40 Amazing Things To Do In Prague

Home to stunning castles, churches, and bridges crossing rivers, Prague is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Europe

I spent a week in Prague, and it was a wonderful experience. There were so many places to visit and things to see in Prague.

Here are my favorite things to do in Prague that you can’t miss on your trip.

Best things to do in Prague, Czech Republic.

Explore Prague Castle

Since its construction in the 9th century, Prague Castle has been a symbol of the Czech state for a thousand years. It was once the seat of Bohemia kings and is now the Czech Republic president’s official residence.

The castle complex is on a hill overlooking the town, offering an impressive city view. You can take a walk or hop on a tram to get to the castle.

My friend took me to the castle on my first day in Prague, and I was in awe. The architecture was impressive, and there were lots of things to see.

St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, Czech Republic.
St. Vitus Cathedral

Prague castle is a massive complex including cathedrals and historical buildings.

You can buy an entrance ticket that includes entrance into most of them (Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower). It’s best to buy your tickets online to skip the line.

St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, Czech Republic.

I recommend spending at least a few hours or having a whole day visiting the castle and its surroundings.

You’ll need comfortable shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking. There are cafes and toilets for breaks too.

If you don’t have a local friend, do yourself a massive favor and take a guided tour to learn more about the history and stories behind the wall.

  • Ticket prices: 250 CZK/ adult. You should book your tickets online to skip the line.
  • Opening hours: Prague castle complex is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, with the historical buildings open from 9 am to 5 pm (April to October) or 4 pm (November to March).
Prague castle map.

Prague travel tips

  • Accommodation: Art Deco and City Nest are great places to stay in Prague. They are both in the heart of the city, just a short distance from the city center. Both hotels offer comfortable rooms, professional services, and friendly staff.
  • Tour: You can join a city day tour to explore the best of Prague, including Old Town, Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle.
  • Item: I recommend getting the Prague City Card for free entrance to more than 60 attractions, free sightseeing bus tours, free river cruises, and 50% discounts on other tours and shows.
  • Getting around: Explore Prague at your own pace with the Hop-on-hop-of bus.
  • Books: Find more tips and guide with Rick Steves Prague Travel.
  • Insurance: Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, delays, and item losses.

Take a dinner cruise.

Taking the dinner cruise is one of our favorite things to do in Prague. It was indeed a wonderful experience. A delicious dinner, good music, and fantastic views made our excursion special.

While on the voyage, you can marvel at the magnificent views of illuminated historic landmarks after dark.

dinner cruise things to do in Prague, Czech Republic.
Taking a river cruise is one of our favorite things to do in Prague.

The cruise passes monuments such as Charles Bridge, Petřín hill, the historic fort of Vyšehrad, and the Rudolfinum, a neo-Renaissance concert hall.

Along with a mouthwatering feast and great music, you will also view Prague Castle and the renowned Dancing House on the Rašínovo embankment.

River cruise trip in Prague, Czech Republic.
You will also see the famous Dancing House and Prague Castle while enjoying a delicious buffet and live music.

See Prague Astronomical Clock

Seeing the astronomical clock is undoubtedly a must-do in Prague.

The town hall houses a remarkable Astronomical clock first installed in 1410. Three different times represent here: Bohemian, German, and Babylonian.

Astronomical clock in Prague, Czech Republic.

Different characters come to life around the clock every hour between 9 am and 11 pm. At the top, the twelve figures walk by with a symbol on their hands. The wooden statues were replaced after being burned at the end of World War II.

You can purchase an entrance ticket to peek at the clock’s inner mechanism. Additionally, you’ll have fantastic views of Old Town Square and its surroundings.

Wander around the Old town square

After a visit to Prague’s renowned Astronomical clock, it’s time to explore the Old town square.

The streets of Prague are laid out in a complex medieval plan with dozen of cathedrals reaching skyward. This characteristic gives its name “The city of the hundred spikes.”

The town luckily avoided the massive destruction of World War II. Therefore, a remarkable amount of heritage has survived intact.

Are you planning to visit Prague? What to do in Prague? Read this Prague travel guide to find out what to see and things to do in Prague, places to stay in Prague, tours, and travel tips.

The old town square is one of the prominent historical landmarks in Prague.

The squares and the adjacent streets boast a great variety of architectural treasures. There are also several historical monuments around the square. It’s also where all events take place.

Try beer tasting

Beer was brewed in this country before 1000 and is now ingrained in Czech culture. You may learn about beer history, production, ingredients, and different beer styles through beer tasting.

In addition to beer tasting, you can also bathe in beer. We got the one-hour beer-bubbling tub and the massage, which was relaxing. 

Join Blacklight theater

The black theater, invented in the 1950s, became a Czech tradition. It’s a wonderful blending of ballet, optical illusion, and traditional theater.

The 1-hour show entertains its audience with expressive dance, acrobatics, and other moves in the black light, creating a wholly unforgettable and enthralling experience.

For the best seats, arrive at least 30 minutes before the event begins. The theater prohibits the use of photography, smoking, drinking, and narcotics.

Taking a WWII tour

Those interested in history can take a WWII walking tour to learn about the long-term impact of World War II on Prague.

During this trip, you will wander the Old Town and hear anecdotes about Operation Anthropoid. You’ll also view a collection of WWII relics, as well as Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral and a bomb bunker.

Our tour guide was knowledgeable, engaged, amusing, and friendly. He crafted an intriguing narrative that included all areas of Czech history during the twentieth century.

The trip was fantastic value for money, and we saw Prague in the finest light imaginable, with several stops to appreciate and comprehend the city’s Resistance efforts in 1942.

Visit the Museum of Communism

The Czech Republic became independent in 1993, with Prague as the capital. However, before that, the country followed Communism and was dominated by Russia for 40 years.

A short revolution was brutally put down by Moscow, and the Soviet involvement was brutal. Liberation arrived in November 1989.

You can discover what life was like in Communist-era Czechoslovakia by visiting the Museum of Communism. Walking through places ranging from apartments to classrooms and an interrogation room while looking at antiques, you can gain extensive insights into Prague’s postwar history.

Visiting the Museum of Communism is one of the most interesting things to do in Prague, Czech Republic.
Visiting the Museum of Communism is one of the most interesting things to do in Prague, Czech Republic.

As you walk, use brief movies, posters, and artifacts to get a thorough description. You can also see a large collection of photographic material from the Security Services Archive and the Archive of the Czech News Agency to the Archive of the Association of Forced Military Camp Laborers.

Museum of Communism in Prague, Czech Republic.

Jewish Quarter

Prague’s Jewish community is one of the oldest in Europe, with the presence of Jews dating back to the 9th century. 

Prague previously had the largest Jewish community in the Christian world, but after World War II, the neighborhood has seen a substantial transformation.

The Jewish Quarter is between the Vltava river and the Old town square. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992, it is one of Prague’s most significant landmarks.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter has six synagogues, a Jewish Town Hall, and the most noteworthy Jewish Cemetery.

Spanish Synagogue in Prague, Czech Republic.
Spanish Synagogue is famous for its impressive Moorish interior design, influenced by the famous Alhambra. 

Don’t forget to visit the Old New Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Europe, while strolling Paská Street.

Additionally, the mythological Golem, a being of great power that has fascinated several kings and emperors, has its ultimate resting place there.

The world’s longest epitaph is located at the Pinkas Synagogue. It displays over 80,000 names of Jews who were killed by the Nazis.

You can join the Jewish Quarter walking tour to learn about the Jewish people and their history. The tour includes entrance tickets to the synagogues (Maisel, Pinkas, Spanish, and Klausen synagogues) and Jewish cemetery. 

Jewish cemetery

Nearby you can find the Jewish cemetery, which was active from the first half of the 15th century until the second half of the 18th century.

Even though burials have been prohibited since the 19th century, thousands of graves exist in this small area. You can find almost 12 000 gravestones here. The graves are close together and occasionally pile up due to the lack of space.

Mucha museum

One of the greatest names of the Czech culture is exhibited in a museum devoted to him – Alfonse Mucha. 

He used a distinctive method to photograph the models, including his wife, before painting them true to life. His portraits depict the female elegance of the 19th century. 

One of his most well-known works is The Slav Epic, a collection of twenty monumental canvases portraying the story of the Slav people and civilization.

The Slav Epic No.20 painting.
The Slav Epic cycle No.20: Apotheosis: Slavs for Humanity. Four Stages of Slav History in Four Colours (1918).
  • Address: Panská 7 110 00 Prague 1
  • Opening hours: daily 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Mucha museum in Prague, Czech Republic.
Alfonse Mucha, one of the most famous figures in Czech culture, has a museum in his honor.

Dine in medieval style

Travel back in time and enjoy a medieval supper with unlimited beverages in the center of Prague. A fantastic medieval performance will delight you, with sworders, jugglers, and belly dancers all accompanied by music.

This enjoyable and one-of-a-kind experience transports you to a medieval tavern.

  • Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.
  • 3 or 5-course menu (pork, poultry, fish, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free).
  • 2.5-hour medieval performance.
Medieval tavern dining experience in Prague, Czech Republic.

Visit Prague Zoo

Opened in 1931, Prague Zoological Garden is one of the best places to visit in Prague.

It’s situated on a beautiful hill and is home to an impressive number of animal species. The zoo is well-maintained, and the animals are well-cared for in a healthy setting. There are also several eateries, cafés, and undiscovered routes nearby.

It took us almost a day to see most of the zoo, so the entrance ticket (€8) was more than worth it. I recommend spending at least half a day here.

red panda.

Enjoy Jazz music

Are you looking for jazz? Head to the well-known Reduta Jazz Club, and enjoy a world-class performance.

The club has been the birthplace of Czech jazz music since its inception in 1957. For a fair price, you get an intimate setting with an old-school jazz vibe.

Reduta Jazz Club in Prague, Czech Republic.
Reduta Jazz Club opened its doors in late 1957.

The music was of the highest quality, and the musicians blew us away. There was a lot of enthusiasm, a dynamic and cheerful environment, and a genuine connection with the artists.

Reduta jazz club in Prague, Czech Republic.

Climb Petřín Tower

Petřín Hill is a haven of greenery in the middle of the town.

It’s best to take a funicular railway to get to the summit. This railroad was built at the end of the 19th century and has undergone numerous renovations.

Petrin hill tram in Prague, Czech Republic.

At the summit, there’s a mini-version of the Eiffel tower – Petřín tower. 

Built in 1891, the 200-foot-tall Petřín Tower is made of steel and wood structure, one-fifth of the height of the Eiffel Tower.

Climbing up 400 steps rewards you with one of the most breathtaking views of Prague.

Climbing Petřín tower was one of the best things to do in Prague.
Climbing Petřín tower was one of the best things to do in Prague.

View the city from Vyšehrad

Never would a trip to Prague be complete without a stroll through this lovely neighborhood.

Vyšehrad is said to be the earliest location where Czech rulers held power, with settlements found in the middle of the tenth century.

Take the C-line metro from town to Vyšehrad, then stroll the gardens, explore the Cathedral of SS Peter and Paul and take in the natural surroundings and gardens. You may return to the riverside by walking down the steps!

Visit National Technical Museum

Founded in 1908, the National Technical Museum (Národní technické muzeum) is one of the most intriguing museums in Prague.

This gem displays a comprehensive collection reflecting the evolution of different technological fields.

National Technical Museum in Prague, Czech Republic.
National Technical Museum is one of the best places to visit in Prague.

There are several exhibitions ranging from transportation to science, photography, and mining. Exhibits are well-presented, accompanied by multilingual explanations in English and Czech. The entry is reasonably priced.

I recommend spending at least 3 hours seeing most of the museum and taking in whatever interests you.

National Technical Museum in Prague, Czech Republic.
How the world is measured exhibition presents astronomical and surveying instruments from various eras.

Walk Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge was built in the 14th century and was the town’s only bridge for four centuries. It has become an icon of Prague and is frequently visited by tourists.

The bridge is an important strategic site in Prague. At each end is a gothic tower guarding the entrance to the bridge. Also, the tops of these buildings provide a fantastic outlook.

Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic.

The Charles Bridge also has many street vendors and artists. According to legend, touching some of the bronze sculptures brings good luck.

Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic.
A gothic tower guards the bridge’s entry at each end.

Wander Wenceslas Square

With more than 1 km long, Wenceslas Square is often compared to Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris. The area is surrounded by buildings with a surprisingly diverse architectural style.

Don’t forget to check out the iconic Duke Bohemia monument in Wenceslas Square. He was the country’s first martyr, assassinated by his own brother.

Wenceslas Square in Prague, Czech Republic.

Join pub crawl

Joining a pub crawl is a fun way to meet people from all over the world!

Begin with unlimited beer, wine, and vodka in the first establishment, then visit other pubs and a nightclub. Fun, drinks, and a nice time with fantastic hosts and drinking games await!

Admire Dancing House

A Dancing House is a contemporary structure created by American architect Frank O. Gehry in 1996. The exterior design is named after two dancers, Ginger and Fred.

I highly recommend visiting the rooftop bar for spectacular city views. You may use the viewing platform for free if you buy a drink—excellent beverages at a fair price.

Dancing House in Prague, Czech Republic.
Due to its unique shape, it’s known as the Dancing House or The Fred & Ginger House. On top is an excellent view of the town, as well as an exterior patio with a bar.

Visit Strahov Monastery

Founded in 1140, this Premonstratensian monastery is one of the most significant architectural sites in the Czech Republic.

This monastery is well known for its Strahov Library, filled with medieval manuscripts and rare artifacts from the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods. It is certainly worth a visit, even if you cannot enter the library and can only look around.

The monastery’s churches are likewise lovely. The monastery also manufactures its own beer, which you can try along with the meal at a local café.

Visit Národní muzeum

Národní muzeum is a highlight of our visit to Prague. Opened in 1818, the National museum displays a large collection of natural science and historical items, and one of the world’s largest mineral exhibitions.

Národní muzeum in Prague, Czech Republic.

The building architecture itself is amazing. There are sculpture halls, Roman columns, lofty ceilings with murals, beautiful staircases, and amazing lighting.

On top of that, you may climb to the dome for a spectacular 360-degree panorama view of Prague.

Národní muzeum in Prague, Czech Republic.

Make sure to allow more than 3 hours for your visit. The smartphone app is really useful; it includes a navigation aid and audio instructions.

Národní muzeum in Prague, Czech Republic.

Attend concerts at Municipal House

The Municipal House is one of Prague’s most notable examples of Art Nouveau architecture.

This building was constructed in 1912 on the previous Royal Court Palace site, and it primarily functions as a performance hall.

Prepare to be impressed by the magnificent decor of its main hall, which is named after the legendary Czech composer Bedřich Smetana.

The building also houses a tiny yet lovely collection of Mucha’s designs and artworks, with his renowned Epic Slav paintings.

Municipal House in Prague, Czech Republic.

You may also marvel at the magnificent mosaic work, colorful stained glass ceiling, gilded lighting, and magnificent organ.

Nowadays, the Municipal House offers a diverse range of events, including exhibitions, conferences, fashion displays, charity events, and music performances.

To see its interior, you can join the guided tours. Also, don’t miss the cafes and restaurants in the building.

See the Powder Tower

Prague was once fortified, with entry only through gates like Powder Tower (Prašná brána). 

The Powder Tower, completed in 1475, is one of the most expressive landmarks of late Gothic in Prague. The name derives from its original purpose, which was gunpowder storage in the 17th century.

You can climb the stairs to the top and take in the scenery. It’s just a few steps away from the main square and right adjacent to the Municipal Hall.

Powder Tower in Prague, Czech Republic.

Church of Our Lady before Týn

The Church of Our Lady before Týn has served as Prague’s main worship site for centuries.

Dating back to the 14th century, this church is one of the most exquisite examples of Gothic architecture. Its two 80-meter-high spires dominate the skyline of Prague’s Old Town.

To enter the church, go through the third archway on the left as you face the square. Admission is free; however, contributions are welcomed as you enter the church.

Its interior is gorgeous and remarkable, depicting the Baroque style at the end of the 17th century. Please keep in mind that photographs are not permitted inside.

St. Nicholas Church

The Church of Saint Nicholas is the finest example of Baroque art in Prague. It is located in the wonderful Lesser Town and is the most impressive building in the area. 

The church was constructed between 1704 and 1755 on a 13th-century Gothic church site. Its dome is an astounding 20 meters in circumference and over 57 meters in height.

Stepping inside the church, you’ll be amazed by its richly decorated interior. There are several statues, murals, and beautiful artworks.

Kafka Museum

Franz Kafka is regarded as one of the twentieth century’s most influential writers. You may learn about Kafka’s life and works in the museum dedicated to him.

His dispute with his father, as well as his complicated relationship with women, affect his work. He only published a few things and even requested one of his friends to destroy his manuscripts. 

Franz Kafka Museum in Prague, Czech Republic.

Visit Golden Lane

Old Prague has a well-known little street known as Golden Lane.

These little cottages were originally for the King’s guards, but they housed a variety of tenants, including prominent figures such as Frank Kafka, who resided in number 22.

This road was also formerly home to alchemists seeking the Philosopher’s Stone’s secret for the King.

Golden Lane in Prague, Czech Republic.
Golden Lane is a lovely street with houses dating from the late 16th century.

See John Lennon’s Wall

John Lennon’s Wall is a public art display dedicated to John Lennon, a musical icon and peace activist, after his death in 1980. It serves as a reminder of peace and free expression.

It was a venue to express oneself and make political remarks against the communist regime when western pop music was banned. Some Czech musicians were even imprisoned for playing it. You might return because graffiti is always changing.

John lennon wall in Prague, Czech Republic.

See street art

Art is everywhere in Prague. Artists give a city a real personality with great freedom to express itself. 

Enjoy performances at Rudolfinum.

Built between 1876 and 1884, Rudolfinum is a spectacular historic building on the bank of the Vltava River. The landmark was named after Habsburg prince Rudolf, Emperor Franz Josef’s son.

It is regarded as one of the outstanding examples of neo-Renaissance architecture in Prague, on par with the National Theater, which the same architects also designed.

Throughout the years, the building served as the Art Gallery, the Czech Parliament, and the Philharmonic.

Rudolfinum performance  in Prague, Czech Republic.

The Czechs adore classical music, and attending a performance here is an unforgettable experience.

The tickets sell out quickly, so plan ahead of time. The Dvorak Hall is stunning and has an excellent acoustic. Some seats will have a limited view due to pillars, so keep that in mind while reserving. Bags and large winter jackets must be left in the cloakroom.

See Klementinum library

The Clementinum (Klementinum) was originally a university but then almost exclusively used as a library.

Opened its doors in 1722, this baroque library holds nearly 20,000 volumes of largely foreign theological literature from the early 17th century to the present.

Klementinum library in Prague, Czech Republic.
Even though access to the Klementinum baroque library is limited, viewing it up close is nevertheless stunning.

You can’t walk around the library since books are precious. However, a tour of the Klementnum will give you a decent glimpse of it.

On this tour, you’ll also visit the Astronomical Tower and see old telescopes and the instruments used to measure midday. The top of the tower offers beautiful views of Prague’s Old Town and the Vltava River.

See Zikov Tower

Built in the 1980s during the Soviet Period, the Zikov tower is another great spot to enjoy a panoramic view of Prague.

You can find huge scrolling babies here. They are, in my opinion, a little frightening. Another odd feature of this structure is the one-room motel, where you must make a reservation if you wish to stay.

Relax at Letná Park

Letná Park is a lovely park with plenty of trees and shade for a leisurely stroll. It’s famous for its breathtaking views of the Vltava River and Prague’s numerous bridges.

The park is great for families, couples, and singles. Letná Park is exceptionally picturesque in the late spring and early summer.

Hanavský Pavilon in Prague, Czech Republic.
Located in Letná Park, Hanavský Pavilion is one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings in Prague.

Visit Lucerna Palace

Near the square is Lucerna Palace, a masterpiece of late Art Nuvo from the beginning of the 20th century.

Built between 1907 and 1920, this Prague palazzo presently houses several shops, theaters, a cinema, a rock club, and various cafés and restaurants.

Dine at Kalin market

Kalin market offers a variety of handcrafted items, Czech rural delicacies, and traditional recipes. This is your chance to taste unusual dishes. 

Walk the narrowest street.

Two people can’t walk past each other on this street. You’ll need to ordinate the traffic and push the button if you want to go through. 

Similar Posts

3 Comments

  1. Prague is such an amazing city!! It’ in my top 10 from my Europe travels. You’ve got a great list here. Think I’ll add a river dinner cruise to the top of my list for my next visit.

  2. I did quite a few of these during my trip in 2012, there are a few I didn’t even know about though like Letna Park and the library which are awesome additions to any visit to Prague. Thanks for this awesome compilation!

  3. Linda Jane says:

    Prague sounds like a really beautiful city to visit. I’d love to see the castle & the palace. I’d also enjoy the street art & the jazz. Thanks for your great list. I’ll save it for later.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *