Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of the most popular destinations in East-Central Europe. Praha, as the locals call it, boasts a collection of some of the most impressive examples of European architecture in picture-perfect settings. Fondly nicknamed “The City of a Thousand Spires”, a trip to the city promises sightings of magnificent castles, winding laneways and medieval squares. The city’s striking architecture is well preserved as it escaped wartime bombings that left other parts of Europe not as lucky.
The classic European architecture is just one of its interesting facets. The city is positively brimming with culture, arts, entertainment, and food. From fascinating puppets to world-class beers, there is something for everyone in the capital city.
The Golden City has a wide range of charms to explore – it may even take you months to uncover everything it has to offer. To ease your planning, check out our list of the best things to do in Prague.
1. Pay homage to the Infant Jesus of Prague
The Infant Jesus of Prague or Child Jesus of Prague | PleskyRoman, Getty Images
Although the Czech Republic may be considered one of the least religious European countries, it is home to one of the most well-known churches in the world: Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague. The Baroque church is most known for housing the 18.5-inch statue of the child Jesus. The special devotion to this image originated with the Carmelites in Bohemia, Prague, during the 17th century.
Admire the image that has touched the hearts of the devotees of the child Jesus all over the world. Seeing this symbol of faith is moving, even if you aren’t religious.
Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague
Karmelitská 9, 118 00 Praha 1, Czechia
Admission: Free
Ph: +420 257 533 646
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Restaurace Bellevue (4.7/5 stars, Fine dining, KčKčKč)
• Restaurant Mlýnec (4.6/5 stars, Czech,KčKč)
• Pivo & Basilico Caffe Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague.
The best hotel to stay near Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Golden Well Hotel Prague (9.6/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
2. Cross the Charles Bridge
Old stone bridge Charles Prague medieval landmark night travel, Prague | DaLiu, Getty Images
The Charles Bridge is an iconic landmark of Prague. The 14th-century arch bridge, which crosses the Vltava river, was commissioned by King Charles IV. The stone Gothic bridge was once the most important structure in the city as it linked the Prague Castle and the Old Town. Nowadays, the bridge is a popular attraction where you have excellent views over the adjacent areas.
Take a stroll along the iconic bridge and admire the views of the city with street performers playing atmospheric tunes. The best part of this attraction is that it’s free to visit and is publicly open every hour of every day.
Charles Bridge
Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia
Admission: Free, but there is payment of 100 CZK each upon visiting Old Town Bridge Tower and The Lesser Town Bridge Tower
Ph: +420 221 714 714
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• V Zátiší (4.7/5 stars, Fine dining, KčKč)
• Coda(4.5/5 stars, Czech, KčKč)
• Aquarius Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Charles Bridge.
The best hotel to stay near Charles Bridge based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Three Storks (9.3/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
3. Sample the best beer in the world
Bartender pours beer during Pilsen Fest in tent located in Pilsner Urquell Brewery area | fotokon, Getty Images
The Czechs take their beer very seriously, as they have been brewing the refreshing concoction since the 10th Century. In fact, the country has been deemed to have the highest beer consumption per capita in the world. Prague is one of the best places to experience the unique Czech beer culture.
In Prague, pilsners are what macaroons are to France. It’s the drink of choice in the city, and several breweries have delightful options. Popular options include Pilsner Urquell (a premium brew), Budweiser (the Czech version), and Gambrinus.
4. Tour the Prague Castle
Prague Castle and Mala Strana or Little Quarter during twilight blue hour | KavalenkavaVolha, Getty Images
The Prague Castle is one of the most important landmarks of the Czech Republic and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering at a staggering 570 meters in length and about 130 meters in width, the castle has held the title as the largest ancient castle in the world. Its grounds encompass some of the city’s important attractions.
Don’t miss the “Story of Prague Castle” exhibit in the complex. It chronicles the castle’s rich 1,000-year history.
Prague Castle
Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Admission: 350 CZK full; 175 CZK reduced; 520 CZK family (complete ticket prices)
Ph: +420 224 373 368
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Terasa U Zlaté studně (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• The Castle Pub & Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• Vegan’s Prague (4.6/5 stars, Vegan, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Prague Castle.
The best hotel to stay near Prague Castle based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Alchymist Prague Castle Suites (9.6/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
5. Wander through the Old Town Square
Old Town Square in Prague with historic buildings, churches and sculptures | SCQBJ-JZ, Getty Images
Old Town Square, the oldest civic square in the city, is located in the historic heart of the city. A tourist favorite, the square is surrounded by several gothic European buildings. It is also a good place to start your exploration of the city due to its proximity to some of the city’s famed attractions.
The Old Town Square is even more beautiful during Christmas time when it hosts the annual Christmas fairs. The square evokes a festive air, especially since there is an enormous Christmas tree in the middle of it.
Old Town Square
Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Admission: Free, but Old Town Hall Tower Prague have entrance fee of 150 CZK (INR 470) to 500 CZK (INR 1569)
Ph: +420 221 714 714
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Gallery 44 Restaurant (4.9/5 stars, Fine dining, KčKčKč)
• Field Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Fine dining, KčKč)
• Restaurace Maitrea – vegetariánská restaurace (4.7/5 stars, Vegetarian, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Old Town Square.
The best hotel to stay near Old Town Square based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Art Nouveau Palace Hotel (8.9/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
6. See the Prague Astronomical Clock
The medieval astronomical clock in the Old Town square in Prague | GoneWithTheWindStock, Getty Images
The highlight of the Old Town Square is the famous Prague Astronomical Clock or Orloj. Dating back to 1410, the medieval astronomical clock is mounted on the facade of the Old Town Hall. On its intricate and ornate dials, it displays the position of certain celestial bodies as well as the current day of the month. It also has a fascinating show of mechanized figures every hour from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Witness the captivating display of one of the oldest operational astronomical clocks in the world.
Prague Astronomical Clock
Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Admission: 250 CZK basic; 150 CZK reduced; 500 CZK family
Ph: +420 236 002 629
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Vegetarian RESTAURANT Country Life (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• Bistro Monk (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• Forky’s Old Town (4.6/5 stars, Vegan, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Prague Astronomical Clock.
The best hotel to stay near Prague Astronomical Clock based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Iron Gate Hotel & Suites (9/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
7. Take a photo of the Dancing House
Dancing House in Prague | Vladislav Zolotov, Getty Images
Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Dancing House brings a dash of whimsy into the area’s traditional Art Nouveau style architecture. The quirky building was said to be inspired by the famous dancing duo Fred Astair and Ginger Rogers. It is the most internationally renowned piece of post-1989 Czech architecture. Despite its almost absurdist exterior, it operates like a regular building with office spaces, a restaurant, a gallery, and a conference center. The unique building is crowned with a sightseeing terrace that overlooks the breathtaking cityscape of Prague.
Dancing House
Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Admission: No entrance fee to the building; but has fee for gallery at 190 CZK (complete list of fees)
Ph: +420 604 438 010
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Vallmo restaurant (5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• Nepal House Restaurant (5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• Alcron Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Dancing House.
The best hotel to stay near Dancing House based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Four Seasons Hotel Prague (9.1/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
8. Explore the Golden Lane
Tourists at Golden Lane an street situated in Prague Castle | anamejia18, Getty Images
The Golden Lane is a picturesque district of Prague featuring colorful historical houses. This unique street is located within the grounds of Prague Castle. The charming street not only offers golden photo opportunities but an insight into the history of Prague. Built in the 16th century, the buildings lining the street used to be homes of the castle’s guards. Legend says the street used to be dwellings of the king’s alchemists. Nowadays, the houses host small shops and exhibits that display artifacts and items from different eras.
Golden Lane
Zlatá ulička u Daliborky 7, 119 00 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Admission: 250 CZK (short visit ticket) or 350 CZK (long visit ticket) (complete ticket price)
Ph: +420 224 372 423
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Terasa U Zlaté studně (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• Il Molo Prague (4.7/5 stars, Italian, KčKč)
• Bistro Bruncvík (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Golden Lane.
The best hotel to stay near Golden Lane based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague (/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
9. Admire the treasures of St. Vitus Cathedral
Inside Prague’s St. Vitus Cathedral | Carmelo Bayarcal, Wikimedia Commons
St. Vitus Cathedral is located within the grounds of Prague Castle. This massive cathedral can be spotted from almost any point in the city, but it is worth seeing up close. The cathedral is a prime example of something that can be gorgeous both inside and out. The stone exteriors of the church are covered in intricate Gothic details. The almost cavernous interiors of the cathedral are adorned with gorgeous stained glass windows and stunning artwork. It is also home to the remains of saints.
St. Vitus Cathedral
III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Admission: There is a free tour; and a paid tour with a fee of 125 CZK to 700 CZK (complete tour price)
Ph: +420 224 372 434
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Pivo & Basilico Caffe Restaurant (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• La Finestra in Cucina (4.6/5 stars, Italian, KčKč)
• Pastař (4.5/5 stars, Italian, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near St. Vitus Cathedral.
The best hotel to stay near St. Vitus Cathedral based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Mandarin Oriental, Prague (9.2/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
10. See the city from above on Petrin Hill
Prague Castle and Lesser Town panorama view from Petrin Hill | DaLiu, Getty Images
Petrin Hill, a stone’s throw away from the Prague castle, is one of the most popular places to view the city’s iconic cityscape. The open space park with beautiful old trees is a worthy escape from the busy city that Prague has become. The Petrin Lookout Tower, a cast-iron tower that resembles the Eiffel Tower, is nestled on the hill and provides gorgeous views of the city from its peak.
The hill also has several rose gardens where you can enjoy the fresh scents while taking in the view of downtown Prague.
Petrin Hill
118 00 Prague 1, Czechia
Admission: CZK 150 (fee to Petrin Lookout Tower)
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Bockem (4.9/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• RattanaKosin thai restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Thai, KčKč)
• Ikura Restaurant (/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Petrin Hill.
The best hotel to stay near Petrin Hill based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Aria Hotel Prague (9.4/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
11. Check out the library at Strahov Monastery
Historical library of Strahov Monastery in Prague | DaLiu, Getty Images
Inside the Strahov Monastery, an incredible monastery dating back to the 1140’s, is one of Prague’s hidden gems. The Strahov Library is one of the most beautiful Baroque libraries in the world.
Two magnificent and ornate 17th-century halls house over 200,000 books, manuscripts, and lithographs. It is one of the most valuable and best-preserved historical libraries. A highlight of the library is the interesting 18th-century Cabinet of Curiosities. It displays shriveled and preserved carcasses of sea creatures initially passed off by sailors as “sea monsters”.
Strahov Monastery
Strahovské nádvoří 1/132, 118 00 Praha 1-Strahov, Czechia
Admission: Adults 150 CZK; Reduced 80 CZK; Family 300 CZK; Photo permission (no flash) 50 CZK (complete ticket list)
Ph: +420 233 107 704
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• St.Martin (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• Restaurace U Malířů1543 (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• Gran Fierro (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Strahov Monastery.
The best hotel to stay near Strahov Monastery based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Grand Hotel Bohemia (9.3/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
12. Taste delectable Czech sweets
One of Cukrář Skála best selling delicacies | Cukrář Skála
Almost every corner in Prague has some offering of sweets, from the traditional trdelnik stands to ice cream chains. There are plenty of options for every kind of craving. If you want a taste of traditional Czech treats with a modern twist, check out Cukrář Skála. The cake shop puts the delicate, almost-too-good-to-eat sweets and pastries in transparent glass counters where you can admire their beauty before purchasing. You can also watch the busy bakers craft the tasty creations.
Cukrář Skála
V Celnici 1034/6, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
Admission: Menu prices range from CZK 47 to CZK 879
Ph: +420 220 199 381
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Sia Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKčKč)
• Chilli Point (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
• Estrella restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Vegetarian, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Cukrář Skála.
The best hotel to stay near Cukrář Skála based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• Ventana Hotel Prague (9.2/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
13. Experience a unique theater performance
Ta Fantastika | VitVit, Wikimedia Commons
Blacklight theatre, which originated in Asia, is surprisingly a specialty in Prague. The theatrical performance creates an optical illusion using a pitch-black set with performers donned in bright costumes and manipulating UV lights. Even if you speak a foreign language, you can still understand the story as it is told through the music and the performers’ precise and deliberate movements.
Many theaters in the city offer this unique performance. In Ta Fantastika, fairytale classics like Alice in Wonderland are performed in this style.
Ta Fantastika
Karlova 186, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Admission: CZK 720; 3 – 15 years CZK 550; Additional (folding aisle) chair – CZK 390
Ph: +420 222 221 366
Get directions
Best place to eat nearby, according to locals and visitors:
• Bianco Nero ristorante & café (4.6/5 stars, Italian, KčKč)
• The Hummus Bar (4.8/5 stars, Mediterranean, KčKč)
• Hospoda U Pivrnce (4.7/5 stars, Restaurant, KčKč)
See the full list of places to eat near Ta Fantastika.
The best hotel to stay near Ta Fantastika based on overall price, location, and amenities according to travelers:
• COSMOPOLITAN Hotel Prague (9.2/10 stars, KčKčKč) – Booking.com
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