My first day in Prague was spent exploring Prague Castle. The first thing I saw was the changing of the guard. This was quite an event with all the guards marching and music playing. I didn’t have a very good view but it looked impressive.

You can walk around much of the castle for free but to go into the churches and walk down Golden Lane, you need a ticket which costs 250 crowns which is around 10 euros. I think the ticket is worth it mainly to see the cute Golden Lane.

The people selling the tickets really push you to get an audio guide for an extra 300 crowns. The guy wouldn’t let up when I said I didn’t want it and then his manager came over and wanted to know why I didn’t want it! Crazy! I had my guide book with me so really didn’t need it. They were like dodgy used car salesmen who won’t let up.

The other reason to visit Prague Castle is for the view overlooking the city. You can see Charles Bridge and all the other main monuments in the city.

Watch out for scammy taxi drivers near the castle. We paid 170 crowns to get a taxi up to the castle and when we wanted to go back they wanted us to pay 500! Then they said 370 or 300 crowns but we already new it was less than that. They refused to take us with the meter running so we walked back to the hotel instead. This obviously wasn’t a problem for me and F who can walk all day long without any problems but the hundreds of steps down the hill was a bit tough for my parents.

Prague Castle is one of my favourites in Europe and after three visits in winter I think I'm due to visit in the warmer months.

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