Prague, Czech Republic

A global city in the heart of Europe, Prague stands as the Czech Republic’s shining capital city, the proud inheritor of more than a thousand years of history and one of Royal Holiday’s top destinations. Featuring a relaxed and artistic culture, the city exudes a cosmopolitan vibe that can be found around every corner. And as the former capital of the kingdom of Bohemia, Prague also nurtures the bohemian lifestyle, with art, poetry, music, and performances proliferating everywhere across the city. Royal Holiday members will find it difficult to keep from being enchanted by Prague, as countless others have been enchanted over the city’s thousand years of history.

Royal Holiday’s affiliate in the city, the Hotel Duo Prague, offers a respite from the bustle of the downtown area via its location northeast of Prague’s center. With a range of comfortable suites suitable for two to four people, these sumptuously appointed lodgings make an excellent home base for those worn out from exploring the endlessly entertaining city streets. The Hotel Duo also offers numerous amenities to make its guests more comfortable, including 24-hour room service, a concierge, sauna, spa, and indoor pool. In addition, an on-site pub offers a convenient place for an after-dinner drink, while its four restaurants offer plenty of dining options. However, Royal Holiday members will do well to venture further into the city in order to see what Prague really has to offer.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around present-day Prague was likely settled as early as the Paleolithic era, but the city itself has its roots in the 8th century, when the first fortifications that would grow to become Prague Castle were constructed. The city eventually became the home of the Bohemian kings and, later, Holy Roman Emperors; Prague flourished for centuries, later as a part of the Austrian Empire, but labored under both Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia during the 20th century before emerging as the capital of the new Czech Republic in 1993. Today, a mere 20 years after the Velvet Revolution, Prague has become a reinvigorated city awash in global culture, making it an unforgettable destination for any Royal Holiday member.

Visitors should start at the massive Prague Castle, a massive, rambling complex of buildings that tells the story of the city through its varying architectural styles as well as its many museums, gardens, and exhibits. Prague’s other most famous historic attraction is its Astronomical Clock, a landmark that has drawn tourists since 1410, though Royal Holiday members looking to experience the weight of history will likely want to stroll through the powerful grounds of the Old Jewish Cemetery nearby. More recent history can be found in Výstaviště, where families can find communist-era theme parks alongside the modern Seaworld grounds. The best views of the city are found atop the observation tower on Petřín Hill, while Royal Holiday members interested in the city’s fascinating art history will want to take in the works of old masters at the National Gallery in Veletržní Palace. Of course, no trip to Prague would be complete without enjoying some of its famed nightlife and culture; Staré Mêsto includes a number of excellent clubs, and the city’s culinary scene has been growing increasingly sophisticated every year.