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Nicknamed the “city of a thousand spires,” Prague is the vibrant capital of the Czech Republic. It is a captivating mix of history, delicious cuisine, beer (Prague even houses beer spas!), dazzling towers, the largest castle in the world, and much more.
With so much on offer for visitors, it’s no wonder that Prague is one of the most visited cities in Europe.
If you’re planning on visiting Prague for the first time and aren’t sure where to begin, this is the perfect article. Below I’m going to delve into my recommended must-visit attractions for first-timers!
Best Things to Do in Prague
1. Old Town Square
Nestled in the heart of Prague city is its beautiful Old Town, characterized by enchanting spires, narrow cobblestone streets, and striking medieval architecture. Wandering through the Old Town is a must for first-time visitors to Prague as it’s home to many of Prague’s unmissable monuments. It also contains many restaurants and cafes, the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat.
One of the highlights of the Old Town is the Old Town Square, a large square with a grand stone and bronze statue in the center depicting a famous martyr. The square is surrounded by some of the most iconic buildings in Prague. One of these is the Church of Our Lady before Týn, a 14th-century church with two 80-meter-tall towers.
Another landmark in the square is St. Nicholas’ Church, an impressive 12th-century church featuring a vaulted dome ceiling.
2. Prague Castle
Pražský Hrad, also known as Prague Castle, is north of the city. This sprawling 70,000 square meters (750,000 square feet) castle currently holds the world record for being the largest castle complex in the world.
Attracting 1.8 million visitors annually, Prague Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The castle stands proudly on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and is one of Prague’s 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Dating back to the 9th century, the castle once belonged to Bohemian monarchs and emperors. Today this majestic building is the official residence of the Czech president.
The complex includes several monuments, including Old Royal Palace, the oldest structure within the castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and St. Vitus Cathedral, a majestic Gothic cathedral with intricately carved doors and archways.
Prague’s Castle is open between 9 am and 10 pm. Due to its popularity, it can get quite busy when entering, so I’d recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before it opens. Or book a guided tour of Prague Castle.
3. Hourly Astronomical Clock Display
One of the city’s most fascinating and unique monuments is attached to the Town Hall at the edge of the Old Town Square. The Prague astronomical clock (also known as Prague Orloj) dates back to 1410 and is the oldest astronomical clock in the world that’s still in operation.
The clock shows the positions of the sun, moon, earth, and zodiac constellations.
Watching the clock as it strikes each hour is a real spectacle, as it puts on a theatrical display that attracts thousands of visitors throughout the day. Not only is the clock fascinating to look at, but it has an interesting and dark history. According to legend, the clock’s maker was blinded by the King’s order after completing the clock so that he could never replicate the clock in another location.
4. Vyšehrad Castle
Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Vltava River is an ancient castle that dates back to the 10th century. Sometimes called the ‘second castle,’ Vyšehrad Castle is 3 kilometers south of Prague Castle and much smaller. Legend has it that Vyšehrad Castle was the first seat of Czech dukes.
Surrounded by a lush park, Vyšehrad Castle is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city momentarily. The leafy park, dotted with benches and statues, is a great place to take a stroll, pause, and admire your surroundings. Being perched on a hill, the view from the park over Prague and the river is breathtaking.
Vyšehrad Castle also houses one of the most important cemeteries in the country, being the resting place of so many important Czech cultural figures.
Also within the castle grounds is Saints Peter and Paul Basilica, a neo-Gothic basilica with delicate carvings and mosaics inside.
5. Powder Gate Tower (Prašná Brána)
Just outside the Old Town stands the old city gate known as Powder Gate Tower (or Prašná Brána in Czech). Built in the 16th century, this Gothic tower separates the old city from the modern city. It’s one of the original 13 gates citizens would use to enter the Old Town.
The Battle of Prague badly damaged the gate that was later painstakingly restored. It is one of only two surviving city gates. On your visit to the Old Town, it’s well worth admiring this stunning gate found southeast of the Old Town.
As well as viewing the tower from the outside, you can also pay a small entry fee to view the interior of Powder Gate Tower.
6. Charles Bridge
Arching over the Vltava River in Prague are 18 bridges. None, however, are more spectacular than Charles Bridge, a medieval 516-meter-long 14th-century bridge that is the oldest in Prague.
Charles Bridge connects Prague’s Old Town to the modern city and today is one of the most popular attractions in the town. It’s a pedestrianized bridge that is 9.3 meters wide and includes 3 Gothic towers.
Walking across the bridge is a must for anyone visiting Prague. The bridge is a fantastic vantage point to admire the city, and the experience of crossing the bridge is great fun in itself. The atmosphere is electric! As well as passing other visitors, there are a number of street vendors, artists, and performers here.
7. Vltava River Cruise
The Vltava River is the longest in the Czech Republic. It’s 430.3 kilometers (267.4 miles) in length and meanders through Prague, where it’s crossed by 18 bridges, including the famous Charles Bridge.
A great way to see the river and the surrounding city on both sides is to join a river cruise. River cruises typically come with guides or audio guides, allowing you to learn about Prague and its remarkable landmarks while cruising the river. Snacks and refreshments are often available, adding to the laid-back experience.
8. Dancing House (Tančící Dům)
Gazing over the Vltava River is an unusual building that is oozing with character. The Dancing House is a curved building with waves in its architecture that make it look like it is swaying to some unheard music.
Designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić, the house has huge historical significance as it stands in the footprint of a building destroyed by the US bombing of Prague in 1945.
Composed of two different parts, the building has been designed with ‘yin and yang’ in mind, illustrating Czechoslovakia morphing from a communist regime into a parliamentary democracy.
Today you can visit the Glass Bar, which is perched on the top floor of the Dancing House, allowing you to sip on a cocktail or local craft beer with panoramic views of Prague around you.
9. Golden Lane
Nestled within Prague Castle, Golden Lane is a charming cobblestone street flanked by quaint, colorful houses which date back to the 16th century. These picturesque houses were once the residences of the castle’s guards.
Later the street became inhabited by people from several different professions, including goldsmiths, hence the name ‘Golden Lane.’ There used to be two rows of houses, but sadly in the 19th century, one was demolished.
Today Golden Lane can be visited as part of your visit to Prague Castle. Some houses have been decorated with old furniture and artifacts, transporting you back in time.
10. The Lennon Wall
Nestled within Praha 1, Prague’s most central district, you can find a colorful wall featuring a portrait of John Lennon, peace messages and symbols, and communist-era political slogans.
The first work of art appeared on the wall in 1980, not long after Lennon was murdered. The wall was known as the ‘Crying Wall’ and was a place where the youth of Prague could let out their frustrations with the political state of their country.
Even today, new art pieces appear on the wall, gradually covering the old. The wall symbolizes freedom of speech, peace, and resistance against communism.
11. Try the Local Cuisine
Prague has some delicious local dishes you must try when visiting the city.
Perhaps the most unique dish is a pastry dish called Trdelník or a chimney cake. This unique pastry originates from Transylvania in Romania but today can be found everywhere in Prague. Dough is wrapped around a stick before heating it over a flame until it becomes a lovely golden-brown color. It can then be stuffed with a range of fillings.
The most famous dish in Prague is the pork knuckle. If you’re a meat eater, trying this delicacy is a must! It looks incredibly simple, but the flavors are wonderful. Don’t be afraid to take a foodie tour to try the best the city has to offer!
12. Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Towards the north of Prague’s Old Town is the Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Prague can be found here, which feel like a stark contrast to the tragic events that once unfolded here.
Josefov was one the largest Jewish Ghetto in Europe, housing the Jewish minority of Prague. During World War II, the town became deserted when the Jewish residents were deported to concentration camps.
Today, housing six synagogues, a town hall, and an old cemetery, the Jewish Quarter is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Jewish Museum in Prague, considered one of the oldest Jewish museums in Europe.
13. Climb Petrin Tower
Petrin Tower almost looks like a mini Eiffel Tower! The 63.5 meter (208 foot) tall tower stands surrounded by a tranquil, lush park to the city’s east.
The great appeal of this cast-iron tower is the fabulous views that greet you when you climb to the top of it. It’s one of the best spots in the city in terms of views, as all of Prague’s key monuments can be seen from here. You’ll see exactly why Prague is known as the city of a thousand spires!
To reach the tower’s top, you must contend with 299 stairs. Alternatively, there is an elevator available if you are elderly or disabled.
14. Try Local Beer
Czech beer is world-famous and is often touted as some of the best beer in the world! Not only is the beer delicious, but it’s also pretty reasonably priced too. Therefore, if you’re a beer lover, sampling some of the locally-produced craft beers in Prague is a must.
Some of the best places to order a pint of beer include Letná Beer Garden, Craft Beer Spot, U Kunštátů (located in the Old Town), and the Strahov Monastery Brewery.
15. Check out the Havelsky Market
A market that has been around since 1232? Sign me up! Located on Havelska Street, this daily market serves mostly locals with offerings of fruits and vegetables. But especially during the weekends, and increasingly more and more during the week, you’ll find stalls catering to tourists. This is a good spot to buy some of your Czech souvenirs.
Where to Stay in Prague
Luxury: The Mandarin Oriental lies on the left bank of the Vltava River, just a short walk away from Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Built in the footprint of a former 14th Century Dominican monastery, this luxury hotel is a haven of relaxation, with lush gardens, a handful of eateries, and a spa.
Mid-Range: The Manes Boutique Hotel is nestled in the center of Prague, just a stone’s throw away from the Vltava River and a short walk from the Old Town. The rooms are modern and spacious, and the hotel has exceptional online reviews.
Affordable: Charles Bridge Hostel & Apartments is in a central location close to Charles Bridge. A selection of furnished apartments and shared dormitories are available. Unlimited free coffee is on hand for the duration of your stay.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Prague
Prague is a charming city that draws in millions of visitors yearly with its fantastic ancient monuments, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history. First-time visitors to Prague are always full of things to see or do in this magical city!
Have you been to Prague before? What’s your favorite thing to do in the city?
Check out these other posts:
- Tips for First-Time Visitors to Vienna
- Best Things to Do in Graz, Austria
- Travel Guide: Bratislava, Slovakia
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.