When it comes to beauty, Prague could give Paris a run for its money, and the maze of hidden courtyards and cobbled lanes makes it perfect if you’re the type who likes to wander through a new city.

The Czechs are known for producing some of the best beer in the world, and visitors will find microbreweries, pubs, and even cafes with a wide range of ales to choose from. The city is an international hotspot, and after the Czech Republic was freed from communism in 1989, visitors from around the world settled in Prague, meaning you’ll meet people from many different countries on your travels.

Convinced? Here are some things to do when you visit Prague:

See Charles Bridge

This bridge was originally commissioned in 1357 by King Charles IV, and is considered to be the most impressive bridge in the city. The bridge has 16 arches, along with 30 Baroque statues of different religious figures, and you’ll be rubbing shoulders with numerous tourists, hot-dog vendors and painters. Get up at dawn to beat all of the crowds, enjoy an incredible sunrise, and take your time examining the statues.

Bunkr Parukarka

Sure, the Cold War may have been over for two decades, but this club keeps the memories alive. Housed in an old nuclear bunker from the 1950s, this nightclub is the place to go for electro-pop tracks, dancing, and some of the best DJs in the city.

Museum of Communism

To learn about the history of the Czech Republic, visit the Museum of Communism. Authorities shot 327 people dead as they were fleeing across the border and arrested more than 200,000 under communist rule. The depictions of the terror, showed through videos, propaganda and photos are sure to stir some emotions, as will the galleries which show the velvet revolution that ended the communist rule.

Prague Castle

This is the world’s largest ancient castle, and spans approximately seven football fields. The castle was built and renovated over 13 centuries, including royal residences, alleyways, gardens and churches, and the St Vitus Cathedral is a must see- housing the tomb of St John of Nepomuk and gorgeous stained-glass windows.

Old Town Square

Head to Old Town Square, and you’ll find cute cafes, unexpected gardens, ancient chapels and old-fashioned bars (without running into numerous tourists) and one of the best features of the city is the potential for exploration- be sure to take a camera to capture the sun glinting off of numerous church domes as it sets each day.

This square has been almost completely untouched since the 10th century, and you’ll find a variety of architecture here, including the Baroque St Nicholas Church, the Gothic Tyn Cathedral and the Rococo Kinsky Palace. This is an excellent place to people-watch, and you’ll see protesters, musicians, punks, vendors and dance troupes within the square as you enjoy an alfresco meal.