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The hilltop fortress of the Přemyslids is home to the head of the Czech Republic. Spend a day exploring the castle’s many impressive palaces, churches, galleries and gardens.

The glory of the castle complex, St Vitus’s took more than 500 years to build. Climb its southern tower for wonderful views of Prague, or visit its crypt to see the tombs of Bohemia’s Holy Roman Emperors.

Prague’s central square has been a market since the Middle Ages, and was witness to the rise and fall of numerous regimes and no shortage of bloodshed. The city has few charms finer than watching the moon rise between the towers of the Church of Our Lady Before Týn.

Linking the city across the River Vltava, it can be difficult to appreciate the beautiful carved statues of former citizens, due to the incessant crowds and trinket stalls. But it’s worth the effort.

Pilgrims have visited this Baroque shrine to the Virgin Mary since the 17th century. Visitors can see priceless ornaments in its treasury.

The jumble of tombstones in this tiny graveyard give some indication of the number of bodies buried here. Prague’s Jewish community lived and worshipped in the surrounding ghetto.

Prague’s oldest Gothic building is now home to the National Gallery’s collection of medieval art and remains a monument to its founder, a Přemyslid princess who gave up a life at court to pursue her faith.

From its origins as a humble horse market, Wenceslas Square has grown into a modern business centre. Monuments on the square remind visitors of its role in the nation’s tumultuous history.

Perched above Malá Strana, the forested Petřín Hill is criss-crossed with footpaths, giving visitors some of the finest views in the city. The old Ukrainian church is wonderfully romantic.