For the first few days after arriving in Prague, I was completely intoxicated by its glamour. The romantic charm of Charles Bridge, the endless bustle of the Old Town Square, and the sheer magnificence of Prague Castle left me in awe. However, perhaps because I was traveling alone, mingling with those massive crowds quickly drained my energy. I desperately craved a quiet place to walk. That singular thought led me to a hidden gem: Vyšehrad.

Escaping the Crowds of Prague’s Old Town

Vyšehrad translates to “The High Castle,” and the path leading here feels entirely different from the bustling Old Town. Stepping off the tram, the very texture of the air seemed to shift. Instead of the excited, overlapping chatter of tourists, the space was filled with the leisurely steps of locals pushing strollers and the soft panting of dogs. It was exactly the sanctuary I needed after momentarily losing my way in a strange city.

A Quiet Fortress Above the Vltava River

Climbing the steep hill toward the ancient fortress walls, I realized that no complaints escaped my lips. Usually, I would grumble about the physical exertion. Instead, I simply stopped to look back when I ran out of breath and drank water when I was thirsty. It was a pace strictly meant for me, without needing to mind anyone else. Past the castle entrance, the open park welcomed me, and the cool wind washed away my complicated thoughts.

Walking at My Own Pace: Basilica and History

The Vltava River, when viewed from the walkway along the fortress walls, felt much wider and more refreshing than from the Prague Castle side. I put on my earphones, played my favorite music, and moved slowly. Suddenly, the tolling bells of the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul rang through the crisp air. I stood there for a long time, admiring the magnificent black spires and overwhelming mosaic decorations from the outside. Leaving the unknown as unknown—isn’t that also a gift that travel gives?

Honoring Czech Legends at Vyšehrad Cemetery

Right next door lies the Vyšehrad Cemetery, the final resting place of celebrated Czech artists. Far from the chill usually associated with a cemetery, it felt like a peaceful outdoor sculpture park. Fresh flowers were laid before the tombstones where legends like Antonín Dvořák and Alphonse Mucha sleep. Seeing death coexist so beautifully with daily life brought me an inexplicable sense of relief.

The Crimson Sunset: Finding Solace in Solo Travel

If I had to pick the most memorable moment of my time in Vyšehrad, it would undoubtedly be at sunset. Sitting safely on the edge of the fortress wall, I stared blankly at the river as the sky dyed pink, then crimson. As the sun set over Prague Castle in the distance, the vague loneliness and tension of traveling alone melted away softly into the horizon. Enjoying a cold, bittersweet canned beer from a nearby kiosk, I didn’t feel shabby next to the affectionate couples around me. Instead, I felt pure, overwhelming happiness.

Top 5 Recommended Spots in Vyšehrad

Vyšehrad taught me the true romance of Prague and how to comfort myself. If you plan to visit, here are the spots you shouldn’t miss:

• The Fortress Ramparts: A scenic walking path offering the widest, most refreshing views of the Vltava River. Perfect for a musical stroll.
• Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul: The iconic landmark of Vyšehrad. Admire its striking twin black spires and the beautiful bells that toll every hour.
• Vyšehrad Cemetery: A peaceful sanctuary functioning as an outdoor sculpture park, housing the graves of great artists like Dvořák and Mucha.
• Sunset Spot at the Edge of the Walls: The ultimate location to sit back safely, relax, and watch the breathtaking sunset over Prague Castle.
• Outdoor Pub (Hospůdka Na Hradbách): Grab a cold Kozel draft beer and enjoy the vibrant, local atmosphere right by the fortress walls.

Next time, I plan to turn off my map app entirely and simply wander along these walls. I wonder what kind of sunset the future me will meet then.