This painted walkway between buildings is near the steps to Prague Castle in one part of Prague’s historic center. I love Prague, not just because it’s SO beautiful, but also because I have wonderful memories of it. I had the opportunity to visit Prague more times than I can remember because I lived in the Czech Republic from 1996 to 1997. The town where I lived was east of Prague, 5 hours by train or 3 1/2 hours by bus, but I managed to get to Prague pretty often. My roommate and best friend had friends in Prague, so sometimes we went there for the weekend and stayed with them. Other times I went by myself or with friends and family who visited. Whatever the reason, the city–historic, lively, youthful, and simply gorgeous– never ceased to amaze me. The last time I was there, 4 years ago with my husband, I loved it even more and have been thinking of all the things I’d love to do next time.
This picture reflects Prague in 2 ways. First, Prague is famous for its beautifully-painted buildings. Second, this picture was taken near the back steps that lead to Prague Castle, which is an area packed with tourists, but this street is empty. That’s because few tourists know that if you just veer off the usual path, down one of the winding lanes, you will discover a world of little streets, and you will have them practically to yourself or will maybe share them with a few Czechs, which is part of the point, isn’t it?
(Note: this post has been changed because I had the exact location in Prague wrong. Thanks to Martina’s comment on this post, I realized my error and therefore made the correction.)
i was just in prague and loved the alleyways. we were there easter weekend so it was hard to find a completely empty street but after the city emptied out we had the alleys mostly to ourselves. was really nice.
i even did a post solely on the alleys.
http://krstype.wordpress.com/2010/04/06/alleyways/
This is so true of so many places throughout Europe. For the most part, I say “leave the travel guide in the room for a day or more” and go explore with nothing more than a map – and phrase book if needed. When we do that, we are oftentimes simply amazed at what we can find just beyond the beaten paths of so many thousands of other tourists that routinely follow the guide books. Plus you get the benefit of seeing the true beauty and real people of such locations as Barcelona, Napoli, and even London. For the most part, I find the people more genuine and engaging, the food quality better and less pricey, and never once have I worried about getting lost or in trouble, but then I am a bit braver than most travelers. Still, I encourage all your readers to do just as you say, get out and explore the small streets and alleyways. Create memories you don’t find in the guide books.
Your post brings back many happy memories of our time together in Prague, and the photo reminds me of Prague’s pervasively magical quality. So much of it reminds me of a fairy tale.
I hope you’ll do your post on the fanciful painted buildings soon!
Indeed – it’s amazing how quickly things go from touristy to “real” if one veers just a little bit from the main attractions. We loved intentionally getting lost in Old Town Prague when we were there last year.
So happy I found your blog. I look forward to following along, especially anything with “travel” and “kids” related
One thing that caught my eye was the photo above. This is one of my favourite streets in Prague. But, it’s actually on the Lesser Town side (Mala Strana) of Prague
One end leads to the back stairs of Prague Castle. Regardless, very nice photo.
Of course, it’s easy to get things confused with so many lovely, little places to get “comfortably lost” in this fascinating city.
Thanks again!
Martina,
Thank you so much for your clarification. I know Prague pretty well but I must have an incorrect memory stuck in my head because I could have sworn that it was just off Old Town Square. However, I took this picture more than 10 years ago. The funny thing is that I was actually trying to figure out exactly what street it was and couldn’t find it on google earth. I guess that should have clued me in. Do you happen to know the name of the street?
I will check out your website and look forward to seeing you on here again!
Hi,
Yes, the street is Thunovska. I think the archway is near number 3. I’m sure Google maps have a street view of it.
I look forward to following your site and for more travel insights.
Thanks!