Victoria's Voyage

Day 2 in Prague started out with waking to dazzling sunlight and clear skies – the perfect backdrop for a new day of adventures.

Beginning in a museum that actually caught and retained my low attention span, we were transported into a world of wonderment. The Illusions Art Museum is rather inconspicuous if you’re not looking for it, but it’s well worth scoping out for an hour of lighthearted fun and mesmerisation, and its location almost opposite the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square makes it easy to reach.

Entry to the museum costs the equivalent of around £10ish, which might seem like a lot if you’re used to Europe’s many free exhibition spaces, but bear in mind if you are planning a visit to Prague this is actually pretty much standard for the majority of museums and art galleries. Discounts can be gained by purchasing a Prague Card, but we simply paid general admission. Right from the off there are visible tricks and photo opportunities aplenty, and there are two whole floors to explore. You’ll likely have your phone anyway, but a device with a camera lens is an absolute must if you want to enjoy the experience to its fullest.

Returning to the sunshine and slowly rising temperatures, we embarked on a true challenge – attempting to navigate the complex tram system in search of Vysehrad. After wandering aimlessly for a while we finally found the tram stop, only we still didn’t have tickets and we couldn’t even decipher which direction we wanted to head in. Eventually, we gave up and opted for the nearby metro instead – arriving at our destination in the space of 10 minutes. In my opinion, so much easier considering a tram could just turn randomly over a bridge without you realising it’ll do so (which actually happened to us later on). You can use the same ticket on trams, metros or buses, as long as you do it within the period of validation.

The Vysehrad is pretty widespread and winding, with various different viewpoints around old buildings, grassy parkland and a towering cathedral. The views were lovely and it allowed us to explore a different part of town, but honestly, there’s not really a lot there, so maybe don’t make it your priority and instead reserve it for when you’re at a bit of a loose end.

Realising we hadn’t eaten a thing since breakfast, we trudged along the riverside, trying to stay optimistic despite our sudden influx of crippling hunger as we took in the views. There was no time to eat though, not yet, because at 3pm we boarded a small boat for a cruise along the River Vltava to cap off our day. We took a simple hour long cruise, but ‘Prague Boats’ actually offers a whole range of different length and route rides, some even including meals or entertainment. And you can buy your tickets at various docks as and when you fancy it, so there’s no need to pre-book.

At last, we had some time spare to eat. At last! Goulash and dumplings was on the menu for tonight, before a sneaky Saturday night drink in a rowdy Irish pub near the apartment. Day 2, accomplished.