Czech out the history

By MONIKA FRY

It is very hard to choose Europe's most magnificent city. But judged on the criteria of history, charm and accessibility, my choice is Prague in the Czech Republic.

Evidence of the city's history, reflected in some of the finest baroque, art nouveau and cubist buildings in Europe, lies around every corner of this glorious city.

Prague castle and the St Vitus Cathedral, the religious heart of the country, must be the tourist's first stops, closely followed by the charming old town.

Many of the museums, markets, shops, restaurants and pubs are located in this area, which dates back to the 10th century.

More details of what Prague has to offer can be found on Toms Travels internet site at: www.travel.cz.

Another useful website, hosted by Lonely Planet, includes feedback from recent travellers.

Prague is so accessible because it is walkable. You can cover all of the old town on foot, but keep an eye on the vehicles - the only drivers to stop at pedestrian crossings are foreigners.

Public transport, including trams, the metro underground railway and buses (in the outlying suburbs), is efficient, clean and cheap, with only one ticket needed for all three forms of transport. More details on Prague's public transport can be found at www.praguetourist.com

One of the most informative and interesting websites, providing an overview of the city is the Prague Post information page at www.praguepost.cz. This English language weekly newspaper hosts several pages for tourists.

Links:

www.travel.cz

www.lonelyplanet.com

www.praguetourist.com

www.praguepost.cz