Charles Bridge in Prague

No city break in Prague - the capital of the Czech Republic - is complete without a visit to Pragues' oldest bridge, namely Charles Bridge [known locally as Karluv most].

Dating back to 1357, the sandstone bridge was built for King Charles IV in order to link the left and right sections of the city and today's main attraction is the fact that it is completely pedestrianised and visitors are able to walk from one end to the other without having to watch for traffic.

Spend Time in Prague Watching the Astronomical Clock



Astronomical Clock in Prague

 

William Penn once said "Time is what we want most, but what we use worst". Why not spend at least some of your time on your holiday in Prague looking at the medieval Astronomical Clock on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall - one of the most photographed sights in this fascinating city.

The Astronomical Clock [known as the Orloj] is, in fact, the star attraction of the Old Town Hall located in the Old Town Square. Installed as far back as 1401, the clock was not up and fully running until 1572. Legend says that the original clockmaker was blinded on the orders of the Prague Councillors in order that he could never repeat his work of art elsewhere.  However, in an act of revenge, he broke the clock and it was unable to be repaired for more than 100 years. Today, it is said that if the clock is neglected then the whole of the city of Prague will suffer.

Take a City Break with a Christmas Market

With Christmas just around the corner, its a great time to take a City Break with a Christmas Market.

We have some great offers available to the following cities.

Barcelona in Spain - this year sees the 225th anniversary of the Fira de Santa Lucia and comprises more than 270 stands from which you can purchase gifts including lights, baubles, candles, decorations, etc.   

Bruges in Belgium - a medieval setting, the market is around an open-air ice rink.  The market comprises around 30 stalls, but with lots of other things to see and do in Bruges, this city makes a welcome break. 

Brussels in Belgium - located by the illuminated Grand Place with around 240 stalls selling local specialities including decorations, gifts and Christmas seasonal food and drink.  Don't forget to take a look at the towering Christmas tree and listen to the many choirs and Christmas concerts. 

Cologne in Germany - start at the illuminated Gothic Cathedral and visit the various Christmas markets on Neumarkt, Alter Markt, Fairytale Christmas Market, Floating Market, Medieval Market and the Cologne Harbour Market right in front of the famous Chocolate Museum.

Prague in Czech Republic - a few Christmas markets to choose from, all within a few minutes' walk of each other.  The most popular ones are in Wenceslas Square and the Old Town.  Listen to street performers, carol singers and orchestras as they take to the streets.  Buy some interesting stocking fillers as well as sampling some traditional foods.

Vienna in Austria - the festive markets date back to the 13th century and Vienna now has 25 Christmas markets.  One of the highlights is the "Magic of Advent" which is at the Vienna Christmas market in City Hall Square.  Up to 150 decorated stalls sell everything from decorations and traditional handicrafts to gingerbread hearts and berry punch.

Take a look at some of our Christmas City Breaks and decide which Christmas Market is for you.