Things to Do in National Theatre

Prague sits like a living fairy tale along the Vltava River, its Gothic spires and baroque facades creating one of Europe's most photogenic cityscapes. The Czech capital managed to escape major wartime destruction, leaving behind an almost impossibly well-preserved medieval core that feels more like a film set than a functioning city. National Theatre anchors the cultural heart of this thousand-year-old city, where cobblestone streets wind past beer halls that have been serving the world's best pilsners for centuries. You'll find yourself constantly looking up here - whether it's at the astronomical clock's hourly show, the twin towers of Týn Church piercing the sky, or the castle complex looming over everything from its hilltop perch. Prague has that rare quality of living up to every romantic expectation while still functioning as a real city where people work, live, and go about their daily business.

Prague's food scene has evolved far beyond the heavy meat-and-dumplings stereotype, though you'll still find excellent traditional dishes like goulash and schnitzel in atmospheric beer halls. The city now boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants and a thriving modern Czech cuisine movement that lightens up classic recipes. Street food has taken off in recent years, with food trucks and markets offering everything from Vietnamese pho (thanks to Prague's large Vietnamese community) to artisanal sausages. For the full experience, lunch at a traditional hospoda (pub) with perfectly poured Pilsner remains unbeatable, while dinner might be at one of the innovative restaurants in Vinohrady or Karlín districts.

Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer Prague at its most appealing, with mild weather, manageable crowds, and the city's parks and gardens in full bloom or autumn color. Summer brings long days and outdoor dining, but also peak tourist crowds and higher prices, particularly in July and August when the historic center can feel overwhelming. Winter has its own magic, especially around Christmas when the markets transform Old Town Square into a festive wonderland, though temperatures can be quite cold and daylight hours are limited. That said, Prague's indoor attractions like museums, concerts, and cozy pubs make it a year-round destination.