One of Europe’s most enchanting cities, Prague is a magnet for tourists with its mix of beautiful architecture, scenic river setting, historic landmarks and raucous night life.
An illuminated Prague Castle seen across the river by night (Photo: apple.white2010 via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
For all its dazzling good looks, the Czech capital’s reputation has been somewhat tainted down the years by its popularity as a stag party destination – with large crowds of revellers descending on the city for little more than a good old-fashioned booze up. But there is so, so much more to Prague than its – granted – exceptional beer scene and buzzing nightspots. Here are 20 of the most unique things to see and do that you might just remember the next morning.
Wander around a magnificent castle
Looming large over the city, Prague Castle is one of the most important cultural attractions in the Czech Republic – and the largest castle complex anywhere in the world. Built in the 9th century, the sprawling complex comprises a vast maze of buildings, each with a long and storied history. Perhaps the most striking are the Gothic elements of St Vitus Cathedral, which forms part of the complex and frames the view across the Vltava River. As you get nearer, you’ll notice that the slopes of the hill, atop which the castle sits, are lined with vineyards that stretch down to the river.
You can book guided tours of the castle via GetYourGuide
Cross an iconic bridge
Constructed in the mid-14th century under the auspices of Charles IV, whose name it would later take, Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most recognisable landmarks, linking the two sides of the city and offering fairy-tale views of the river that flows beneath it and the many elegant buildings that line its banks. The stone bridge throngs with people during the day, with street artists and musicians providing plenty of entertainment. Also notable are the 70-plus statues of saints – some copies and some originals – the most famous of which is the statue of St John of Nepomuk.
The historic Charles Bridge(Photo: Karel Macalik via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
Visit a top-class museum
The oldest and largest museum in the Czech Republic, The National Museum occupies two eye-catching buildings at the top of Wenceslas Square – both connected by an underground corridor. Inside the original Historical Building, a grand entrance hall with sweeping staircases, intricate stonework, and beautiful frescos greets visitors. The exhibition rooms leading off it house a magnificent natural history collection of fossils, rocks, minerals, meteorites and animal bones, including the skeleton of a huge fin whale, as well as numerous stuffed and life-size models of animals and birds, some prehistoric and extinct, such as the woolly mammoth. From the Historical Building, visitors can reach the New Building, which covers the history of the 20th Century, via an underground corridor, or ride a lift up to the grand Cupola for views over the square and city.
Václavské nám. 68 / Mon-Sun 10am-6pm
Another distinguished Prague museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts houses around half a million items ranging from glass, ceramics, porcelain, graphic art, photography, furniture, woodwork, metalwork, gold, jewellery, clocks, watches, textiles, fashion, and children’s toys. Located in Prague’s old Jewish quarter, the museum’s main Neo-Renaissance building is also an attraction in its own right, with its richly decorated ceilings and antique furniture providing an opulent backdrop for its spectacular collections. Spare time to visit the outdoor relaxation garden, too.
17. listopadu 2, 110 00 Josefov / Tues 10am-8pm Weds-Sun 10am-6pm Closed Mon
See the city from the water
Prague is an impressive sight from pretty much any vantage point, but perhaps none more than from the river. There are a number of sightseeing cruises that allow passengers to admire the city’s most famous landmarks while traversing the scenic environs of the Vltava River. As you cruise along its calm waters, you’ll get to learn about the city and its history via audio commentary available in several languages. Evening cruises are also available that let you enjoy panoramic views of the city against the illuminated night sky.
You can book a Prague sightseeing cruise via GetYourGuide
Admire the historic sights in a public square
With its ancient buildings and magnificent churches, Prague’s Old Town Square is one of the jewels in the city’s crown. Lying at the heart of the Old Town, the square was founded in the 12th century as the central marketplace for Prague, and over the centuries since, grand buildings of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles were erected around it. To fully appreciate the square’s sheer majesty, grab a seat at one of the pavement cafés and take in the surroundings. Alternatively, climb the Old Town Hall Tower to enjoy stunning views over the square and beyond.
People milling around in the Old Town Square (Photo: Jorge Franganillo via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
One of Prague’s two main squares (the other being the aforementioned Old Town Square) Wenceslas Square is among the city’s most dynamic spots, where a permanent buzz of activity is provided by the tourists and locals who flock here to soak up the unique atmosphere. Situated at the heart of the city’s New Town, the square and its surroundings are positively teeming with shops, restaurants, cafes, pubs and bars, while the prominent statue of St. Wenceslas (the patron saint of Czechia) sitting on his horse makes for a popular photo opportunity.
Visit a vibrant cultural centre
A former army barracks that was left to ruin for a number of years, Kasárna Karlín underwent a major renovation in 2017, reopening as a cultural centre and quickly growing to become a vibrant public attraction. Located about 2.5 kilometres west of the city centre, the centre now hosts regular cinema screenings, beach volleyball, ice skating during the winter months, and various cultural events including art exhibitions, concerts and theatre performances.
Prvního pluku 20/2, 186 00 Karlín / Mon-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Sat-Sun 10am-11.30pm
An early 20th-century cultural complex situated on Wenceslas Square (see above), Palac Lucerna boasts a strong connection to a name indelibly linked with the city’s past – having originally been owned by the grandfather of Vaclav Havel, the first president of the independent Czech Republic. Today the venue draws large numbers of visitors with its cultural and entertainment offerings, among which are an independent cinema, a concert hall, and an assortment of eye-catching artwork, including a quirky sculptural take on the famous equestrian statue located outside on Wenceslas Square
Perhaps the most famous exhibit at the Lucerna Palace (Photo: Alejandro via Flickr / CC0 1.0 DEED)
Browse fresh produce at a local market
There are few better ways of getting to know a city than by taking in the sights, sounds and aromas of a local market. Among Prague’s finest is the lively, outdoor Zizkov Farmer’s Market, which takes place four days a week around the picturesque Jiřího z Poděbrad square in the neighbourhood of Zizkov. Here, vendors sell a huge selection of fresh local produce from Czech farmers and producers, including everything from fresh fruit and apple strudel to a hearty ‘bouillabaisse’ from the fish stand. There are also several quaint cafes to be found around the square.
Nám. J. z Poděbrad 1659 / Weds-Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8am-2pm Closed Sun-Tues
Explore a historic theatre
No landmark in Prague epitomises Prague’s rich cultural heritage more than the National Theatre. Built in 1883, the historic theatre is spread across five separate buildings where it hosts a busy annual programme of opera, drama and ballet performances by some of the biggest names on the global performing arts scene. Even leaving aside the prestigious shows, the edifice itself is a tourist attraction in its own right, with a spectacular exterior and interior decoration embellished with gold and masterpieces of art by eminent 19th-century Czech painters.
Národní 2 / Mon-Sun 10am-6pm
Prague’s National Theatre lit up against the night sky (Photo: Miguel Mendez via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
Head to a pub with a difference
Perhaps the city’s most unique nightspot, the Ice Pub is a quirky watering hole where (almost) everything is made of ice. Spread over five frosty floors, everything you see and touch is pure ice, from the walls, bar, and tables to the exquisite sculptures dotted around the venue – achieved thanks to the internal temperature being kept to a chilly minus-7 degrees Celsius throughout the year. And if the drinks aren’t enough to warm the cockles, fear not, as upon arrival patrons are greeted with a cosy thermal jacket and gloves to wear for the duration of their stay.
5, Novotného lávka 200 / Mon-Sun 12pm-5pm
You can book tickets for a small-group visit to the Ice Pub, including one complimentary drink, via GetYourGuide
Visitors raise a frosty toast at Ice Pub Prague(Photo: Icepub Prague / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Enter into the spirit of carnival time
If you happen to find yourself in Prague between early February and early March then you may well be in for a treat because this is the time of year when Prague Carnival takes over the city. The Czech’s own version of Mardi Gras, the festival is held to mark the ushering out of winter and the arrival of spring – and it does so with real aplomb. Kaleidoscopic parades, live dance performances, exhibitions, and lashings of food and drink await revellers, with the action taking place along streets and in public spaces across Prague. It’s truly a magical occasion when the city recalls its medieval past with costumes, colour and unadulterated fun.
Venues across Prague / February each year
Learn about the history of an iconic Czech beer
The story of the world’s first golden pilsner, the famous pale lager that originated in the Czech city of Plzeň, is told at Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience. Through an immersive collection of exhibits, visitors will discover how Pilsner Urquell became renowned across the world during a 90-minute self-guided tour. High-tech features, including 3D audio and video-mapping, add an interactive element to the tour and there’s also the option to upgrade to include Tapster Academy classes where you’ll learn how to pour Pilsner Urquell the authentic Czech way. All visitors also receive a personalised gift on departure.
28. Října / Mon-Sun 11am-8.30pm
Visitors to the Pilsner Urquell Experience pose for a photo (Photo: Pilsner Urquell Experience)
Get a taste of the city’s food scene
Perhaps not best known for its culinary scene, Prague still has plenty of local dishes and delicacies that are worth trying. One of the best ways to do so is by booking on to a guided food tour. Over the course of 4 hours, you’ll be taken by an expert guide to some of the city’s most notable eateries and foodie hotspots, where you’ll discover more about the city’s food culture and heritage and get to sample some of the local cuisine too. Highlights include stop-offs in the district of Karlin, one of the city’s most up-and-coming neighbourhoods with a burgeoning reputation for food.
You can book a guided Prague food tour at Viator
Take a look around a historic palace garden
Courtyards, a lake, an aviary, ornamental pools, baroque statues and impressive flora and fauna are just some of the highlights at the 17th-century Wallenstein Garden, the Czech Republic’s Senate and a major Prague landmark. Open to the public, visitors can explore its vast grounds, and in the summer months can also enter the palace itself, a true architectural marvel featuring ceilings and walls adorned with frescoes and stuccos inspired by ancient mythology. Regular live concerts and other performances are also held here during summer.
Letenská 123/4 / Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat-Sun 9am-7pm
The scenic environs of Wallenstein Garden (Photo: Jorge Franganillo via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
Retreat to an urban park
If you’re seeking some respite after a long day’s sightseeing, then Letná Park provides the perfect antidote. Overlooking the city’s Old Town, stretching from Prague Castle to the district of Holešovice, the vast green expanse is one of Prague’s most popular meeting points and a perpetual hubbub of activity during the summer months. Whether it’s a gentle amble along its maze of pathways, a relaxing picnic on the well-maintained lawn, or more energetic pursuits such as hiking or skateboarding, this urban oasis won’t disappoint.
Letná
Delve deep into an underground world
Deep under ground level in Prague’s Old Town lies a remarkable network of corridors and cellars unbeknown to most who walk the streets above it. Dating from the 12th to 14th century, this subterranean complex was once the site of torture and executions – and visitors can discover it for themselves on a Medieval Underground Tour. Accompanied by an experienced guide, as you venture into this hidden world of dungeons and passageways you’ll be regaled with stories about the medieval city, its architecture, executions, floods, plague and alchemy. Tours last for 1.5 hours.
You can book Prague Underground tours at Viator
One of Prague’s subterranean cellars (Photo: Prague Tours / Courtesy Viator)
Marvel at a toe-tapping building
Amble along the Rašínovo Embankment and you’re likely to perform a double take as you first catch sight of the Nationale-Nederlanden, a building better known as The Dancing House, or more simply Ginger and Fred (after the iconic dance duo, Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire). Built in 1996 by world-renowned architects Vlado Milunić and Frank O. Gehry, the curvatures of the buildings – comprising one stone and one glass structure- were deliberately designed to give the impression of a couple dancing together. Inside, there’s a gallery and a restaurant offering panoramic city views.
iráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město
Discover a former hotbed of alchemy
The UNESCO-protected Speculum Alchemiae dates back to the 16th century, but was only recently unearthed following flooding in the Old Town which tore through its cobblestone streets. Amid the recovery effort, this fully intact alchemical laboratory was unveiled – and it rapidly became one of the city’s most unique attractions. Visitors can come and explore where Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II, with the help of several acclaimed alchemists, indulged his obsession with natural sciences, alchemy and all things occult.