Prague holiday

One of the few European cities to escape the Second World War unscathed, Prague is arguably the jewel of Eastern Europe.

Since the dissolution of Czechoslovakia into the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the city has erupted into a short-break hotspot. Cheap-as-chips beer lures in young backpackers and stag parties, while romantic views from the hill-top castle make it equally perfect for a romantic break.

With its charming mix of winding medieval streets and cosmopolitan nightlife, Prague straddles a healthy mix of old and new. Although big brand names such as Tesco and McDonalds are popping up across the city, it only takes slipping off the main streets to rediscover rustic Prague at its best.

The city is located along the banks of Czech's longest river, the Vltava, and many low-cost airlines now offer cheap flights, making it an inexpensive destination.

Traditions and culture in Prague

A hint of old-worldliness seems to linger in Prague and refuse to leave. Its pubs are inconspicuous taverns where you will keep a running tab behind the bar and pay up before you leave.

Its restaurants are equally authentic, typically decorated in a farmhouse style, serving simple, traditional dishes. Often menus are not in English, while those that are have been translated in the loosest form, listing food such as 'peasant beef' and 'delicate vegetables', so a willingness to be adventurous is recommended.

For certain things, the Czech Koruna, in Prague goes a long way. Food and drink off of the main streets are exceptionally cheap. Transport, however, can be dearer and tourists are well advised to steer clear of taxis. ATMs are widely available throughout the city and accept most debit and credit cards.

The city's architecture fails to be ignored with Baroque, Rococo and Art Nouveau influences throughout its streets. Locals are also particularly proud of their national hero, Franz Kafka, who was born to a middle-class Jewish family in the city back in 1883.

Recommended in Prague

Prague can be described in terms of five key districts: the Old Town; the Castle District, the Jewish Quarter; the Lesser Town; and the New Town.

The Old Town is a good place to begin in Prague as it offers a good mix of culture, bars and shopping. In the central square lies one of Prague's most-famous landmarks – the Astronomical Clock.

Crowds gather in front of the clock, which dates back to the 15th century, every hour, on the hour to see the procession of the Twelve Apostles, which emerge through a trap door. Christ leads the disciples as the skeleton of death tolls the bell.

The Jewish Quarter is located just up from the Old Town and dates back to the 13th century when the Jews were ordered to relocate to one area.

Charles Bridge is another cultural melting point in the city, providing a link between the Old Town and the Castle District. A beacon for street performers and craft stalls, the bridge provides spectacular views down the river.

The castle itself, though not a traditional medieval fortress, is well worth a visit if just for the panoramic views from across the city.

Weather in Prague

July and August are the hottest times to visit Prague, with the average temperature being around 22.5 degrees C. However, as the city lies in a transitional area between maritime and continental climates, summer storms are likely.

Between February and May temperatures range from between 2.5 degrees C and 17.5 degrees C. January, February and March are typically the dry months, when rainfall is at its lowest.

Destination checklist for Prague

Prague has a population of 1,215,000 and its official language is Czech.

The local currency is Koruna and prices out of the main tourist areas can be very reasonable, with rooms in a cheap hotel as little as £40 per night.

It is just two hours ahead of GMT and uses the international dialling code +420.