Tom Dirlis - Moon Prague & Budapest

TOM DIRLIS

Renowned for their storied pasts, Prague and Budapest have also established themselves as steadfast beacons of a brightly burning future. A visit here will expand your mind and enrich your soul.

Prague, thanks to its breathtaking architecture, resembles a forgotten fairy tale more than a Central European capital. From the top of Wenceslas Square to the majestic Prague Castle, it is just as beautiful as Paris and Venice, though far less expensive and a lot more liberal-minded than either. This is the capital of Bohemia, after all, where beer is cheaper than bottled water and freedom of expression perseveres.

Faster, bigger, and rougher around the edges than Prague, Budapest nevertheless abounds in beauty, harmony, and incontestable charm. Whether its the no-nonsense bustle of Pest or the Dickensian backstreets of Buda, the peoples passion for music, drink, and romance expresses itself brazenly on every corner.

The myriad of changes Prague and Budapest have undergone is obvious as previously foreign concepts like cell phones, fast food, and high fashion trends are now ubiquitous. Come to Prague and Budapest and have your eyes opened and your heart stirred by a seamless blend of the Old World with the new.

The Golden City is not only one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, it is one of the hottest destinations in the region as well thanks to its well-preserved historic buildings and laid-back, anything-goes attitude that continues to attract artists, foreigners, and anyone else looking for a bit of the Bohemian in their lives. Whether its the majesty of Prague Castle, the picturesque streets of Mal Strana, or the breathtaking beauty of Charles Bridge and Old Town Square, Prague is a city that never fails to leave an indelible impression on visitors.

The countrys largest region boasts plenty of pretty castles and sleepy towns that make for excellent day trips. Karltejn, Konopit, and Kivoklt are remarkable castles, unique in both architecture and beauty. esk Krumlovs castle, meanwhile, is the second largest in the country and overlooks the stunning medieval town of the same name. Fans of the morbid will be fascinated by the macabre bone church in Kutn Hora, while those looking to heal amid gorgeous natural surroundings will be impressed by Karlovy Varys curative springs.

Moravia represents the countrys wine region. Steeped in tradition, Moravians are proud of their land as well as their capital, Brno, a fine place to visit for a couple of days. Aside from its historic old town, its also the scene of countless cultural events that add to the overall university-town vibe. Meanwhile, UNESCO-listed Tel has one of the prettiest squares in the country, and its surrounding lakes and forests make for a peaceful getaway. And dont forget magical Mikulov, which has served as Moravias leading wine center for centuries.

The famed Danube River separates Budas hilly west bank from Pests bustling streets. In Pest, visitors can enjoy the remarkable St. Stephens Basilica and Heroes Square, as well as lingering romantic strolls along the Danube Embankment. Meanwhile, Budas ancient tranquility persists in tiny residential streets, the Royal Palace of Buda, and the serene and otherworldly Buda Hills.

A LONG WEEKEND: Spend two days each in Prague and Budapest.

ONE WEEK: Add some time in Bohemia and Moravia.

TWO WEEKS: Add a trip to Lake Balaton.

Itd be a shame if you didnt get beyond Budapest. The artist colony Szentendre, with its promenade, Mediterranean restaurants, and colorful shops, is a popular day trip. Esztergom, meanwhile, is a must for history fans, wholl practically faint at the sight of the awe-inspiring Basilica. Then theres legendary Lake Balaton. Central Europes largest lake attracts countless visitors looking for parties in Sifok or wine tasting in traditional villages up north, all easily accessible from Budapest.

In the spring, flowers begin to bloom, the land turns a healthy shade of green, and temperatures start to climb. Fairs and festivals begin, too, with both cities hosting popular Spring Festivals.