City of the week: Czech out Prague!

During my two-day stop in Prague whilst interrailing this summer, I was already planning my next trip back. Prague offers a warm, comforting and, dare I say, magical feeling with its traditional cobbled streets dotted with picturesque buildings, inviting taverns and quaint trinket shops. 

If you're anything like me, you're probably longingly scrolling travel websites, already craving another trip. Summer getaways are now a distant memory, already replaced by readings and deadlines galore.

Allow me to inspire your next potential trip...

Airlines such as Jet2 and easyJet offer quick and affordable return flights to Prague from Newcastle Airport, and Airbnb accommodation is available from just £60 per night conveniently right around the corner from the main town square. Whether you're looking for a whistle-stop day trip or a long weekend, you're more than covered while keeping to a small budget.

While relatively small, Prague packs a range of places to explore for little to no cost. Personally, I fell in love with simply wandering the streets, stumbling across quirky statues, like the hanging Sigmund Frued and the rotating Kafka's head.

You could also enjoy a stroll across the Gothic Charles bridge, home to the iconic Depeche mode album cover location. It really is possible to create a full itinerary of Prague sightseeing without dropping a penny. 

If you're up for tackling a steep but incredibly rewarding walk, you can't miss Prague Castle and Cathedral. Sat atop just over 200 steps, the climb to the grounds rewards you with panoramic views of the city. You’ll find yourself surrounded by the stunning infrastructure shrouded in history and, of course, many opportunities to stop for a pint on the way back down! 

For the foodies, you could tuck into the hearty Czech cuisine of rich, comforting meals like goulash and stews with meats, dumplings and fried cheese, easily found in traditional tavern-style pubs nestled across the city.

One of which I would recommend is Blatnice, one of the oldest restaurants located in the city centre, serving authentic Czech specialities within a cosy, charming atmosphere. You'll feel as though you've taken a trip through time without breaking the bank, with a typical meal and drink costing under 600Czk per person (under £20).

That all being said, you can see why I'd say the backdrop of Prague's fairy-tale-esque old town lends itself well to its' renowned Christmas markets. Open 10am-10pm daily from the 28^th of November to the 6^th of January, you could slot some festivity into your visit. With no entry fee, it's up to you to spend as much or as little as you desire on food, beverages, souvenirs and activities.

So, if you are planning a city break on a student budget, especially towards the festive season, Prague is a place worth considering.