Day 1: Exploring the City from a Floating Hotel
After months of planning and anticipation, our adventure in Prague finally began. We arrived at our unique accommodation—a botel, a charming hotel on a boat—at precisely 1:15 PM. The journey was smooth, and the sight of the botel floating on the Vltava River instantly added a touch of magic to our stay.
Settling In #
Upon arrival, we unloaded the car and took a moment to rest. The botel’s quaint, cozy atmosphere and the gentle sway of the water provided the perfect setting for relaxation. Our room offered stunning views of the river and the city’s skyline, which only fueled our excitement to start exploring.
Walking Tour of the City #
After a refreshing break, we set out on foot to discover the historic charm of Prague. The weather was perfect for a stroll, and the city welcomed us with its blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
Vyšehradský Bridge #
Our first stop was the Vyšehradský Bridge, a fascinating railway bridge with a pedestrian path. The bridge offered a unique perspective of the city, combining the industrial with the picturesque. As we walked along the path, we admired the intricate ironwork and the scenic views of the Vltava River and the surrounding architecture. From the bridge, we could even spot our botel, peacefully moored on the river, which made us appreciate our unique lodging choice even more.
Náplavka Riverbank #
From there, we continued to the vibrant Náplavka Riverbank. This lively area along the Vltava River is known for its unique bars and social atmosphere.
We came across several intriguing establishments, each featuring a huge round front window that also serves as the main entrance. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, with locals and tourists mingling, enjoying the riverside views and watching the boats glide by.
Dancing House (Tančící dům) #
Next, we made our way to the iconic Dancing House, or Tančící dům. This modern architectural marvel, designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, stands out amidst the traditional buildings with its dynamic, flowing curves. We took a break to rest our tired legs and watched as wannabe Instagram influencers posed and took pictures of the unique structure. The juxtaposition of the contemporary design against the backdrop of historic Prague made for a fascinating sight.
Hanging Umbrella Man by David Černý #
Our exploration then took us to another quirky landmark: the Hanging Umbrella Man by David Černý. This intriguing sculpture of a man dangling from an umbrella high above the street is both whimsical and thought-provoking. We spent a few moments marveling at Černý’s creativity and the way the sculpture adds a touch of surrealism to the city’s streetscape. It was fun to watch passersby stop, do a double-take, and then snap photos of this unexpected art installation.
Rotating Kafka Head #
Our exploration then took us to the mesmerizing Rotating Kafka Head sculpture by David Černý. This massive, mirrored installation is composed of rotating layers that form and reform Kafka’s face, symbolizing the complexity of his mind. We spent some time watching the hypnotic movement and marveling at Černý’s ingenuity.
New Town Hall #
Our final stop of the day was the New Town Hall. Bathed in the afternoon sun, the beautiful tower and its surroundings provided a perfect spot to unwind. We took in the impressive architecture and the serene ambiance, appreciating the historical significance of this landmark. After a short break, we made our way to the nearby metro station through Karlovo Náměstí, enjoying the park’s greenery and the vibrant atmosphere.
Reflecting on the Day #
Returning to our botel, we felt a sense of contentment and excitement for the days ahead. The gentle rocking of the boat lulled us into a peaceful sleep, with the lights of Prague twinkling in the distance. Our first day in this enchanting city was a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, and we couldn’t wait to see what else Prague had in store for us.
Stay tuned as we continue to uncover the beauty and secrets of this incredible city.