FRANCISTRAVEL

Prague - Golden Prague

Prague, also known as Zlata Praha (Golden Prague) in the past, is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. Situated on the bank of River Vltava in central Bohemia, the beautiful city of Prague is rich in history and lies in the heart of Europe.

Prague’s history goes into great depth and the city is renowned for having the largest ancient castle in the world, according to the Guinness World Records. Prague Castle rests amongst other countless cultural treasures in Prague’s possession, attracting millions of tourists every year.

Prague covers a total area of 496 sq km’s with approximately 1.2 million people in the city and an urban total estimated at 1.9 million. The city has seen a major change in its rapid transition from communism to capitalism which has brought around a wider gap between the rich and poor.
Whilst most historic sites and monuments have been preserved, the restructuring of Prague city is vital in order to manage the influx of tourists, especially after joining the European Union in 2004. For example a ring road project is underway to ease the car traffic and certain ancient buildings have been turned into hotels.

Prague claims to be one of the cultural centres of Europe, displaying a permanent showcase for outstanding performing artists and symphony orchestras at the city’s classical venues. The city also houses many enlightening institutions such as museums, galleries and theatres.

Czech breweries produce some of the world’s finest beers. Bohemian Beer is another valued commodity found in Prague and it is certainly appreciated by many tourists. This leads us on to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene which has recently become a trendy spot for the younger generation.

Peak season generally runs from April to October and many visitors can be expected during New Years. Almost one-half of the national income from tourism is spent in Prague. The city offers approximately 73,000 beds in accommodation facilities, most of which were built after 1990, including almost 51,000 beds in hotels and boarding houses capable of satisfying all categories of visitors.

Prague’s economic wealth is dominated by the tourism sector and whilst it accommodates to the estimated 3 million tourists a year, it still has managed to maintain its true cultural magnificence. Having been an ancient capital of Charles IV’s Bohemian Kingdom, its historic past reflects the beauty it portrays today.

OUR TIP: See Prague Spherical Panorama