Top Things To Do In Prague

Prague is a incredibly magical capital city, seeped in beauty, history, culture, culinary delights, a unique atmosphere and of course over flowing with delicious Czech Pilsen beer. Whether you’re visiting Prague and Czech Republic for a weekend getaway, passing through on a European whirlwind tour or making this the base of a larger trip around our beautiful country, you will not be disappointed with all the things you can do during your stay in Prague, Czech Republic.

Below we’ve listed the most recommended things to do in Prague, by both locals and visitors. We locals love our city and we are very proud of the countless wonders of our capital city, “a symphony of stones” and our visitors and guests are astonished at the magnitude of ‘must-see’ sites in such a small European city.

Our offer and list of what to do in Prague includes the best experiences, day trips and day tours you can choose to do as a local or as a tourist. If you have more time in Prague, definitely check the special list of “Secrets of Prague” and if you are looking to leave the capital city for single day trips or for overnights of one or more nights, then check out the links with trips and tours out of Prague. We can recommend even more trips, tours and excursions so that you can enjoy your stay in Prague and the Czech Republic to the max.

Tram line going through the heart of Prague. Prague public transport.
The ancient astronomical clock located in Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic.
Charles Bridge in Prague
Sunset over Prague Castle and Charles Bridge
The world famous astronomical clock in the center of Prague, Czech Republic.
The Dancing House in Prague, Czech Republic, representing Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
The impressive St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle
Historical car in front of the Prague Castle
1. Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) with St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Víta) and Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička) – Largest Ancient Castle in the World!

While this list doesn’t have any ranking system, we did make the Prague Castle number one because it really does stand out. It’s the backdrop of nearly every photo of Prague, it stands above the city on a hill and you can see it from so many other key locations in Prague. The castle gives you the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time and are living in a true fairy tale, our Bohemian fairy tale. 

Learn about the deep history of the castle that spans over 1,000 years, explore the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral located in the castle walls and take a stroll down the quaint Golden Lane where you can delight in the former castle guards’ housing and later goldsmiths workshops.

2. Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) with Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj)

Standing in Old Town Square is enough to make you pause and contemplate the incredible ability of human kind. The large square gives great views of the two large churches St. Nicolas and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Kinský Palace (an art museum) and the Town Hall from which is displayed the world famous Prague Astronomical Clock. 

A stroll around the massive square can be done solo or in group or private tours so that you and your travel companions will leave with a deeper admiration for the architecture and history that completely surround you. 

3. Charles Bridge (Karlův most)

The Charles Bridge is one of the most recognizable sites after the Prague Castle. It was an engineering feat in the 14th and 15th century when it was constructed by the King Charles IV who became its namesake later after several changes in name. At that time it was the only way in which to cross the Vltava River, which divides Prague in half, therefore becoming extremely important and significant for the people. 

But for the thousands of visitors who cross the bridge, many simply walk  past the nearly 30 baroque style statues without realizing the history they are passing by and over. To make this experience truly memorable, we suggest a special guided tour to leave you in awe of the splendor and ingenuity of this construction. 

4. Petrin Hill ( Petřín)

Petrin Hill is a prominent view from many locations in Prague, this tree-covered hill rises up along the western edge of Prague, with an Eiffel-tower like structure at the top as well as a rose garden and many other fruit trees which made up part of the royal gardens and orchards at the Petrin Hill rolls into the gardens located just below the Prague Castle. The hill is popular among locals as well as tourists as there is a maze of paths, criss-crossing the hills, with spectacular views north to the castle, east to the Old Town and south to the financial and business districts. 

The hill stretches about 130 meters above the Vltava banks and is quite steep and while it is a lovely walk and the perfect opportunity for getting in some extra steps, there is also a vehicular that can take you up one or two stops to two different stations, where you can get out and enjoy the views further.   

5. Hradcany Square (Hradčanské náměstí)

Outside the castle there is so much more to discover! Passing through the gates and waving a good-bye to the guards, take a stroll past grand buildings which hold important governmental offices, each one a masterful work of art, statues and fountains crafted to honor historical figures, and galleries and shops which highlight some of the best craftsmanship of Czech artists from past to present. 

Get a private guided tour of this historically and politically significant neighborhood, ensuring that your walk will bring you new understanding and a better appreciation for your surroundings. 

Top Things To Do In Prague

prague-astrological-clock-old-town-square

Classic Trail:
1. Prague Castle –> Hradcany Square –> Malostranske Square
2. Wenceslas Square –> Old Town Square –> Charles Bridge –> Malostranske Square
Don’t Miss “Must-See”
1. Vyšehrad Castle
2. Vitkov Hill
With Kids:
1. Holešovice & Stromovka Park –> Prague Zoo
2. Petrin Hill –> Letna Park
Fun and Festivals:
1. Naplavka Riverfront
2. Vinohrady

6. Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)

Wenceslas Square would better be called a boulevard for its immense length (750m or nearly .5 miles) as it stretches from the National Museum at one end towards Old Town Square at the other. This massive pedestrian walk is part of the business and financial heart of the city of Prague, full of high end retail shops and office buildings, and home to  many cultural events throughout the year, especially on national holidays and celebrations. Admire the many distinguished buildings which line this key economic zone within Prague. 

Find out why this important square was once named Horse Market and currently has two names, Wenceslas and Václavské náměstí (square). 

7. Vyšehrad Castle

The other castle on the other hill, Vyšehrad nearly hangs off a rocky cliff above the Vltava River, south of the Prague Castle and visible from most places along the river. The hilltop fortress was built just after the Prague Castle and at different moments in time, was the official seat of power for the king. The beautiful neo-Gothic styled Basilica of St. Peter and Paul and the Romanesque rotunda and bridge are truly extraordinary. 

Many myths and legends surround the foundation of Vyšehrad and how the statues seen in the main green space of the inner gardens got there. 

8. Malostranske Square (Malostranské náměstí)

Located directly at the foot of the hill below the Prague Castle and a short walk from Charles Bridge, this heavily trafficked area is popular for its incredible example of baroque art in St. Nicholas Church, considered the best specimen of baroque art in Prague. Straying a bit from the square and you can see why so many embassies have chosen to make Malostranske neighborhood home. 

Enjoy a privately guided tour of one of the best preserved outdoor historical places in the city. 

9. Náplavka

Naplavka is a promenade or riverfront walk along the eastern banks of the Vltava River, towards the southern end of Prague. In recent years it has become a favorite for both locals and visitors, where you can go for a stroll to take a break from the busier city streets, enjoy the art displayed along the walk, or have dinner or a drink at one of the small restaurants or even botel (boat + hotel) or boat restaurants located either on the riverfront or docked on it. 

If you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, then be sure to check out a farmer’s market tour which will allow you to see, smell, and – best of all – taste all of the amazing local delicacies such as local cheeses, pastries and sausages. The tour does a wonderful job of explaining the historical importance of the Vltava River on both banks as well as give you a look into how Czech cuisine has been changing in recent years. 

10. Letna Park (Letenská pláň)  

Letna (meaning “summery” in Czech) is a large expansive green park located high above the Vltava River, overlooking all of Prague and a view of the Prague Castle. The views from the park reach the southernmost ends of the city most days and show how the Vltava dramatically cuts the city, giving it a unique peninsula in the north, where Letna is located. The park has been made famous by the large ticking metronome which replaced a Soviet statue of Stalin (15.5 m or 51 ft), torn down in 1962, however the name remains, and the metronome is referred to as “Stalin” till this day. 

There are many ways to enjoy a park in a city. There is a beer garden at one end, which is bustling in the warm spring, summer and autumn days and nights by local families and dogs. Or you could partake in the popular bike tours which whisk you through the large park as well as onto Stromovka, another enormous park which is dotted with small ponds, winding pathways and lots of green space. 

The residential area in between the two beautiful parks is called Letna and it is one of the hipster areas of the city, providing many gourmet coffee shops, cocktail bars and a wide variety of restaurants. The bike tour will allow you a chance to see all of this as well as end with a stop in one of the most popular (and unique) bars in the neighborhood.   

11. Holesovice Výstaviště Praha Holešovice into Stromovka Park

If you are looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Old Town or Wenceslas Square, then set course for the neighborhood and park north of Prague, Holesovice. There you will find the Industrial Palace, an exhibition hall built in 1891, and if you are lucky enough, the Křižík’s light fountain. If you continue on from the exhibition halls, you’ll soon find yourself in a calm, serene park with lots of leafy trees, small ponds, walking and running paths and silence!

It’s great for a picnic or walk with your family, for a run, to throw a ball around or allow the kids to use up their energy. 

12. Prague Zoo (Zoologická zahrada hl. m. Prahy)

It comes as a surprise to many that Prague offers such a fascinating and well-run zoo, filled with many exotic animals from around the world including an African Savannah section, several houses devoted to strange and unique lizards and reptiles, and all the big draws: lions, elephants and giraffes. 

This is the perfect ‘in town’ get-away for families and kids of all ages. The zoo is located in a quiet neighborhood of Prague towards the north end. Found on a hill which is also home to a botanical garden and several small vineyards, the zoo is well laid out to allow for maximum enjoyment and excitement. 

If you and your family need some help getting there and would like to see a bit more along the way, then grab one of these Zoo Transfers, including a guided tour of the Troja neighborhood and stop for a delicious meal at one of the most typical Czech restaurants for lunch before or after. 

13. National Memorial on Vítkov Hill (Národní památník na Vítkově)

Vítkov Hill can be seen rising high above the Žižkov neighborhood in Prague, with the third largest bronze equestrian statue in the world. This memorial and the statue are important and significant in the founding of the Czech-Slovak nation. The man on the horse is Jan Žižka who led the Hussites to win a battle against the Catholics in 1420 on this very location. The statue stands in front of the National Memorial which also holds the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

From nearly every angle atop Vítkov Hill you can have a wonderful view of Prague, north to Holesovice, west to the castle or south to the Žižkov Tower. 

14. Vinohrady – party place and good neighborhood bars 

Vinohrady means ‘vineyard’ in English, as it was once part of the mandatory vineyards built outside of the walls of Prague. The neighborhood is now one of the more upscale, family friendly neighborhoods in the city. The long streets stretching from New Town are your best chance for strolling along, admiring amazing architecture and design. You’ll find the Czech National Radio station, several synagogues, many churches from varying ages and styles of design, a traditional market building and several squares and parks in a short walk. 

Most of the buildings are apartments, each one with a distinct facade, unique window design and many have statues, sculptures and frescoes painted on the third, fourth or even fifth floor, so make sure to keep your eyes up when walking through this lovely neighborhood. 

Vinohrady is also populated with many restaurants, cafes and bars, some very typically Czech, with long standing traditional beer and dishes; others are brand new, offering the latest fad food or drink.

These are only some of the recommendations that locals and visitors have made. But the list is incomplete as Prague and the Czech Republic have even more to offer. If you would like to combine some of these above suggestions in an exciting day package or even a 2, 3 or 4-day tour package, for you and a small or private group, we would love to be able to mix and match and create a unique and individualized package deal that best suits your needs and desires. 

Important Information: Prague is located in the Schengen Zone, which is a free-travel zone within the European Union. It includes 26 countries in total. Depending on where you are coming from, you might need to secure a visa for the Schengen Zone before visiting the Czech Republic. Please be sure to consider this fact before making plans to visit Prague so that you do not experience any problems upon arrival. Also be be aware that the Czech Republic uses the Czech Korona (czk) rather than the euro since we are not in the eurozone. We look forward to your visit!

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