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13 things to do in Prague: the complete guide for first-time and experienced travellers
There is an endless array of things to do in Prague. From centuries-old castles to sipping Czech beer on a river cruise, there’s something for everyone. Check out our post to find out the top 13 treats that the charming Czech capital has in store for you!
1. Prague River Cruise - the best way to see Prague’s stunning skyline
What better way to soak in the beauty of Prague than on a relaxing river cruise down the Vltava River? As you glide along, you’ll take in many of Prague’s most impressive sights, bridges and buildings, including the majestic 9th-century Prague Castle. This is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Prague.
- You can buy a combination bus and river cruise ticket for only €45 for a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus + cruise, or even better value, €53 for 48 hours on the bus + cruise!
2. Staromestske Namesti AKA Old Town Square
If you know anything about Prague, you’ll know that it’s full of old stuff. And the appropriately named Old Town Square is, indeed, old. Founded in the 12th century, it was Prague’s original marketplace.
Some of the city’s most famous architecture is here, and in a city famous for its architecture, that’s saying something! Highlights are the Gothic Týn Church, the baroque Church of St. Nicholas and the statue of Jan Hus, the religious reformer who met a grim end due to his beliefs. The unfortunate fellow was burned at the stake in 1415 for heresy. Dungeons, chambers and tunnels
- Old Town Square is right in the centre of the old town in Prague and is very easy to find! It’s a public square, open all hours and free to enter.
3.Prague Astronomical Clock: a masterpiece of engineering
The one-of-a-kind Prague Astronomical Clock is another of Old Town Square’s fascinating buildings and one of the more original things to do in Prague. In fact, this clock-like construction is so special that it gets its own bullet point!
Every hour, as the clock strikes the hour, the 600-year-old timepiece puts on a show. 12 figures of the Apostles pop out and parade before your eyes. It’s 27 seconds of unbridled joy!
- This gem is part of Old Town City Hall in Prague’s Old Town Square. It puts on its show from 09:00 to 23:00, and it’s free.
4. Náplavka: Bohemian beats by the river
Had enough of Prague’s many tourist haunts? Want to see what the locals are up to? Make like a Czech and check out Náplavka, Prague’s trendy riverbank area. This is one of the more authentic things to do in Prague.
Take a peaceful walk, cycle or skate along the river, accompanied by views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
If you’re lucky enough to be in the area on a Saturday morning, make sure you go to the farmer’s market for fresh local produce and live music!
- Náplavka riverbank is open and free to walk along at any time. The farmer’s market takes place every Saturday from 08:00 to late afternoon. It’s free to attend, but of course, you’ll have to pay for drinks and snacks.
5. Ginger & Fred, the Prague Dancing House
If there’s one building that’s bound to get your knickers in a twist, it’s the utterly bonkers Ginger & Fred. This twisty-twirly corkscrew of a building is named after the dancing duo because of its resemblance to a pair of dancers.
Nowadays, this crazily curved construction is more commonly referred to as the Prague Dancing House. The fancy restaurant on top is Ginger and Fred. Come here for sunset cocktails and spectacular vistas of Prague.
- Prague Dancing House is right on the Vltava River, at Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město. The bar is free to enter – drinks not included!
6. Vyšehrad: a fairy tale fort overlooking the city
On a rocky outcrop hovering over the Vltava River, you’ll see the imposing Vyšehrad. A visit to this 10th-century fort is one of the unmissable things to do in Prague if you want to really get to know the city.
Like every centuries-old fort, Vyšehrad has its legends. Tales abound of visionary pagan princesses, treasure hidden in nearby caves and princes imprisoning knights.
You might not experience the same levels of excitement at today’s Vyšehrad. However, you will be able to wander through the tranquil grounds, admire the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul and take in top views of Prague.
- Entrance to Vyšehrad is free! The complex is open from 10:00 – 18:00 every day.
7. Prague Castle, a medieval gem
Now, we’ve reached number 7 on our list of the top things to do in Prague. You’ve probably been wondering when the incredible Prague Castle was going to make an appearance!
Majestically perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this sprawling complex is the largest ancient castle in the world.
Head up to the grand Prague Castle for a dose of medieval grandeur and architectural eye candy. Marvel at the wonderful St. Vitus Cathedral, roam the picturesque Golden Lane and keep a space in your diary at 12.00 to catch the changing of the guards.
- The grounds of Prague Castle are free to roam around.
- You can buy tickets for the circuit (including entrance to the Old Royal Palace, St. George´s Basilica, Golden Lane and St. Vitus Cathedral).They are CZK 450 (€18) for an adult and CZK 300 (€12) for a child or senior. Prague Castle is open from 06:00 – 22:00 every day.
8. Josefov, Prague’s Jewish Quarter
Step into the atmospheric streets of Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish Quarter. This area is rich in history and offers plenty for the budding historian to do.
Visit the haunting Jewish Museum to learn about the stories of the Jewish community’s struggle and resilience and to pay your respects at the Old Jewish Cemetery.
And check out the confusingly named Old-New Synagogue – at over 750 years old, it is definitely more old than new! In fact, this is the oldest working synagogue in Europe.
- The Jewish Quarter itself is an open district in the city. It is open all hours and is free. If you want to enter its synagogues and museums, you have to buy tickets for the Jewish Town Circuit.
9. Charles Bridge: one of the most popular things to do in Prague
In yet another superlative for this super city, Charles Bridge is the oldest stone bridge in the whole of Europe. Built between 1357 and 1400, this iconic bridge was the only bridge connecting Prague and its castle until 1841.
As you walk across the bridge, you’ll see street performers, artists, and vendors selling traditional Czech souvenirs, all against the backdrop of Prague Castle and the Vltava River.
Make sure you keep an eye out for the 30 (yes, 30!) statues of saints mounted on the bridge.
- This well-known bridge is not difficult to find – it is on the main pedestrian route between the Old Town and Prague Castle. It’s open 24 hours and free to cross.
10. Paternoster Lift: one of the most unusual things to do in Prague
OK, first things first. What the heck is a paternoster lift?? It’s a vintage elevator that operates without doors.
Sound scary? Well, to make matters worse, this lift operates on a continuous loop of ascending and descending floors. Hence, the attraction has a spine-chilling synonym: the Prague Elevator of Death!
So, if you’re feeling brave, wait for your chance and hop in this doorless, never-ending loop of ascent and descent!
- The Paternoster Lift is located in Prague Town Hall. Tickets are sold by Prague City Tourism (PCT) and cost CZK 250 (€10). It opens from Monday to Friday at 08:00, and the closing time varies: Monday: 17:00, Tuesday and Thursday: 16:00, Wednesday: 18:00 and Friday: 15:00.
11. Žižkov TV Tower: Art, Architecture and Crawling Babies
For an unrivalled panorama of Prague’s skyline, head to the Žižkov TV Tower. This futuristic building is Prague’s tallest. It offers a 360-degree panorama of the city from its 93-metre-high observation deck.
But that’s not all. Its facade is covered with larger-than-life crawling baby sculptures, created by renowned Czech artist David Černý. It’s a sight that’s both awe-inspiring and slightly unnerving.
- Žižkov TV Tower is open from 09:00 – 00:00 every day. You can buy tickets online and the basic entry ticket is CZK 300 (€12).
12. Prague Metronome: the symbol of Prague’s transition from communism
Venture to leafy Letná Park and come face-to-face with the Prague Metronome. This is not your average timekeeping device. In fact, it’s a symbol of the city’s journey from its communist past to newfound liberty.
Built in 1991, this kinetic sculpture is built in the exact spot where an enormous statue of Stalin once stood.
Take a stroll next to this meaningful monument to enjoy one of the best Prague viewpoints while you appreciate the strides the city has taken towards progress and liberation.
- The Prague Metronome is in Letná Park, overlooking the Vltava River. It is free and open all hours.
13. Sapa Praha: Prague’s Little Vietnam
You might be in the Czech Republic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience other cultures. Surprisingly, Prague has a Vietnamese neighbourhood, Sapa Praha!
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavours of Southeast Asian cuisine as you weave through the colourful market stalls and taste delicious delicacies. From mouth-watering Banh Mi sandwiches to fragrant Pho soups, Sapa Praha will transport you to the streets of Hanoi without leaving Prague.
- Sapa Praha is outside the city centre. It is free to enter, but you will have to pay for those tasty Vietnamese treats!
Get your bags packed for Prague!
Well, that was a wild ride through one of Europe’s most buzzing cities! We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to get back to Prague soon and check off everything on this list and more.
So, what are you waiting for? Happy exploring!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Prague is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these times, the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller and you can enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions comfortably. Additionally, Prague hosts various festivals and events during these periods, adding to the overall experience.
Museums are one of the best things to do in Prague. Some of the best museums worth visiting are:
- Prague Castle: Explore the historical and architectural wonders within the castle complex.
- Narodni Museum: Learn about Czech history, art, and culture in this renowned museum.
- Jewish Museum: Delve into Prague’s Jewish heritage through various exhibitions and historical artifacts.
- Museum of Communism: Gain insights into Czechoslovakia’s communist era through exhibits and narratives.
- Mucha Museum: Discover the artistry of Alphonse Mucha, a prominent Art Nouveau painter, in this dedicated museum.
For unique souvenirs in Prague, consider visiting the following places:
- Havelská Market: Browse through stalls offering handmade crafts, artwork, and traditional Czech products.
- Galerie Černá Labuť: Explore a gallery showcasing contemporary Czech art, jewelry, and design pieces.
- Prague Christmas Markets: During the holiday season, the markets offer an array of festive souvenirs, crafts, and decorations unique to Prague.