What to See in Prague: 21 Essential Things to Do in The City
Prague is a special city that I believe it’s impossible not to fall in love with. History surrounds you at every turn, captivating your eyes with its centuries-old buildings. Every stone-paved street reveals something remarkable. The castle, museums, galleries, and churches invite you to immerse yourself in its rich history, culture, and values.
Art and architecture lovers might lose count of the Gothic and Baroque buildings here, as there are so many, each more impressive than the last! And then there’s the Vltava River, flowing peacefully under ancient bridges. So, what to see in Prague? Read on to discover the best things to do in this magnificent city.
What To See In Prague
Prague Castle
One of the largest ancient castles in the world sits on a hill along the left bank of the Vltava River. The castle has a history spanning nearly a thousand years and is considered the origin point of the city of Prague. Today, it serves as the residence of the president and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the vast castle complex, it’s not just the castle itself that captures visitors attention but also the renowned St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane, the Old Royal Palace, and many other buildings, all of which are without a doubt architectural treasures. Walking around the castle complex, you can truly feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Nature lovers, in particular, enjoy wandering through the beautiful royal gardens.
Practical Information: The Prague Castle complex is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., while the interior exhibits (St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Palace, etc.) can be visited from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. While entry to the castle courtyard is free, a ticket is required to explore the castle itself and other buildings within the complex. Ticket prices vary depending on what you choose to visit, but regardless, it’s definitely worth seeing as much as possible.
Charles Bridge
The Charles Bridge certainly deserves a top spot on the list of the most beautiful bridges. Construction began in 1357 and was completed in the first half of the 15th century. This massive, majestic structure connects both banks of the Vltava River. Adding to its grandeur are the large sculptures of saints lining both sides of the bridge: there are around thirty in total, each reflecting important aspects of the country’s religion and history. These sculptures were placed on the bridge in 1963.
The Charles Bridge is always full of life. It’s not just due to the steady flow of tourists, but also because of the street musicians and artists who gather here to sell their handmade crafts, showcase their artistic talents, and fill the air with beautiful music. By the way, I find this bridge to be the most beautiful after dark as it looks magical when illuminated. It’s one of the best things to see in Prague!
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Prague.
Prague Astronomical Clock
Prague is home to one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world, and the oldest still in operation, not to mention that it’s incredibly accurate. Installed in 1410, the clock has stopped working several times, but each time it has been successfully restored.
Today, the Prague Astronomical Clock not only shows the time and date with precision but also displays the positions of the Moon and Sun, zodiac signs, holidays, and more. Many tourists are drawn to this spot not only for its beauty but also for the hourly spectacle. Every hour between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., 12 figures of the apostles appear through small doors in the clock.
So, be sure to time your visit carefully, or you might have to wait another hour for their appearance. The history of this ancient clock is also shrouded in legends, one of which suggests that the clockmaker was blinded to ensure no other city could replicate such a masterpiece.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is one of the largest and most important squares in Prague, situated in the New Town. Its layout is more like a wide alley, stretching for about 750 meters. Around 600 years ago, it served as a horse market, and over time, it became the site for rallies and other key events in the country’s history.
This square is a witness of history and continues to host various demonstrations, events, and celebrations to this day. Wenceslas Square is always buzzing with activity, featuring numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and hotels, alongside numerous historical buildings. There is also the majestic statue of St. Wenceslas, and the National Museum is located nearby.
Clementinum
Clementinum is a huge complex of buildings that were built in 1653. One of its most popular attractions is the stunning Baroque-style library, which occupies a significant portion of the complex. In addition to its impressive collection of books, the library also features an ornate interior with gilded details, ceiling frescoes, and impressive antique globes that capture the eye.
The Astronomy Tower, built in the 17th and long used for astronomical observations, also captures the interest of visitors of Clementinum. In the tower, you can not only see the clock mechanism but also enjoy the breathtaking views from the tower’s terrace.
Opening Times: opening hours may vary slightly depending on the season, the Clementinum is generally open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Museum of Communism
Prague has several noteworthy museums, including the Museum of Communism, located in the city center. A visit here offers an immersive experience of the communist era, exploring its politics and propaganda.
The museum’s collection takes you back to life in Czechoslovakia under communist rule from 1948 to 1989. The museum’s walls are lined with propaganda posters, and the exhibits include statues, uniforms, short films, photographs, audio recordings, and many other artifacts from that time. You can also view reproductions of an interrogation room and a school classroom, examine various items designed to protect citizens from chemical warfare and explore the workplaces inside the factory.
Tip: You can buy tickets to the Museum of Communism in advance online here.
St. Vitus Cathedral
An impressive Gothic masterpiece, St. Vitus Cathedral was built over nearly six centuries! Construction began in 1344 and was completed in 1929. This lengthy process means that while the cathedral is predominantly Gothic, it also features elements of Renaissance and Baroque styles. This is one of the most significant religious sites in Prague, as it hosted not only services but also the coronation ceremonies of royal family members.
St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the Prague Castle complex. The exterior of the cathedral is impressive with numerous sculptures and stained-glass windows. Inside, you’ll find vaults and high arches typical of the Gothic style.
The cathedral’s interior is both elegant and sophisticated, with each stained-glass window depicting stories from the country’s history or episodes from the Bible. When sunlight streams through these windows, the interior is illuminated with an indescribable beauty.
The cathedral has an enormous bell weighing 16 tons! Within its walls is St. Wenceslas Chapel, where St. Wenceslas’s tomb is located, along with the tombs of Charles IV and several others. The cathedral also has a tower nearly 100 meters tall, which is equipped with an observation deck. I highly recommend going up to the deck to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Prague.
Opening Hours: during the warm season (April to October), the cathedral is open for visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the cold season (November to March), visiting hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cathedral may be closed to visitors during public holidays or religious ceremonies.
Discover: See availability for a tour of Prague Castle (includes a visit to St. Vitus Cathedral!)
Czech Beer Museum
The Czech Republic is renowned for having the highest beer consumption per capita, so it’s no surprise that Prague is home to the Beer Museum. Exploring the cellars from the 13th century and learning about the culture and history of beer is a fascinating experience. You’ll learn about the brewing process and have the opportunity to sample a variety of flavors.
The tour lasts about 90 minutes, beginning with an overview of the history of beer worldwide, followed by hundreds of historical exhibits, and concluding with the opportunity to put a personalized label on a beer bottle.
Vltava River
In advertisements about Prague, you often see bridges connecting the two banks of the river. That river is the Vltava, a true gem of the Czech capital, not only enhancing the city’s landscape but also offering a range of entertainment options.
For those looking to experience Prague from the water, enjoy a romantic outing, or add variety to their stay, there are several types of cruises available. You can choose from popular evening sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, historical or panoramic tours, rides on open glass boats, and more. If meals are not included, the prices for these cruises are generally quite reasonable, usually up to 20 euros per person.
Church of Our Lady before Tyn
The Church of Our Lady before Tyn stands out in Prague’s skyline with its striking twin towers. The towers reach about 80 meters in height, each featuring 8 smaller spires, which together create a truly impressive sight. This Gothic masterpiece has been a prominent feature of Prague’s Old Town Square since the 14th century.
In the 17th century, the interior of the church was transformed in the Baroque style, and today visitors are greeted with its magnificent splendor. Inside the church, the eye is immediately drawn to the grand altar featuring an image of the Madonna and Child.
The church also houses the tomb of the renowned astronomer Tycho Brahe and has the oldest organ in Prague.
Please note: the church is closed on Mondays. On Sundays, it is open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and on other days, it is open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Discover: Tyn Church classical music concert.
The Prague National Museum
The National Museum, located in the capital of the Czech Republic, is the largest in the country, housing an extensive collection of over 14 million exhibits. It features specialized departments where visitors can explore the history of the Old Czech Republic, natural sciences, specialized areas of social sciences, theater history, and other interesting subjects.
The museum’s largest sections focus on history and nature, showcasing a huge permanent collection that includes prehistoric remains, archaeological artifacts, rock specimens, and other items from around the world.
The National Museum owns the National Museum Library, the National Museum of Asian, African, and American Cultures, and the Czech Museum of Music.
The museum also organizes various cultural and educational programs designed to engage both adults and children.
Tip: You can buy a combined ticket to the National Museum by clicking on this link.
Prague Jewish Quarter
The historical district of Prague is home to several synagogues, residential buildings, and other structures that reflect the rich history and heritage of the Jewish people. In this quarter, tourists frequently visit the Museum of the Jewish Quarter, where they can explore the history of Prague’s Jewish community and unique aspects of life during the occupation.
The museum features a variety of exhibits, including ancient clothing, manuscripts, and other artifacts, along with detailed stories of Holocaust victims and survivors. The Jewish Quarter is also home to the oldest Jewish cemetery in Europe.
Also read: Things to Do in Prague Jewish Quarter
Prague Zoo
For families traveling with children in Prague, visiting the zoos is one of the best activities to do. This zoo is one of the oldest in Europe, it first opened its doors in 1931 and will soon celebrate its centenary! Over the years, the zoo has expanded significantly and now allows visitors to explore a wide range of animals, from common species to rare and endangered ones.
The zoo covers approximately 60 hectares and is home to over 5,000 animals living in excellent conditions. It is divided into thematic pavilions, each designed to replicate the natural habitats of the animals. Popular exhibits include those featuring Southeast Asian wildlife, the Indonesian jungle, gorillas, an elephant valley, a hippo pavilion, and various aquariums, among others.
The Prague Zoo perfectly reflects the fact that modern zoos serve not just as entertainment. They provide excellent educational opportunities and play a crucial role in preserving wildlife and protecting endangered species, helping to create conditions for animals to be reintroduced into their natural habitats. The zoo is known for breeding extremely rare animals, such as Przewalski’s horses, which are endangered.
Tip and Opening hours: I recommend buying tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket office and to pay a little less. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot on uneven paths with some inclines and declines. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May to August, but hours are shorter in other months. Be sure to check the official website for the exact opening times before your visit.
National Gallery Prague
Founded in 1949, this gallery now is located in several historic buildings, including St. George’s Monastery, Kinsky Palace, Sternberg Palace, and the Trade Fair Palace, etc. The gallery’s exhibits cover a long history spanning several centuries: from the Middle Ages to modern art. Each building housing the gallery is dedicated to a specific period or theme.
The collections include thousands of exhibits of painting, sculpture, decorative, and other art. Visitors are captivated by collections of old masters, modern art, Asian art, and others.
Working Hours: The National Gallery is typically open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but hours may vary depending on the specific location. It’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information when planning your visit.
Strahov Monastery
The monastery was established in 1140 but remained relatively unknown until a group of monks settled there in 1143. When visiting, be sure to explore the Church of Saint Roch, the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, and one of the oldest and most important libraries in Europe.
It is an 800-year-old library with an impressive collection of over 200,000 books. What’s truly captivating is not just the library’s impressive collection and its age, but also its interior, as one simply cannot help but admire the stunning Baroque ceiling frescoes. The library has two main halls: Theology and Philosophy.
In the Strahov Gallery, visitors can explore a diversity of artworks, including both religious and historical paintings.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Prague.
The National Theatre In Prague
One of the most significant cultural landmarks in Prague and the entire country is this theater, which hosts drama, opera, and ballet performances. The idea for a national theater in Prague emerged in the 19th century. At that time, most cultural events were conducted in German, creating a need for a theater that would nurture the Czech language. Construction of the theater began in 1868, and its first performance took place in 1881.
I recommend not only attending a show but also taking a tour, where you can learn fascinating details about the building’s history and architectural features, admire the luxurious interior, and get a glimpse behind the scenes.
St. Nicholas Church
Located in the Old Town Square, St. Nicholas Church is one of Prague’s most stunning Baroque masterpieces. While its exterior impresses the public, the interior will leave you even more surprised.
The elaborate and ornate design, with a massive dome and magical ceiling frescoes, leaves an even greater impact. Adding to the church’s magnificence are the lighting elements that create a mesmerizing play of colors and light.
The interior has a lot of marble and gold-colored accents, and it’s impossible to overlook a massive, ornately designed chandelier. In this church, it’s worth both hearing and seeing the impressive organ, which was played by none other than Mozart himself.
Also read: Guide to Old Town Square in Prague
Dancing House
When visiting Prague, you’ll notice an unusual building with a shape that resembles a dancing figure. Located in the heart of the city, this structure houses an art gallery, a restaurant, and a bar with a rooftop terrace.
After visiting it, you will have the opportunity to explore the world of art and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the roof. The Dancing House Gallery hosts exhibitions, lectures, discussions, and art workshops. It occupies three floors and features a diverse range of exhibits, including paintings, photographs, textiles, and furniture.
Lennon Wall
It’s a great place for young artists to reveal their creativity. The wall dedicated to John Lennon, the legendary singer of The Beatles, is truly eye-catching. After Lennon died in 1980, fans began gathering here to leave flowers, write quotes from his songs, and create portraits, caricatures, and various expressions related to freedom were added to the wall.
At the time, the communist regime strictly controlled public expression and suppressed free thought, leading to the wall being cleaned frequently. Yet, artists persistently revived it. It turned into a symbol of protest against the regime and freedom in Prague.
Today, anyone can freely express their artistic talents, share their thoughts, leave messages, or pose for photos near this iconic wall.
Discover: Fat tire electric bike guided tour.
Statue Of King Wenceslas Riding An Upside-Down Dead Horse
While walking through Wenceslas Square, you can visit the nearby Lucerna Palace arcade. Although there are many shops here shops, many tourists who aren’t interested in shopping come specifically to see the unique and eccentric statue of a king sitting on the belly of a dead horse.
The “rider” is St. Wenceslas, who is usually shown majestically on horseback, as seen in Wenceslas Square itself. However, this sculpture is the complete opposite with its grotesque portrayal. The artwork was created by David Černý, an artist renowned for his unusual pieces.
Memorial To The Victims Of Communism
A very significant monument symbolizes the harsh experiences endured during the communist period in the Czech Republic. The memorial was unveiled in 2022. It contains bronze statues on a set of steps, representing individuals whose lives and bodies were ravaged by the oppressive communist regime.
The first figures on the stairs appear to be healthy people, but as you move further, the statues depict increasingly decayed and distorted bodies, some even limbless, etc. The memorial symbolizes suffering, spiritual, and physical decay.
How To Get To Prague
Prague Airport is one of the busiest in Europe. The modern airport handles around fourteen million passengers annually and collaborates with numerous airlines from around the globe. Major international airlines such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Delta, and Korean Air operate flights to Prague. For budget-friendly options, Ryanair and Wizz Air offer some of the cheapest flights from Europe to Prague Airport.
Weather In Prague
Prague experiences a moderate climate with warm summers and cold winters, formed by both continental and Atlantic maritime influences. The weather starts to warm up in spring (May). By June, the average temperature reaches around 17°C, and in July and August, it is about 19°C. Summer generally sees low chances of rain, although occasional short showers can occur. In winter, Prague receives little precipitation, and the average temperature drops to around -1°C.
Average Temperature
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Places To Stay In Prague
Prague offers a wide range of hotels to suit every taste and budget, from luxurious five-star options to simple one-star accommodations. If you want to be close to historical and cultural landmarks, you can stay in the Old Town or Lesser Town.
For those who enjoy entertainment and nightlife, the New Town or Žižkov district would be ideal. If you prefer nature and peace, Hradčany or Vyšehrad are excellent choices.
Below, I’ve listed several hotels across different areas of the city and within various price ranges, so I hope this helps you find the best option for your visit to Prague.
Budget Hotels
- Residence Tabor: economy-class hotel located in the Žižkov district, offering convenient access to the city’s main attractions. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, balconies, TVs, and private bathrooms.
- A1 Royal Plaza: well-rated 3-star hotel, ideally located in the heart of Prague. The rooms are simply furnished and feature flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and private bathrooms.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Iris Hotel Eden – Czech Leading Hotels: located on the outskirts of the center of Prague, offering easy access to the city’s heart via public transport. The spacious and tastefully furnished rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, soundproof walls, and private bathrooms.
- Pytloun Old Armoury Hotel Prague, Stará Zbrojnice: situated in a 17th-century building by the Vltava River, this hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Charles Bridge and the National Theater. The elegantly furnished rooms feature flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and private bathrooms.
Luxury Hotels
- The Mozart Prague: this hotel offers 70 rooms, each equipped with various amenities. The luxuriously decorated hotel offers lounges, a gym, three restaurants, and a spa and wellness center. Those seeking an extravagant and exclusive experience in the Old Town of Prague will definitely like this accommodation.
- Art Nouveau Palace Hotel: located in a convenient location in Prague, so you can easily reach the Old Town. Guests are greeted with the highest-class rooms and a range of services, accompanied by warm hospitality. The luxuriously equipped rooms feature desks, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
How To Get Around Prague
There are numerous ways to get around Prague. For my trip, I chose not to rent a car and instead used public transportation.
The Prague metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel around the city. The metro system spans the city conveniently, allowing easy access to any destination in Prague. It has two lines and a total of sixty-one stops.
You can purchase metro tickets at stations and sometimes at certain hotels. Prices vary depending on whether you buy a one-time ticket or a ticket for several days.
You can also travel around Prague by bus and tram. For reaching more remote areas of Prague, buses are the best option. They run frequently, are affordable, and provide quick access to various destinations. Prague trams are slightly slower than buses and the metro. However, they remain popular with tourists and locals as a fun and affordable way to get around the city.
I do not recommend using traditional taxis in Prague, as they can be quite pricey. Instead, consider using Bolt or Uber.
Please note: a public transport ticket in Prague is valid for use on the metro, buses, and trams for the duration of its validity. After purchasing your ticket, activate it by inserting it into a ticket validator (composter) at the metro entrance or upon entering a bus or tram.
Prague Tours & Activities
If you want to experience Prague from various perspectives and get to know more about its history, culture, and daily life, there are plenty of tours and activities to choose from. Everyone will find something to do in this city. One highly recommended option is a sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks, where a guide will introduce you to the most intriguing sights of Prague.
For those seeking a more unique experience, consider a few-hour ghost and legend walking tour. It’s a slightly scary yet entertaining way to get to know Prague through captivating stories about the city’s darker side.
For those wanting to enjoy the alluring atmosphere of Prague, a cruise on the Vltava River is a must. This offers a fantastic opportunity to view the city from a completely different angle. You will pass the main attractions and take in stunning views of the city. While daytime boat cruises provide excellent sightseeing opportunities, the most memorable experiences often come in the evening. As the sun sets, the city’s buildings light up, creating a special aura.
Faqs About What To See In Prague
When is the best time to go to Prague?
The best times to visit Prague are in May and from September to October. In the summer, Prague is crowded with tourists, prices rise, and attractions are busy.
How many days do you need to visit Prague?
Three days is sufficient to explore the main sights of Prague and fully enjoy the city.
What are the top 3 things to see in Prague?
In my opinion, some of the best things to do in Prague are a tour of the National Museum, a visit to the Clementinum Library, and a trip to the Prague Zoo.
Can you drink water from the tap in Prague?
Prague’s tap water is safe, high-quality, and ready to drink straight from the tap. For trips outside the city, I recommend a water purification bottle like the Grayl GeoPress. I take it on all my trips, and it’s always reliable.
What is the best currency to take to Prague?
It’s a good idea to carry some Czech crowns (CZK) when traveling to Prague, as some places only accept cash. However, most shops, bars, restaurants, and attractions do accept card payments.
Can you get by with only English in Prague?
Of course. Most hotel, restaurant, and museum staff in Prague speak fluent English, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around.
Is Prague a safe city to visit?
Yes, Prague is a safe city to visit. As with any tourist destination, it’s wise to take standard precautions and keep an eye on your belongings.
What museums should you visit in Prague?
You should visit the National Museum, Illusion Art Museum, Museum of the Senses, and the Museum of Communism in Prague.
What should you bring back from a trip to Prague?
Puppet marionettes are loved and popular in Prague. Additionally, the Czech Republic is renowned for its red garnet, a royal stone. Jewelry decorated with this gemstone makes a wonderful souvenir for your loved ones.
What food should you try during a trip to Prague?
The Czech Republic takes pride in its cuisine. Try goulash with knedliky, fried cheese, meat-stuffed potatoes with sauerkraut, and traditional roasted chicken. Czech beer is also a significant part of the local culture, so be sure to try some during your visit.
Book your flight
Skyscanner is my favorite tool for finding the cheapest flights and flight combinations. Using the Multi-city or Explore Everywhere features, I always discover great travel deals.
Rent a car
Discovercars.com is my top choice for comparing car rental prices for any road trip around the world. The booking experience is always smooth and easy.
Find your acommodation
Booking.com is my trusted platform for finding the best accommodation deals. For trips across Asia, I prefer using Agoda, which often provides lower prices.
Travel insurance
If you're from the USA, I highly recommend VisitorsCoverage for its excellent insurance plans. For Europeans, Truetraveller provides top-notch coverage at the best rates.
Explore more with Tours
Some destinations truly come to life with a guide who knows their history and secrets. When I want to make the most of my time, I always use GetYourGuide.
Protect yourself online by VPN
No matter where I go, I always use NordVPN for secure browsing and to ensure I can access websites that might be blocked in certain countries.
Disclosure: I only suggest companies that I personally rely on. If you use the affiliate links in my posts to book services, I’ll earn a small commission, with no extra cost to you.
This was the complete list of what to see in Prague. I hope you liked it!
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
