Romantic dining on the Vltava
While a leisurely boat ride in daytime is a lovely experience, an evening cruise is even cosier. A number of boat operators use wonderful old sailing ships with classical chandeliers that illuminate the wooden interior. Smaller boats offer a more intimate setting. A special jazz and dinner cruise will let you enjoy a romantic dinner – perhaps even a dance in the moonlight – and is definitely a worthwhile experience. Whatever choice you make, the most important element of all river cruises is the spectacular view of the city. Many of Prague’s sights border the river, both in Staré Město (Old Town) and Malá Strana (Lesser Town). The top of the hill is occupied by the grandiose Prague Castle, whose impressive silhouette is rarely out of sight. From the Middle Ages onwards, this fortress was the seat of the kings of Bohemia and is now the official residence of Czech presidents. South of Nové Město (New Town) is the ruins of another fortress, Vyšehrad, including the remains of the old castle wall and the twin spires of the Neo-Gothic Peter and Paul Cathedral.
Charles Bridge
The bridges of Prague
There are no less than 18 bridges over the Vltava River in Prague. A river cruise will, naturally, take you by the famous Charles Bridge, the oldest in Prague. 30 Baroque statues decorate both sides of the bridge, and appear to visitors in an extraordinary perspective as they pass through the Gothic gates. Prague’s second bridge was the Bridge of Legions, which runs partly across the Střelecký Island. This is named after the Czechoslovak legions that fought for independence in World War I. The bridge is adjacent to the impressive National Theatre and its sparkling gold roof.
