We lived in Prague with Luka on and off for ten years and we have been all over it. One day we plan to return to Prague, but for now this guide to enjoying Prague will have to suffice. 😊
Known as the “Golden City” and the “Heart of Europe”, Prague is one of the most beautiful and most visited cities in the world. With its rich history, beautiful architecture and rich cultural life, the city attracts millions of tourists every year.
The city offers many interesting sights such as Prague Castle, Old Town Square with the Prague Astronomical Clock or Charles Bridge. In addition, Prague is home to a number of cultural institutions, museums and galleries offering a varied cultural programme.
When visiting Prague, it is important to take into account its diversity and plan your trips so that you have enough time to see the sights and visit interesting places. However, once you have an idea of what you want to see and experience, Prague will remain firmly etched in your memories forever. 🙃 So what to see in Prague?
Where to stay in Prague
The choice of accommodation in Prague is huge, from luxury hotels to apartments to cheap hostels in the centre and outskirts of Prague.
Don’t look at money and want to live in the city centre? Reach for the BoHo Hotel, half a kilometre from Old Town Square, which has a restaurant and a luxury spa. It has a rating of 9.5 out of 10 on Booking and is a real gem.
Slightly cheaper, but also with wellness and infrared sauna is Hotel Miss Sophie’s New Town & Wellness which is a little further away from the centre.
For solo travellers, travellers on a budget or lovers of 100% we recommend The RoadHouse Prague, which has been voted the best hostel in Europe .
Map of trips around Prague
Because we have a lot of tips for you, we have also prepared a clear map that you can save to Google Maps with one click and navigate around Prague comfortably. 😊
Historical monuments in Prague
Prague is full of important historical monuments and it can be challenging to choose the most interesting ones for your trip. That’s why we bring you a list of our favourites. What to see in Prague from historical monuments?
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the most important historical monument in Prague and the largest castle complex in the world. From 9. century served as the residence of Czech princes, kings and later presidents. The castle grounds include historic palaces, religious buildings, gardens and picturesque corners. It is worth visiting the St.Wenceslas Chapel, the Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George and Golden Lane.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is the most famous bridge in Prague, connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town. The bridge is famous for its sculptures created by prominent Czech artists and sculptors. A walk along Charles Bridge offers a magnificent view of Prague Castle and the Vltava River.
Old Town Square
Old Town Square is the heart of Prague and the cultural centre of the historic city. The square is home to several important monuments such as Prague Astronomical Clock , Church of Our Lady before Týn a Old Town Hall . The square often hosts various cultural and musical events, such as the Christmas Market and the Prague Fair.
We recommend visiting the Old Town early in the morning, as it is already full of tourists in the afternoon.
Prague Astronomical Clock
Prague Astronomical Clock is an ancient astronomical clock machine located at the Old Town Hall in Prague. It is one of the oldest and best preserved astronomical clocks in the world that is still in use.
The astronomical clock consists of three main parts:
- an astronomical dial that displays the position of the sun and moon in the sky and other astronomical data,
- the apostles’ walks, which is a clockwork machine where every hour the figures of the twelve apostles come out,
- and a calendar dial with zodiac sign medallions.
The astronomical clock is a popular tourist attraction and hundreds of people gather every hour to watch the apostles walk. Come early to see well 😊
The Dust Gate
The Dust Gate is one of the most important Gothic monuments in Prague. It is the only surviving city gate of the original thirteen that were part of the fortifications of the Old Town of Prague.
The gate was built in 15. century and it got its name thanks to the fact that the road to Kutná Hora led through it, from where gunpowder was transported to Prague.
The Powder Tower is also significant because the Royal Route traditionally begins here, leading through the Old Town, Charles Bridge, and up to Prague Castle.
Today it is possible to climb to the top of the gate and enjoy a beautiful view of the Old Town and other parts of Prague.
Lesser Town Square
Lesser Town Square is one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Prague, located in the Lesser Town.
The square is surrounded by a number of important buildings, including the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas, one of the most famous and important churches in Prague, and the Lesser Town Hall.
The square is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes and shops, making it a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Lesser Town Square is an important transport hub, from where you can easily reach Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and other tourist attractions.
Municipal House
The Municipal House is a beautiful Art Nouveau building located in Prague on the Republic Square next to the Powder Tower. It was built at the turn of the 19. and 20th century and is considered one of the highlights of the Czech Art Nouveau.
The building is famous for its rich decoration, including stained glass, sculptures, mosaics and paintings by leading artists of the time, such as Alfons Mucha, Max Švabinský and Jan Preisler.
The Municipal House houses several important spaces, including Smetana Hall, the main concert hall and home to the Prague Symphony Orchestra FOK. In addition, there are several restaurants, cafés, bars and clubs.
The Municipal House is also historically significant as the place where the independence of Czechoslovakia was declared in 1918.
Vysehrad
Vysehrad is a historic fortified settlement on the right bank of the Vltava River. This fortress is a symbol of various legends and history of Prague. The Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, the Romanesque Church of St. Martin’s Cemetery and Vyšehrad Cemetery, where many prominent Czech artists and personalities are buried. Vyšehrad also offers a beautiful view of Prague and quiet corners for relaxation.
New World Quarter
Nový svět is a picturesque and historic district located near Prague Castle. It is one of the oldest districts of Prague and is famous for its narrow streets and small houses, which give an almost rural impression in the middle of the big city.
This district was formerly home to the poorer inhabitants of the city, including craftsmen and servants of the castle. Today, it is a quiet and attractive place where mostly Czech artists live and which is popular among tourists for its unique atmosphere and architecture. Although it is located in the heart of Prague, Nový Svět retains a sense of separateness and tranquility.
Important sights of Nový Svět include the Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels, which can be found on the little square with a historic fountain, or Hlásek, a picturesque house at the entrance to the district.
Strahov Monastery
Strahov Monastery is a historical complex located in the Hradčany district of Prague. It is a Premonstratensian monastery founded in 1140. It is one of the oldest and most important cultural institutions in the Czech Republic.
One of the most important features of the monastery is its magnificent Strahov Library, which contains thousands of old prints, manuscripts and first editions. The library consists of two main halls – Theological and Philosophical – each with its own unique artistic and architectural features.
The monastery complex also includes the Strahov Brewery and Restaurant, which offers traditional Czech cuisine and beer brewed on site.
Strahov Monastery is located on a hill near Prague Castle, offering a magnificent view of Prague.
Loreto pilgrimage site
The Loreto pilgrimage site is an important historical and religious centre located in the Hradčany district. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Czech Republic.
At the centre of the complex is the Santa Casa, a replica of the house of the Virgin Mary as found in the city of Loreto in Italy. This “House of Our Lady” is surrounded by a monastery complex that includes the Baroque Church of the Nativity and the Convent.
One of the most remarkable features of the Loreto is its bell tower, equipped with 27 bells that produce a melodious ringing every hour.
The complex also houses the Loreto Treasures, a collection of liturgical objects including the famous Prague Sun – a monstrance decorated with thousands of diamonds.
Loreto is popular not only among religious pilgrims, but also among visitors who appreciate its architectural and artistic value.
Church of Our Lady of Victory and the Prague Jesuit Church
The church is located in the Lesser Town and is mainly known for its statue of the Prague Child Jesus.
The Prague Baby Jesus is a wax statue of Jesus Christ as a child, about 47 cm high. She comes from Spain and came to Prague in 16. century. The statue is known for its miraculous powers and is considered one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Prague. Her dress is regularly changed in different liturgical colours.
The Church of Our Lady of Victory is also historically significant as the site of the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, when the Catholic Habsburgs defeated the Protestant Estates, which had a lasting impact on the history of the Czech lands.
The Lennon Wall
The Lennon Wall is a wall in Prague’s Lesser Town, which has been standing since the 1980s. 20 years. century has become a place where people – especially young people – express their views and wishes through graffiti. The wall is named after John Lennon, a member of the Beatles who was known for his pacifism and protests against military conflict.
After Lennon’s death in 1980, people began to write the lyrics of his songs and various anti-regime slogans on the wall as a sign of their disapproval of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia at the time.
Today, the Lennon Wall is a symbol of freedom and peace and is still covered with various inscriptions and paintings. Although the wall was painted white several times, it was always quickly refilled.
Jewish Town
The Jewish Town, also known as Josefov, is a historic district in Prague, located between the Old Town and the Vltava River. It is an area with a significant Jewish history and culture that dates back to the 13th century. century.
Josefov is home to several important Jewish monuments, including the Spanish Synagogue, the Old Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue and the Old Jewish Cemetery, which is one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe.
Museums and galleries
Prague has a number of museums and galleries that offer visitors a fascinating insight into history, culture and art.
National Museum
The National Museum is the oldest museum in the Czech Republic and comprises several buildings, including the main building on Wenceslas Square. This museum focuses on the history, art, nature and culture of the Czech Republic. Visitors can explore permanent and temporary exhibitions that cover a variety of topics such as:
- archaeology and history of the Czech lands
- mineralogy and palaeontology
- Ethnography
- Czech music and theatre
Other interesting objects of the National Museum are Czech Museum of Music a Náprstek Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures .
Trade Fair Palace
Trade Fair Palace is part of the National Gallery in Prague and is located in Prague 7. This gallery focuses mainly on modern and contemporary art. Visitors can find here works by important artists such as:
- Pablo Picasso
- Auguste Rodin
- Egon Schiele
- František Kupka
In addition to artworks, the Trade Fair Palace also offers public programmes such as lectures, workshops, film screenings and concerts.
Museum of Communism
The Museum of Communism is a private museum in Prague that focuses on the communist era in the Czech Republic between 1948 and 1989. Visitors can explore various aspects of the communist regime, including:
- political repression
- of everyday life under communism
- education and culture
- sports and entertainment
The Museum of Communism also offers a film screening that presents historical events and significant moments from the communist era.
Parks and viewpoints in Prague
Prague is full of parks, viewpoints and various natural spots.
Petřín lookout tower
The Petřín lookout tower is one of the most famous places in Prague. This 63.5 metre high steel structure inspired by the Eiffel Tower was built in 1891. It offers a breathtaking view of Prague and its surroundings. There are 299 steps to the top, but you can also use the lift.
View of Prague from the Metronome on Letná
The view of Prague from the Metronome on Letná is impressive and offers a wide view of the historic part of the city. The Metronome, which replaced the statue of Stalin, is located at the top of Letenské sady, a popular park with locals and tourists alike.
The Metronome’s lookout offers a breathtaking view of the Vltava River as it winds through the city and of famous landmarks such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. You can admire the whole panoramic view of the historical part of Prague, which is beautifully spread out in front of you.
This viewpoint is popular among photographers who come here to capture the charm of Prague from above. It is also an ideal place to relax and unwind, where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the city and the pleasant atmosphere of Letenské sady.
Wild Sharka
Divoká Šárka, located on the northwestern outskirts of Prague, is a nature reserve that is a popular destination for tourists and locals seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The area is rich in scenery that includes diverse valleys, a historic mill, a living stream and impressive rock formations. It is an ideal place for activities such as hiking, cycling or picnicking in nature.
Letenské sady
Letenské sady is a large urban park situated at the top of a steep hill above Prague. This park is a popular place for relaxation, sports and meeting with friends. Letenský Park offers visitors a breathtaking view of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and the Lesser Town. The park features a number of statues, fountains and architectural elements.
Kampa Island
Kampa is an island located in Prague on the left bank of the Vltava River, below the Lesser Town and the Charles Bridge. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the city centre.
The island is famous for its picturesque narrow streets, baroque houses and parks where locals and tourists alike enjoy relaxing. The park in Kampa also features several sculptural installations, including the famous babies by David Černý.
Kampa is also home to the Kampa Museum, a major centre of modern art in Central Europe. The museum offers an extensive collection of works by 20. century by Czech, Polish and Hungarian artists.
Kampa is also home to several cafes and restaurants overlooking the Vltava River and Charles Bridge, making it the perfect place to relax after a stroll around the city.
You can even go river surfing!
Canal Čertovka
Čertovka is a small canal in Prague that separates Mala Strana from Kampa Island. It is also sometimes called the “Venice of Prague” due to its picturesque setting with historic buildings and small bridges.
The canal is named after a woman who, according to legend, lived in one of the houses by the canal and was known for her evil nature, which is why the locals nicknamed her “The Devil”.
One of the characteristic features of Čertovka is the old water mill – Velkopřevorský mill, which gives this place a unique historical charm. It is a very popular area among tourists for walking, taking photos and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere in the middle of the bustling city.
Vrtba Gardens
The Vrtba Garden is one of the most beautiful and important Baroque gardens in Prague. It is located in the Lesser Town and is part of the Vrtba Palace.
The garden is known for its unique terraced layout, which allows visitors to enjoy a beautiful view of Prague, including Prague Castle and St. Nicholas. The Vrtba Garden is also rich in various types of flowers, plants and sculptures.
Despite its proximity to the busy city centre, the garden offers a peaceful and relaxing environment that is ideal for rest and relaxation.
Wallenstein Garden
The Wallenstein Garden is located in Prague’s Lesser Town and is part of the Wallenstein Palace, which is now the seat of the Senate of the Czech Republic. It is a Baroque garden that was founded in the 17th century. century along with the palace.
The garden is famous for its richly decorated sculptural groups, a pond with an island, an aviary with peacocks, and a unique wall with artificial caves, the so-called. grottou.
In the garden there is also the Sala Terrena, a ground-floor hall connected to the palace and garden, which is often used for concerts and cultural events.
The garden is open to the public and provides a peaceful place to relax in the heart of the bustling city.
Franciscan Garden
The Franciscan Garden is a city park in Prague, part of the Franciscan Monastery. This garden, situated in the centre of the town between Jungmannova and Vodičkova streets, is a popular place for locals and tourists to relax. It is famous for its beautiful flower beds, romantic paths, fountains and statues. In addition, there is a playground and a small pavilion. This oasis of peace and quiet is a great hideaway from the busy city life.
Clementinum
Clementinum is a large complex of Baroque buildings near the Charles Bridge in Prague’s Old Town. It is a former Jesuit college, which is the second largest building complex in Prague after Prague Castle. Today it is the seat of the National Library of the Czech Republic.
Modern architecture in Prague
Franz Kafka’s Turning Head
The Turning Head of Franz Kafka is a statue located in Prague on Franz Kafka Square near the Municipal House. This sculpture, created by artist David Černý, represents the head of writer Franz Kafka, which is divided into 42 movable layers.
The sculpture is placed on a rotating device that turns and creates the impression of a moving face. It is one of many unconventional and controversial sculptures created by David Černý in Prague.
Dancing House
Dancing House is a modern architectural building in Prague, located on Rasinova nábřeží on the right bank of the Vltava River. It’s also known as Fred and Ginger, after the famous dancing duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, because its design evokes their dance moves.
The house was built in 1996 and designed by architects Vlad Milunić and Frank Gehry. The building stands out for its unusual organic form, which differs from the surrounding historical environment of Prague. The Dancing House is a combination of residential, office and commercial space, including a restaurant and café.
Žižkov Tower
The Žižkov Tower is an important Prague landmark located on Žižkov Hill in the Prague district of the same name. It is a concrete television tower 216 metres high, which is the tallest building in Prague and one of the tallest towers in Europe.
The tower was built between 1985 and 1992 and its architect is Václav Aulický. It serves as a transmitter for television and radio signals, but also offers the public a viewing platform at a height of 93 metres, from which there is a beautiful panoramic view of Prague.
Theatres and cultural events in Prague
National Theatre
National Theatre in Prague is one of the most prestigious theatres in the Czech Republic. This cultural gem offers a wide range of theatrical performances: opera, ballet and drama.
State Opera
The State Opera in Prague, part of the National Theatre, is one of the most important opera houses in the Czech Republic. This institution boasts a long tradition and a high level of artistic expression. Their repertoire includes both classical opera titles and modern works from the world opera scene. State Opera is known for its excellent acoustics and beautiful interiors.
Concerts and festivals
Prague is a city that never sleeps and culture plays a key role here. The music scene offers a wide range of concerts and festivals throughout the year. Lovers of various musical genres will find something to their liking here. From jazz, to classical music, to rock concerts and techno parties.
Popular music events include Prague Spring . Moreover, Prague is home to many concert halls and venues that regularly host world-famous performers and young talented musicians.
Gastronomy and nightlife
Prague is known for its rich gastronomic and nightlife scene, which offers many interesting places to visit.
Restaurants and cafés
There are many excellent restaurants in Prague and cafes offering a wide selection of Czech and international dishes. If you want to taste traditional Czech cuisine, you can visit some of the local pubs, such as hospoda U fleků . In addition, Prague offers many elegant cafés where you can enjoy quality coffee and fresh pastries.
- Traditional Czech cuisine: U Fleků, Local
- International cuisine: Café Savoy , Eska
- Coffee shops: Kavárna Slavia , Mama Coffee (more in our article about Prague cafes )
The best restaurants in Prague
Are you looking for a real gourmet experience in Prague and don’t want to just blink into the nearest restaurant? In that case, choose from our personal selection of the best gastro in Prague.
- La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise : Michelin-starred restaurant with a modern interpretation of Czech cuisine.
- Field : Another Michelin-starred restaurant with an emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients.
- Alcron : Elegant restaurant specializing in modern European cuisine.
- Local : Popular restaurant chain offering traditional Czech cuisine and excellent draft beer.
- CottoCrudo : A sophisticated restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel that specializes in Italian cuisine and sushi.
- Sansho : A unique restaurant with a fusion of Asian and European cuisine, offering a casual atmosphere.
- The Mill : Luxury restaurant with modern European cuisine and a breathtaking view of Charles Bridge.
- Cafe Imperial : Historical restaurant with beautiful Art Nouveau interior and traditional Czech cuisine.
- Eska Description : Modern restaurant with a focus on farm ingredients and bread baking.
- Light head : Vegan restaurant offering creative and healthy dishes with a welcoming atmosphere.
Bars and clubs
If you like rock music, rock clubs are the right experience for you. One of the most popular and famous bars in Prague is Hemingway Bar, which offers a wide range of cocktails and alcoholic drinks. If you are more of a dance club fan, be sure to visit some of the most famous clubs such as Roxy .
- Rock clubs: Rock Café, Akropolis
- Bars: Hemingway Bar, Anonymous Bar
- Dance clubs: Roxy , Duplex
Whether you prefer traditional pubs, cafés, bars or dance clubs, Prague is a city that offers unforgettable gastronomic experiences and opportunities to have fun.
What sights can you visit for free?
What to visit in Prague for free? It’s a lot, but this list is enough for at least one day:
- Charles Bridge. century, it is open to the public all day and night.
- Old Town Square: this is the heart of Prague’s historic centre and is home to many important sights, including the Old Town Hall with its astronomical clock. Although it costs money to enter some of the buildings in the square, the square itself and the view of the clock are free.
- Wenceslas Square: this large city square is also home to many historical buildings and monuments.
- Petrin: This is a large park and hill that provides amazing views of the city. While it costs money to get to the lookout tower at the top of the hill, the walk around the park and the hill is free.
- Letenské sady: Another park with beautiful views of the city and the Vltava River.
- Vyšehrad: a historic fortress town on top of a hill. Here you can visit the free parks and see the outer structures of the fortress and the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul. However, there is a fee to enter some areas, such as the cemetery.
- Prague Castle. It costs money to walk around the castle grounds, but it is generally free.
What to see in Prague in one day?
Planning the ideal day trip to Prague depends on your interests, but here’s a suggested itinerary that covers some of the city’s most famous sights:
Morning: Prague Castle and Nerudova Street
- Start your day with a visit to Prague Castle, where you can admire St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and Golden Lane. After a tour of the castle and its surroundings, you can enjoy the view of Prague from the castle.
- Walk down the beautiful Neruda Street, full of Renaissance and Baroque houses, to Malostranské náměstí. See here Church of St. St. Nicholas.
Noon: Charles Bridge and Old Town Square
- Cross the famous Charles Bridge, full of statues and with beautiful views of the Vltava River.
- Continue to Old Town Square, where you can admire the Old Town Hall with its astronomical clock, Týn Cathedral and other historic buildings.
Afternoon: Josefov and Wenceslas Square
- After lunch in the old part of town, head to Josefov, the historic Jewish town, where you can visit the old Jewish cemetery, the Old Synagogue and other sights.
- Afterwards, take a walk around Wenceslas Square, where you can see the National Museum and the statue of St. Wenceslas.
Evening: shooting island
- End the day with a walk along the Vltava riverbank or relax on one of Prague’s islands, such as Strelecky Island.
- If you still have the energy, consider visiting one of Prague’s many cafés or restaurants for dinner and sample traditional Czech cuisine.
Remember that Prague is a very busy city and it can be difficult to visit all these sights in one day. Planning ahead and getting up early will help you make the most of your time.
What to see in Prague in three days
If you have three days in Prague, you have plenty of time to visit the main sights and also enjoy some of the lesser-known parts of the city. Here’s how to spend three days in Prague:
Day One: Prague Castle and Lesser Town
- Start your day with a visit to Prague Castle. Visit the Cathedral of St. Vitus, the Old Royal Palace and a walk along the Golden Lane. You can also enjoy the view of the city from the castle.
- Descend down Nerudova Street into the Lesser Town and visit the Church of St Nicholas on Lesser Town Square.
- Continue to Charles Bridge and see its sculptures and views of the Vltava River.
Day Two: Old Town and Josefov
- Start the day in Old Town Square, where you can see the Old Town Hall with its astronomical clock and Týn Cathedral.
- Then head to the historic Jewish town of Josefov. Here you can visit the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Old Synagogue and other sights.
- Next, take a stroll around Wenceslas Square, home to the National Museum and the statue of St. Wenceslas.
Day 3: Vyšehrad and alternative parts of the city
- Visit Vyšehrad, a historic hilltop fortress with beautiful parks, the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul and Slavín Cemetery, where many important personalities of Czech history and culture are buried.
- After visiting Vyšehrad, head to some of the less touristy parts of the city. For example, the Vinohrady district is famous for its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, many cafés and restaurants.
- Another option is to visit Letná, where you can find Letenské sady with a beautiful view of the city and many hipster cafes and bars.
Don’t forget to spend time exploring Czech cuisine, visiting local pubs or tasting Czech beer. Prague is also known for its rich music scene, so consider attending a concert or performance at one of the city’s theatres or music clubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unusual places in Prague
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit unusual places such as the Žižkov transmitter, the Divoká Šárka or the National Monument at Vítkov. These places offer unique views of the city and fewer tourists than you will find in the centre of Prague.
The most beautiful places in Prague
Such places in Prague include Letenské sady, Vyšehrad, Malá Strana and Kampa. To get a taste of the beauty of these places, you can plan a stroll through Prague gardens such as the Wallenstein Garden, the Vrtba Garden or the gardens of Prague Castle.
What to see in Prague with children
Prague offers plenty of child-friendly activities, such as the Zoo, Planetarium, Sea World or DinoPark. You can also visit Petřín with a playground, a maze and a cable car.
What to see in Prague in winter
In winter, you can visit Christmas markets, winter gardens (e.g. Botanical Gardens) or enjoy ice skating at one of Prague’s ice rinks. To warm up, we recommend a visit to one of Prague’s cafés, tea rooms or traditional beer halls.
Fun places in Prague
For entertainment in Prague, visit one of the local cultural events, theatre performances or concerts. Also try unusual experiences such as an escape game, virtual reality or the popular brewery tour.
