Top 10 Things to Do in Prague
1. Prague Castle
Without question, Prague Castle is the most important landmark of Prague and a symbol of the Czech Republic. Perched atop Hradcany hill, the 9th century castle is the former seat of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and Austrian Emperors. It remains the country's political powerhouse today, as the Czech president has his seat of government here.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest enclosed castle in the world, so it's no surprise that you can find many spectacular treasures inside. These include the Old Royal Palace, the famous Golden Lane, also known as the "Alchemist's Alley", the St. George Basilica, and the spectacular St. Vitus Cathedral, which houses the tombs of Czech kings, the Prague Cathedral treasury, the coronation insignia, and the Wenceslas Chapel.
- Learn all about the sights in Prague Castle as well as useful details about tickets and tours in our dedicated guide about Prague Castle.
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2. Charles Bridge
Another must-see sight in Prague is the impressive Charles Bridge that connects the Old Town (Staré Mesto) with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana). The 500-meter-long bridge spanning the Vltava River is considered to be one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe, and is a true marvel of architecture and art. You can expect a lively atmosphere on the bridge, with musicians, artists, and vendors adding to the energy of the scene.
Taking a walk across the famous Charles Bridge is an essential part of a visit to Prague, offering stunning views and a unique blend of history and culture. Take the opportunity and get a close-up look at the 30 masterful sculptures that line the bridge's path. One of the sculptures, the dog figure located by the sculpture of St. Nepomuk, is said to bring good luck to those who touch it.
3. Old Town Square
Prague’s Old Town, located east of the Vltava River, is the bustling heart of the city. The beautiful Old Town Square is especially popular and filled day and night with locals and visitors from all over the world. Its charm lies in the unique blend of buildings from different eras, with Baroque facades concealing Gothic walls resting on Romanesque foundations.
Visitors can expect a wealth of attractions here, including the Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock, the Jan Hus Monument, the Teyn Church, and the Church of St. Nicholas. The Square is also home to many restaurants and is a popular venue for events, such as the annual Christmas market, where visitors can soak in the holiday magic.
- Find more details about the Old Town Square in our article dedicated to Prague Old Town, including sights, good places to eat, hotels, and travel tips.
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4. Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square, measuring 750 meters in length, is one of Europe's largest squares. Despite its turbulent history, including its past as a horse market and the site of significant demonstrations such as the "Velvet Revolution" of 1989, Wenceslas Square in Prague's New Town is now a vibrant hub of activity and a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
The square offers a variety of shopping options, as well as many cafes, restaurants, bars, and hotels, making it a prime destination for visitors. It is also home to important cultural institutions such as the National Museum, the Prague State Opera, the Cold War Museum and a monument dedicated to St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Square.
5. Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock
The Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock is one of the major attractions in Prague. The Town Hall, originally built in 1338 as the administrative center of the Old Town, has a 70-meter tower that houses the world-famous Astronomical Clock. This important cultural monument is a masterpiece of Gothic science and engineering and is widely considered one of Prague's landmarks.
Every hour on the hour, visitors flock to the Astronomical Clock to witness the breathtaking show as the 12 Apostles make their rounds. Although the spectacle itself is not overly impressive, the clock and its figures are a favorite photo motif for visitors. In addition to the Astronomical Clock, you can also visit the Gothic tower of the Old Town Hall, which offers a fantastic view of Prague's New Town.
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6. Jewish Quarter
One of the most popular attractions in Prague, the Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov or Josefstadt, is widely recognized as one of the best preserved Jewish communities in Europe. This is largely due to the Nazi administrator of Prague, Reinhard Heydrich, who had plans to build a museum dedicated to an "extinct race" during World War II.
The Jewish Quarter is home to several historic sites, including the Old New Synagogue and the Jewish Museum, that offer insight into the lives of the Jewish community in the former ghetto. A must-visit attraction is the Old Jewish Cemetery, where over 100,000 people are buried in multiple layers, creating a unique, hilly landscape. Guided tours of the historic district provide a rich and educational experience for visitors and give a glimpse into Prague's Jewish heritage.
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7. Boat Tours on the Vltava River
Relaxing and scenic boat trips on the Vltava River allow visitors to enjoy the city from a
unique perspective as they glide down the river and take in the
amazing views of Prague's monuments.
Whether it's a romantic sunset boat ride or a lively dinner cruise, a boat ride down the Vltava River is a must for any visitor to Prague. The city's stunning architecture, beautiful scenery and rich cultural heritage make a boat tour the perfect way to experience the essence of this magical city.
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8. Powder Tower
The Powder Tower, located in Republic Square at the edge of the Old Town, is a popular landmark in Prague. Known for its late Bohemian Gothic style, the 65-meter-high tower served as a part of the old royal fortifications and was used for storage of gunpowder until the 17th century.
For a small entrance fee, you can view a small exhibit inside the Powder Tower showcasing its ornate history. The impressive structure offers not only a glimpse into the history of medieval Prague, but also a sweeping view of the city from its viewing platform, accessible after climbing around 100 steps.
- For more information, visit our dedicated article about the Powder Tower.
9. Prague Beer Culture
Prague is world-famous for its rich beer culture, with legendary Czech beers such as Budweiser and Pilsner. This affinity with the golden brew is evident in the city's many breweries, such as the famous Strahov Monastery, which according to surveys serves the best beer in the Czech Republic, the city's gastronomy and nightlife, as well as its many beer-related attractions.
From the ever-popular beer tours, to a beer spa and a beer museum, to city tours by beer bike and even airport transfers by beer bus, there are plenty of ways to experience Prague's love of beer.
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10. Vyšehrad
Last but not least, Vyšehrad should not be missing from our list of the Top 10 attractions in Prague. This medieval fortress, sitting on a rock above the Vltava River, dates back to the 10th century. It is rich in architectural gems, including the neo-Gothic Church of St. Peter and Paul, the Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin, and underground casemates. The cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable artists, politicians and scientists.
A local legend has it that Vyšehrad is the oldest royal palace in Bohemia, nevertheless, it offers more than just history. From here, you have a fantastic view that stretches all the way to Prague Castle.
- Learn more about the sights and history of Vyšehrad in our dedicated article about Vyšehrad.
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