Prague

Prague is a thriving city that is getting more visitors than ever. But its charming downtown conceals both a troubled past and a strong one. Prague has endured multiple overthrows, invasions, fires, and floods since approximately A.D. 870. This reputation for tenacity and endurance is what draws people to the Czech capital. These days, the city's renowned churches, winding lanes, intimidating hilltop castles, and statue-lined bridges make for a picture-perfect urban fairy tale setting. The charms of this city would be hard for even the most weary traveler to resist.

Prior to its flashier neighbors to the west, Prague was a hidden gem. The city was unable to conceal its wonders for long, and today it is a sanctuary for tourists looking for breathtaking sights at reasonable prices. Even today, many of Prague's greatest attractions, such as the renowned Charles Bridge and the ancient Prague Castle, are free to enter, and many hotels have rates that are considerably lower than those of other European cities. But time is running out on this tradition of finding great deals, so if you're expecting to score a deal, act quickly.

Prague is best visited in the spring and early fall when the weather is pleasant and there are less tourists around. The milder summer months (average high temperatures range in the low to mid-70s) see the highest influx of visitors because of the city's normally frigid environment, which results in higher hotel prices. However, the spring and early fall have sunny skies, highs in the mid- to upper-60s, and significantly more affordable hotel rates. Prague also shines during the joyous Christmas season, but be forewarned that the city experiences significant snowfall and that high temperatures rarely exceed the mid-30s.

Despite not being as well-known or in demand as some of its European neighbors, Czech cuisine is just as delectable. The cuisine of the nation has been affected over its more than 1,100-year history by adjacent nations like Germany, Austria, and Poland. Meat, and lots of it, along with gravy and knedlky, make up most meals (bread dumplings). Svcková, one of the most traditional Czech dishes, is made out of this combination together with a vegetable cream sauce, whipped cream, and cranberry sauce. Additionally, there are robust foods like bramboráky (potato pancakes), a common street food in the nearby nations. Unique desserts from the Czech Republic include pernky (gingerbread cookies) and ovocné knedlky (fresh fruit dumplings covered with curd cheese). Join a meal tour to get a thorough insight of the city's dining options.

Location: in capital of the Czech Republic, Lying at the heart of Europe.

Ranking:

• #1 in Best Christmas Vacations
• #1 in Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
• #2 in Best Cheap European Vacations
• #3 in Best Family Vacations in Europe
• #5 in Best Places to Visit in September
• #6 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in Europe
• #7 in Best Cheap European Honeymoon Destinations
• #10 in Best Places to Visit in December
• #10 in Best Honeymoon Destinations in Europe