Spires, cobbles and a castle that glows above the Vltava — Prague was drawn for romantics. The trick is timing: Charles Bridge at 6am belongs to you, two swans and a photographer; by ten it belongs to everyone. Explore Malá Strana's silent courtyards, ride the funicular up Petřín hill past the orchards, and toast it all with proper Czech lager or bubbles in a hidden wine bar.
Featured in Ten of Europe's most romantic city breaks · Romantic
Prague under snow is its best self: the Old Town Square market glowing beneath the Týn Church's gothic spires, trdelník smoke in the air and pubs pouring the world's best lager at slipper prices. Cross Charles Bridge at first light when the statues wear white caps, warm up in Café Louvre where Kafka once did, and book an evening concert in a baroque palace. January halves the crowds and keeps all of the atmosphere.
Featured in Ten cosy winter city breaks for two · Romantic
Yes, the Old Town has become a stag-party theme park — so leave it after one riverside beer and climb to Žižkov, the district with reputedly more pubs per capita than anywhere on earth, where a half-litre of the world's best lager still costs little more than a euro. Vinohrady next door adds craft-beer rooms and cocktail bars at gentler volume. Traditional pubs seat you communally; toast 'na zdraví' and make eye contact.
Featured in Ten budget party cities where your money goes further · Nightlife