Our European holiday included several days between the end of the Viking Danube River cruise and the Vacations by Rail Arctic Circle Express tour. After all we’d heard about Prague we knew that we had to include a visit. We disembarked the Viking Viljalm in Budapest and immediately headed to the train station for the 7 hour train ride to Prague, the “City of a Thousand Spires”. The station itself was quite beautiful as it was Gustave Eiffell’s first project. The train was clean smooth and fast, up to 160 kph. Beautiful eastern European countryside flew by.

We had an AirBnB host waiting for us in the very heart of the old town. The apartment was mere steps from the famed Charles Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Out our windows we had great views of the bridge’s north tower and St Vitus cathedral in Prague Castle. The foundation of our building was laid around 1100.

Our first day we had booked a tour with PragueWay Tours. The tour was led by a college student who didn’t seem to have a plan. He did however introduce us to his city and help us learn to navigate. The city hall tower and its underground cellars afforded great views and history. We left the tour at the famous Astronomical Clock which we watched from the second floor Mozart Cafe across the square. Wenceslas Square is where the population gathers for momentous events such as the fall of Communism.

Prague Castle is a must-see for any visit to Prague and we planned to get there early via the ubiquitous trams. Prague makes all trams free for pensioners over 65 with no ticket required. Built in the 9th century the castle is said to be the largest on earth. Its packed with things to see as well as great views of the city from its hilltop location. St. Vitus Cathedral is very impressive. We loved the Golden Lane and displays of Medieval weapons and armor. It is still the official residence of the Czech president after serving as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia and Holy Roman emperors.

Prague is proud of its history and its a very popular tourist destination with people from all over the world. However when we wandered off into narrow winding streets off the main areas the crowds dissipated. There are low cost classical music performances daily in historic churches that are subsidized by the state. We were amazed by the quality. The historic center of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are museums galore. And quaint little restaurants and cafes everywhere. And the locals take their time to eat. There is no rush. Art and sculpture complement the stunning architecture throughout the city. We were very happy to have our own unstructured time in this iconic city. We’d love to return.