Prague, one of my favourite cities in Europe, is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. The city features almost everything a traveller looks for in their European destination, from renaissance architecture and gothic buildings to contemporary art and a much-elated nightlife. The Czech capital is a perfect place to travel, and it’s pretty easy to find things to do in Prague.
Romanesque cathedrals, gothic chapels, elaborate bridges and cubist architecture; Prague is a pool of different architectural styles, making it one of the unique places to visit in Europe.
So, while you think over and prioritise your list of attractions to cover in Prague, I must tell you that everything in the city is just worth visiting. Every time you visit an attraction, you learn something new about it.
Prague: City of a Hundred Spires
Prague is a historical city and central Europe’s economic, political and cultural hub. The city acted as a hub for significant reforms during Bohemian and the Protestants reformations and was a post-communist capital rule. The golden city, the Heart of Europe and the Mother of cities are some of the names given to Prague.
Apart from history and architecture, I prefer Prague over other European cities for several reasons. One of those reasons can indeed be “the weather”. The city is warm in summer and chilly in winter, making it a perfect travel destination to visit throughout the year.
Prague is also known for its entertaining nightlife, and you cannot miss it. Hop the clubs, sit in the pubs with a pint of your favourite beer with your pals and discuss your following destinations or your plans for tomorrow.
So without wasting any more time, let me give you several other reasons to visit Prague in this detailed itinerary, along with some exciting things to do in Prague.
1. Things to do in Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s UNESCO world heritage site constitutes the old town, the lesser town and the new town. Although very much walkable, Prague has perfectly efficient and good public transport.
It is relatively easy to find, But being in a European city, I would recommend you wander around on those cobblestoned streets and get lost in time.
1.1. Stroll across Charles Bridge
Being the most popular tourist attraction in Prague, especially for a first-timer, Charles Bridge is constantly flooded with people and is the most crowded place in Prague. The views from the bridge are to die for, both day and night.
You can walk across the bridge during the day and admire the stunning views. At night, amuse yourself with the mesmerising views of the lit-up Prague Castle and musical performances around the bridge. I bet this will be an experience for a lifetime.
Charles Bridge extends over the river Vltava and connects Old town to Mala Strana. It extends from the side where the old town and the new town site to the other side with Mala Strana and Prague Castle district. It was built in a span of good 50 years and is approximately 700 years old. The bridge also features almost 30 Baroque-style statues.
1.2. Admire the Views from the Old Town Tower
This gothic tower of the old town bridge tower was built in 1383 and had stunning views of the Vltava river and the old town of Prague. Located just between the Charles Bridge and the old town, the bridge tower leads tourists to a gallery over the Old Town Square with amazing views.
Apart from the old town tower bridge, you can also check out the Dancing House, Strahov Monastery and St. Nicholas Church tower for more incredible views making your visit to Prague, the Czech Republic, more Instagram-worthy.
1.3. Visit Prague Castle
Prague Castle, is also known as the largest ancient castle in the World, is located in Hradcany (also known as the Castle district). Set on a hill with a mesmerising view of the Vltava river, the Prague Castle sits on almost 45 hectares of land. Once served as the seat for Czech rulers, the palace is now an official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
The complex combines not only palaces but also St. Vitus Cathedral, a monastery, churches, art galleries, and the President’s state offices and residences.
While the entry grounds of Prague Castle are accessible, other buildings such as the Basilica of St. George, St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane can be visited through a ticket.
1.4. Wander around the Old Town Square
While the list of things to do in Prague is incomplete without a visit to the old town square, I should tell you the square teleports you to another world that includes all sorts of art, music and architecture.
The Old Town Square is a hub of architecture located just in the city centre. The square features some of the best markets in the world where you can get anything from souvenirs to food and hot wine. If you visit Prague in winter, getting yourself a hot wine can take a long way.
During peak tourist seasons and winter holidays, the square is flooded with people, and almost everything is overpriced. Hence, buying souvenirs or eating food elsewhere is highly recommended if you are travelling economically.
1.5. Explore St. Vitus Cathedral
Included in the attractions located on the castle grounds, St. Vitus Cathedral is hundreds of years old and can be seen from around Prague’s gorgeous city. Vitus Cathedral is a beauty with massive sky-touching spires and numerous gothic arches and gargoyles.
The cathedral is also home to the tomb of St John of Nepomuk and St.Wenceslas Chapel. It is also a sight where you can see beautiful art in Nouveau stained glass.
1.6. Stroll down the Golden Lane
Popularly known as the playground for alchemists, Golden lane is said to be the street where Alchemists looked for a reaction to turn physical masses into gold.
While the legend is debatable, these myths and tales make the tour unforgettable.
1.7. Witness the Astronomical Clock Show
Conveniently, sitting on the top of the old town hall tower, this historical, legendary astronomical clock is a masterpiece. Installed in 1410, the clock consists of the astronomical dial, a display of the sun and the moon, and other details where at every hour when the famous Astronomical clock strikes, the 12 apostles do their Walk of the Apostles.
While the performance by the Astronomical Clock is a trending topic of discussion, the climb up the old town hall tower is much talked about. For most free walking tours, stop by the clock’s base to enjoy the show.
1.8. Explore the Jewish Quarter
Situated in between the Vltava River and the old town, the Jewish Quarter is also known as Josefov. The history of the Prague Jewish Quarter began when the Jews were confined to a small area of land and given a small plot to use as a cemetery in the 13-century.
According to the jew traditions, the remains of the dead cannot be moved. Hence, forcing them to bury more people on the top and move headstones up. This old Jewish cemetery is stuffed with many tombstones in a small piece of land, making it an essential part of its history.
The cemetery still has 4 synagogues intact, including the Maisel Synagogue and Spanish Synagogue. Some tours are specially designed to entertain the tourist’s knowledge of Jew history, including entrance to Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue and Spanish Synagogue, as well.
So, while you are in Prague, the Jewish cemetery and Jewish museum are worth being jotted down on your things to do in Prague list.
1.9. Take Photographs with John Lennon’s Wall
Located in Mala Strana, just across the Charles Bridge, The John Lennon wall serves as a shrine for The Beatles as it has been covered in John Lennon and the band’s graffiti along with its lyrics and quotes since the 80s.
Though Lennon’s wall initially paid homage to the World’s most famous band, it soon became popular among youth to air grievances against the government. Now it serves as an open-air gallery and tops my list of things to do in Prague.
1.10. Walk Back in Time on the Streets Of Mala Strana
When you are finished exploring Prague Castle, take a stroll down the hill to the historic neighbourhood of Mala Strana. Irrespective of the season, this street tops the list of places which never fall short of things to do. This fact might be a reason why the street is always crowded.
Some Other Things to do in Prague- Mala Strana
- Wander around Wallenstein Garden
- Visit Saint Nicholas Church
- Take a break at Kampa Park
- Check out Franz Kafka Museum
- Pay respect to the victims of Communism
1.11. Pay a Visit to Infant Jesus
A statue of Jesus Christ as an infant is located in a lesser town in a gilded shrine where hundreds of people arrive daily to pray, believing their prayers will be answered one day. This roman catholic Statue is also known as the Infant Jesus of Prague. While the statue is believed to be dating back to the 16th- century, its point of origin is still unknown.
1.12. Walk up the Petrin Hill
Petrin hill is located on the banks of the Vltava river and is one of the most beautiful gardens in Prague. You can walk up the hill, enjoying the view and relaxing on the benches installed on the way up, or take a cable train from Mala Strana up to the hill.
On reaching the top, you can check out a mini-Eiffel tower in the centre of the beautiful gardens. You can relax here, take a break, admire the beauty and ponder next on your wishlist of things to do in Prague, Czech Republic.
1.13. Visit Letná Park
While visiting Prague, you will come across several beautiful gardens, but this park is peculiar. The Park is situated on the foot of Letna hill and is a famous meeting place for skateboarders. You can choose any beer gardens near the park and enjoy your beer with the beautiful cityscape.
1.14. Take a Walking Tour to Wenceslas Square
Located in the heart of the new town of Prague, Czech Republic, Wenceslas Square comprises the city’s best breweries and pubs, making it the most lively part of Prague.
A statue of King Wenceslas sits in the middle of the Square, right in front of the National Museum. Now you know why the square is called Wenceslas Square?
1.15. Day Trips from Prague
Though there are plenty of things to do in Prague and I am pretty sure that Prague will keep you occupied and engaged until your trip in the city ends, just in case you decide to stay in Prague for long, here comes a suggestion for some of the fantastic day trips from Prague which undoubtedly is some of the exciting things to do in Prague. Let’s look at two of my favourite day trips from Prague, which will not only give you a break from the tourist city crowds but also find peace in scenic, natural views of these places.
1.15.1. Bohemian Switzerland
The place is located in the North Czech Republic, a national park that two Swiss painters named. The most important landmark here is Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest natural stone arch. It is here that Chronicles of Narnia was also filmed.
Though the park is essentially famous for hiking and its beautiful views from the top of the rocks, there are many activities you can try in this national park. You can hike along the river gorge Kamenice, take a boat and cruise the river, or enjoy the sunset from Mary’s rock.
The distance from Prague to Bohemian Switzerland is almost 127 kilometres, and it takes almost 90 minutes if you choose to drive to your destination.
1.15.2. BRNO
The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, BRNO is overshadowed by Prague. This day trip to BRNO is a leisurely, budget-friendly tour with a lesser crowd. You might also have an opportunity to climb several spires for a minimal charge and witness the creepiness of the Capuchin Crypt, which has dozens of well-preserved mummies.
This day trip may easily add a unique, serene and beautiful ride to your checklist as BRNO is one of the most scenic regions in the Czech Republic, known as Moravia. You can stop somewhere and let the beauty of hills and green-yellow fields soak in and enjoy the calmness and silence of this gorgeous countryside away from the bustling crowds of Prague.
BRNO is 205 kilometres from Prague, a 2-hour drive by car, while it takes 2.5 hours by bus.
2. Some of the Other Things to do in Prague, Czech Republic
When I visited Prague in the Czech Republic for the first time, I only knew about Prague’s history. I knew just a handful of attractions, including Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the John Lennon Wall. But as my tour ended, I updated my list of things to do in Prague by spontaneously enjoying some fun activities I am sharing with you here.
2.1. Enjoy the Puppet Show
Once you start getting on with the locals, you will discover their passion for puppets in no time. This amazing city of Prague is full of puppet makers, puppet shops and, of course, puppet museums.
While you can watch puppet shows almost anywhere in the city, the best places to treat yourself to a fantastic puppet show include the National Marionette Theatre.
2.2. Entertain Yourself to the Mystery Of the Mind Maze
Inspired by Alchemist’s legends, this mind maze is a fun way to make your Prague trip memorable. Just dive into 60 minutes of solving puzzles and riddles and experience the thrill of solving them.
2.3. Taste the Popular Beers
So finally, we are getting to the best part of your trip to the Czech Republic- the world-famous beers! The Czechs have some of the best beers in the World, and you can find many bars and pubs to test this fact.
Prague is heaven for craft beer lovers, and one can enjoy the same at any microbrewery in the city, but for a fact, most Czech beers are light and are brewed naturally. You can also check out Prague Beer Museum if you are interested in the process of brewing a Czech beer. By the end of your trip, tasting beers would be your favourite among Prague’s list of things to do.
2.4. Experience Prague Nightlife
Prague’s nightlife is famous for a reason. The city is full of live jazz and classical music playing in different venues where one can enjoy their evenings to the fullest. If you are a clubber, you are in the right spot.
Prague has a lot of clubs and pubs throughout the city. So much so that the city even offers nightclub tours where you can explore Prague’s nightlife more structured way.
2.5. Take a Bus Tour to Everything Important in Prague
Prague is famous for its free walking tours and free bus tours. Conveniently most of the tours start from the city centre. Just take one, if you have some more time in the city. Just in case you left something important to check out in the city, like the Royal Palace and National Museum, along with all the rare facts about the city and Czech culture.
2.6. Check out the Christmas Market
If you are visiting Prague in Winter, do not miss to explore the Christmas market as you can find almost everything here.
Souvenir, clothes, snacks, and hot wine- what else do you need?
2.7. Don’t Miss the River Cruise
Prague has a beautiful waterway system spread around the Old town, which makes taking a cruise and exploring the Czech waterways along the Prague castle under the Charles bridge one of the best things to do in Prague.
Staying Options in Prague
Some luxury options to stay in Prague include Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa, Hotel Augustine, the Emblem Hotel, and the Mandarin Oriental Prague.
Best options for Boutique or 4-star hotels in Prague consists of Vintage Design Hotel Sax, Palac U Kocku, Hermitage Hotel, NYX Hotel Prague by Leonard Hotels, Design Hotel Jewel Prague, Miss Sophie’s, Nicholas Hotel Residence, Bed and Books Art Hotel, Prague Boutique Residence, and Dahlia Inn.
Some budget-friendly options in Prague are Panorama Hotel Prague, Grand Majestic Plaza, Residence Bologna, and Republic Hotel.
Bottom Line
Prague is one of the best tourist places in Europe and a proven party hub of Eastern Europe, attracting thousands of tourists from all across the World. Exploring the old town, Prague, sitting in a beer garden, visiting Infant Jesus and hearing tales about the rule under King Charles IV are among some more exciting things to do in Prague.
Staying in Prague is also an important thing one has to think about when they visit Prague. Please select a central location as almost everything in Prague is within walking distance and all the tours start from the city centre. Let’s look at some good options here.
I recommend you to try local food and treat your taste buds to fantastic craft beers alongside. You can also try some of the Italian restaurants that serve delicious pizzas and kinds of pasta.
Here ends our excellent guide to all the fascinating things to do in Prague. Hope you have a lot of fun exploring the city and enjoy all the activities we have mentioned. Have an incredible journey and safe travels!
Last Updated on by Sathi