Vyšehrad

Vyšehrad is a fortified hill above the Vltava, south of the New Town, and it is woven into the founding legends of Prague. According to tradition, this is where Princess Libuše prophesied the city's future. In reality it was a princely seat from the 10th century, then a royal fortress, and in the 17th and 18th centuries it was rebuilt as a Baroque citadel. Today it is a national cultural monument and a large public park, used by locals for walks and picnics as much as by visitors.

The twin spires of the Basilica of Sts Peter and Paul dominate the hill. The church dates back to the 11th century but was rebuilt in neo-Gothic style in the 1880s, and its interior is covered with painted Art Nouveau decoration. Next to it is Vyšehrad Cemetery, the resting place of many of the nation's best-known figures, including Antonín Dvořák, Bedřich Smetana, Karel Čapek and Alphonse Mucha, with the Slavín tomb at its heart. Also on the hill are the Rotunda of St Martin, a small Romanesque round church from the 11th century, Leopold's Gate and the Brick Gate.

Beneath the ramparts lie the casemates, about a kilometre of underground passages that can be seen on guided tours. They lead to Gorlice Hall, which displays six of the original Baroque statues from Charles Bridge. The Gunpowder House hosts an exhibition on the history of the fortress. From the walls there are wide views over the river and back towards the castle, and in summer the open-air theatre stages performances.

The outdoor area is open all year and free to walk around, while the casemates and other paid sights are visited on tours, booked through the official portal or the information centre by Leopold's Gate. Vyšehrad is much quieter than the Old Town, which makes it a good half-day escape for couples, families with young children, who will enjoy the playground, and anyone interested in Czech culture. Paths are mostly level but some routes are steep.

Take metro line C to Vyšehrad station and walk west for about ten minutes, or take the tram to Výtoň and climb the steps from the river. Combine the visit with a walk along the embankment or the Cubist houses on the slopes below.