In this series, we will look at some of the most romantic cities in the world, and how they earned the title. From Paris to Marrakech, love-locks to gondolas - love makes the world go round, and we're going round the world looking for love. When considering the romance of train holidays, Europe is home to some of the most romantic cities on earth.
This time we're falling for the city of a thousand spires; wandering the streets of the pearl of cities and celebrating the city proclaimed a symphony in stone.
In the years after the Second World War, the Iron Curtain descended and effectively cut Europe in half. Prague, being at the heart of Europe, became a favourite meeting spot for friends, family and lovers. From here this romantic image has grown, and today the Czech capital is a city for lovers. Its fairy-tale architecture, winding cobbled streets and the sparkling Vltava River make it a beautiful destination on European rail holidays.
Like many beautiful cities, Prague feels like a different place once the sun sets. The city's lights and sights reflect in the river to create an impressionists view of the city. Stroll down the river at night with your miláček (sweetheart), and take in the romance of Prague at night. Begin your jaunt near the National Theatre and head towards Charles Bridge, one of the city's most famous sights. Construction began in 1357, until 1841 the bridge was the only means of crossing the Vltava River. At night, the view of Charles Bridge, with Prague Castle illuminated in the background, will be a memory that stays with you.
Cross the bridge and make your way to the Old Town Square. Considerably less crowded than during the day, here you'll find Prague's famous Astronomical Clock.
Petřín Hill is surrounded by a wonderful park full of curiosities and stunning gardens. Spend an afternoon leisurely strolling around and you'll stumble upon the miniature Eiffel Tower. Built for the 'General Land Centennial Exhibition' in 1891, today you can climb to the top to enjoy the view over the spires of Prague.
If you'd prefer the gentle stroll down Petřín Hill to the sometimes steep ascent, there is a regular service to the top on the funicular railway. Leaving every 10 - 15 minutes, the railway will take you right to the top and you can enjoy a romantic walk back down towards the city.
There is a legend in Prague that declares lovers should visit the Petřín Hill on May Day, in Prague this is known as Lovers Day. The couple should lay flowers down and share a kiss in front of the statue of romantic poet Karel Hynek Macha, this will cement their love for eternity.
Watching the sunset over the city's thousand spires is undoubtedly one of the most romantic pastimes the city has to offer. The Riegrovy Sady Beer Garden is the largest in the city, with a selection of beer, wine, cocktails and food, this is the perfect place to settle in for an evening. Watch the sun set behind Prague Castle and you'll no doubt experience, and share, the same love for the city the Bohemians felt.
It's hard not to fall in love with Prague, and it's the easiest thing in the world to fall in love in Prague. As one of the city's most famous sons, Kafka, put it simply, 'Prague never lets you go.'
Make the most of the city that began the Velvet Revolution on holidays by train in Europe. Visit Prague with Great Rail Journeys and fall in love with the heart of Europe.
