Prague – the city of a hundred spires – is no shrinking violet. She displays her beauty graciously and is much admired for it. From the gently curving arches of her many bridges as they span the river, to the elegant silhouettes of her ancient architecture, visitors are entranced from the moment they arrive in Prague. Airport shuttles that take you to your accommodation are more than just a service – they will give you your first taste of the Gothic spires and Baroque domes of the city skyline and whet your appetite for more.

Your Prague airport shuttle will take about 45 minutes to cover the 20km to the city. The driver will more often than not give you a running commentary on the city, and it is a great way to get some insider tips. As you weave around the sometimes narrow, cobbled streets to your hotel you will catch your first glimpses of Prague’s most famous sights.

Prague Castle

The most famous attraction of all – Prague Castle – is the largest ancient castle in the world. In fact it is more than a simple castle – it actually looks like a small town. On your ride from Prague airport to the city you will not pass directly by the Castle, but you will be able to see the elegant outline as it overlooks the river below, and be inspired to visit. The castle was built in the 9th century and added to in later times. In the 14th century it was almost completely rebuilt in the Gothic style we see today. Within the gates of the Castle is the magnificent St Vitus Cathedral – spiritual symbol of the Czech State. The interior of this beautiful cathedral leads off to numerous side chapels, one of which houses the Crown Jewels and the tomb of Good King Wenceslas. On the outside of the Castle walls is Golden Lane. You can walk along and admire the houses (now shops) built right into the castle fortification. The lane leads to the dungeons and the original castle walls, and was once home to the famous writer Franz Kafka.

Jewish Quarter

Depending on where your hotel is situated, your Prague Airport shuttle journey may take you through Josefov. One of the oldest and best preserved in Europe, Prague’s Jewish Quarter was established over 1000 years ago with the first city inhabitants. It is said that the Quarter remained largely unscathed from the ravages of WW2, because Hitler spared it with the purpose of keeping it as a symbol of a vanished culture. There are many beautiful and interesting synagogues in the area, but perhaps the most valuable historical monuments in the Jewish Quarter are the Museum and the Cemetery.

The Jewish Museum has the world’s largest collection of Judaic art, due to the fact that city leaders were able to negotiate with the Nazis to bring back artefacts and papers from the liquidated communities of Bohemia and Moravia.

The Jewish Cemetery holds over 12,000 tombstones dating back to 1439. Because of the times of massive overcrowding of the quarter, as the cemetery filled up, dirt was brought in and layered on top and more graves dug. Some of the tombstones you will see are for people buried several layers below.

If you do pass through the Jewish Quarter on your way from Prague airport to the city, note the position of the cemetery and the museum so you can return on foot.

Old Town Square (Staromestski Namesti)

With its old cobbled square and eclectic blend of Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque architecture, the Old Town Square emits an aura of old world elegance and grace. As your Prague airport shuttle passes around the perimeter, you will catch a glimpse of the oldest square in Prague and what many people consider to be the centre of the city. When you return later on foot you will have the opportunity to explore the square and the many wonderful delights it holds.

Horse-drawn carriages clip clop over the cobbled stones and past the many lively cafes and restaurants. The wonderful medieval clock – the Orlog – is in the square. It displays various astronomical details as well as being a beautiful piece of craftsmanship and a much loved city icon. To cap a visit to the square you can climb the tower of the Old Town Hall and look over perhaps the most beautiful panorama in Europe.

Most people only dream of taking a vacation in Europe. Now this can become a reality even for average income earners. You don’t have to spend a fortune or blow your inheritance just so you can take a whiff of the sophisticate sights and sounds of this famed continent. By scheduling trips on low season months and taking advantage of budget packages, you can enjoy Europe with a small budget.

Often, when touring Europe, package sellers give the choice of a guided or a non-guided tour. Which one is a better option for you? The answer depends on the kind of traveler you are, your preferences and your resources.

Non-Guided Tours

Non-guided tours are definitely the answer if you are on a shoestring budget. It definitely costs much less if you make your way across the continent toting your own backpack. This kind of European vacation however is only a good idea for people who have independent streaks, who love rugged adventure and who have lots of common sense. Needless to say, going on a land trip on your own can be potentially dangerous. Like any other bustling place on earth, the cities of Europe can hold numerous dangers.

Guided Tours

Guided tours may be more expensive. They are however, safer and more organized. You never have to decipher confusing maps, ask around in broken French or look like a lost kitten in the middle of nowhere. If you can’t take the pressure of looking after yourself, guided tours are the way to go.

If it’s your first time to go on vacation in Europe, you should rather be safe than sorry. Consider taking a non-guided tour only if you’ve been to Europe before.

Europe is an expensive holiday destination. Everyone dreams of visiting Europe but their budget may not allow them. However, there are places in Europe, especially the Eastern side, where you get to experience the culture of Europe and can spend an enjoyable time there.

One great place to visit is Dubrovnik in Croatia. The place may be cheap to visit but the sandy beaches and sunny days will rival any of the famed beach destinations of the world. Plus you get to see the charming side of Europe with cobbled streets and charming quaint houses.

Another name to remember is Krakow in Poland. You get to have the place all to yourselves. Tourists are yet to discover it. So walk through the small town and enjoy the unspoiled environment and relax at the many cafes dotted throughout the area.

Kosice in Slovakia is another good choice. Hardly touched by tourists, it retains the charm of Europe and is affordable for everyone.

Tallinn in Estonia is a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Visit the place to drink in the cultures of Helsinki and Moscow which are mingled here. Take your camera along to capture the beautiful architecture of the 13th and 15th century buildings.

One final suggestion is Ljubljana, which is the capital of Slovenia. You can see the river that was traversed by the famous mythological character of Jason and his Argonauts.

All the above destinations give you good value for money. It is time to venture into these lesser trodden paths and carry home a tale of beauty and joy which few have encountered.