Prague is a city that never ceases to amaze, and Day 3 of my adventure was all about wandering and discovering its many hidden treasures. From historical landmarks to quirky spots, every corner of Prague holds something special. Hereβs a fun recap of my day exploring this enchanting city!
A Serene Start: Strolling by the Old Jewish Cemetery
My day began with a peaceful walk past the Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the oldest and most significant Jewish burial sites in Europe. The sight of the ancient, weathered tombstones crowded together tells stories of centuries past, evoking a sense of history that is both poignant and powerful. Although I didnβt venture inside, just passing by this sacred site added a reflective tone to the morning. The cemetery is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and is also one of the most important Jewish historical monuments in Prague. It served as an active cemetery from the first half of the 15th century until 1786.
Scaling Heights: Back to Prague Castle
Next, I made my way back up to Prague Castle, but this time I focused on exploring the exterior of the complex. The climb up to the castle is no small featβwith plenty of stairs to get your heart pumpingβbut the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. The castle grounds offer some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Prague, with the cityβs red rooftops and iconic spires stretching out as far as the eye can see.
Wandering around the castle grounds, I took my time to enjoy the magnificent architecture and the serene atmosphere. Whether itβs the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral or the charming cobblestone paths, thereβs something magical about being on top of the hill, looking down at the city below.
A Royal Retreat: Waldstein Garden and Vitame Vas
After soaking in the views, I headed to the Waldstein Garden, a lush green oasis nestled in the heart of Prague. The garden is part of the Waldstein Palace, which now houses the Czech Senate. This beautifully landscaped garden, complete with fountains, peacocks, and perfectly manicured hedges, feels like a secret retreat in the middle of the city. Itβs the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment amid the bustling city.
As I wandered through the garden, I couldnβt help but admire the grandeur of the Parliament Building, which adds an air of stately elegance to the surroundings. The combination of natural beauty and architectural splendor made this a highlight of the day.
I also found another hidden park called Vitame Vas. It is a tiny park but it is filled with fruit trees and birds. I loved seeing the pear and apple trees full of fruit, and even saw a peacock roaming the park.
Fun and Quirky: The Narrowest Street in Prague
My next stop was something a bit more unusualβthe narrowest street in Prague! This quirky little passageway, tucked away in the MalΓ‘ Strana neighborhood, is so narrow that it actually has its own traffic light to manage pedestrian flow. Squeezing through this tiny alley was a fun and lighthearted experience, a reminder that Prague is full of surprises.
Itβs one of those offbeat spots that adds a touch of whimsy to your day, and I couldnβt resist snapping a few photos to capture the moment.
Literary Inspiration: The Kafka Museum
On my way to the narrow street, I stumbled upon the Kafka Museum. Dedicated to one of Pragueβs most famous literary figures, Franz Kafka, this museum offers a deep dive into the life and works of the author. The exhibits are both intriguing and a bit eerie, much like Kafkaβs own stories. The museumβs unique atmosphere, with its dark corridors and thought-provoking installations, left a lasting impression on me.
Whether youβre a fan of Kafka or just curious about Pragueβs literary heritage, this museum is well worth a visit.
The Joy of Getting Lost: Courtyards and Surprises
One of the things Iβm absolutely loving about Prague is how easy it is to stumble upon hidden courtyards and unexpected delights. As I wandered through the city, I found myself turning a corner and ending up in a charming courtyard, each one more enchanting than the last. These little hidden spots often contain cafes, art installations, or simply a quiet place to sit and take in the beauty of Prague.
Itβs this sense of discovery that makes Prague so specialβevery turn offers something new and unexpected, making every walk through the city an adventure in itself.
Final Thoughts
Day 3 in Prague was a perfect blend of history, nature, and playful exploration. From the panoramic views at Prague Castle and the tranquility of Waldstein Garden to the quirky charm of the narrowest street and the literary allure of the Kafka Museum, every moment was filled with wonder. And of course, those hidden courtyards are the cherry on topβeach one a little secret waiting to be discovered.
Prague continues to surprise and delight, and I canβt wait to see what else this magical city has in store. Stay tuned for more adventures as I continue to uncover the many layers of Prague!