Rolling through the gorgeous northern countryside of the Czech Republic, there suddenly emerges its historical, eye-marveling capital of Prague. Characterized by its endless waves of terra-cotta housetops and variegated buildings, Prague isn't just a beautiful sight. The city also stands as a well preserved time capsule that stretches as far back as the 13th century. A hub of both architecture and history, (and not to mention delicious food), Prague is surely a European city worth exploring. Furthermore, I hope that I can entice you with my past experience in the city as a tool to convince you to visit one day as well!

Here is what you need to see while you're there:

1. Prague Astronomical Clock

Built into the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall (in Old Town Square), is a timekeeping instrument of immense gothic beauty. A miasma of lore surrounds the 15th century clock, a legend that emanates from a man by the name of Hanus. Though the designer's works intrigued the public, Hanus behaved like an anus, and cloaked his plans for his new astronomical clock. Naturally, the Prague Councilors did not like this, and so they blinded the horological mastermind so that he could not complete his new mechanism. In return, Hanus damaged the clock to such an extent that it could not be fixed, just like his eyes. Clearly, the clock functions without issue, but the legend continues to be a source of intrigue.

2. Havelské tržiště Market

The Old Town Center of Prague regularly hosts a lively market teeming with delectable pastries, clothing, jewelry, and plenty of bargain items. If you're lucky, you'll spot a talented local showcasing his or her specialty in the square, like this master blacksmith.

3. Charles Bridge

Connecting the Old Town and Lesser Town is this marvelous gothic passage that was commissioned in 1357 by the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV. This mighty connection within Prague was the work of the Petr Parlér, who also constructed the Prague Castle and Cathedral of St. Vitus. Prior to Charles stood Judith Bridge, built in 1172, which drowned in a flood in 1342, along with its horrid name. Parlér’s creation, however, has endured the test of time, apparently because he used a concoction of mortar and egg yolk when building Charles Bridge.

4. Franz Kafka Museum

From the Charles Bridge is visible a museum to Franz Kafka, a Czech-born, Jewish novelist and writer who was a centerpiece of 20th-century literature.

5. Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral

The Prague Castle is apparently the largest castle complex on the planet, spanning more than 18 acres. The Premyslid dynasty’s Prince Borivoj established the royal magnificence somewhere around the year 880. The premier building in the castle area was the Church of the Virgin Mary, of which today just a glimpse can be seen. Later St. George’s Basilica, the first Czech convent and St. Vitus’s Cathedral were established. Starting in the 10th Century, the castle was home to Prague royalty and bishops, but later the Habsburgs seized the Czech throne. Under Charles IV (1346-1378) and his son Wenceslas IV’s reign, the castle flourished and expanded. Alas, the blossoming castle received a damaging blow as a result of the 1618 Defenestration of Prague (it was of course repaired).

6. St. George's Basilica

The red paint of the 920 AD St. George’s Basilica protrudes in the focus of the dark gothic colors surrounding it. Entering the sanctuary of worship, the lighting is very dim, and fractions of a once mighty mural remain clinging for survival on the inside of its dome. The interior houses the tomb of Prince Vratislav of Bohemia, and by far the most amazing part of the basilica is its crypt, which is barred off from the public, for it is the oldest part of the structure.

7. The Golden Lane

A short walk past St. George's Basilica allows one to enter a time-lapse into the 16th century. The scattered brick pavement of the Golden Lane is outlined in tiny, quaint medieval-era homes, which today would poorly accommodate a human of just average height. Currently, the residences stand as souvenir shops.

Here's what you need to eat while you're there:

1. Trdelník (Chimney Cake)

Trdelník is a chimney cake that is formed by wrapping dough around a heated log, which grills it, and the dough is then coated in sugar and walnut mix, sometimes with cinnamon. The dough is then gently taken off the log, retaining its coil structure, and chopped into smaller pieces. The best Trdelník in town is located at the Good Day Bakery, and it's best served with ice-cream in its center (take my word for it)!

2. Halusky

Halusky is a traditional Slavic concoction of potatoes, cabbage, pork, and onion, all mixed together and fried on a nice big pan. Nothing fills an empty stomach better than some Halusky!

3. Czech Sausage

Any meat in Prague is good meat, but the best of the best is the in-town sausage. Grilled and seasoned to perfection, and the equivalent cost of an american dollar, Czech sausage is a delicious must-eat.

4. Palancinky

Lastly, there are a variety of shops in Prague that sell the Czech version of pancakes (which are bigger, better versions of French crepes in my opinion. Yes, I'm willing to fight about it). Whether you like it savory or sweet, Czech Palancinky are served both ways upon your request.