Prague is one of those cities that seduces one’s soul. It is a magically beautiful city that is easy to fall in love with its architectural charm, its open air squares, cobblestoned streets and endless array of terra-cotta rooftops, medieval churches and spires. Voted as one of the top touristic destinations in Europe, Prague has obviously been discovered and the best way to see her unspoiled beauty is to get up and going early.
On our last morning in Prague, we set off right after breakfast to Old Town Square to climb the Bell Tower knowing that if we were lucky, we would beat the crowds. Our timing was perfect and there is nothing quite like getting a bird’s-eye view of the city as it wakes up and comes to life.
Old Town Hall (Staroměstská radnice) was built during the reign of King John of Luxembourg in 1338 as the seat of the Old Town administration. The oldest part of the complex consists of a lovely Gothic tower with a bay chapel and a unique astronomical clock – known as the Orloj –which is the oldest and most elaborate functioning astronomical clock in the world. Although watching the hourly presentation of the “12 Apostles” is a huge tourist attraction, the real pleasure of the Old Town Hall is its remarkable views of the city from the Bell Tower.
As you climb up a series of winding steps, you are delighted with a sense of awe and wonder at the views below. Here are a few of my favorites.
Along the way you can stop and read about the history of the Bell Tower. However I was too busy peeking out the windows at the candy-colored buildings and red tiled rooftops to linger to long.
“The ancient splendor and beauty of Prague, a city beyond compare, left an impression on my imagination that will never fade” –Richard Wagner
When I reached the top, I didn’t want to leave except for feeling a little bit of vertigo.
I admit that I got a little bit carried away with taking photos but I just couldn’t stop. It was so beautiful, like looking out over a giant open-air museum from medieval times.
Despite the cloudy weather, I’m happy that I got to the Bell Tower early enough so I could get these shots around the narrow openings. I didn’t have to wait to long to take my place and snap my photo. On a busy time, I imagine it would be much harder if not impossible. So I learned one important rule of thumb when traveling to a busy tourist destination like Prague: The early bird gets the worm. It pays to get up early and going!
Wonderful! So happy that you chose these photos to share. I have never been to Prague and probably never will so your photos are perfect. I would probably do the same.
Thank you so much. I tended to go a little crazy with so many photos but it is always hard for me to cut down. 🙂
I feel the same way.
😊
Wow! You have just convinced me that I need to go to Prague! Beautiful pictures! Do you think Prague would be kid friendly?
Yes Prague is amazing! As for kid friendly, I think it depends on the ages of your kids and how they travel. I have two kids ages 9 and 11 and I haven’t brought them to Europe yet. Prague requires a fair amount of walking and has a lot of cobblestones (may be tough with a stroller but I’m sure can be done). However, depending on how your kids are and what they like, I’m sure they would enjoy it especially if you threw in a visit to some of the nearby castles. 🙂 I’d love to bring mine there someday but mine right now are probably more interested in Costa Rica or something active.
Thank you for the information! I am actually backpacking across Italy in a couple months with my toddler. She does well in a carrier so I am not bringing a stroller. I think we may be able to handle Prague someday too!
That is wonderful!!! Enjoy!
Wow. Stunning images! It’s been a real pleasure seeing Prague through your eyes. Thank you so much for taking the time to post.
Thank you so much for the wonderful compliment. I put a lot of time and effort into the photos and posts so when someone tells me they have enjoyed reading my posts, it really makes me feel good. Thank you! I enjoyed my time there and loved all the amazing history and architecture. 🙂
Praga is wonderful…a place where we can see its famous history and art….
Congratulations for this post and generally for your writing.
many regards
have a great w.e.
Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed the post. 🙂
A lovely spot to view the city…
Thanks!
What a beautiful city. I’m so looking forward to getting there one day. Love your photos Nicole. You got some wonderful shots that really capture the beauty. The photo of the huge square is exceptional.
Alison
Oh thank you Alison! I’m really glad you enjoyed the photos and post. Yes Prague is definitely a must-see place. It feels like a giant open air museum. It is pretty amazing.
It has very much the feel of bell towers I’ve climbed in Krakow and Wroclaw in Poland. The architecture is lovely 🙂
I have to get to Poland Jo. It has been “on the list”. I’ve enjoyed seeing all your posts on Poland and now you’ve piqued my interest even more.
Really loved these posts, thank you for the beautiful photos and the care with which you organised them and described your experience!
Your comment means so much to me! Thank you! I did spend a lot of time working on the photos, researching the facts for the posts (as I couldn’t remember what half the photos were I took so many) and putting them together so it is really nice to hear that you enjoyed it! Thank you!
Am in absolute awe of the wonderful photography, thank you for including so many photos!
Thank you so much! I am so glad you liked the post and all the photos. My dad says I always put way too many pictures in. I can’t help it! 🙂
These pictures are so so beautiful!
Thank you so much! 🙂
Can’t blame you for getting carried away, it is breathtaking ! I enjoyed your post!
Thank you!!! 🌟
Travel blogs are always an exciting new addition on my feed! I’m so glad you are so passionate about what you do! EVERYTHING LOOKS SO FUN!
Thanks!
I love how you captured the city through the framed windows. This is a city that has long been on my bucket list.
Thanks LuAnn. Prague is a must see destination.
Thanks for the “get up and go early” tip – noted!! Looks like the view was well worth the early start and the climb 🙂
You bet! Glad you enjoyed the post!
Nicole I have to say that your trip to Prague has left me feeling like it is the backdrop of most fairy tale settings. Almost as if someone painted the backdrop that it couldn’t actually be so beautiful. I’m convinced it must be on a future European itinerary. 🙂
I think you need to hit Prague and Romania Sue as you would love biking there! So gorgeous and wonderful people!
Beautiful captures from the window! 🙂
Thanks Amy!