Fairy tales from Prague
Known as the city of a hundred spires, Prague is a favourite destination thanks to its stunning landmarks, beautiful architecture, immaculate gardens and parks, and lively atmosphere. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit to Prague:
Charles Bridge
Prague’s best known landmark. Originally constructed in 1357, this is one of the oldest bridge in the world and connects Prague old city to Mala Strana. It can get very crowded so for the best pictures try to make it as early as possible. Some of the best views of the city can also be enjoyed from the bridge at sunset.
Insider Tip: For an excellent pictures of the bridge itself, head over to Mala Strana side on the north side of the riverside by the Franz Kafka museum where dozens of swans congregate and wait for food from passersby.
Prague Castle
Dominating the city skyline, Prague Castle is actually not a single building but an enclosed complex of buildings atop the hill on the other side of Vltava River if you’re coming from Old Town square. Among its many components is the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic, St Vitus Cathedral (a must-see), St George’s Basilica, the old Royal palace and the Rosenberg Palace among others. You don’t need a ticket to get inside the Prague Castle grounds but you’ll need one if you wish to enter and visit the various building’ interiors. If you’re short on time, do make a point of at least visiting St Vitus Cathedral, its splendid baroque architecture and gorgeous stained glass windows. You can go inside the cathedral for free but you will be relegated to a small area at the entrance.
Insider tip: If you have time, do take the time to check out the Lobckowicz Palace located within the palace grounds. You’ll need a separate ticket for this museum (can be bought at the front door) but it’s definitely one of my favourites.
Exploring Old Town Square
Probably one of one your first stops, Old Town Square is the beating heart of Prague. Catch a glimpse of the famous astronomical clock, enjoy the beautiful view from the top of Old Town Hall tower or enjoy a coffee or beer from one of the square’s many restaurants and cafes. Most of these serve overpriced tourist fare but the rooftop terrace at Teresa U Prince is worth a stop on a sunny day.
Interestingly, most of Prague was raised by one floor in medieval times to protect against floods but this left a vast network of tunnels and routes under the city over what was once the ground floor. Several underground tours are available starting from Old Town Square and you can get more details from the tourist information desk at the old town hall.
Wenceslas Square
Ground zero for the Velvet Revolution of 1989 which brought down the communist regime, Wenceslas Square has turned into a commercial district and features many leading international retailers like H&M, Zara, Starbucks, McDonald’s and many more.
Obecni Dum
Obecni Dum, or the Municipal House, is a beautiful concert hall in the Art Nouveau style that was built in the early 20th century. Located right next to the Power Gate, it regularly hosts classical music concerts and is also home to a restaurant and café which, thanks to their impeccably preserved style and architecture throw you more than a hundred years back in time.
Josefov
The old Jewish ghetto, it is to several Jewish synagogues (the Spanish Synagogue is one of the most impressive), and Jewish Cemetery. You can purchase a single ticket that provides access to all the Jewish historical sites.
Prague dancing house
Also known as the « Fred and Ginger house », this modern buildings bears a striking contrast to Prague’s more traditional architectural styles. According to the architect, it was built to symbolize communism blending into democracy. There’s nothing of note within the building itself but it’s good photo op if you happen to be in the area.
Check Out John Lennon Wall
On the Mala Strana side lies the John Lennon wall, which ironically is named after the artist despite the fact he never visited Prague. In the 1980s, around the end of communism, students began writing the lyrics of John Lennon songs on this wall to show their grievances and the wall now represents peace and love. You can also write in your message on this wall!
Explore Vysherad
Lesser known that Prague Castle, this smaller castle was also one of the original castles of the kings of Prague and lies on a hill along the river along the south the city. It is now mainly a park and on a nice day you’ll catch the locals enjoying the outdoors or sunbathing along its many green spaces. You can catch some good views of Prague and the river and admission is free
The Klementinum library
Thanks to its baroque architecture, this 300 year old library is among the most beautiful in the world and is definitely worth a visit. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed.
Prague Zoo
If you have time to spare and are traveling with kids, Prague Zoo offers a good break from the old city, museums and sightseeing. Prague Zoo was rated as the fifth best in the world by TripAdvisor.
Petrin Hill
Petrin Hill is a hillside park on a 327m hill just south of Prague Castle. Take the funicular up from Ujezd and go up the Petrin observation tower for some of the best views of Prague. From then on, follow the signs towards Prague Castle and on the way make a quick pit stop at Bellavista café for a refreshing drink while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Have a beer or more
A trip is not complete to Prague without beer where the Czech boast the highest per capita consumption of beer in the world. There are countless options to choose from but the most popular is the famed Pilsner Urquell.
Trdelnik
Finally, while exploring the city’s many winding streets and alleys, don’t forget to the trdelnik, a local treat consisting of a baked rolled sugared dough. It can be bought from many street vendors but do try to opt for a vendor using wood or charcoal stove rather than gas for a more authentic taste. While you can have it filled with everything from Nutella to ice cream, I personally recommend you go for a plain trdelnik.
