarter.
- Madame Tussauds Prague – A fun and lighthearted stop that added some modern entertainment to our historical exploration.
The Astronomical Clock - a medieval masterpiece in Old Town Square
Local Flavors & Czech Culture
Pubs & Local Beer
Prague takes beer seriously. We sampled local brews in traditional pubs — the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring. Czech beer culture is something special, and the pubs have this warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a local.
The Dancing House - Prague's iconic modern architectural gem
Czech Cuisine
We tried "Svíčková" (beef with creamy sauce) and "Trdelník" (chimney cake) — yes, touristy, but absolutely delicious. The food scene in Prague is a perfect blend of traditional Czech flavors and modern European cuisine.
Insider Tips for Prague (2025 Update)
- Travel Pass: Still one of the best deals in Europe. Get a 24-hour or 72-hour ticket from any metro station or via the PID Lítačka app.
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK). While many places accept cards, cash is handy in smaller cafés or local pubs.
- Timing: Visit early morning for quieter Charles Bridge moments and fewer crowds at Old Town Square.
- Food Tip: Try "Svíčková" (beef with creamy sauce) and "Trdelník" (chimney cake) — yes, touristy, but delicious.
- Day Trips: If you have extra time, consider Kutná Hora or Karlštejn Castle.
Why This Trip Was Special
For me, this wasn't just another city break. It was the start of my creative journey into videography and editing. Between the cobbled lanes and golden sunsets, I realised travel could be more than just seeing new places — it could be about telling stories that make others feel like they were right there with you.
Udit and I still talk about how well this trip flowed — no rushing, no stress, just an easy rhythm of exploration and laughter. Prague has this incredible ability to make you feel both like a tourist and a local at the same time.
The Prague Effect
Prague is one of those rare cities that feels both grand and intimate at the same time. Two days were enough to fall in love, but not nearly enough to exhaust what it has to offer. The city has this way of making you feel like you've discovered something special, even though millions of visitors have walked these same streets.
What makes Prague unique is its perfect balance of history and liveliness. You can spend hours exploring medieval churches and then find yourself in a trendy café or modern art gallery. The city respects its past while embracing the present, creating an atmosphere that's both timeless and contemporary.
Conclusion
If you've never been to Prague, go. And if you've been before, go again — chances are, it'll still surprise you. This city has a way of revealing new layers with each visit, whether it's a hidden courtyard, a local restaurant recommendation, or simply seeing familiar sights in different light.
Prague taught me that the best travel experiences aren't just about the places you visit, but about how they change you. It's where I discovered my passion for storytelling through video, where I learned that the most memorable moments often happen in the spaces between the major attractions.
The city that stole my heart in August 2021 continues to surprise and inspire me with every return visit. Prague isn't just a destination — it's a feeling, a state of mind, and a reminder that some cities are meant to be experienced, not just visited.
Ahoj, Prague. Until we meet again.
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