The lakes around Canada's national parks never cease to amaze you. We've all heard about Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, but believe me, the lesser-known ones are equally stunning. Lake Emerald is one of them. Silhouetted by tall, lush green trees on all sides, the scenery around the lake is a sight to behold, adding to the beauty of the blue-green glacial waters of the lake, aptly called Emerald! One gets to see a different kind of topography on the route to Lake Emerald in the Yoho National Park. The beautiful winding road is lined by tall pine, spruce and fir trees, and the Rockies appear much closer... Practical Tips about Visiting Lake Emerald in Yoho National Park The lake lies in Yoho National Park at a distance of 115 km from Canmore. It's closer to Banff at about 94 km. The lake is free to visit. Your Parks Canada Pass will be valid here. There is free parking very close to the lake. It gets filled up easily, but I saw vehicles moving in and out quickly, so it's better to wait for your turn. I also saw some cars parked along the side of the road. I'm not sure if that's permitted. Please be sure to park outside the parking lot. Canoeing is the most popular activity on the lake; You will see many red canoes dotting its calm waters. The best time to go to the lake is early morning when the light hits the water, making the lake look ethereal, and getting easy access to the parking is an added advantage. Remember to carry caps or hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and enough water to drink if you plan to go canoeing on a sunny day. The sun's rays can be very scorching. A free toilet facility is available very close to the lake, and if you walk up the path right next to the lake a bit further, you will find a small place for coffee and sandwiches. You need only about 2 hours around this lake, so plan it en route to some other destination. We visited it on our way to the Columbia Ice Fields in Jasper, and it worked out pretty well. Lake Emerald is a gem worth exploring. Don't miss it on your trip to Alberta!!

After spending two nights in Calgary, we headed to Canmore. Canmore is 103 km away from Calgary, it lies in the heart of the Bow River Valley in the Kananaskis Country, on the southeast boundary of Banff National Park. Its proximity to the park makes it the perfect place for tourists traversing the region to stay here. A fleeting pic en route to Canmore... The town is as beautiful but not as expensive as Banff, plus if you're travelling with your family and are looking for spacious accommodations, then Canmore is your best bet. Stunning mountain scenery visible from our backyard! Canmore is very popular amongst sporting enthusiasts. If you're an avid outdoor sports lover, then this city is the answer to all your sporting desires. It's famous for ice climbing and its many walking and biking trails, plus the famous Rat's Cave Tours. Also, skiing enthusiasts flock to Canmore since the town has the distinction of having one of the longest ski seasons in the world. There are many spectacular trails, the most popular being the Policeman's Creek Boardwalk. This is an easy trail and you'll love the views you get from it as you stroll along. The walking trail has the famous Big Head Sculpture and goes past Downtown. We had gone there for a morning walk sans our phones, which is a rare thing for tourists like us to do, but Big Head Sculpture warrants a mention and a picture, I had to take this from a public portal... Another stunning trail in the region is the Grassi Lakes Trail. This trail lies in the Kananaskis Country and is about 4 km long. Its gentle incline has made it a popular choice for families. It should take about 2 hours to do a round trip that will take you to the beautiful twin turquoise lakes, Upper and Lower Grassi Lakes. When we visited in June 2024, this trail was intermittently closed for maintenance purposes. Please check the official website of Alberta Parks https://albertaparks.ca/ for more updates on this trail in case you wish to explore it. Things to do in Canmore Day One Lake Louise Fairview Lookout Trail Lake Louise is one of the top attractions in Banff, and if the day you plan to visit it is bright and sunny, don't miss the opportunity. We did exactly that and visited the lake en route to Canmore. I have written about our day trip to Lake Louise in a separate blog. Please follow the link to read more... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Day Two Explored the beautiful city of Canmore Engine Bridge Biking trails Our day started with walking around town looking for the iconic Three Sisters. We finally spotted them while walking towards Downtown. The trail to this trio of peaks is challenging and takes about 3 and a half hours to complete. Considering we had just a day in Canmore, had to contend with clicking pictures of this beauty only. We decided to hire bikes and see as much of the town as possible, starting with Downtown Canmore. I have never seen such a picturesque downtown. There are rows of shops and galleries that you can explore at leisure with the beautiful Rockies peering from the sides. Since the Grassi Lakes Trail was closed down, we set out on the picturesque Bow River Trail, a 6.9 km long loop with the level of difficulty stated as easy. The trail goes over the historic Engine Bridge, another popular attraction in Canmore. View of the Bow River from Engine Bridge The famous Engine Bridge Stunning views of the Canadian Rockies in the backdrop of the Engine Bridge Biking around Canmore's many picturesque locales.... Canmore is a gem, largely overshadowed by its illustrious neighbour, Banff. Plan to spend some extra time here, and you will get to see the raw side of nature without the spoils of excessive tourism. If you happen to visit Canmore, do share your experiences with me. I'd love to hear from you!

The deep turquoise blue hues of the glacial waters of Lake Louise set against the backdrop of the snowy mountainous terrain and lush green forests of larch trees in the background lend an ethereal feel to this stunning body of water, which has also earned it the nickname of The jewel in the heart of the Canadian Rockies! In this blog, you will get all the relevant details about embarking on this scenic day trip to Lake Louise. Your trip to Banff would be incomplete without seeing the two most iconic lakes in the national park, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. Things to know before your Lake Louise day trip Lake Louise is free to visit. You only need the Parks Canada Pass to enter the national park. Parking at Lake Louise is on a first-come, first-served basis, and it's not free. Please ensure that you get your parking ticket to avoid any penalties later. And parking rates are crazy at around $ 36 for a day! I normally don't make a note of parking rates, but after having paid that much money for a 3-hour parking, I'm sure anyone would remember. The best time to visit the lake is early morning in summer to beat the massive tourist rush and also to get a decent parking slot. Keep a tab on the weather forecast before you visit the lake. The views on a clear sunny day are unmatched in their beauty. Right opposite the lake is the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise with fine dining options. If you're looking for a quick bite, then there is a cafe, a takeaway joint, on the ground floor which is open to walk-ins. They serve fresh coffee with good options for knick-knacks like sandwiches and small meals. Lake Louise will mesmerise you with its deep blue colour created by the presence of fine rock dust that flows into the lake from the nearby glaciers, remains suspended in the water and reflects the light. The lake shore has a pedestrian-friendly boardwalk that's ideal for clicking pictures. One should plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the lakeside since there are a whole lot of activities that can be done while you're there. Hiking on the famous Fairview Lookout Trail is one of the top favourites among visitors. Canoeing on the lake is another popular activity; you will see a lot of conspicuously coloured red canoes on the blue surface of the lake. Lake Louise Gondola is another popular attraction. The 14-minute gondola ride will take you up an incline of 2088 m, where you can get splendid views of the mountains and a bird's eye view of the lake. However, if you are okay with hiking up a reasonably steep incline, then the hike up to the Fairview Lookout Trail should be at the top of your list of must-do activities in Lake Louise. View from the Fairview Lookout Point The trail is about 1 km in length, and although the level of difficulty mentioned on the signboard was easy, I'd say that it's moderate since the climb to the viewpoint is uphill all the way. Return is all downhill. We came across a lot of people halfway through the trail wanting to enquire about how much further to go. We did it in the summer on a sunny day, so the path was dry and easy to walk on. In winter, this steep slope can get very slippery, so be careful if you go in winter or if it's raining. Visiting Lake Moraine in Banff National Park Another famous lake that should be included in everyone's itinerary visiting Banff is Lake Moraine. This lake is considered to be more beautiful than Lake Louise...how is it even possible?? But I believe it is....since getting access to the lake was a nightmare. We tried making a booking 2 days in advance after reaching Calgary, but could not find any vacant slots, and even shuttle tickets were not available. We had to forego the idea of seeing Lake Moraine altogether. I am sharing our experience with you so that you can make the bookings on time and be able to visit this wonderful lake! A visit to Lake Moraine is paid for and can be visited with a tour only, since driving to the lake in your private vehicle is not permitted. You can access Lake Moraine only by the Parks Canada shuttle buses, Roam Public transport or if you have a pre-booked tour package. Tour packages are expensive. Ideally, one should book a shuttle to and fro in advance in the peak season. The official website for Lake Moraine is https://morainelake.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Day-Visits-to-ML-2023.pdf. You must go through this if you're serious about visiting this lake on a day trip, and that too in the peak season. So, Lake Moraine will have to wait for another trip to Alberta, but Lake Louise was definitely the show stealer of our trip to Banff. If you're able to visit both these lakes on your trip to Alberta, do share your experience with me. I would love to hear your story.

We started early from Calgary to reach the beautiful resort town of Banff. The route to Banff is as enchanting as the town itself.... The town has many old villas and chateaus converted into hotels, and the vibe is unmistakably touristy. There are souvenir shops and restaurants on the main street called Banff Avenue, where you can see the peak of Cascade Mountain peering from a distance. Banff was our second stop in Alberta after Calgary. I have written in detail about our 5-day road trip in Alberta in a separate blog https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/5-day-road-trip-in-alberta-the-westernmost-province-of-canada Banff vs Canmore: Where should you stay? Banff is highly touristy. There are only hotels, lodges and premium residences in Banff. If you're travelling with your family and looking for spacious accommodations like Airbnb with more rooms, you should stay in towns closer to Banff, like Canmore. Being touristy also makes Banff very expensive. If you wish to stay for multiple days, then staying in the quieter nearby towns is a more economical option which are as scenic as Banff. We reached Banff quite early and could easily find a free parking space, but I remember the mad rush at the parking lot by the time we got out in the afternoon. Things to know before visiting Banff National Park and Jasper National Park You DO NOT need a pass to enter the town of Banff. You DO need to buy a Parks Canada Pass to enter the national parks. The pass can be bought on the same day from the counter at the entrance to the park. You can also make an online reservation on the official website of the parks in advance at https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/passer-passes A list of counters where passes can be purchased is mentioned on the website. During the summer months, a lot of initiatives and options are available for tourists entering the parks. Please check the website for more offers before making bookings. If you're travelling as a family, then there is an option to buy a Family Group Pass, which allows up to 7 people in one personal vehicle. Remember, the pass has to be displayed on the windscreen of your vehicle at all times while you're travelling in the park. This entry pass is valid across Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes and Elk Island national parks. The pass expires at 4:00 pm on the day of departure. Google map signals can be a bit sketchy in a lot of places, especially close to mountainous terrain. It's better to download offline maps before starting the journey and play it safe. We had allocated only 3 days for the national parks, which proved to be very little to cover the multitude of attractions that the parks offer. So, if possible, plan at least 4 to 5 days to see all the attractions. The two most popular lakes in the region are Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, and their inevitable comparison. I've discussed this in greater detail in a separate post https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Our 2-Day Banff Itinerary Day 1 - Drive from Calgary to Banff Idled around the town of Banff Bow Falls Surprise View Corner Johnston Canyon Lake Minnewanka Banff is as touristy as it gets. The entire region is bursting with activity, and tourists jostling in queues at popular sights is common. It's important to plan your visit to Banff if you want to utilise your time optimally. There are many activities to do in Banff, like the famous Banff Gondola, museums, cave tours, lots of walking trails and the lakes, of course. The national park has many must-see lakes like Lake Moraine, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Lake Peyto, Lake Emerald and Bow Lake, to name a few. We wanted to see the beautiful glacial lakes with Lake Moraine and Lake Louise at the top of our list. I will discuss this in greater detail in a separate post. We decided to spend our first day in Banff exploring this beautiful town and seeing as many attractions as possible. We started our day in Banff National Park with a trip to Bow Falls. The falls lie at a distance of 128 km from Calgary via the Trans Canada Highway. The falls are free to visit, but you will need the Parks Canada Pass since they lie inside Banff National Park. Close to the falls is the Surprise View Corner. This viewpoint offers great views of the Bow Valley and the famous Fairmont Banff Springs across the Bow River. You can walk along the river and the falls and get some amazing views! Surprise View Corner is located at the corner of Tunnel Mountain Road. It's best to walk along the river and then take the stairs to Buffalo Street. The parking lot here is very small; it can barely accommodate 4 to 5 cars, but wait for your turn since people keep moving in and out fairly quickly. There are also a lot of exciting hiking trails all around Bow Falls. After spending a couple of hours in the area, we set out to see Johnston Canyon, which is about 26 km away from Bow Falls. As we drive deeper into Banff National Park, the stunning beauty of the mountains starts unfolding in front of us... Johnston Canyon is the busiest trail in Banff owing to its easy incline in the canyon, which makes it a popular destination among families travelling with kids and the elderly. Quickly hugged my reluctant grown-up son on the pretext of getting a picture clicked... The wooden path along the canyon has a firm railing to hold on to and a very easy incline. The Bow River meanders through the narrow canyon creating stunning scenery... The hike takes you to the last point in the canyon, which ends in a waterfall next to a cave. You will see a long queue of tourists waiting to enter the cave. We followed suit and waited for almost an hour, only to see what? The same waterfall gushing from inside into the canyon!! You can avoid this queue and the cave, too! After spending close to 3 hours at Johnston Canyon, we headed to Lake Minnewanka. The lake is about 36 km from the canyon and is every bit as stunning but less crowded. We spent some quiet time around the lake, clicking pictures on the cliffs and listening to the sound of silence! Day 2 - Calgary to Lake Louise, Overnight at Canmore Lake Louise Fairview Lookout Trail We drove back to Calgary in the evening from Lake Minnewanka. Early the next morning, we set out for Canmore with our bags in tow via Lake Louise on the Trans-Canada Highway. The day was bright and sunny, so we decided to go straight to the lake instead of first checking into our apartment in Canmore. The direct route from Calgary to Lake Louise takes about 2 hours to cover a distance of 185 km. Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout Trail are one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Banff https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff If you have an extra day to spend on the road and are open to staying overnight somewhere along the way to Lake Louise, then you must take the scenic route from Calgary to Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway, instead of taking the regular Trans-Canada Highway. This roadway is known for its stunning scenic views and picnic spots along the way. When we visited Alberta in June 2024, this parkway was closed. Please refer to the official website of Parks Canada for updated information on this route. To sum up, I'd say that one can cover most of the touristy locales, the must-see attractions in Banff in 2 days, hopping from one attraction to another, but if you wish to soak in this surreal beauty at leisure, then 2 days are not enough. There are so many stunning lakes and walking trails at every turn that we would have loved to spend more time around the lakes. So, plan your trip accordingly.

The western Canadian province of Alberta is a paradise waiting to be explored. The surreal beauty of this vast arid land has to be seen to be believed. Set against the backdrop of the mighty Canadian Rockies, you will see verdant greens of the Prairies, foothills of the Rockies and stunning emerald and blue glacial lakes dotting this scenic landscape at every turn. A road trip through this region will take you on the Trans-Canada Highway connecting Calgary to Banff and onward to Jasper National Park via Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), considered one of the world's most scenic highways! Ten Useful Travel Tips for Alberta National Parks The best time to travel to this rugged mountainous region is summer, when the days are sunny and bright, and you can expect sunshine till about ten o'clock at night!! Mountainous weather is unpredictable, so you must carry a light woollen jacket even when travelling in summer. If you plan to visit the Glacier in Columbia Icefields, all the more reason for you to carry warm clothes. A Parks Canada Pass is required to enter all the national parks. The pass is available online on the official website, and you can also buy the same at the counter on the day of travel. I have written in detail about Parks Canada Pass in my memoir about our time in Banff National Park in a separate post on the link pasted below in this post. An important point to remember is that a Parks Canada Pass does not automatically give you free access to all the parking lots inside the national parks. You might have to pay the parking fee at some places, such as Lake Louise, for instance. So, please ensure that you check for parking fees wherever required to avoid any penalty later. We had 5 days at our disposal to see the national parks, but I feel that a slightly longer week-long trip would be ideal to soak in the beauty of this region. Plus, keep an extra hour for every road trip you plan in this region because you will be tempted to stop your vehicle at every turn to click pictures of this scenic landscape. Remember to research what you wish to see during your stay in the national parks because there's so much to do, and you will waste a lot of time without a proper plan in place. We, for instance, covered Lake Louise on our way to Canmore and Lake Emerald on our way to Jasper. This helped us save precious time. There are many ways to access the national parks. You can make a round trip, starting from Calgary to Banff, to Jasper and back to Calgary with overnight stays at Calgary and Banff of 2 to 3 nights each, depending on the available time. A lot of people also start from Calgary and close their trip in Edmonton, which is slightly closer than Calgary. Banff, like all touristy places, is more expensive compared to the nearby town of Canmore or the closest city of Calgary. If you're travelling with a family with kids and looking for more spacious and economical accommodation like Airbnb, then your best bet is to stay in the nearby town of Canmore, which is closer and equally scenic as Banff. Staying in the bustling city of Calgary is also a great option, which is only about an hour and a half drive from Banff. A drive through these national parks can bring you face-to-face with many wild animals like elk, big horn sheep, moose and even grizzly bears! We came across a huge grizzly bear and its cub slumbering in the woods, and some tourists were trying to catch its attention by gesticulating, making noise and taking pictures. Remember, it can be very dangerous to provoke the animal. Please refrain from doing so and do not step out of your vehicle to take pictures. Also, when going on hikes in the national parks, remember to carry a bear spray can. Once you cross Banff and hit the road towards the national parks, you will not find any provision stores or eateries on the journey. So, stock up your car with snacks to munch on and enough water. The same should apply to your car's fuel tank, too. Fill her up nice and full because you might not see a gas station for many miles ahead. Now, let me take you through our 5-day road trip through Alberta, with the final leg of the road journey from Jasper to Vancouver, BC. 5-Day Alberta Road Trip Itinerary Day 1 - Calgary to Banff National Park Idled around the town of Banff Bow Falls Surprise View Corner Johnston Canyon Lake Minnewanka We had only 5 days to cover both Banff and Jasper, so instead of spending our first day in Calgary, we headed straight to the famous Bow Falls in Banff. A lot of people do this since Banff has lots of activities to cover. If you're planning to visit Calgary, you could use this guide to plan your trip to Banff, Bow Falls, Surprise View Corner, Johnston Canyon and Lake Minnewanka https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-days-in-banff-national-park-alberta Day 2 - Half-day Sightseeing in Calgary Calgary Downtown Peace Bridge After the excitement of the previous day, we started our second day in Calgary on a slow note. Calgary is rated as one of the cleanest cities in the world and a visit to this beautiful city reiterates this claim. One can find an abundance of open vistas and green patches in the city. We were in Calgary in June, but if you happen to be there in July, you should not miss the chance to see the popular annual event called Calgary Stampede. It's a 10-day festival known for its outdoor rodeo show that has the distinction of being the world's largest outdoor rodeo, plus other events like concerts, parades and exhibitions by First Nations. First Nations refers to the Indigenous people and ethnic groups who first inhabited Canada. Calgary is not a hot tourist destination per se. Still, its proximity to Banff National Park (around 127 km via the Trans-Canada Highway) prompts many tourists traversing that area to use it as a base for further travel. We had only 2 days in Calgary. Our outing started with a trip to Downtown Calgary to explore the famous pedestrian hub, Stephen Avenue Walk. The area has many restaurants, shops and boutiques. We spent about an hour and a half and then headed to the Peace Bridge. Peace Bridge is a conspicuously red-coloured bridge built over the Bow River in Downtown Calgary in Prince's Island Park. You will find tourists and locals alike strolling and biking around the park. Another famous landmark of the city is the Calgary Tower. Located in the heart of Downtown Calgary, the tower is 190.8 metres tall and is known for its spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. We had limited time, so we had to skip climbing the tower. Another important attraction in Calgary is the Calgary Zoo. If you're travelling with kids, then this should be the top of your itinerary for Calgary. But remember, the zoo is massive, and you would need a full day to be able to see it all. Close to Calgary, about 135 km away, is the town of Drumheller. The town is famous for its striking badlands terrain in the Dinosaur Provincial Park. Again, it's a one-day outing from Calgary; go for it if you have time. Day 3 - Calgary to Canmore by road via Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout Trail The next two nights were in Canmore. As I've mentioned earlier, there's a lot to do in Banff, so after a quick trip around Calgary, we headed straight to Lake Louise in Banff. Besides, the day was bright and sunny, and it would have been foolish to miss the opportunity to see the famed lake in all its glory. I am sharing my experience at Lake Louise and the Fairview Lookout Trail https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Day 4 - Sightseeing in Canmore Biking trails Engine Bridge We had allocated the second day in Canmore to see Lake Moraine. But we could not get tickets for the tour package. Please remember that you cannot drive to Lake Moraine in your personal vehicle. The tours to the lake need to be booked well in advance. We learnt this fact the hard way and had to miss this tour. I have discussed this in the blog link posted above. So, instead of driving to Banff again, we decided to look up the beautiful town of Canmore. And boy, did we love it!! Canmore is a dreamy town lying in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, not as touristy as Banff but every bit as charming. If you can spare a day, then don't miss the chance to explore Canmore. You can refer to our Canmore experience https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-nights-in-canmore-alberta Day 5 - Drove from Canmore to Hinton, Alberta via Lake Emerald and Columbia Ice Fields Lake Emerald Tour of Columbia Ice Fields in Jasper National Park Very close to Canmore, just about 115 km away, lies another stunning water body, Lake Emerald. Here's a complete guide for you to plan your visit to the beautiful Lake Emerald in the Yoho National Park in British Columbia https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/half-day-trip-to-lake-emerald-yoho-national-park-bc We spent half a day at the lake before proceeding to the tour of the Columbia Ice Fields. Here's my experience of stepping out on the glacier at the Columbia Ice Fields https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-thrilling-day-trip-to-the-columbia-ice-field-and-the-athabasca-glacier-in-alberta Our last destination for this road trip was Vancouver. Jasper to Vancouver is close to 800 km and takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes to cover. We decided to break the journey and spend a night in Hinton, a small town close to Jasper, about 40 minutes by road. The town has excellent infrastructure and offers cheaper accommodation than the touristy Jasper. Day 6 - Drove from Hinton, Alberta, to Kamloops, BC and further to Vancouver The city of Vancouver on the west coast of Canada beckons visitors from all over the world. Here, you will find the Top 5 things that you must do in Vancouver https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/top-5-must-do-things-in-vancouver-the-bustling-capital-of-british-columbia For more general travel tips, click here Some Useful Travel Tips | journeys2memories

A trip to Prague is incomplete without seeing Prague Castle, the largest castle in Europe. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most interesting one I have yet seen, owing to a variety of buildings and structures that belong to different eras and yet stand together very cohesively in this castle complex. Prague Castle is an overload of culture and history. You can see the relics of Bohemian kings, stunning artworks, historical manuscripts and above all, the crown jewels. Practical Tips for Visiting the Prague Castle We visited the Prague Castle Complex without much prior information. Upon reaching there, I realised that we should've researched it, the foremost reason being the sheer size of the complex. So, I've jotted down some basic facts for you that could be very helpful in case you go visiting. The castle complex is massive, covering an area of 70,000 square meters. You need to set aside at least 3 to 4 hours to see this complex. It takes only 15 minutes on foot from Charles Bridge to reach the castle. Once you enter the complex, stroll along to take a good look at the stunning buildings from the outside before buying entry tickets to the paid areas. The exterior facades are as compelling as the interiors. And they are free!! Entry into the castle complex is free. If you wish to see these attractions from the inside, then you need to buy a ticket. There are many ticket options available, so it's a good idea to do some research before you go, depending on the amount of time you have and what you wish to see. You can check the official website of Prague Castle for details https://www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle-for-visitor There are Basic Circuit tickets that cover the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Golden Lane and St. Vitus Cathedral. Apart from these 4 attractions, some permanent exhibitions can also be seen for a separate ticket. All tickets are valid for 2 days, so if you have time, then you can go back again to see what is left, but remember, entry to one attraction is permitted only once. Over 2 million people visit the castle each year, so you can imagine the crowds thronging to enter the castle each day. Start early, especially if you want to buy tickets at the counter. If you're sure about what you wish to see, buying tickets online beforehand is better, guaranteeing you a Priority Entrance. I'll try to give you an insight into the castle to help you decide what to see. As per the official website of the castle, photography inside the castle is not permitted. You need a valid license for it. But I saw so many people clicking pictures, and I am sure not all of them had licenses. I concluded that one just needs to do it without the use of flash. If possible, plan your trip on a weekday for smaller crowds. Weekends can be quite busy. The castle complex is wheelchair friendly and entry for wheelchair users and their attendants is free. The approach to the castle complex is quite uphill; there is a very broad Old Castle staircase leading to the castle that makes walking on the incline easier, but be prepared to walk a lot. Also, there is no shade anywhere, so if it's summer, then carry an umbrella. We were scorched by the summer sun while walking uphill. After posting this blog on the Facebook page of a Prague Travel group, a fellow member of the group, Vit Spisek, pointed out that a better way to enter the castle is from Nerudova Street. This street will lead you to the square with panoramic views, and one can enter the castle from the Main Gate. And if you want to avoid walking altogether, then take tram # 22 to Prazsky hrad (Prague Castle) and enter via the North Gate. Alternatively, take tram # 22 and get off at Pohorelec. From here, you will see the Strahov Monastery and more panoramic views and then a small walk will lead you to the Main Gate. You can also walk to the North Gate through the castle gardens from Letna Park. Such detailed information could come only from a local. I am grateful to Vit for letting me share this valuable information here. I hope everyone reading this post will find it useful. I'd read a lot of mixed reviews about the various tour options available in the paid attractions. We were not sure what to do upon reaching the palace. The audio guide is priced at a whopping 350 CZK for some reason. Eventually, we opted for the one-hour tour that cost 250 CZK. The guide was good, and the tour was very informative. Cafes inside the castle complex are quite expensive. We paid 4 euros for a bottle of water. You can carry your food and drinks. There are a lot of places to sit around and eat. Things To Do in the Prague Castle Old Royal Palace This beautiful Romanesque palace can be seen as part of the circuit ticket. It is still a functional hall and many ceremonial gatherings of the Czech government are still held here. The highlight of your trip to the Royal Palace is the Vladislav Hall. St. Vitus Cathedral This is the largest church in Prague. It has seen the coronations of many Czech kings and queens. My Tip for You This is a not-to-miss attraction. The church is stunning both on the outside and the inside. Outside, if you crane your neck, you will see such intricate details carved in stone with gargoyles and spires jutting into the sky. As you enter, you will be mesmerised by its Gothic architecture and the tall stained glass windows. St. Wenceslas Chapel is magnificent. St. George's Basilica This is the oldest church building within the castle complex. Compared to St. Vitus Cathedral, this church is quite sombre. My Tip for You This is included in the circuit ticket, so we watched it. Nothing spectacular about it. If you're running short on time or if you're very tired from all the walking, you can skip this one. Lobkovicz Palace The Palace is the only privately owned building in the Castle complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds a vast and enthralling collection of artworks belonging to the Lobkowicz family over generations. The audio guide is fun to hear as the owner, William Lobkowicz, talks about how the Nazis took away their wealth and how they re-collected all of it. My Tip for You There is a music concert every day at 1 pm. You must buy the combination ticket that will offer you entry to the museum along with an audio guide and a concert at 1 pm. The only negative is that the palace is hugely crowded. We had to wait a good 30 minutes in the sun to get inside. There are also quite a few steps before you see the museum. Golden Lane This lane has dwellings of the caretakers or servers of the castle. At the end of the lane is a torture chamber and a dungeon. The lane was very crowded when we got there. It's always crowded, I believe. But it was nice and vibrant, worth the wait! Franz Kafka also lived here on this lane at some point. Permanent Exhibitions of Prague Castle There are 2 permanent exhibitions at the Prague Castle. The story of Prague Castle, Prague Castle Picture Gallery Buying the Prague Castle - Permanent Exhibition Circuit includes entry to these exhibitions. We did not see these exhibitions since we were travelling to Prague after spending a fortnight in Austria, and we'd had our fill of visiting all kinds of museums. But if you're interested in seeing these exhibitions, then please refer to the official website of Prague Castle to buy combo tickets accordingly. My parting tip to anyone visiting the castle is to refer to the official website mentioned above before your trip, because this castle is massive with many attractions to see. We wasted a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what to do and what to omit. This will give you an idea about what you're watching once you're inside the castle complex. What you do here will depend entirely on the time available to you. Not-to-miss attractions are the Old Royal Palace, Saint Vitus Cathedral and Lobkovicz Palace.

Little Quarter, Lesser Town or Mala Strana, as it's popularly known, is the most-tourist-frequented part of Prague. Taking a stroll down the narrow, cobbled streets of Lesser Town will instantly transport you into the world of medieval Prague. There are so many historical wonders waiting to be explored. Just walk along using a map, and you will find most of the places mentioned below. The Lesser Town is in no way less than the rest of Prague; the name means little side. The River Vltava divides the city into Old Town Square side and the side on the other end of the river, called Mala Strana. I have listed 15 sights that you can aim to see in the Lesser Town, depending on your level of energy to walk around and the time available at hand. But they are all quite close by and can easily be covered on foot. Top 15 Sights to see in Mala Strana or Lesser Town, Prague Charles Bridge St. Nicholas Church Lesser Town Square Old Town and Lesser Town Bridge Tower Petrin Hill Memorial to the victims of Communism Petrin Tower Lennon Wall Devil's Channel and Water Mill Kampa Island Kampa Museum Giant Crawling Babies Kinsky Garden Narrowest street in Prague Franz Kafka Museum Charles Bridge The iconic Charles Bridge is the symbol of Prague. The majestic bridge connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town over the Vltava River. The construction of the bridge started under the regime of King Charles IV, hence the name and ended in the 15th century, giving this bridge the distinction of being the oldest stone bridge in Europe. What makes this bridge popular among tourists is the amazing scenery one gets of the Vltava River from atop the bridge. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the Old Town Square to the Charles Bridge, and this is exactly what all visitors to the city do. There are hundreds of tourists jostling to get a picture of the many statues of saints erected along the length of the bridge. The bridge leads into Mala Strana or Lesser Town. Why it's called Lesser Town is beyond me because this part of Prague is as scenic with its beautiful baroque structures and tilted red roofs as the Old Town. The Bridge Tower is the entrance to the Charles Bridge from the Old Town. This Gothic tower is a sight to behold. My Tip for You The bridge is always crowded, crawling with people. We tried going in the evening on one day and late evening on the second day. Maybe you should try going in the early morning. A lot of interesting boat tour options are available on the river that take you around and under the bridge. I'm not a big fan of street hawkers selling trinkets and souvenirs and drawing pictures of tourists on the bridge. It just makes the place more crowded. If you can beat the crowds, then go up the Bridge Tower; it takes 138 steps to reach the top, but the views of the river from here are amazing, especially at sundown. St. Nicholas Church St. Nicholas Church is one of the most beautiful specimens of Baroque Architecture in all of Prague. The church is located just over from the Charles Bridge. We have seen many beautiful churches in Italy, Spain, Austria and some more cities in Europe, but this ornate church is worth all the time and money you spend. The stunning interiors are so colourful and vibrant that they take you by surprise at first glance. You can easily spend about an hour inside. My Tip for You Remember, there are two St. Nicholas Churches in Prague; the one in Old Town Square is free to visit. This one in Lesser Town is paid, 100 CZK for adults. You can climb to the top of the Bell Tower, which has about 200 steps to the top. We did not do this because we were too tired from an entire day of walking around the Lesser Town. But I am sure the views from the top would be surreal. This is a sure not-to-miss attraction in Prague. Lesser Town Square The Lesser Town Square lies in the centre of the Lesser Town. You can walk through the upper end of the square towards Prague Castle, and at the lower end, you will reach Charles Bridge. In the centre of the square is the Holy Trinity Column, a high baroque structure made in the 18th century. Wallenstein Palace in the Lesser Town is the seat of the Czech Senate. There are beautiful French gardens that adorn the palace exteriors. Access is free. Old Town and Lesser Town Bridge Tower This is undoubtedly the most happening place in Prague. The Old Town Bridge will take you from the Old Town, and the Lesser Town Bridge Tower will take you from Mala Strana to Charles Bridge. These beautiful bridge towers on both ends of the bridge are a sight to behold. You can ascend the towers for a small fee. My Tip for You I am always quite keen on talking to fellow tourists. We were told by some tourists standing around the tower that the wooden staircase leading to the top was a tough climb. So, we gave the climb a miss. But the tower itself is a beautiful Gothic structure that looks stunning when lit up at night. If possible, just hang around till sundown to see the tower lit up. Petrin Hill This is a beautiful hillside park which can easily be accessed by a funicular. You can take the funicular from the Ujzed Tram Stop in Mala Strana. It takes about 30 minutes to hike up the hill. The walk is very pleasant as the path goes through beautiful gardens and woods. This place is a small green oasis amid a bustling city. The area of Petrin Hill has seven different gardens, the Seminary Garden and Rose Garden, to name a few. We took the funicular on our way up and then walked back down. There are many benches all along the route where you can sit and relax. There is an observatory on the top and some nice cafes for visitors to sit and relax. Memorial to the Victims of Communism At the base of Petrin Hill, as you climb the broad staircase from the side of the road, you will see this thought-provoking monument. Throughout Prague, one can see such artworks that very poignantly depict the harsh times under the communist regime that lasted for almost 40 years. Petrin Tower Many people believe that Petrin Tower in Prague is a miniature version of the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. The tower is located on the Petrin Hill. If you have the Prague Visitor Pass, then entry to the tower is included in it. You get beautiful views of the city of Prague from the top. My Tip for You The approach to the hill was the best part of the trip for me. Entry to the tower was closed due to some maintenance work going on. I would not want to compare it to the Eiffel Tower, but the entire area is beautiful in its own right. We stayed till dusk, and the views were terrific. Lennon Wall The wall in Lesser Town will entice you with its colourful graffiti and images of the Beatles. If you're a Beatles fan, then you would perhaps know that John Lennon's and the Beatles' music was forbidden in the communist regime of Czechoslovakia. This wall became a symbol of the suppression of freedom of speech during the communist era. The Czech youth used it to express their disgruntlement with the regime. Devil's Channel and Water Mill Very close to the Lennon Wall, is a small romantic bridge called Lover's Bridge that separates Lesser Town from Kampa Island over Certovka or Devil's Channel. The channel is quite long, as it was used to supply water to the mills, and this entire part gives the feel of a little Venice in Prague. The Watermill can be spotted from the Lover's Bridge. There is a green demon face on the side of the mill called Vodnik. As per legend, he is one of the water demons of the River Vltava and should be revered. The mill is not functional now, but the area around it is very romantic. Kampa Island This small island was not on our list of sights, we just walked over Charles Bridge and came across this beautiful island with stunning views of the Vltava River, Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral. Interestingly, we saw a life-size Harmony Statue of Sri Chinmoy on the banks of the River Vltava with the caption "If you can create harmony in your own life, this harmony will enter into the vast world." This was created by Kaivalya Torpy, a British sculptor, in 2009. There are some other interesting artworks along the waterfront, too. You can easily spend a lazy afternoon at the waterfront if you have time. Kampa Museum Right next to the waterfront is the Kampa Museum. The museum is dedicated to Modern European Art. Truth be told, this for me is like Latin, so we gave the museum a miss and instead spent time walking around the beautiful island. Giant Crawling Babies Just walk a few meters away from the Kampa Museum towards the park, and you will come across these giant crawling babies. The monument was made by David Cerny. My Tip for You We couldn't make out the logic behind making such giant babies that crawl. But then, such strange artworks by David Cerny are commonplace in Prague. Kinsky Garden On the side of Petrin Hill, adjoining the Kinsky Summer Residence, lies this beautifully landscaped garden called Kinsky Garden. The garden has beautiful pools, small waterfalls and a church. My Tip for You It's nothing spectacular, but if you have time, then you can spend it in this landscaped paradise. We just walked through it and exited the garden at Kinsky Square. Narrowest Street in Prague Just about 20 minutes away from Kinsky Square is the narrowest street in Prague. The street is just 20 inches wide and leads you to a restaurant facing the Vltava River. Since the street is so narrow, there is a traffic light at both ends to help pedestrians navigate. People have to wait for the light to turn green before they walk through, since only one person can walk through at a time. My Tip for You Finding the street took over an hour. We crossed it thrice and missed it each time. Remember to look for Na Kampe Road from Charles Bridge, coming towards Mala Strana. Turn right into U Lužického Semináře. I feel the effort that went into looking for the street was far more than the actual sight. It's just a small alley leading to a restaurant. If you're travelling with kids, then it surely can be a fun thing for them to do with the mini street light and all. Franz Kafka Museum This museum is only meant for Franz Kafka fans. If you've read about his works and his books, only then go to see this museum. It lies on the banks of the Vltava River. The entire museum is so small, not worth the money. The only highlight of the museum is the two peeing-men. This weird artwork instantly catches your attention. Otherwise, I found the museum very dark, dull and uninspiring. Sorry, Kafka fans!! So, this was Mala Strana or Lesser Town in a nutshell for you. You can cover all of this easily in one day at leisure. Remember to see Charles Bridge by daytime and definitely during sundown. My last memory of Prague is the beautiful Charles Bridge all lit up at night and throwing its glorious reflection in the calm waters of the Vltava River flowing below. And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here

The Old Town, with its famous Old Town Square, is the liveliest part of the city of Prague. One can easily spend many hours strolling alongside the hundreds of fellow visitors, gaping at the sights and soaking in the amazing vibe of this city. Top Ten Attractions in Prague Old Town Staromestske Namesti, Old Town Square Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock Church of Our Lady before Tyn St. Nicholas Church Kinsky Palace Jan Hus Monument Prague Meridien Jewish Museum / Jewish Quarter Spanish Synagogue Powder Tower and Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House Staromestske Namesti, Old Town Square The Old Town Square is a large pedestrian zone in the Old Town. You will see hundreds of people flocking around its famous historical monuments, jostling with each other. While in Prague, you should aim to spend at least 2 to 3 hours in the square to soak in the vibe of this amazing city. The square is a popular site for all kinds of demonstrations and gatherings. You can never tire of sitting on one of the benches and seeing the world go by. Old Town Hall and Prague Astronomical Clock The Old Town Hall was established in the 12th Century and served as the administrative seat for the Old Town. The Town Hall is a set of five medieval houses with one corner occupied by the mammoth rectangular tower and the Astronomical Clock. Conducted tours of the Town Hall are available every hour, depending on your choice of language. We'd read some excellent reviews about the tour of the Town Hall, but didn't go for it because it was very cool and sunny that day, and we preferred spending time outdoors. And now the famous Prague Astronomical Clock...also known as Prague Orloj, this clock is a must-see attraction in Prague. Prague Orloj is just a clock that shows time, except for the fact that it has been doing so for the last 600 years or more!! Built in 1410, this is one of the oldest and most complex astronomical clocks in the World, and it draws millions of visitors to Prague each year!! This 15th-century clock chimes every hour, and a skeleton hanging on the outside rings the bell to announce the hour. Then, there is the 'Walk of the Apostles', where 12 mechanical figures of apostles appear in the window above every hour. Basically, to say that there is a good amount of drama around the clock that is fun to watch. There is a surge of crowds in front of the clock as noon approaches, and people gather to see the display. The Gothic-style outer facade of the clock is impressive; it tracks celestial movements, phases of the moon, and shows the movement of the Sun and other Zodiac constellations. My Tip for You There is an elevator for an extra charge if you decide to go up to the top of the tower. You will get very nice views of Prague, and you will be able to see the working mechanism of this clock from the inside. It's a good idea to read about this clock before your trip to appreciate its working, how it was heavily damaged during World War II and how it was painstakingly restored to its present condition. Church of Our Lady Before Tyn The tall spires of this church are visible from a lot of places in Prague, but the entrance to the church is from the Old Town Square through a small alley. You will have to look for the entrance closely since it is sandwiched between two restaurants that are located right outside the church. The beautiful edifice of the church looks ethereal during sunset. The interiors and the altar are stunning. Entry is free. In summer, a lot of concerts are organised here; if you're interested, the ticket office is right next to the entrance of the church. St. Nicholas Church in Old Town Square There are 2 St. Nicholas Churches in Prague. This one is in the Old Town Square, and the other one is in the Lesser Town. Entry to St. Nicholas Church in Old Town Square is free, while the other is paid. The Church has a beautiful altar and a stunning chandelier. You can just walk in and admire the beautiful frescoes of this Gothic and Baroque-style church. Kinsky Palace Right in front of the Church of Our Lady before Tyn lies this beautiful Rococo structure with its distinct, elegant exterior. The palace is now an art museum. It was closed for renovation, so we could not see it from the inside. But the outer facade of the palace blends beautifully with the church spires jutting out from the background. Great photo opportunity. Jan Hus Monument This monument is the first thing you'll see as you step into the Old Town Square. The massive memorial is dedicated to Jan Hus, a theologian and religious reformer in the 16th century, who condemned the catholic church for its moral decay. My Tip for You There are lots of benches around the monument where you can sit and relax. You will find nice fast-food cafes around this place, which serve the famous Czech sweet pastry called Trdelnik. The pastry is delicious, you can get a filling of ice cream on top...Umm...yum!! Prague Meridien This narrow strip of brass on the ground near the Jan Hus Monument was used to tell the time in Prague from the mid-17th century till 1918! You will have to look at the centre of the Old Town Square to be able to locate it. Tourists are always flocking around this place for selfies, so locating it should not be a problem! Jewish Museum / Jewish Quarter Like in a lot of other places in Europe, the Jewish Museum refers to the many historical buildings of the Jewish Ghetto, where Jews were forced to move from other parts of Prague. I had read somewhere before leaving for Prague that Hitler wanted to preserve this area in Prague as a museum for the extinct Jewish Race. So, ironically, a lot of artefacts were plundered from other parts of the world and brought here for preservation and display. This had caught my fancy, and we made it a point to see the Jewish Quarter. There is a statue of Franz Kafka, the most famous Jew of Prague, here in the Jewish Quarter. My Tip for You The entire area is laden with Jewish history. There are many options for buying tickets on the day of your visit, along with an optional audio guide. The neighbourhood has a distinct character that is hard to describe, but you can feel it when you're there. You can buy tickets at the Information and Reservation Centre on the day of your visit. But if you're looking for a conducted tour, then you can take the Jewish Quarter Tour. The walking tour lasted about 3 hours, and it took us deep into the turbulent history of the Jews in Prague. Owing to the massive crowds, we had bought the tour online beforehand. I'm not sure that you will be able to book a conducted tour there and then. Spanish Synagogue This stunning Synagogue is included in the Jewish Quarter Tour. The prefix Spanish was associated with this synagogue owing to its Moorish revival architecture that can also be seen distinctly in the Alhambra in Spain. The ornate interiors of the synagogue just blew us away. This beautiful structure reminded me of the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Not-to-miss attraction! The pictures I had taken did not do justice to this stunning structure, hence I've picked a professionally clicked picture here. Powder Tower and Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House Powder Tower is a beautiful Gothic gate that separates the New Town from the Old Town. The tower, I believe, dates back to the 1400s. Its exterior facade has been blackened over the years. In the early 18th Century, this tower was used to store gunpowder, hence the name. Right next to the Powder Gate is Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House. Entry to the building is free. Inside Obecni Dum is Smetana Hall, one of the most popular concert halls in Prague. The structure is unbelievably beautiful and offers great photo opportunities. You can refer to their official website if you're interested in watching a concert. https://www.obecnidum.cz/ My Tip for You If you have the energy, walk up the Powder Tower's 150-plus steps, which are slightly uneven in some places but not very tedious to cover. The views you get all around are okay, nothing spectacular. You can spend the saved time along the river instead. So, that is Prague Old Town for you. You will need at least one day to cover this entire area at leisure. While in Prague Old Town Square, don't forget to taste Trdelník from one of the roadside eateries offering this delightful Czech pastry with ice cream, then sit on one of the benches around the square while you relish your dessert. If you visit Prague Old Town, do share your experience with me. For some more useful travel tips, click here

I have listed the top 6 attractions in the New Town. You can cover all of them in a day. The New Town is very well connected with all the other parts of Prague via trams and buses. Even if you decide to walk from the Old Town, it should only take about 15 to 18 minutes since both parts lie adjacent to each other. Top 6 Things to do in Nové Město, Prague New Town Wenceslas Square This is the most buzzing and happening part of Prague. It's so radically different from the Old Town yet has the same Prague vibe. Must plan to spend an evening around this area when the building of the National Museum is lit up. The area is very well connected by public transport. Statue of St. Wenceslas Right in front of the imposing, majestic structure of the National Museum is the statue of St. Wenceslas. St. Wenceslas was the Duke of Bohemia. Now, this beautiful bronze equestrian statue has become a national symbol of the Czech Republic. National Museum / Narodni Museum The stunning golden facade of the National Museum is a feast for the eyes. This massive complex houses 5 main institutes Museum of Natural Sciences The Historical Museum The Library of the National Museum The Naprstek Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures The Czech Museum of Music There is a lot to do and see in this museum. I'd also read some great reviews about it. But we still gave it a miss because we had just one spare evening in Prague and we wanted to spend it loitering around Wenceslas Square. Needless to say, the museum complex is stunningly beautiful. One cannot take one's eyes off this magnificent building. But equally vibrant is this square in the evening. We tried an interesting-looking potato delicacy whose name I've forgotten (see picture below). And we tried some amazing Aperol Spritz at one of the restaurants on the square. Prague National Theatre Opera Just about an 18-minute walk away from Wenceslas Square is the National Theater Opera of Prague. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, this stunning building had me intrigued from the moment we reached Prague. Its four majestic spires are visible from far and wide. Entry to the building is free, and you can also walk around the lobby for free. If you wish to see the auditorium, then you need to buy tickets for a show or a guided tour. Dancing House This house was the site of a US bombing in 1945, so the place has a lot of significance in the history of Prague. The house, also nicknamed Ginger and Fred, is located on the Vltava Riverfront. Is it worth going to see the Dancing House in Prague? We spent a great deal of time reaching the site of the Dancing House from Wenceslas Square, almost 20 mins by tram. I honestly did not find anything special to look out for. Just a tick off our list of attractions for sure. There is a rooftop cafe that can be reached by an elevator. If you buy something from the cafe, then the elevator is included, I think. Not too sure and did not bother to find out. A lot of people might like this kind of architecture, but I am not a fan of any quirky and twisted architectural contortions. No offence, but for me, it just looked like an eyesore in the beautiful medieval buildings all around. Rotating Head of Franz Kafka 42 panels of heavy stainless steel rotate in synced layers to create the face of Franz Kafka, the most renowned Czech writer. This is indeed a technological marvel. The panels move at regular intervals, so you will just have to wait it out and see for yourself. The bust, I later read, weighs 39 tons, and these moving panels are connected with kilometre-long cables and modules. My Tips for You This bust created by the Czech artist David Cerny is located in the heart of Prague 1, in the backyard of the OC Quadrio Shopping Centre. Tram 22 will take you to the tram stop right in front of this shopping centre. It's amazing to see the exact look of Franz Kafka taking shape as the metallic panels move. This is a must-watch attraction, in my opinion. Never seen anything like this anywhere else. You can see the entire New Town in a few hours unless, of course, you plan to see the National Museum from the inside. In that case, you must keep aside a day. I'd love to hear from you if you happen to visit the National Museum. Also, in the New Town of Prague, lies the world-famous Black Light Theatre. This amazing show was one of the highlights of our trip to the New Town, Prague https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/an-evening-at-the-world-s-oldest-black-light-theatre-of-jiri-srnec-a-czech-speciality And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here

If you've seen all of Prague's architectural marvels, are bored of visiting museums and are still left with a spare day, then make a day trip to this beautiful natural wonder in the Czech Republic called Bohemian Switzerland for an unforgettable outdoor experience! Things to Know about Bohemian Switzerland before your visit This is the site of the largest natural arch in Europe, called the Pravcická Brána Gate. This awe-inspiring gate made of natural sandstone rocks will take your breath away with its unique natural rock formations! This 80 square kilometre national park has towering cliffs, thick forests and lusty rivers that cut through the mountains to create steep gorges. The arch became famous, especially after being featured in the Hollywood film The Chronicles of Narnia. This national park is located in the Elbe Sandstone Mountain region in the northwestern part of the Czech Republic. The same region spreads adjacently into Germany and is then called Saxon Switzerland, as it falls in the state of Saxony near its capital city of Dresden. Many tour options are available that take you to both the Czech and German sides of the national park, although going on your own is also quite simple and much cheaper, of course! Interestingly, I visited Dresden as a student many years ago and went to Saxon Switzerland from there. I've shared my journey to the German part of this beautiful nature park https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/saxon-switzerland-day-trip-to-the-stunning-sandstone-mountains-on-the-east-end-of-germany Things to do in Bohemian Switzerland Ideally, one should spend 2 days in this mountainous paradise. There are plenty of options to stay in the nearby village of Hrensko. If you have 2 days, then you can explore more places in the national park .... a. Pravcická Brána Gate b. Kamenice Gorge and Edmund's Gorge c. Saunstejn Rock Castle d. Mary's Rock e. Tisa Rocks But if you're making a day trip as we did, then there is only one attraction that you will be able to cover in that time. And that attraction should be Pravcická Brána, the largest natural mountainous arch in Europe! How to Plan a Day Trip to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague Prague to Dečin We took an early morning train from Prague Hlavni Nadrazi Railway Station to Dečin. Dečin is pronounced as De-chin, I think! That's what I heard everyone call it. The train to Dečin runs every hour. It's 130 km from Prague and takes about 1 hour and 40 mins. I think this is the best way to go if you're going by public transport. Once you reach Dečin, look for the Tourist Information Centre that lies very close to the railway station in the same quarters. It's a good idea to understand the layout of the national park so that you can decide what you need to do and where you can start. We reached Dečin quite early, and there was no queue at all at the information centre. The lady at the counter did not speak fluent English, but she was extremely helpful as she charted out our entire walking trip of the day on a map of that area. The important thing is to ensure that you know the time of departure of the last bus from wherever you plan to return. Since we had just a day at our disposal and we had to catch a train back to Prague, we just stuck to the most important sightseeing in the park, which is the stone arch or Pravcická Brána Gate. Dečin to Hrensko We stepped out of the railway station and immediately boarded bus 434 in the direction of Hrensko. The bus runs every hour, and you can buy the tickets from the bus driver or from the train station too. In about 20 to 30 minutes, the bus dropped us off in the village of Hrensko, which is about 8 kilometres away, at the Pravcicka bus stop. From there, we started walking on the trek leading to Pravcická Brána. The hike from Hrensko to Pravcická Brána The hike starts from a road leading into the mountains. In 2022, a devastating fire burned most of the vegetation in the area. You will see a lot of burnt vegetation and tree stumps lying all around. As you walk further, the trail becomes mildly steep. The walking track meanders through beautiful mountain scenery. Indications are marked along the way, albeit in Czech and German only. You can enjoy the trek at your own pace as the chances of anyone getting lost on the trail are negligible. The trek should last about an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. As you reach the last leg of the trek, you will see quite a few steps to climb. They will take you to the final viewing point of the arch. Adjacent to the massive rock wall of the arch is a building with tilted red roofs called the Falcon's Nest. It's constructed in the Swiss Chalet style and is precariously located on the side of the rock. It used to be a royal residence and now has a restaurant. Finally, at the foot of the arch I almost gasped in awe the moment this majestic natural formation fell within my line of sight. The arch is 16 m high and about 26 m wide. There is a small cafe under the arch, which serves a very limited menu but has a lot of seating space. We saw a lot of people eating their packed lunches also. Toilets in the facility are underground and are free to use. There are many intriguing pathways and steps leading to a lot of viewing platforms all around. You can get glorious views of the arch from many of them and of the mountainous valley all around. We tried to cover all of them; some of them have steep steps, and some have uneven rocky trails. If you have problems walking, then they are best avoided. You will see stunning rock formations all around Practical Tips for Visiting Bohemian Switzerland The hike to Pravcická Brána can be done in a loop, that is, from Hrensko to Pravcická Brána and back. This is the simplest way to see the arch in one day, especially if you're planning to come back to Prague the same evening. The trek is medium steep and can be done by anyone with a good level of fitness. After the fire of 2022, the ferry boat ride and some more treks were temporarily closed when we visited the park in July 2023. Please refer to the official website https://www.pbrana.cz/en/ to learn more about any updated information. Please remember, the signage in Czech or German only. So, try to get a good idea about how and what needs to be done before starting on the trail. Our last picture before our return journey in front of one of the viewing platforms with Pravcická Brána in the background! And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here

Away from the overtly touristy crowd of Prague is the beautiful, quaint town of Kutná Hora, an ideal getaway from Prague for a day of sightseeing. If you're planning on a day trip from Prague, then this memoir will give you all the important details about this church, how to reach it and things to do in Kutná Hora on a day trip. I'd read some exciting things about the Sedlec Ossuary, made with over 40,000 human bones! I'm sure this fact is enough to catch anyone's fancy...... A roadside bistro welcoming guests with a human skeleton at its entrance! What is special about Kutná Hora? Kutná Hora is more than just the Bone Castle. As the legend goes, towards the end of the 13th century, a monk discovered a silver stick jutting out of the ground. He covered it with his habit and ran to spread the word around that he had spotted silver deposits in the town. Kutná in Czech means a monk's habit, and Hora means mountain; thus, the town came to be called Kutná Hora. Soon, German miners from the neighbouring states started pouring in to work in the silver mines. By the turn of the century, Kutná Hora had become a prominent silver mining hub and a very prosperous town in the Kingdom of Bohemia. Over the years, the town witnessed many wars and political upheavals and exchanged hands between dynasties. By the end of the 18th century, the mines were abandoned, and the town of the 'Silver Rush' had lost its power and charm. But even today, you can see a reflection of its prosperous past in the beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture of its buildings. Things to know before visiting Kutná Hora Direct trains for Kutná Hora leave Prague every two hours every morning. You can easily buy tickets on the day of travel. Tickets cost about 120 CZK one way. The train ride takes about an hour to cover a distance of 83 kilometres. Remember, if you buy a return ticket from Prague for a day trip to Kutná Hora, then you can use the local transport in Kutná Hora for free for a day. Make it a point to enquire about Prague Integrated Transport tickets (PID) at the ticket counter in Prague while buying tickets. We contemplated going with a tour operator to save time, but then decided against it. And gladly so! Because then we would have missed the leisurely loitering around in this quaint, pretty town that is an attraction in itself. The town lacks a touristy vibe; it's quiet and laid back, which translates into fewer crowds. Once you reach Kutná Hora, get off at the main train station called Kutná Hora Hlavní Nádraží with the acronym hl.n. This station falls on the main line. If you want to go to the city centre first, then you will have to take a connecting local train to Kutná Hora Mesto or Town. This ride will be included in your ticket. I'd read on many forums about changing trains at the main station to go to Kutná Hora Mesto or Town, which is the city centre, from where most people start their sightseeing. I feel that changing trains to go to the city centre first is pointless when one can start sightseeing by getting down at the main train station. This way, you save valuable time. Get down at the main station and start walking towards the city. A 15-minute walk through the city will take you to the first point in your sightseeing itinerary, i.e., the Church of the Assumption of our Lady or the Sedlec Cathedral. Right across the road from this church is the booking centre where you can buy combined tickets for the church, the Bone Chapel and St. Barbara's Cathedral. Also, toilets and drinking water are available here. You can see many tourists filling up their water bottles for the day ahead. Things to do on a day trip from Prague to Kutná Hora Sedlec Cathedral or The Church of the Assumption of Our Lady This church will fall first on your way if you plan to walk from the main train station into town, as I've mentioned earlier in this post. The church is 700 years old and very well maintained for that. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is fairly simple to look at from the outside. It combines Baroque and Gothic architectural styles with beautiful frescoes adorning its ceiling. My Tip for You This is an active community church, nothing spectacular, but a nice way to start your day in Kutná Hora. As we entered the church, a detailed pamphlet was handed over to us with details of its history and many baroque vaults. I found this quite insightful. It was a very peaceful place, and we saw a lot of people sitting inside enjoying the serenity. Sedlec Ossuary or Bone Chapel Just about a 10-minute walk away from the Sedlec Cathedral is the Bone Chapel, the highlight of your trip to Kutná Hora. It falls within the Sedlec Abbey, below the Cemetery Church of All Saints. You will see many tourists walking towards the church in an otherwise quiet town. The structure of the church looks unassuming from the outside. There is a cemetery on top. A broad staircase will lead you into the chapel. The story behind this church goes back to the 13th century, when a monk went to Jerusalem and brought back some sacred soil to Sedlec. This miracle soil was believed to decompose a human body within 3 days after burial. As the word spread, the cemetery became a popular burial ground. Thousands of burials took place here during the plague. In the late 19th century, the local community started building a church. As they started digging, thousands of human bones started piling up. A local woodcarver started to arrange these bones in decorative patterns that slowly took the shape of what the church looks like today. There are strings of human skulls adorning the gateways, a chandelier that has every possible human bone, and even a family crest made of bones can be seen. My Tip for You Many people might think that an old Gothic church decorated with human bones located below a cemetery might be creepy. On the contrary, I think it was really artistic. We have never seen anything like this before. There is a calmness around this place. At the most, it can make some people morose. This can also be attributed to the fact that this place does not have any dark, sinister history. No wars and no bloodshed behind this cemetery. Photography is strictly prohibited. The personnel at the counter at the entrance keep a strict vigil on the tourists. No Photographs, no touching the bones and nowhere are you allowed to sit. I took these photos from the gallery on top of the church, where an AV plays on a loop about how the church was built. For me, seeing the Bone Chapel was totally worth the visit. St. Barbara's Cathedral Once you're finished seeing the Bone Chapel, walk back in the direction of the Sedlec Cathedral. Once you reach the road, turn left towards the Bus stop. There are buses to the City Centre every 15 minutes. Your ticket PID should be valid on all local buses. St Barbara's Cathedral is close to the City Centre. Its Gothic spires are visible from a long way off as you make your way uphill to reach it. St. Barbara is the Patron Saint of miners. Construction of this magnificent church started in the 1300s when the town of Kutná Hora was at its peak of prosperity because of its silver mines. It took 600 years for this church to be completed. The baroque interiors of the cathedral are exquisite, with their large stained glass windows that are a sight to behold. Be prepared to be awed by its majestic frescoes. My Tip for You This church should be on your must-see list of attractions. Architecture-wise, it's easily comparable to the iconic St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. Just keep a few things in mind before your visit, though. Opening timings of the church keep changing if there are any cultural events taking place. Please check the official website of the parish before your visit. http://www.khfarnost.cz If you want a guided tour, then you have to make bookings at least 2 weeks in advance. If you land there just as we did, you can rent an English audio guide, or there are descriptive pamphlets available. We took the pamphlets. They were not as much fun as the audio guide, but they served the purpose of providing information. Plague Column of the Virgin Mary Immaculate Just a 10-minute walk away from St. Barbara's Cathedral is the Plague Column. This beautiful column is very close to the main square. It was constructed in the 18th century in memory of plague victims. There is a nice cafe around the corner here with benches for people to sit. One can spend some quiet time looking at the intricate carvings on the column. Stone Fountain on Rejsek Square Walk onto a street called Husova for about 4 minutes to reach this beautiful Gothic fountain. It was used as a water reservoir in the 15th century. If you have time, stay till sundown when the fountain is lit up. Czech Silver Museum A little way up from St Barbara's Cathedral is the Czech Silver Museum. It's located in the Hradek building, also called Little Castle. There are two routes available for tourists to explore - The Town of Silver and the Journey of Silver. The former route tells you about the history of silver mining in Kutná Hora, and the latter route takes you through the medieval silver mines. My Tip for You We were not aware of this museum before our visit. I learnt about this not-to-miss experience in Kutná Hora after a whole day of wandering around the city. The last English tour of the day had left by then, and we were too tired for any more walking around. Remember, if you're interested in seeing the silver mines, then make prior bookings for the tour of your choice. The only thing one needs to keep in mind is that underground silver mines can be quite claustrophobic for some people. So, this is Kutná Hora for you. This small town will not disappoint you. You can take my word for it! There are some more attractions like the Italian Court, which served as a mint in the Middle Ages. It is also a popular tourist destination for its demonstration of the process of coin-making. If you have time and the inclination, then go for it. A lot of people want to know if staying in Kutná Hora is a good idea. In my personal opinion, spending a day in Kutná Hora is enough. My only advice is that one should start quite early from Prague and try to cover the town as much as possible. Do share your experience with me if you visit Kutná Hora. I'll be happy to hear from you! And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here

The mention of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, conjures up images of old medieval buildings with spires jutting into the skies and old bridges spanning lusty rivers with arches and domes ... but Prague is more than merely its magnificent architecture. This bustling city is also home to a rich, vibrant cultural scene, and the Black Light Theatre is one of the most celebrated art forms that the Czechs have given to the world. Black Light Theatre of Jiri Srnec is named after its founder, Jiri Srnec, who established this unique art form in 1961 in Prague. Since then, the theatre has performed in various countries around the world and has earned the distinction of being the oldest Black Light Theatre in the world! What is Black Light Theatre Black light theatre is a dramatic art form that uses a pitch-black stage background to create the illusion of moving images. Black curtains create the darkened look of the stage. The audience can only see the fluorescent props and the colourfully attired performers moving around the stage for the act. What they cannot see are the stage artists, also dressed in black, who hold and move these props per the script's directions. What makes this show spectacular is the ease with which these movements and plastic props are brought to life on stage. The theatre setting is nothing extravagant, but the art form surely is.... Is it worth visiting the Black Light Theatre in Prague I'd read some pretty bad reviews about the show on some forums; some people claimed that the show was sexist, while others found fault with the seating arrangements at the venue. We were dissuaded by the reviews and might have given the show a miss, but we wanted to see this world's oldest art form for ourselves. And I am so glad we went. The experience was unique, if not out-of-this-world! The small auditorium has a capacity of about 100 or a little more. There is a small stage. You will not see any fancy acoustics and elaborate decorations on the walls, just pictures of artists and performers. The 90-minute show is non-verbal; it uses only moving props synced with lively music that adds to the zing. The plots of the acts are simple and hilarious. There is some crude humour at places, but I wouldn't call it sexist or cheap; it's just simple laughter gimmicks. The performance of the actors, the dances, and the music is lively. They create quite a buzz with their agile movements on the small stage. Seating is free, so try to arrive on time to grab a seat in the front rows. We reached quite early but took a seat somewhere in the middle. We were not sure which seats would be ideal, and then had to see the entire show with heads popping everywhere. Photography is not prohibited, but patrons mostly refrain from making videos during the show as it creates disturbance. I made a small video for the sake of reference only. The venue is a bit difficult to find although it's quite centrally located in Prague. The metro line B stops close by, and there is a tram stop also around the corner. We reached the area easily but had a lot of difficulty finding the entrance to this venue since there are a lot of theatres in that area. We were expecting a big theatre kind of structure, but Jiri Srnec Black Light Theatre is inside a small, unassuming door leading to a hallway and further downstairs into the auditorium. Once you know this, then locating the venue should not be difficult. If you have an evening free in Prague, then going to watch a black light show can be a fun thing to do. It's also a great way for families to spend time. You can read more about this art form on the official website of Jiri Srnec Black Light Theatre by clicking on the link below- https://www.srnectheatre.com/eng/node/148 And if you're interested in getting some practical and useful travel tips, click here