Prague

What are the most recommended things to do in Prague?

  • Explore Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Walk across Charles Bridge and enjoy river views
  • Visit Old Town Square and see the Astronomical Clock
  • Discover the Jewish Quarter and historic synagogues
  • Relax in Letná Park and admire city panoramas
  • Tour the National Museum and National Gallery
  • Enjoy a boat cruise on the Vltava River
  • Sample Czech cuisine and beer at local pubs
  • Visit Vyšehrad Fortress for history and views
  • Attend classical music concerts or cultural performances

Introducing Prague

Prague, the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, is located in the heart of continental Europe, straddling both banks of the Vltava River. It is a beautiful, ancient hill town. It was the first city in the world to be designated a World Heritage Site. Goethe called Prague "the most beautiful city in Europe."

Thousands of medieval buildings are well-preserved here, with Baroque and Gothic styles being particularly prevalent. Gothic and Baroque spires can be seen throughout every street and alley in the Old Town, earning Prague the nickname "The City of a Hundred Spires." The city's splendor under sunlight has earned it the nickname "Golden Prague."

In addition to its historic churches, castles, and streets, numerous opera houses, concert halls, museums, and cinemas contribute to the city's intellectual elegance. It's the hometown of writer Franz Kafka, considered "the epitome of mystery" by philosopher Nietzsche, and is closely associated with musicians like Mozart and Dvorák, as well as another great writer, Milan Kundera.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, suitable for tourism all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Prague Castle

This vast complex, encompassing churches, palaces, and courtyards, is roughly the size of seven football fields, holding the Guinness World Record for the largest ancient castle. Prague Castle boasts three courtyards, several historic streets, galleries, gardens, and St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in the Czech Republic. Every year at 12:00 noon, a changing of the guard ceremony takes place in the First Atrium at the west entrance, attracting many visitors.


Old Town Square

One of the most important trade markets in Central Europe during the 11th and 12th centuries, this market, situated between Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge, boasts a 900-year history. The surrounding architecture features a variety of styles, including the Gothic Church of Our Lady of Tyn and the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas. A statue of the renowned Czech reformer Hus stands in the square, commemorating the 500th anniversary of his death. Today, the square is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and cafes. The tower of the Old Town Hall, located adjacent to the square, offers panoramic views of the old town.


Charles Bridge

Built in the 14th century, Charles Bridge was the gateway for coronation processions of successive Czech kings. It's often said, "You haven't really been to Prague until you've crossed this bridge." Charles Bridge is 516 meters long and 10 meters wide. It's known as "Europe's open-air Baroque sculpture gallery." Its sides are adorned with sculptures and reliefs, masterpieces of Czech Baroque art from the 17th and 18th centuries. At either end of Charles Bridge stand two towers—the Old Town Tower and the Lesser Town Tower. Climb the towers for panoramic views of Charles Bridge and Prague, which are even more stunning in the evening as the sun sets.

Free, but climbing the tower costs 15-30 kroner


Tyne Cathedral

Commonly known as the Devil's Church, it is a representative building in the Old Town of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. It has been the main church in the area since the 14th century. It is located behind the Old Town Square in Prague and is the oldest building in the Old Town Square. The exterior is gloomy and dark. The church has two 80-meter-high spires, like two burning torches, becoming the focus of the Old Town Square. No matter where we are in the square, we can easily find it.


It is recommended to visit for 5 to 6 days

Tickets

Prague Castle:

Regular ticket: Grand Pass (9 attractions) 350 CZK

Small ticket (4 attractions) 250 CZK, guide 350 CZK

Attraction opening hours

Prague Castle

April 1st - October 31st, Monday - Sunday 09:00-18:00 (Opening hours)

November 1st - March 31st of the following year, Monday to Sunday, 09:00-16:00 (Opening hours)


Tyne Cathedral

Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-13:00 15:00-17:00 Sunday 10:00-13:00, closed on Monday


Most Popular FAQs for Prague

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, dates back over a thousand years and is renowned for its medieval architecture, cultural heritage, and role as a political, economic, and cultural center in Central Europe. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Located in central Bohemia, Czech Republic
  • Prague Václav Havel Airport connects via buses, taxis, and shuttle services
  • City transportation includes metro, trams, buses, and taxis
  • Many central attractions are walkable, especially in Old Town and Lesser Town

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most museums: 10 AM–6 PM, some close on Mondays
  • Churches and castles: 9 AM–5 PM
  • Best months: May–September for good weather; December for Christmas markets
  • Avoid major holidays for smaller crowds

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Prague Castle: 250–350 CZK; tickets online or at entrance
  • St. Vitus Cathedral: included with castle ticket
  • National Museum: approx. 250 CZK; online or at ticket office
  • Jewish Museum: 500 CZK for full circuit; purchase online or at gates
  • Boat cruises: 300–500 CZK; book online or on-site

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For Prague Castle, Jewish Museum, and popular concerts, book 1–2 weeks ahead. Outdoor areas and bridges require no advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–4 days to cover major landmarks, museums, parks, and a day trip or river cruise.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock
  • Charles Bridge
  • Jewish Quarter
  • Vyšehrad Fortress
  • Letná and Petřín Parks
  • National Museum and National Gallery

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in Czech, English, German, French, Spanish, and other languages at major attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Charles Bridge at sunrise or sunset
  • Prague Castle grounds
  • Petřín Hill and Observation Tower
  • Letná Park terrace overlooking the city
  • Vyšehrad Fortress walls

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge. Day 2: Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Lobkowicz Palace. Day 3: Jewish Quarter, National Museum, river cruise. Day 4: Letná and Petřín parks, Vyšehrad Fortress.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

  • Evening castle and Old Town tours
  • Night river cruises
  • Seasonal Christmas or Easter markets with lights
  • Classical music and opera performances in historic venues

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Summer and holidays are crowded. Weekdays and early mornings are quieter. Winter (except Christmas) has fewer tourists.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions provide toilets, cafes, water fountains, benches, and souvenir shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most museums and public areas are wheelchair accessible; some historic sites have limited access due to stairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; small cash amounts are useful for markets and street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Café Louvre for traditional Czech cuisine and coffee
  • Mlejnice for local dishes
  • Lokál Dlouhááá for beer and Czech specialties
  • Grand Café Orient for a historic Art Deco experience
  • Boat restaurants along the Vltava River

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Prague has vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly restaurants throughout the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Hotel Kings Court
  • Aria Hotel Prague
  • Grandior Hotel Prague
  • Hotel Paris Prague
  • NYX Hotel Prague

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Karlštejn Castle (40 min by train)
  • Kutná Hora with Sedlec Ossuary (1-hour train)
  • Český Krumlov (2.5 hours by train)
  • Konopiště Castle (45 min by car)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Bohemian crystal and glassware
  • Czech garnet jewelry
  • Wooden toys and marionettes
  • Beer mugs and local beers
  • Postcards, magnets, and traditional crafts

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Trains and buses to nearby towns and castles
  • Metro, trams, and taxis for city travel
  • Car rental for flexible regional trips
  • River cruises for scenic travel along the Vltava