The cobbled street settlements with red roofs and ornate facades together with old churches and castles give a very fairy tale feel to Prague. Unhindered by commercialisation and urbanisation, it is best explored on foot. Praha, as it is called in vernacular, is a treat for people interested in art, architecture, history, books and beer.

1. Discover Vyšehrad

It’s worth spending some time at the historical old fort built in the 10th century. The fort is uphill and offers one of the best views of the city across the Vltava River. It’s a picturesque area and as you meander around, it’s easy to figure why so many people found creative inspiration in Prague.

2. Explore the Prague Castle

Home to the head of the state, a visit to the castle will give you a glimpse into the life of the royalties. Guards in traditional uniforms and traffic being stopped as officials go to and fro in vintage convertibles is exciting to see from modern perspective.The architecture acts as the testimony to the different time periods of palaces and churches in the compound. The gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, that dominates the skyline of the city, is spiritual symbol of the Czech state. The castle also enables you to get the celebrated aerial view of the red-roofs of the town that leap up from the surrounding valley.

3. Experience the Kafka Museum

A hidden attraction, not many take notice of, the Franz Kafka Museum is an unexpected surprise for the book-lovers. It is more than a regular museum as it captures not only the writer’s history but also pulls you inside his stories as you walk through setups and resonate with the spirit of his writing. There is a homely café across the museum to take a break.

4. Walk over the Charles Bridge

The old stone bridge constructed in 14th century, still standing strong, is a landmark site as it connects Prague Castle to the Old Town of Prague. The bridge is lined with Baroque statues of religious figures on both sides. The entrance to Charles Bridge is marked at both ends by towers namely the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town or Prague Castle Bridge Tower. Additionally, there are many attractions around the bridge towards the Castle like The Lennon Wall and The Kafka Museum. The riverbank outlining the Old Town is dotted with cafes worth exploring.

5. Indulge yourself in coffee

Indulge yourself in coffee

The city is known for its coffee and cake culture. Among its many choices, you will be spoilt at the art-deco themed Kavarna Slavia, a traditional Czech Café where numerous writers and artists used to spend time. The warmth and the buzz is still intact. Read a book, observe people or get to know more about city’s recent history through a local willing to share stories, the first-hand narration may reveal something no travel guide can pen-down for you.