Neighbourhoods at a Glance - Prague and Czech Republic - page 126

Absorb the atmosphere of ancient wisdom at the Strahov Library ( CLICK HERE
).
Admire the baroque beauty of the Loreta ( CLICK HERE ).
Wander through the peaceful medieval backstreets of the Nový Svět ( CLICK
HERE ) district.
Explore: Prague Castle & Hradčany
Weirdly, this can be both the most crowded and the least crowded neighbourhood in
the city. While Prague Castle is thronging with tourists, just a few blocks away you
can find yourself alone in the cobbled backstreets of Nový Svět.
The castle is the big attraction, of course, but overcrowding can spoil the experien-
ce. To avoid the worst of the crowds, try to visit the castle early or late - before
10.30am or after 3.30pm - on a weekday if possible. Remember your ticket is valid
for two consecutive days - better two quiet mornings than cramming it all into one
crowded day.
We've organised this section starting with the castle's main entrance at the western
end, then moving through the various courtyards and sights before exiting at the east-
ern end. You'll need at least two hours to see the main sights, and a full day if you
want to visit everything.
Note that you can wander through the castle grounds and gardens without a ticket -
this can be a magical experience on a summer evening, when the courtyards are al-
most deserted - but you'll need a ticket for all of the main historic buildings.
Local Life
» Drinking Dens This may be the most tourist-heavy district in Prague, but there are
still some drinking dens that are favoured by locals, notably the cool cafe-bar U
Zavěšenýho Kafe ( CLICK HERE ), and the traditional beer hall called Pivnice U
Černého Vola ( CLICK HERE ).
» Walking the Dog Hradčany residents out for a stroll avoid the crowds by taking to
the Stag Moat on the north side of the castle - you can walk in peace from the Powder
Bridge east to Pod Bruskou, near Malostranská metro station.