prague tourist spot

21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Prague

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Diana Bocco Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Prague has been nicknamed the "city of a thousand spires" for good reason: as you glance over its 1,100-year-old skyline, you'll be rewarded with splendid views of lovely domed churches and soaring old towers that combine to make Prague one of the world's architectural gems. Everywhere you look, fine examples of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles dot the city, providing a dramatic contrast to the sturdy old Prague Castle.

Possessing one of the best-preserved historic city centers in Europe, the narrow laneways of Prague's delightful Old Town open up onto spectacular squares, each home to well-preserved historical buildings just waiting to be explored. Must-sees include the famous Charles Bridge over the Vltava River, the splendid Jewish Quarter with its old synagogues, and, of course, the city's many historic churches.

Discover the best places to visit in this enchanting city with our list of the top attractions in Prague.

1. Walk the Grounds of Prague Castle

2. stroll across charles bridge, 3. discover wenceslas square, 4. explore the treasures at the national museum, 5. visit the clementinum and the national library, 6. stop by the old town square and the astronomical clock, 7. st. vitus cathedral, 8. the church of our lady before týn, 9. see world-class exhibitions at the national gallery in prague, 10. enjoy free art at the municipal house, 11. spend a day at the prague zoo, 12. walk the streets of josefov: the jewish quarter, 13. marvel at the beauty of the strahov monastery and library, 14. walk to the top of the petrín lookout tower, 15. leave your mark at the lennon wall, 16. st. nicholas church, 17. catch a performance at the national theatre, 18. people-watch from the roof of the dancing house, 19. admire the views from the hilltop fortress: vyšehrad, 20. discover modern art at kampa island, 21. spot famous names at the olšany cemetery, where to stay in prague for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to prague, map of attractions & things to do in prague, best time to visit prague, czech republic.

Located in Prague's Hradcany neighborhood, Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), once the home of Bohemia's kings, is today the official residence of the Czech Republic's President and one of the city's most visited tourist attractions.

Originally built as a walled fortress around AD 870, the castle has changed dramatically over the years and contains examples of most of the leading architectural styles of the last millennium. Within the castle walls are a number of Prague's most popular tourist sites, including St. Vitus Cathedral , St. George's Basilica , the Powder Tower , the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane .

The largest castle complex in the world , this vast fortress requires considerable time to tour, but it's time well spent (particularly rewarding are the excellent views over the Vltava River with the old town and its many beautiful spires in the background).

Highlights include the Old Royal Palace's main hall, the Vladislav Hall, so large it could be used for jousting tournaments, and staircases wide enough to allow mounted knights to use them. Be sure to also spend time in the Royal Garden , dating back to 1534 and home to a number of superb old buildings, including the Ball Game Pavilion, the Royal Summer House with its Singing Fountain, and the Lion's Court.

The best way to fully explore the castle is on a Prague Castle Walking Tour Including Admission Tickets . Also check the castle's official website for news and updates regarding cultural events, such as classical music concerts, lectures, and workshops.

One of the top things to do at night in Prague is to find a good spot from which to enjoy the castle illuminations that light this magnificent structure in a range of hues. In fact, basing yourself in a hotel in the vicinity of Prague Castle is a good idea, so you can experience the city highlights by day and night.

Address: 119 08 Praha 1

Official site: www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle-for-visitors

• Read More: Visiting Prague Castle: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

One of the most recognizable old bridges in Europe, magnificent Charles Bridge ( Karluv Most ) boasts 32 unique points of interest along its 621-meter span. Built in 1357, the bridge has long been the subject of a great deal of superstition, including the builders having laid the initial bridge stone on the 9th of July at exactly 5:31am, a precise set of numbers (135797531) believed to give the structure additional strength. For added good measure, it was constructed in perfect alignment with the tomb of St. Vitus and the setting sun on the equinox.

The bridge is particularly famous for its many fine old statues. Among the most important are those of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and John of Nepomuk, the country's most revered saint, unveiled in 1683 (a more recent superstition involves rubbing the plaque at the base of the statue for the granting of a wish).

Other highlights include spectacular views over the River Vltava and the structure's superb Gothic gates. Viewing Charles Bridge at night is also highly recommended (an added benefit are the smaller crowds, particularly after the spectacular sunset).

Address: Karluv most, 110 00 Praha 1

A highlight of Prague's New Town (Nové Mesto) district-an area that grew out of the city's need to expand as it prospered-is the wonderful Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí), home to the National Museum and numerous other architectural treasures.

Named after the patron saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen here, Wenceslas Square was created in the 14th century during the reign of Charles IV as a horse market and has since become one of the city's most important public spaces, still used for demonstrations and celebrations alike.

A visit today is a fun experience and undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in Prague, and will introduce visitors to some of the city's best dining and restaurant experiences, as well as great shopping. If you are visiting Prague in December, it's also the site of the city's largest Christmas Market.

Address: 110 00 Praha 1

Fresh from a seven-year-long renovation, the National Museum (Národní Muzeum) in Prague is spread across a number of locations and houses numerous important collections representing a variety of fields, with literally millions of items covering mineralogy, zoology, anthropology, and archaeology, as well as the arts and music. The entomology collection alone numbers more than five million specimens. The oldest museum in the Czech Republic, it was established in the early 1800s before moving to its current location in 1891.

A particularly enjoyable highlight is the archaeology exhibit with its extensive collection of 1st-and 2nd-century Roman artifacts, along with numerous Bronze and Early Iron age finds. (For a comprehensive list of all locations and collections, visit the National Museum's website, below.)

Another museum to include on your must-visit list is the excellent National Technical Museum (Národní technické museum), which documents the many technological advances the country has contributed to, including displays of machinery and equipment built here over the years, from automobiles to aircraft.

Address: Václavské námestí 68, 115 79 Praha 1

Official site: www.nm.cz/en#all

The Clementinum (Klementinum), one of the largest collections of historic buildings in Europe, is home to the National Library of the Czech Republic. These beautiful Baroque buildings were originally part of a Jesuit College, and later came to house the Jesuit book collection, as well as the collection from the Karolinum. The library eventually became the property of the state after the Jesuits were expelled, and the Clementinum became a public library in 1782 shortly after being constituted as the National Library.

With more than six million books, the Clementinum's collection is huge and includes copies of every book published in the Czech Republic. A highlight is the exquisite Baroque Library Hall with its beautiful ceiling artwork, the 68-meter-tall Astronomical Tower with its spectacular views over Prague, and the splendid Mirror Chapel with its exquisite décor. English language guided tours are available and last approximately 50 minutes.

For a truly memorable experience, the Clementinum is also used as a venue for jazz events, classical concerts, and festivals.

Address: Mariánské námestí 5, 110 00 Praha 1

The historic center of Prague, the Old Town (Staré Mesto) is where you'll find the splendid Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí), one of the best places to begin exploring the city. Here, you'll find the Tyn Church and the Clementinum , along with numerous other fine old churches, as well as splendid old architecture dating back as far as the 11th century, while the Jewish Quarter , Josefov , is just a short walk north.

A highlight is the Old Town Hall (Staromestská radnice), home to the wonderful early 15th-century Astronomical Clock (orloj). Each hour, it springs to life as the 12 Apostles and other figures appear and parade in procession across the clock face.

Other Old Town Hall highlights are the Gothic doorway leading to its splendid interior with its art exhibits and displays, a chapel built in 1381, and an old prison. Be sure to make the ascent (by stairs or elevator) to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower for its fine views over Prague.

Address: Staromestské námestí, 110 00 Praha 1

Situated within the grounds of Prague Castle , the Roman Catholic St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrala St. Vita) is the Czech Republic's largest and most important Christian church. Seat of the Archbishop of Prague, it's also home to the tombs of numerous saints and three Bohemian kings.

Founded on the site of a Romanesque rotunda built in AD 925, the cathedral was started in 1344 and took more than 525 years to complete, resulting in a mix of modern Neo-Gothic and 14th-century Gothic styles, along with Baroque and Renaissance influences (be sure to keep an eye out for the impressive gargoyles adorning the exterior of the cathedral).

Interior highlights include stunning stained glass windows depicting the Holy Trinity, a mosaic from 1370 ( The Last Judgment ), and the St. Wenceslas Chapel (Svatovaclavska kaple) with its spectacular jewel-encrusted altar with more than 1,300 precious stones.

Also of note, although rarely displayed, are the Czech crown jewels (on average, they're exhibited just once every eight years). Be sure to make the climb up the cathedral's 97-meter main tower for splendid views over Prague. Visitors are also welcome to attend cathedral mass.

Address: III nádvorí 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1

Official site: www.katedralasvatehovita.cz/en

One of Prague's most recognizable buildings is the Church of Our Lady before Týn (Kostel Matky Boží pred Týnem), often abbreviated to simply Týn Church. Unmistakable for its twin 80-meter-tall spires flanking each side of the building (each supporting four smaller spires), its main entrance is through a narrow passage past the houses obscuring its façade.

Although completed in the 15th century, the church was altered numerous times through the centuries as the city's allegiances changed, and while interior renovations are ongoing, there's still much worth seeing, including numerous fine tombs, the superb Gothic northern portal with its Crucifixion sculpture, early Baroque altarpiece paintings dating from 1649, and one of Europe's finest 17th-century pipe organs.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the 11th-century Ungelt Courtyard behind the church with its many fine restaurants and cafés. Another splendid old church worth visiting is the Baroque Church of the Virgin Mary with its famous statue of the infant Jesus, said to have been responsible for miracles and still a point of pilgrimage.

Spread across some of the city's most important architectural landmarks, the National Gallery in Prague (Národní galerie v Praze) is home to some of Europe's most important art collections. The bulk of the collection is housed in the Veletrzní Palace (Veletrzní Palác), a relatively modern structure built in 1925 that holds the 19th- to 21st-century works. While there's a strong emphasis on Czech artists, foreign artists such as Monet and Picasso are included, as are other art forms such as photography, fashion, applied arts, and sculpture.

Other notable works are held in the Kinsky Palace (Palác Kinskych), home to Asian art, art from the ancient world, and the gallery's Baroque collections, and at the Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia, where you'll find European art from the Middle Ages.

Finally, the splendid 17th-century Sternberg Palace (Sternbersky Palác) houses some of the gallery's most famous pieces, focusing on European art from the Classical era to the end of the Baroque period and including important ancient Greek and Roman pieces; 14th- to 16th-century Italian masterpieces; and 16th- to 18th-century works by artists such as El Greco, Goya, Rubens, van Dyck, Rembrandt, and van Goyen.

Address: Staromestské námestí 12, 110 15 Praha 1

Official site: www.ngprague.cz/en/

The Prague Municipal House (Obecní dum) is widely considered one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau in the city. Built in 1912, this splendid civic building is also home to one of Prague's most important (and largest) concert venues, Smetana Hall , and boasts numerous striking features, from its sumptuous façade with a large mural on the arch above the second floor balcony, to the large dome that rests behind and above the arch.

The interior is equally impressive and includes many fine stained glass windows and important paintings. While English language guided tours are available (including a chance to see otherwise closed ceremonial rooms), one of the best ways to enjoy this landmark is to take in a concert or sample its café, restaurants, and luxury boutique shops.

Address: námestí Republiky 5, 111 21 Praha 1

Official site: www.obecnidum.cz/en/

Opened in 1931, the superb Prague Zoo (Zoologická zahrada hl. m. Prahy) is not only one of the top tourist attractions in the city, it also ranks among the world's top zoological parks.

Located in the Troja suburbs just a short distance north of the city center, this 140-acre attraction is an especially fun outing for those traveling with kids. Highlights for younger children include a fun petting zoo, which offers pony rides and opportunities to feed the animals, and a large adventure playground.

Along with its more than 4,200 animals representing some 650 species-including many considered close to extinction-the zoo is notable for its role in saving the native (and endangered) Przewalski's horse.

Things to do here include riding a chairlift with great views of many of the animal enclosures, as well as visiting the huge giraffe exhibit, the superb salamander display, and the steamy indoor tropical jungle. Be sure to check the zoo's website for other details, including feeding times.

English-language guided tours and educational workshops are available. On-site dining is also offered, as well as several gift shops.

Address: U trojského zámku 3/120, 171 00 Praha 7

Official site: www.zoopraha.cz/en

Prague's Jewish Quarter was originally located in the Castle District, but by the 1200s had spread to the city's Josefov area and was for centuries regarded as a ghetto. Its transformation into one of the city's most important and interesting districts took place in the late 1800s, when large sections were demolished to make way for Art Nouveau apartment buildings.

Today, Josefov is a pleasant area to stroll around and includes the Jewish Museum in Prague (Židovské muzeum v Praze), an important attraction that consists of the Maisel Synagogue, the Spanish Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Ceremonial Hall, and the Klaus Synagogue.

One of the top free things to do in Prague is to explore the Old Jewish Cemetery, notable for its weathered tombstones, many leaning in a disorderly fashion due to their age. Josefov is also popular for its great kosher restaurants.

Address: U staré školy 141/1, 110 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.jewishmuseum.cz/aindex.php

The Strahov Monastery and Library (Strahovsky kláster) dates back to the 12th century and is the second oldest monastery in Prague. While its imposing gateway and churches are impressive enough, its most important buildings are its two beautifully decorated Baroque libraries. The Philosophical Library contains a variety of extraordinary furnishings, along with an exquisite ceiling painted by Franz Anton Maulbertsch entitled Enlightenment .

The second library, the Theological Library , consists of a splendid Baroque room with a beautiful ornate painted ceiling by Siard Nosecky, a Strahov Monk, along with superb ceiling frescoes framed by detailed stucco work. The libraries contain many rare old volumes and manuscripts, including the famous 9th-century Strahov Gospel , while in the cellars are old printing presses along with the remains of St. Norbert, founder of the Premonstratensian Order.

Also of note are the cloisters, which house a religious art collection and treasury, as well as the fascinating Strahov Cabinet of Curiosities, notable for its displays of historic artifacts from science. English-language tours are available. If you want to linger a little longer, consider dining at the Great Monastery Restaurant, or participate in one of the daily masses.

Address: Strahovské nádvorí 1/132, 118 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.strahovskyklaster.cz/en/

Named after the hill on which it stands, the 63.5-meter-high Petrín Lookout Tower (Petrínská rozhledna) is a little like a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower in Paris that offers panoramic views over Prague. Although only a fifth the size of its French counterpart, the tower's elevation creates the illusion that it's bigger than it actually is.

Built in 1891 for the Prague Exhibition from disused railway tracks, it was later moved to Petrín Hill in the 1930s, where it became one of the city's major tourist attractions.

Today, visitors can either make the 30-minute climb up the Petrín hill to the base of the tower or take a leisurely trip aboard the funicular railway before tackling the structure's 299 steps to the top (there's also an elevator, as well as a café). Be sure to visit the nearby Mirror Maze , a fun diversion also built in 1891.

Address: Petrínské sady, 118 00 Praha 1

Perhaps one of the city's most unlikely attractions, Prague's Lennon Wall has stood since the 1980s as a tribute to former Beatle and peace campaigner John Lennon. Things got started almost immediately after the singer's murder in 1980, when this otherwise unassuming wall near the Charles Bridge became a place for fans to demonstrate their grief, painting pictures, lyrics, and slogans attributed to the star.

Despite police efforts to erase the graffiti-Czechoslovakia, as it was then, was still under communist rule-the memorial wall kept reappearing, and the site became a symbol of hope and peace for the city's population. The tradition continues to this day, and along with gatherings on the anniversary of Lennon's death, tourists can frequently be observed adding their sentiments to the wall.

Address: Velkoprevorské námestí, 100 00 Praha 1

On picturesque Little Quarter Square in the Old Town area stands St. Nicholas Church (Kostel svatého Mikuláše), one of Prague's newer churches. Built by Jesuits in the 18th century, it's a fine example of High Baroque and is notable for its splendid interior with its unique 19th-century chandelier, as well as the large Baroque paintings by Czech artist Karel Skreta that adorn the huge cupola. Of particular note are the church's two historic organs, the oldest of which was built in 1745.

The church also features a bell tower, which visitors are permitted to climb, from the top of which are great views over the church's huge dome and the old city. Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the regular organ concerts held here, including Mozart's Requiem and other notable classical pieces. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Malostranské námestí, 118 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.stnicholas.cz/en/

Idyllically perched on the banks of the River Vltava, Prague's National Theatre is a must-visit for lovers of the performing arts. Home to the country's top opera, ballet, and drama performances, the National Theater was opened in 1881 as a symbol of Czech national identity and to promote the Czech language and culture.

Despite a somewhat checkered past that saw the building destroyed by fire and even closed by the communists, this stunning theater has undergone extensive renovations and stands as a monument to the city's rich talent and cultural significance. (English-language guided tours are available).

Another Prague theater of note is the Estates Theatre (Stavovské divaldo), built in the late 18th century in Neoclassical style and once a favorite of Mozart, who chose to premier Don Giovanni here.

Address: Národní 2, 110 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.narodni-divadlo.cz/en

The Dancing House (Tancící dum), Prague's most outstanding modern architectural creation, was built between 1992 and 1996 to designs by Frank Gehry. Consisting of two adjoining towers, this splendid structure features unique curves that resemble two dancing figures, an effect heightened by the fact one of the towers is shaped like a woman wearing a skirt (hence the nickname "Fred and Ginger" after famous American dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers).

While the building consists largely of offices and a hotel, great views can be enjoyed from the top floor restaurant (a café is also located on the main level).

Address: Jiráskovo námestí 1981/6, 120 00 Praha 2

Looking like something out of a fairy tale, the Vyšehrad fortress-literally translated as the "Upper Castle," or the "Castle on the Heights"-stands high above the Vltava River overlooking Prague. Known to have been in existence as far back as the 10th century, it has long been the subject of myth and legend, including the foretelling of an ancient princess of the rising of a great city around it.

Once the royal residence of Vratislav II, Vyšehrad also played a role as part of the original Royal Route taken by kings about to be crowned, who would have to stop here to pay tribute to their predecessors (the route led from Vyšehrad to Hradcany).

Although now largely ruins, the fortress is a wonderful place for a stroll or picnic and offers superb views of the surrounding city. During the summer months, the attraction's open air theater hosts musical and theatrical performances. English language guided tours can be arranged.

Address: V pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00 Praha 2

Official site: www.praha-vysehrad.cz/?l=9

A small island in the Vltava River, Kampa is located at the Mala Strana end of Charles Bridge. Because of its location, some of the best views of Prague are found on the shores of Kampa Island. Get here as the sun sets over the water, and the swans come to the shore to sleep, to snap some of the most romantic evening photos of Prague.

One of Kampa Island's most famous sights is the giant baby sculptures of famous Czech artist David Černy, which take center stage at Kampa Park. Just a few steps away is the Kampa Modern Art Museum , housed in a converted riverside mill and filled with stunning work by 20th-century European sculptors.

The island's only square, Na Kampe, is home to a charming traditional Christmas market every December. In summer, make your way to the Čertovka canal (also known as the Devil's Stream), which separates the island from Lesser Town. Only the water wheels remain of the many mills that once dotted the island, but you can take a boat tour of the canal to admire the colorful old houses lining up on the shore.

Address: Malá Strana, 118 00 Prague 1

Created in 1680 to accommodate Prague's many plague victims, the Olšany Cemetery (Olšanské hrbitovy) served as the city's main burial ground for centuries and is the final resting place of countless victims of disease and war.

Large enough to hold an estimated two million graves and divided into sections, the graveyard consists of the Jewish Cemetery, which includes the grave of writer Franz Kafka, and the Christian Cemetery, where you'll find the final resting place of a more recent notable Czech, Jan Palach, who set himself on fire in 1968 in protest against the Soviet invasion. Although his body was taken from Olsany Cemetery in 1973 to prevent his grave from becoming the site of organized protests, his coffin was returned in 1990.

Despite its somewhat morbid history, it remains a wonderful place to explore due to its many mysterious old tombs and Art Nouveau monuments.

Address: Vinohradská 1835/153, 130 00 Praha 3

If you're visiting Prague for the first time and want to see the city's top attractions, the best area to stay is Prague 1 . The city is divided into numbered districts, and Prague 1 is home to the city's historical center and top tourist sites such as the Old Town (Staré Mesto); the New Town; the Lesser Town or Little Quarter (Malá Strana); and Prague Castle. Basing yourself in Prague 1 means you're never more than a short walk from these prime areas and attractions, and if you want to venture further afield, Prague's public transport system is excellent. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations for sightseeing:

Luxury Hotels:

• The sumptuous boutique Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa , in a 16th-century Baroque mansion, lies only a short hop from Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge, while Hotel Residence Agnes lavishes its guests in a superbly restored historic building only 600 meters from the Old Town Square.
• Also in Prague 1, the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Prague overlooks the Vltava River just steps away from Charles Bridge.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a quiet location near Prague's largest park, the boutique Questenberk offers beautiful views of the city and Strahov Monastery and sits only a short stroll from Prague Castle.
• Across the river, a five-minute walk from lively Wenceslas Square, the Design Hotel Jewel Prague is a popular mid-range option with its heritage-listed gold-painted ceiling and thoughtful personal touches.
• If you're seeking the facilities of a chain hotel close to tram and metro stations, Prague Marriott offers a swimming pool and gym and lies a short stroll from the Old Town Square.

Budget Hotels:

• To save money on accommodation, it's worth staying a little farther away from the main tourist areas. Close to a tram stop, Aparthotel City 5 offers modern apartment-style accommodation a 10-minute drive from Prague Castle.
• Other popular budget options include Miss Sophie's Hotel and the modern B&B Hotel Prague City . Both lie about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town Square.

Prague Sightseeing Tours:

• For first-time visitors, taking a tour of the city is a great idea. This is a good way to see the layout and learn some of the history. A worthwhile introductory tour is the Prague in One Day Sightseeing Tour , a popular 3.5-hour guided tour with coach transport and a walking tour of some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the famous Prague Castle.
• Another great option is the Full-Day Prague Tour with Vltava River Cruise, Prague Castle, and Lunch . This seven-hour tour combines the best of a bus tour, two walking tours, and a Vltava River cruise. You'll take in some of the most important Prague sights from an air-conditioned coach before following your guide on a walking tour of the castle grounds. After a three-course meal at a nearby restaurant, you'll hop on a sightseeing cruise that takes you past stunning sights and then end the day with a walk through Old Town and the Jewish Quarters.

Prague Day Trips:

• If you have time for only one day trip and have not already been to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, the Cesky Krumlov Day Trip from Prague is a must-do. This is an all day tour, with a scenic drive through the countryside and plenty of time to explore this beautiful medieval town.
• The Kutna Hora Day Trip from Prague is a six-hour excursion and includes a visit to the famous Sedlec Ossuary, known more commonly as the Bone Church, ornately decorated with human skulls and bones.
• For a different type of historical road trip, the Terezin Concentration Camp Day Tour offers a chance to see this WWII camp and the Terezin Memorial. This is a five-hour tour that includes transport to and from the site.

For most people, the best time to visit Prague is early fall . The city is vibrant year-round, but the months of September and early October offer mild weather in the 18 to 20 degrees Celsius range. This is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the crooked little streets that make up this ancient city.

While you might encounter some rain in spring and fall , these are ideal months for sightseeing , as there are fewer tourists around, and you don't have to deal with the humid heat of the summer months. Bonus points for spring and fall offering better prices and a few interesting festivals to explore.

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Czech Republic Travel Ideas : While Prague is an obvious choice as a base for your Czech Republic vacation, be sure to spend time exploring the rest of this amazing country. Other notable destinations include Karlovy Vary , established in 1358 and popular for its historic buildings and thermal hot springs. The walled city of Cesky Krumlov is also worth visiting, especially for its castle and churches, as is old Brno , the country's second largest city.

Crossing Borders : An easy two-hour rail journey from Prague will bring you to the historic German city of Dresden , home to exquisite Baroque architectural gems, such as the spectacular Frauenkirche cathedral. Also worth a visit in Germany is the city of Leipzig , popular for its historic old squares, city hall, and wonderful shopping and dining experiences.

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Prague   Travel Guide

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32 Best Things to Do in Prague

Prague boasts some of the most picturesque architectural landmarks in Europe. Here you'll find the sprawling  Prague Castle , the bustling  Charles Bridge , the famous Astronomical Clock  in the Old Town , and the quirky, art nouveau Dancing House .

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) free

Old Town Square is a popular spot in Prague, with travelers flocking here in droves for its beautiful architecture, colorful history and vibrant atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed square hasn't changed much since it was established in the 12th century when it functioned as the city's original marketplace. 

The square is home to some of the most historic attractions in the city, including the Old Town Hall, one of the best places to get a bird's-eye view of the city and the Prague Astronomical Clock, a beautiful timepiece dating back to the 1400s. Other architectural highlights found within the square include the baroque Church of St. Nicholas and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, instantly recognizable for its two Gothic spires. Meanwhile, the newest additions to the square include a monument erected in 1915 for the religious reformer Jan Hus. There are also several restaurants here that spill out onto the square during the warmer months as locals and travelers alike enjoy a coffee or a beer on the patios. And if you're visiting during the holiday season, expect the square to be filled with Christmas market shoppers.

Charles Bridge (Karluv most) Charles Bridge (Karluv most) free

The Charles Bridge connects Old Town ( Staré Mesto ) and Lesser Town ( Malá Strana ). Visitors come here to soak up the atmosphere, take in the views of the city and explore the 30 saint statues that line the bridge. Though the bridge dates back to 1357, the statues were crafted from 1683 to 1928 to honor numerous saints. 

Recent travelers said a visit to the bridge is a must-do, especially if it's your first time in Prague. But reviewers do warn that you'll likely encounter claustrophobic swarms of tourists and street vendors and you should keep a close watch on your valuables. Some suggest visiting at dawn or dusk to avoid the crowds; the congestion is at its worst in the afternoons, according to travelers. Visiting with a tour guide is another way to sidestep the crowds.

Prague Castle Prague Castle free

Holding the record for the largest coherent castle complex in the world, Prague Castle serves double duty as the office of the Czech president and a popular tourist destination. The complex where it stands is also home to several other attractions. 

Prague Castle has stood in this spot for more than a thousand years and covers a lot of area. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the grounds feature a variety of architectural styles, including everything from 10th-century Romanesque buildings to Gothic structures from the 14th century. Throughout its history, the castle and the area around it have gone through extensive restorations and renovations. 

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Petrin Hill Petrin Hill

For a breath of fresh air and a chance to exercise your legs, head to Petrín Hill, one of the largest green spaces in the city. Attractions here include the Rose Garden, or rosarium , at the top of the hill, Nebozízek Garden, the Mirror Maze (a labyrinth), and the Seminary Garden, which boasts more than 2,000 fruit trees. The area has been in use since at least the 12th century, serving as an execution site, vineyards and farming lands through the centuries.

Over the years, the land was divided into various gardens. One of the more famous attractions in the park is the Petrín Lookout Tower, which was built in 1891 and resembles a small Eiffel Tower . Head up its 299 steps to the top for amazing views overlooking the entire city, and on clear days, most of Bohemia. Recent travelers say the view is well worth the climb up (there is an elevator too), but it can get crowded. They recommend taking the funicular up, then walking back down.

St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) free

Note: Due to construction work, the free part of the cathedral is inaccessible beginning in October 2023. No reopening date has been announced. You can still visit other sections of the cathedral with a paid ticket.

While the site of St. Vitus Cathedral dates back to about A.D. 925, the church that stands today is actually the third in honor of Saint Vitus (the patron saint of dancers, actors, comedians and epileptics). Consecrated in 1929, the cathedral features neo-Gothic stylings alongside Renaissance and baroque details. 

Náplavka Farmers Market Náplavka Farmers Market free

Tourists and locals alike enjoy perusing the Náplavka Farmers Market in Prague. Whether you're looking for an excellent snack or a keepsake from your visit, you'll be sure to find it at a stand in this sprawling marketplace. Alternatively, just stroll along the Vltava River and take in the sights and smells of the bustling vendors.

Previous visitors say that a majority of the stalls focus on food, so it's best to skip breakfast and arrive hungry. What's more, recent travelers appreciate the market's position along the Vltava River, close to other attractions like the National Theatre and the Dancing House as well as people-watching and the market's truly local atmosphere.

National Theatre (Národní divadlo) National Theatre (Národní divadlo)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Adjacent to the National Theatre, is the New Stage. Built in the 1980s, the modern theater is constructed from more than 4,000 blown glass bricks. Head upstairs to Café Nona to experience the interiors and sip a cuppa with elevated views of the city below. – Joann Plockova

The National Theatre is the place to come if you want to see opera, theater or ballet in Prague.

Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) free

Unsurprisingly, the Wallenstein Garden sits outside the Wallenstein Palace, home of the Senate of Czechia, in Prague's Mala Strana. Both the geometrically designed garden and the adjacent palace were built between 1623 and 1629. Given the era of the garden's construction, its baroque style and immense sala (a type of pavilion) are even more impressive. Travelers who stroll through the garden during the summer may be treated to a concert or theatrical performance.

Past visitors were particularly appreciative of the Wallenstein Garden's roaming white peacocks, which certainly add a whimsical feel to the area. Travelers also enjoyed the garden's water features, ranging from fountains to koi ponds. Additionally, access to the Wallenstein Garden is free, making it a cost-effective place to spend a sunny afternoon.

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Vinohrady Vinohrady

Considered one of my Prague's most desirable addresses, Vinohrady takes its name from the former vineyards that Charles IV ordered be planted in the area in the 14th century. Today, the leafy residential neighborhood attracts locals and visitors alike for its beautiful architecture, its plethora of cafes and restaurants, its pretty parks with views and a number of significant landmarks from Námestí Míru (Peace Square) to Prague's omnipresent TV tower.

Recent visitors appreciated the views from Vinohrady's parks including Riegrovy Sady; the district's peaceful churches, like the Church of St Ludmila on Námestí Míru and the neighborhood's pastel colored art nouveau buildings. They described Vinohrady as a happening place teeming with great cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants.

St. Nicholas Church (Chrám svatého Mikuláse) St. Nicholas Church (Chrám svatého Mikuláse)

Located in Lesser Town ( Malá Strana) , the St. Nicholas Church (not to be confused with the Church of St. Nicholas in  Old Town Square ) is well visited for its stunning baroque architecture, intricate frescoes and classical sculptures. 

Although the site of the church dates back to the 13th century, the construction of the church that stands today wasn't completed until the 1760s. Here, visitors will find expansive frescos as well as an organ system with more than 4,000 pipes that was once played my Mozart. Along with being an active parish, the church hosts dozens of concerts per year. 

Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Jewish Quarter (Josefov) free

Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, is home to several significant sites, including a number of important synagogues like the Spanish Synagogue and the Old New Synagogue, Europe's oldest active synagogue. While the six monuments, or sites, are collectively referred to as the Jewish Museum, there is no physical museum building. The Old Jewish Cemetery is a sight to behold. The oldest surviving cemetery of its kind, there are 12,000 visible graves and countless more underneath. With space at a premium, it became necessary for graves to be placed on top of each other, as many as 10 layers deep.

Recent travelers said the neighborhood offers a hands-on history of Jewish life in Czechia, although some complained about admission fees to individual synagogues or museums. Some spring for a spot on an organized tour group or an audio guide (which can be rented at the Jewish Museum in Prague's Reservation Center), but you can save some money and just explore on your own (ideally equipped with a detailed guidebook).

Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) (Kostel Prazskeho Jezulatka) Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) (Kostel Prazskeho Jezulatka) free

The Infant Jesus of Prague statue is thought to have been carved in Spain in the 16th century (though some argue it is older). It found its way to Prague in the mid-1500s. While the origin of the Infant Jesus statue remains unconfirmed (legend has it that the figure originally belonged to Saint Teresa of Avila), the statue certainly plays a significant role in Prague and the Roman Catholic Church. Many notable figures attributed miracles to the Infant Jesus of Prague over time, bolstering its status as a holy symbol. These miraculous claims were compounded by the church and statue's continued security, despite the multiple wars and periods of unrest in the city. As the statue's profile grew, copies of the Infant Jesus of Prague were (and continue to be) sent to churches around the world.

Regardless of their religious orientation, previous travelers praise the church for its beautiful decor. Visitors tend to go specifically to see the Infant Jesus statue or stumble upon the church and are delighted by its peaceful and quiet atmosphere, as well as the free admissions. Keep in mind that the ornate interior of the church is tiny, so don't allot a significant amount of time for the Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) unless you intend to attend Mass.

Prague Astronomical Clock Prague Astronomical Clock free

Located in the  Old Town Square , the Prague Astronomical Clock has been around since the 15th century, though it has required repairs many times over its history.

This clock doesn't display the time of day. Rather, it's meant to be used to determine the phases of the moon and the equinoxes. The clock uses depictions of symbols, such as a money bag representing greed, a figure looking at himself in a mirror to represent vanity and a skeleton to depict death. Each hour the clock shows a visualization of time unlike anything else in the world. 

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Spanish Synagogue Spanish Synagogue

Inspired by Granada's Alhambra, the Spanish Synagogue holds the distinction of being the most recently built synagogue in Prague's Jewish Quarter. While the Spanish Synagogue may be new by Prague's standards, the opulent place of worship actually completed construction in 1868, on the site of a 12th-century synagogue. The Spanish Synagogue operates as part of the Jewish Museum in Prague, so two permanent exhibitions, which focus on the history of Jews in Bohemian lands and showcase silver artifacts, are also on display.

The Moorish-style of the synagogue, as well as its beautiful interior, stuns recent visitors. They recommend visiting for an evening concert (the composer of the Czech national anthem once served as organist here) for a near-ethereal experience thanks to the building's excellent acoustics and elaborate design.

DOX Centre for Contemporary Art DOX Centre for Contemporary Art

The DOX Centre for Contemporary Art aims to inspire reflection on social topics and issues through its assortment of exhibitions. The eclectic nature of the Dox Centre means that travelers can expect to experience everything from design to sculpture to performance to film. Keep in mind that the unique design of the DOX Centre can confuse visitors (to the dismay of some recent guests), so you never know whether you'll stumble upon a zeppelin or an exhibition of tension.

Previous visitors' reactions to the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art were generally positive. Along with the thought provoking art, they appreciated the unique architecture and felt that the farther than expected trek to get there was well worth it. They warn not to get your hopes too high about a specific exhibition, though, as the museum frequently cycles its offerings. Recent travelers insist that along with the DOX Centre's design and book store, where you may find the perfect souvenir to bring home, you can relax at the cafe.

Letná Park Letná Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss the UNESCO-listed Expo 58 pavilion. Built in 1958 for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, it won the Golden Star Award: the World Fair's top prize. The pavilion hosts a new exhibition space presenting Czech and international art, though the glass and steel semicircular building is worth a look on its own. – Joann Plockova

Overlooking Prague's Old Town from across the Vltava River, Letná Park provides an excellent opportunity to relax. In addition to taking in the spectacular views, travelers can explore the park's landmarks: the Hanavský Pavilion, the first cast-iron structure and the home of a luxury restaurant; the Letná Carousel, the oldest surviving floored carousel in Europe; and the Prague Metronome, a 75-foot-long metronome designed to replace the largest statue of Stalin in the world.

National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror free

Once the site of a World War II-standoff, this monument sits in an underground crypt of the Church of Sts. Cyril and Methodius. The location was a secret hideout, where the Czech Orthodox Church allowed seven Czechoslovak parachutists to hide after they were involved in the assassination of the Nazi Reich Protector Reinhard Heydrich in 1942. They hid in the church's crypt for three weeks until they were betrayed, and the Germans besieged the church. Three paratroopers were killed in the fight, while the other four took their own lives in a desperate act to avoid surrender. You can still see bullet marks and shrapnel marks on the walls.

During a visit, you'll see an exhibit and a video that details the Nazi persecution of the Czechs. You'll learn about the history of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia in March 1939 and the arrival of Reinhard Heydrich as a representative of the Reich Protector in September 1941, as well as the subsequent reign of bloody terror. Past travelers said this museum is small, but very powerful and definitely worth visiting.

Troja Château (Trojský zámek) Troja Château (Trojský zámek)

The Troja Château stands apart from Prague's laundry list of historic monuments for its baroque style, extravagant frescos and picturesque grounds. The Bohemian castle began construction in 1679, while painters and sculptors contributed to the Troja Château's decorative element until its ultimate completion a few decades later. The castle traded hands until 1922 when the owner decided to donate it to the state. Since 1989 it has been under the administration of the Prague City Gallery, which also hosts exhibitions here.

These days, visitors marvel at the Troja Château's stunning trompe l'oeil ceiling, plus the assortment of additional art that lines the palace's walls. If you're lucky enough to visit during warm weather, previous travelers suggest taking in the Troja Château's architecture from the surrounding gardens and vineyards. Recent tourists recommend pairing a visit to the palace with the Prague Zoo , as the two attractions are adjacent.

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National Technical Museum National Technical Museum

Founded in 1908, the National Technical Museum evolved over the last century to include 14 exhibits that cover everything from architecture to astronomy to the measurement of time. Spend some time daydreaming about riding in the motorcycles, trains and airplanes found in the transportation hall, then take a deep dive into the Czech sugar production industry in the museum's "Sugar and Chocolate" exposition.

Recent visitors were impressed with the array of exhibits and topics covered here and said they would need to come back to take it all in. A number of visitors expressed their appreciation for the transport area in particular, but were disappointed by "do not touch" signs. Due to the assortment of displays, tourists describe the museum as an excellent place to go on cold and rainy days.

Žižkov Žižkov

It's been called the Montmartre of Prague for its steep, narrow streets. Locals often refer to it as "The Free Republic of Žižkov." This former workers' district beats to its own drum with an enduring bohemian vibe in parts and a lively atmosphere come night. One of the neighborhood's surrounding Prague's downtown, Žižkov loosely takes its name from Hussite military leader Jan Žižka, whose statue, one of the largest equestrian statues in the world, looms above the city on Vitkov Hill. Home to numerous restaurants, cafes and pubs, Žižkov is also home to its namesake TV Tower (look out for artist David Cerný's sculpted babies crawling up the sides), the grave of writer Franz Kafka in the New Jewish Cemetery and Palace Akropolis, a Prague institution of culture and nightlife where you can experience Žižkov's distinctive atmosphere firsthand.

Travelers typically describe Žižkov as one of the most exciting districts in the city. Visitors to the district's National Memorial on Vitkov Hill were impressed with the massive equestrian statue of Jan Žižka and the incredible view, while the area's unique cemeteries were noted as a surprising, peaceful oasis by several visitors.

Speculum Alchemiae Museum Speculum Alchemiae Museum

Housed in one of the oldest buildings in Prague, the Speculum Alchemiae Museum transports its visitors back to a time when alchemy seemed significantly more plausible. Tours (the only way to view the museum) lead visitors underground to the building's secret labs, where alchemists once tried to concoct elixirs for love, memory and eternal youth. Emperor Rudolf II allegedly built the labs during the 16th century and recent construction work of the building led to their rediscovery in 2002.

Previous visitors were pleasantly surprised by this museum and its short – but impressive – tours, which last around 30 minutes. They appreciated the history they learned, the mysterious atmosphere and the highly knowledgeable guides, although some visitors said they had trouble understanding their strong accents. Take note: The museum only accepts cash. Book in advance.

Prague Zoo Prague Zoo

U.S. News Insider Tip: Enhance your trip to the zoo by taking a boat ride to get there. You can get there by a local passenger ferry year-round and from April to October, you can take a steamboat. The steamboat trip lasts approximately 75 minutes and offers excellent views of the city. –  Joann Plockova

A popular attraction for families, the Prague Zoo offers more than 6 miles of walking trails and exhibits like the Africa House, the Indonesian Jungle and the Valley of the Elephants. Kids can also enjoy a play area called Bororo Reserve and other smaller playgrounds, plus an observation tower, pony rides, a scenic chairlift and more. Other exhibits include the Pavilion of Penguins, Lemur Valley and Bird World, among many others. You can also book a guided tour or sign up to be a "Keeper for a Day," a thrill for serious animal lovers.

National Museum (Národní muzeum) National Museum (Národní muzeum)

The National Museum, which anchors Wenceslas Square , finished construction in central Prague in 1891. Since its completion, the impressive building has undergone two military attacks, one in 1945 and the other in 1968. As a result of the attacks, plus a standard century of wear and tear, the museum began a much-needed reconstruction effort in July 2011 that lasted until 2019. A handful of exhibits are now open in the museum, which have titles including "History" and "Miracles of Evolution."

Recent visitors appreciated the impressive building, both inside and out. Although the architecture alone makes the museum worth a visit, travelers were also impressed by the size of the museum and the breadth of the exhibitions on offer from medieval history to natural history. A number of visitors also noted not to miss out on the observation tower, but said prepare for a long line.

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Municipal House (Obecní dum) Municipal House (Obecní dum)

Awash with art nouveau style, the Municipal House has been one of Prague's most prolific public buildings for more than 100 years. Before heading inside, be sure to check out the building's exterior, which is adorned with a colorful glass mosaic and sculptures representing cultural symbols of Prague. Artisans also covered the Municipal House's interior with more mosaics, stucco and metal work, murals and paintings. Once you've taken in the Municipal House's art, be sure to check out the building's restaurants, shops and event spaces. For a bit more context on the building's history and significance in Prague, consider signing up for one of the best tours in Prague  – many of which stop here.

Previous travelers say that the Municipal House is a must-visit for architecture and art enthusiasts alike. Along with appreciating the building as a shining example of art nouveau, they were particularly taken by the decorative work of Alfons Mucha in the interior. They recommend stopping by the Smetana Hall for a concert, or at least to take in the stylish room. Then, head to the restaurant, café or Tretter's American Bar downstairs for a relaxing drink.

Lobkowicz Palace Lobkowicz Palace

Owned by the Lobkowicz noble family, this is the only privately-owned part of Prague Castle . The 16th-century palace holds treasures, such as works by masters like Canaletto, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Cranach and Velzqáuez, as well as a display of family and royal portraits. Equally impressive is the collection of musical instruments and original scores and manuscripts by Beethoven and Mozart, including Beethoven's 4th and 5th symphonies and Mozart's re-orchestration of Handel's "Messiah."

The included 30-minute audio tour, narrated by palace owners Alexandra and William Lobkowicz, offers visitors an overview of the history of the Czech lands through the centuries. In addition, there are daily midday classical concerts (for an additional fee). Recent visitors said the museum is fascinating, with great views and they highly recommend taking in a concert.

Dancing House (Tancící dum) Dancing House (Tancící dum) free

Since its completion in 1996, this distinctive building on the Rašínovo embankment next to the Vltava River has been a modern landmark in Prague. Designed by renowned American architect Frank Gehry and Czech architect Vlado Milunic, the Dancing House gets its name from its distinctive shape inspired by dancing duo Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. Ginger is represented by the shapely glass tower and Fred, the adjoined stone building with its punctuated windows. It's unsurprising that the building is nicknamed Ginger & Fred. The deconstructive style building replaced a former building destroyed during the American air bombing of Prague in 1945. Today the Dancing House is home to a restaurant, gallery, hotel and the Glass Bar at the top.

Architecture buffs appreciate views of this modern building alongside the city's historic architecture. While some visitors were highly impressed with the expansive riverside views from the bar on the top floor, others were disappointed that the cost to see the interior was an expensive drink.

Karlštejn Castle Karlštejn Castle

Located about 20 miles southwest of downtown Prague, Karlštejn Castle is an excellent daytrip destination for travelers hoping to get out of the city. Originally constructed in 1348 with Gothic architecture, Karlštejn Castle was reconstructed in the 16th century to sport the Renaissance style of the time, before being remodeled again with neo-Gothic architecture in the 19th century. Many original features of the castle have been preserved, while its continuous reconstruction makes the amalgamation of styles especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts. Regardless of your interest in buildings, the Karlštejn Castle offers a variety of interesting features for travelers to take in.

Recent visitors were very impressed with this castle, but noted that some of the objects and displays inside were replicas. Visitors said it's easy to get there by train from downtown Prague (the ride is about 40 minutes), but they warn that the 1.5-mile walk between the station and the castle is not for everyone, though you can take a taxi from the station.

Golden Lane Golden Lane

Golden Lane sits adjacent to the Prague Castle and consists of an assortment of small, brightly painted houses. These houses used to host historical figures, like Franz Kafka, from their construction near the end of the 16th century until World War II. Now, an assortment of shops and museums occupy the houses of Golden Lane. The street derives its name from the goldsmiths who once lived there.

Past visitors particularly enjoyed Golden Lane's historical exhibits, which include an armory, a chemist house and a torture chamber. They also warn of thick crowds. Admission to the Golden Lane comes included in the Prague Castle basic circuit ticket, to the delight of recent visitors, which cost 250 koruna (about $11). The Golden Lane is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (until 4 p.m. during the winter season), and more information is available on the Prague Castle's website .

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John Lennon Wall John Lennon Wall free

After the killing of John Lennon in 1980, an activist painted an image of the Beatles' lead singer on the wall opposite the French Embassy. This small act of deviance (Communist Czechoslovakia banned Western images and symbols) blossomed into a colorful collage of protest text, images and lyrics. The city's secret police continuously whitewashed the wall, which young Czechs subsequently covered with more graffiti. Even after Communist Czechoslovakia fell and the country divided in two, the John Lennon Wall continued to evolve, most recently sporting fresh coats of paint in 2014 and 2019.

Today, the John Lennon Wall attracts travelers from around the world and is a featured stop on many of the best Prague tours . Beatles fans will appreciate the riffs on the band's popular lyrics, though it does not take a music enthusiast to enjoy the wall's bright colors.

Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí) Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a different take on the Statue of Saint Wenceslas, head to Vodickova Street, then take a left inside Lucerna Passage. Hanging from the ceiling is an upside down version of the statue by Czech artist David Cerný. The passage, one of many throughout the city, is worth a look on its own. – Joann Plockova

Wenceslas Square, which is one of Prague's two main squares (the other being the Old Town Square ), is a modern slice of this historic city. Cafes, casinos and clubs are all located nearby, while the National Museum is the area's most visually stunning spot. Despite the exceedingly modern storefronts nearby, the square firmly established itself in Prague's history due to its role as a gathering place during the Velvet Revolution, in addition to other cultural moments. Wenceslas Square also houses the Statue of Saint Wenceslas, a patron saint of Prague whose statue overlooked many important moments in the history of Czechia.

Sedlec Ossuary Sedlec Ossuary

Call it beautiful, call it bizarre, the Sedlec Ossuary is one of Central Bohemia's most popular sites. Located just outside the town of Kutná Hora, the so-called Bone Church features human bones fashioned into mystical, macabre decorations including chandeliers, crosses, garlands and a coat of arms. This medieval, underground chapel is located below the Cemetery Church of All Saints, once a Cistercian Abbey. Legend has it that one of the abbots returned from a trip to the Holy Land with a handful of soil, which he spread on the grounds and turned the cemetery into Sacred Fields (which subsequently made it a sought-after burial location). The ossuary was designed in the Baroque Gothic style by architect Jan Blažej Santini Aiche. The bones from the exhumed remains of 40,000 deceased (from both the plague and the Hussite War) were transformed into the spellbinding decorations in the 16th century.

Recent visitors described the ossuary under the main chapel as fascinating, unique and a bit creepy. Others found the experience very moving. The short journey from Prague to get there (approximately 1 hour via train) was appreciated. Keep your phones in your pocket on arrival because photos are strictly prohibited.

Vyšehrad Vyšehrad

With a history that dates back to the 10th century, Vyšehrad has many faces. But this baroque fortress – which sits on a rocky promontory above the Vltava River – is first and foremost a beloved, magical place where locals go to walk its expansive grounds and look out at what are undeniably some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Vyšehrad's greatest period began during the 11th century when it was the seat of Vratislaus II – the first King of Bohemia – and rivaled Prague Castle. Once its own town even, this National Cultural Monument is home to the Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin; the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, whose two towers are a Prague landmark; and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where you can find the graves of Czech luminaries including composer Antonín Dvorák, writer Karel Capek and painter Alfons Mucha, among other personalities.

Recent travelers appreciated the building's serene setting that offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the city as well as exceptional views. A number of visitors were impressed with Vyšehrad's unique history, its buildings and underground casements and strolling the park-like grounds.

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Prague

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Thirty years ago, Prague was a mystery to travelers in Europe; now, however, it is one of the most popular destinations on the continent, drawing about 4 million visitors each year. Prague offers a compact city center, a fascinating centuries-long history with splendid examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau architecture.

There are also scores of palaces, churches, parks and squares in Prague, delicious local Czech beer and food for reasonable prices. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Prague :

15. Municipal House

The Municipal House is a beautifully ornate building right next to the Pachovsky Palace and the Powder Tower in the old part of town. Bohemian Kings used to rule the countryside from this art nouveau classic where operas and plays are now held.

The building has a dramatic entrance with a concave mural depicting classic works of art. Inside, you’ll find sculptures from some of the most renowned artists of past centuries, and the building links right up to Prague’s ancient city gate making for a dramatic picture.

14. Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill looms over the ancient city of Prague across the river from old town where you’ll find meandering paths that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. They’ll take you up the hill where you can enjoy sweeping views of old town, a mini Eiffel Tower, an astronomical observatory, a centuries-old brewery and the Strahov Monastery which houses an ornate library.

Kick off your visit to Prague with a walk up Petrin Hill to get the lay of the land. Climb the 299 steps of the 60-meter (200-foot) Petrin Tower, modeled after France’s iconic landmark, to get a bird’s eye view of the winding streets below.

13. Prague Zoo

You don’t necessarily think of exotic animals when you think of this ancient city, but Prague has one of the best zoos in all of Europe. You’ll find this sprawling expanse of zoo animals right on the banks of the river Vitava next to the Troja Castle.

Ranked the fifth best zoo in the world, you can get up close and personal with rare animals like the Galapagos Giant Tortoise that lives an impressive 100 years. You’ll also find elephants, rhinos and giraffes throughout the expansive grounds.

12. Spanish Synagogue

The Spanish Synagogue sits right in the heart of old town in the Jewish Quarter. It was built back in 1868, is Prague’s first Jewish House of Worship and is widely regarded as the most beautiful synagogue in all of Europe.

This Moorish-style building features stunning stained glass windows, stylized Islamic motifs handpainted onto the walls and ornate gold tilework. The most breathtaking feature is the interior of the massive central dome. Galleries crown the dome so there is plenty to explore in one of Prague’s most prized buildings.

11. St. Vitus Cathedral

It took 600 years to build this magnificent cathedral and it is one of the most richly endowed churches in Europe. You’ll find this towering structure within the walls of Prague Castle at the top of a steep walk paved with centuries-old stones. St Vitus Cathedral still serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Prague.

Inside, you’ll see the baroque silver tomb of St John of Nepomuck as well as stunning art nouveau stained glass, a 14th-century mosaic of the Last Judgement and the tombs of Saint Wenceslas and Charles IV. Insider tip — instead of going right into the castle, take a stroll left of the main gate through a garden with sweeping views of the city. Pass a cherub fountain and find stairs to your right. Ascend the stairs through the castle wall for the most breathtaking reveal of the church.

10. Powder Tower

One of the original gates into Old Town Prague, this tower was first built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 15th century. During the 17th century, the tower was used for storing gunpowder, which is where it gets its name.

The royal route, the coronation route of the Bohemian kings, started at the tower, through Old Town, across the Charles Bridge and up to Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral where the kings were crowned.

Powder Tower is connected by a covered bridge to what used to be the palace of King Vladislav II who rebuilt the tower in 1475. The former palace is now the Municipal House and remains connected to the tower. Inside the tower is a spiral staircase with 186 steps leading up to the gallery where visitors can get great view of Old Town.

9. Dancing House

Prague is known for its centuries-long span of architectural styles, with the end of the 20th century exemplified by the deconstructivist building Dancing House, created by Czech architect Valdo Milunic and Canadian Frank Gehry. This remarkable structure contains both dynamic and static elements, and resembles a female dancer swaying in the arms of her male partner, the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers of the architectural world.

Located on the bank of the Vltava River and Resslova Street, Dancing House is a private office building except for a restaurant on the 7th floor, the Celeste, which is open to the public.

Dancing House stands in strict contrast to the classical architecture surrounding it, which includes buildings in Art Nouveau, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Baroque styles. Its ultra modern design created public outcries and controversy during its construction; years later, Prague is proud to show off its splendid Dancing House.

8. Old New Synagogue

In Josefov, Prague’s former Jewish Quarter, is the oldest active synagogue in Europe, the Old-New Synagogue. Legend tells that stones from the Second Temple in Jerusalem were brought to Prague by angels to build the walls of the synagogue. Prague’s first gothic building, the Old-New Synagogue was completed in 1270 and has held divine services ever since, except for the Nazi occupation of 1942-45. The synagogue became the heart of the Jewish Quarter.

The Old-New Synagogue is also the home of Prague’s Golem, or so legend has it. In the 16th century, Rabbi Jehud Löwa created the golem from clay and animated it with breath and a parchment bearing instructions placed in its mouth. When the Golem went mad and became aggressive, the Rabbi returned it to clay, stating that when hard times for Jewish people came again, the Golem could be re-awakened.

7. Tyn Church

The Church of Our Lady before Tyn graces the Old Town Square. Among the most well-known attractions in Prague, the church’s Gothic towers soar 80 meters (260 ft) into the sky and can be seen from all parts of the city.

Like many other Prague churches, the site’s original building was an 11th century Romanesque church built for foreign merchants who came to Tyn Courtyard for trade.

The present church was constructed in the 14th century, although the roof, towers and gables came years later. Inside, Tyn Church holds many works of art in Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles. Our Lady before Tyn’s architects were Petr Parler and Matthias of Arras, who created many of Prague’s Gothic buildings.

6. Mala Strana

On the other end of Charles Bridge from Old Town Square lies the Malá Strana or Lesser Town district. Baroque architecture is the rule in Malá Strana, although its history dates back to 1257 when it was founded as a royal town. The Baroque St. Nicholas Church and the extensive Wallenstein Palace dominate the area.

The district hosts palaces, churches, squares, parks, gardens and many other attractions. Surrounding Lesser Town Square are pubs, shops, restaurants and international embassies, housed in grand old Baroque buildings. Towering over Malá Strana is Prague Castle, which can be reached by a hike up picturesque Nerudova Street.

Houses on the street boast heraldic emblems and beasts such as the White Swan, the Golden Horseshoe and the Red Eagle. Travelers longing for a quiet walk in a park should head for Vojan Park or Petrin Hill.

5. Wenceslas Square

One of Prague’s two main squares, Wenceslas Square is a shopper’s paradise and haven. Set off as Prague’s horse market by Charles IV in 1348, Wenceslas Square is more of a boulevard than a traditional square. Located in New Town, the square is home to bars, clubs, restaurants, hotels, shops and banks, making it the city’s entertainment, nightlife and commercial district.

Much of Czech’s 20th century history happened in Wenceslas Square as political movements and gatherings met at the statue of St. Wenceslas to parade down the square. Wenceslas Square is central to most of Prague, as Old Town Square and Charles Bridge are but a five-minute walk away, and all three metro lines meet in the square. Wenceslas Square is home to the grand National Museum and the Prague State Opera.

4. Old Town Hall

You can find the Old Town Hall right in the heart of old town Prague. You’ll know you’ve found it by the gathering crowds at the base of its gothic tower where every hour between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. the 12 Apostles appear on the astronomical clock.

The appearance only lasts a moment, but the crowd will roar with applause for the amazing mechanical show. It’s made all the more impressive by the fact that this building was first established back in 1338 and served as the seat of the old town administration. Take a guided tour of its tower and underground areas for a small fee.

Crafted in 1410 by a clockmaker and a professor of mathematics, the Old Town Hall’s astronomical clock has been repaired and maintained for over 600 years, making it the third oldest clock in the world. The figures of the Apostles, which are shown in the two upper windows every hour, were added in 1865. The ancient “orloj” reveals Babylonian time, Old Bohemian time, German time and sidereal time, as well as sunrise and sunset, phases of the moon and the sun’s position in the zodiac.

When the clock strikes the hour, bells ring, the Walk of the Apostles begins, the Gothic sculptures move, a cock crows and a trumpeter blast sets off a tourist-pleasing show, a sight everyone should see at least once. For the most fanfare, catch the display at noon or at midnight.

3. Prague Castle

Towering above the city is Prague Castle, more of a sprawling complex than a single defensive building. The castle buildings span centuries and consists of a royal palace, a cathedral and three churches, a basilica, a monastery, defensive towers, royal stables, a tiny lane where craftsmen worked and magnificent gardens.

Prague Castle began as a wooden fortress with earthen bulwarks in the 9th century; by the 11th century, it included a royal palace and the 14th century saw the beginning of St. Vitus Cathedral. The cathedral in the castle complex is a jewel in Prague’s crown, a superb example of Gothic architecture. Kings and emperors are buried here.

2. Old Town Square

Located between Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge, Prague’s Old Town Square is often bursting with tourists and locals in the summer. Czech’s long history is exemplified in the medley of architectural styles: Romanesque, Baroque, Rococo, Gothic and Renaissance are all represented in the superb buildings around the square.

Soaring Gothic towers that rise from Tyn Cathedral contrasts with the Baroque style of St. Nicholas while Old Town Hall consists of a collection of Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Entranced visitors wander through the square, stopping for a spot of people-watching at one of the outdoor cafes or studying the square’s central statue of Jan Hus, church reformer and martyr.

1. Charles Bridge

Connecting Old Town and Lesser Town over the River Vltava is the 600 year-old Charles Bridge, Prague’s most iconic landmark. King Charles IV commissioned the bridge in 1357, replacing the Judith Bridge which was destroyed by a flood in 1342.

Thirty Baroque statues line the sides of the pedestrian bridge along with myriad vendor’s stalls, musicians, performance artists and beggars. A bustling, busy area, the bridge is almost never empty of people, although seeing it at dawn or in the evening will mean fewer crowds.

Prague Castle, looming above, is lit at night, and provides a dramatic vista that enchants all visitors. On each end of the Charles Bridge rests a tower that offers a great view of the bridge to those who climb the steps.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Prague

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Reader interactions.

August 5, 2016 at 8:13 am

Beautiful city and one of the best to go for exploring and enjoying. Specialy Autum time.

May 25, 2016 at 12:38 am

Well, these are certainly the most popular, but in my opinion, not the most interesting. I would recomend Klementinum and Visehrad as something not to miss when you go to Prague.

January 31, 2015 at 3:23 pm

Great list..! Add Kampa too, I think it should rank among the Top 10, especially for those visiting in summer!

October 7, 2014 at 4:26 am

I will go to Prague in 2 weeks. I printed this page to see all places in Praha (: Now, it’s my aim. I hope, i can visit all of them.

June 27, 2014 at 8:15 am

This is a great list with superb pictures. Perhaps worth printing out if you plan to visit Czech Republic. There are however many little sights to see and activities (majestic church concerts, adventure games, museums, rides, galleries, etc.) to enjoy in between vistitng these main attractions.

May 19, 2014 at 6:09 am

Did you know that the Astronomical Clock in Prague is the third oldest one in Europe but 75% of its pieces are original? By this it is absolutely unique. ….That Prague used to have another castle complex in the past. besides Prague castle.

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The 31 best things to do in Prague

Don't miss our picks of the best things to do in Prague, from hipster hangouts to wacky theatre shows

From its cultural offerings to its drinking scene, Prague is a very special place. This city is bursting with character, and new things to do are popping up all the time (like the new Pilsner beer tasting experience, now on our list). 

Discover beautiful parks, cracking beer gardens and some very good theatre, but make sure you leave some time to stroll Prague’s curious backstreets and admire its ancient buildings. From markets and restaurants to the magnificent Charles Bridge, here are the best things to do in Prague, picked by local writers.  

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best  restaurants in Prague 🪩 The best nightlife spots in Prague 🛍️ The best shopping in Prague 🏨 The best hotels in Prague   🛏 The best  Airbnbs in Prague

This guide was updated by Yaren Fadiloglulari ,  a writer based in Prague.   At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

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What to do in Prague

1.  Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge sits on the Vltava river, and is a spectacle to behold from afar, as well as the view from the bridge being mighty fine in itself. Back in the day, the bridge was the thing that connected Prague’s Old Town to its Prague Castle, so it’s a pretty important part of the city’s history. It’s also featured in a ton of poems and novels, because it’s just that nice. Plus, especially if you go early or late, it’s pretty empty, and it’s the perfect place for a romantic snap for the Insta. 

2.  Wenceslas Square

For the hustle and bustle of Prague, Wenceslas Square is the place. The square has historically held some of the city’s most important historical moments, including major protests. It’s also got that famous statue of St Wenceslas on his horse. Now, not only can you feel its history in the air, but it’s a great spot for shopping, with everything from cafés to clothing. Our top tip is to get the guided walking tour to learn more about the square’s fascinating history. 

3.  Letná Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

Climb up to Letná Park and get yet another breathtaking perspective over Prague. In the past decade, Prague 7 (first-time visitors, take note: Prague is divided into sections and assigned numbers) has morphed from a sleepy residential neighbourhood into one that’s vibrant and full of cool boutiques and restaurants. Letná Park features a massive kinetic sculpture of a moving metronome; its foundation was once the base of an enormous Stalin monument torn down in 1962. Letná beer garden’s park benches and views of the Old Town across the Vltava are an after-work favourite among locals, dog walkers and international travellers. Note that despite the idyllic picnic setting, you’re not allowed to bring any food or drink from outside into the beer garden.

4.  Prague Castle

Dominated by the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, the ninth-century Prague Castle has been a seat of power for Czech emperors, kings and presidents alike. Exploring every corner of these massive fortifications would take an entire trip, so read up in advance and take your pick. Our favourite sights include the tiny houses of Golden Lane, the Romanesque façade of St George’s Basilica, and the manicured landscapes of the South Gardens. Not even to mention Alphonse Mucha’s striking stained-glass windows.

5.  Palác Lucerna

• Historic buildings and sites

Passage Lucerna is where tourists flock to see one of David Černý’s most controversial sculptures – of a saint riding an upside-down horse – but there’s so much more to explore. The passage boasts a collection of shops, an early 1900s-style café, a well-preserved old cinema, a rooftop bar in summer, and a nostalgic ’80s and ’90s party every weekend at Lucerna Music Bar. The building itself was designed by the father of Vaclav Havel (the first president of independent Czechoslovakia and later the Czech Republic, after it split from Slovakia). It’s worth getting to know both Černý and Havel, as both men have left major impressions on the city as it is today.

6.  Beer tasting at Pilsner Urquell

Discover the Czech Republic’s beloved brand, the world’s first Pilsner beer in the heart of Prague, right at the bottom of Wenceslas Square. Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience takes you on a 90-minute journey featuring an audioguide, light shows, a game hall, and of course, beer tasting. A great opportunity to learn about Czech beer culture, the immersive tour also introduces visitors to the three traditional beer-pouring techniques, each with different amounts of foam. Oh, and the end of the tour doesn’t mean the end of beer tasting — your ticket includes two more beers at the Beer Hall. Raise your glass, say  na zdraví , and enjoy the creamy, delicious beer.

7.  Vyšehrad

• price 1 of 4

Though Prague has no shortage of viewpoints and photo-worthy panoramas, the tourist crowds can get a bit annoying. If you’re the type of traveller who likes a little breathing room, head over to Vyšehrad. The hillside views are a bonus on top of its parks sprinkled with statues, a peaceful cemetery, an eye-catching cathedral, and one of the city’s best beer gardens. The red line (also called the C line) stops here – making it easy to access the fort’s gothic spires and relaxing grounds just off the banks of the Vltava.

8.  Jára Cimrman Theatre

The Czech sense of humour is notoriously dry and occasionally quite dark. This makes translating some of the country’s most famous plays and novels quite the task, but one that Cimrman English Theatre tackles with a wink and cheeky grin. Think of the fictional Jára Cimrman as the Czech ‘Most Interesting Man in the World’ with a theatre in the Žižkov neighbourhood devoted to telling tales of his escapades. Performances take place in both Czech and English, so double-check the language when you buy tickets for an introduction to this local legend.

9.  Old Town Square

Another Prague sight that is both extraordinarily popular and justifiably so, the city’s 600-year-old Old Town Square is a spectacularly diverse mish-mash of attractions. Much of the Prague you’ll likely have seen in pictures is here – from the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn to the statue of martyred religious leader Jan Hus and the towering gothic spires of the main church. Be sure to catch a free walking tour, which will start at the square’s northern edge and unveil its dense, complex history. Visiting at Christmas and Easter provides extra charms, thanks to atmospheric seasonal markets.

10.  Devil’s Stream

• Sightseeing

Plenty of legends swirl around Čertovka (the Devil’s Stream). One story has it that the amicable ghost of Karbourek, the Water Sprite, blesses those who give him a beer with pikes or eels. Another tale tells how the stream is haunted by a vicious old woman who lived off Maltese Square at a house called ‘At the Seven Devils’. She was infamous for hexing people who dared encroach upon her home. You can sneak a peek of Karbourek near the John Lennon Wall (note that rules for the graffiti wall are getting stricter, so read the signage before scrawling your name). 

More great things to do in Prague

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12 Exceptional Attractions in Prague [with Map]

With its medieval architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, it's no surprise that Prague is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. 

However, if you've already seen the classic sights like the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle, you might be wondering what else this enchanting city has to offer.

Fear not, for we have compiled a list of 12 exceptional attractions in Prague that will take your breath away. From quirky museums to unique experiences, there is something for everyone on this list. 

So without further ado, let's dive in and discover what else there is to do in Prague!

Other Recommended Articles: Top 10 Things to do in Prague 50 Best Things to do in Prague Best Things to do with Kids in Prague Best Restaurants in Prague Best Places for Shopping in Prague

1. Beer Museum

A popular attraction, especially for young people, is the Czech Beer Museum in the heart of Prague. Although not a museum in the traditional sense, it offers visitors an insight into the special relationship between the Czech Republic and lager beer. In addition to learning about the production of beer and the country's more than 1,000 years of brewing, visitors also get the chance to taste various Czech beers. One highlight is filling and labeling one's own bottle.

• Want to learn about the history and culture of beer in the Czech Republic? Book your  entrance and tasting package  now!

2. Vltava Boat Tour

A Vltava cruise is one of the most popular attractions in Prague. During the cruise you can pass by numerous sights in the city in a very relaxed way and admire them from a completely different perspective. Families with children especially enjoy the highlights of the city without any stress. An ideal way to let the magic of Prague work its magic on you.

Popular Ticket Options:

• Tickets Compared for the  Top-Rated Prague Dinner Night Cruise 
• Tickets Compared for  Prague Sightseeing Cruises (Bestsellers)

3. City Tour

During a sightseeing tour of Prague, you can explore the golden city quite comfortably. Various tours are available: whether a ride on a historic streetcar, a hop-on/hop-off bus tour or in a classic panoramic bus, the tour will take you to the most popular sights in Prague.

• Best of Prague: City tour by boat, bus and on foot (Recommended)
• City Sightseeing: 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off city tour of Prague with optional boat tour (Bestseller)
• Prague: Hop-on Hop-Off Ticket for the historic tram line 42
• Prague: 1.5–Hour Vintage Car Tour

4. Prague City Hall Tower

One of the most visited attractions in Prague is the Gothic Town Hall Tower. The Old Town Hall 's 70-meter tower offers a magnificent view of the Prague New Town.

On the south side of the tower there is also the famous Astronomical Clock , which attracts people from all over the world with its spectacle every hour on the hour. Although one should not expect too much from the spectacle of 12 apostles making their rounds, the Astronomical Clock with its figures is a popular photo spot.

• Ticket Overview of Prague Astronomical Clock
• Tickets for Prague Astronomical Clock: Skip The Line
• Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Entrance Ticket
• Combo: Prague Castle + Astronomical Clock   (Recommended)
• Prague Cool Pass

5. Petrin Hill Cable Car

Visitors will find several attractions on the 318-meter-high Petrin Hill . In addition to a unique view of Prague, there is also the 61-meter-high Petrin Observation Tower , which is modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Church of St. Lawrence from the Middle Ages, and has beautiful gardens.

The climb to the hill itself is also an experience, as you can get to Petrin Hill either on foot or by cable car.

6. Žižkov TV Tower

The Žižkov TV Tower, which proudly rises from the city district with the same name, is open to the public. With a height of 216 meters, it is one of the tallest buildings in the city and thus one of the popular viewpoints  in Prague. In addition to the unique panorama from the observation deck at a height of 95 meters, there is also a restaurant at a height of 63 meters.

• Žižkov TV Tower Observatory Entry Ticket
• Prague Žižkov Tower & Audio Guide with Online Ticket    (Bestseller)

7. Prague Zoo

With an area of 58 hectares, the Prague Zoo is the largest zoo in the Czech Republic. It is home to over 650 animal species, including endangered species.

The zoo is located in an idyllic area of the Troy district, which is crisscrossed by streams and water ways. This contributes significantly to the fact that the Prague Zoo is one of the most beautiful animal parks in the world. Especially worth seeing are the Indonesian Jungle, the Africa House, and the Valley of the Elephants.

• Get up close with some furry friends - purchase your  tickets for Prague Zoo, including a picturesque Vltava River Cruise !

8. Beer Bike

An unusual Prague attraction, which especially excites young people, is the Beer Bike. On this sightseeing tour, you cycle through the city together with friends on a Beer Bike, which usually has room for 15 people. While the guide and driver shows the group the sights in Prague, you get to enjoy famous Czech beer yourself and explore Prague at the same time.

• Get your Ticket for a Prague Cycle Boat - The Swimming Beer Bike here!

9. Nightlife

Prague's nightlife is considered legendary for a reason. Prague's diverse and exuberant bar and club scene attracts countless tourists to the city every year. Whether exciting parties, bachelor parties, pub crawls, or a convivial evening in a beer garden, the party capital fulfills every nightlife wish. Especially popular for partying are the clubs and bars in Prague's Old Town.

• Discover the best of Prague's nightlife scene!  Book your spot for the  most popular pub crawl in town  now !
• Ticket Overview for a Medieval Dinner with Drinks
• Prague: Ticket for the Ice Pub Prague with nightclub option

10. Classical Concerts

For a long time Prague was considered the center of classical music. And even today, classical concerts are one of Prague's most popular attractions. Not only the Czech national composer Smetana, famous for the play "The Vltava", but also the premieres of Mozart's operas, Don Giovanni and Figaro, made classical music popular in Prague. Several concert halls, churches, palaces, opera houses, and theaters offer classical concerts in a breathtaking setting.

•   T ickets now for the Mozart Ballroom Concert with 3-Course Dinner   (Bestseller)
• Prague: A. Vivaldi - The Four Seasons in St. Salvator's Church
• Prague: Classical Concert in the Spanish Synagogue
• Ticket for a classical concert in the Mirror Chapel of the Clementinum
• Lobkowicz Palace: Midday concert   (Recommended)

11. Dinner Cruise

On a dinner cruise, you can not only admire the Prague monuments from the water, but also enjoy culinary highlights at the same time. The cruise usually takes place in the evening and offers a magnificent panorama of the illuminated landmarks. The romantic setting is accompanied by soothing sounds. It is not without reason that a boat cruise dinner is considered the highlight of every Prague trip.

12. Aquapalace Prague

Aquapalace Prague is the largest indoor water park in Central Europe. The sports and recreation complex is not only one of the most popular attractions in Prague for children , adults can also look forward to action, fun, and relaxation. While the little ones romp in the children's water playground with a pirate shipwreck, the grown-ups are offered pure relaxation in the sauna world and whirlpools.

Attractions, such as the turbo slides and the space bowl, on the other hand, provide an adrenaline rush. Due to the fact that the water park is covered, it is also a great attraction when it is rainy outside.

• You can find more attractions and rainy weather activities in Prague on this list: Prague in the Rain .
• Purchase your Tickets for Aquapalace Praha online!

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3 best audio guides to discover prague, 7 best theaters in prague [with map], 20 best 5-star hotels in prague, czech cuisine: 25 popular dishes [+ food tours].

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Home » Travel Guides » Czech Republic » 25 Best Things to Do in Prague (Czech Republic)

25 Best Things to Do in Prague (Czech Republic)

Want to know what to do in Prague? This article will guide you through the best this amazing city has to offer! Prague’s history dates back over a thousand years. The city rivals any other in Europe in terms of sheer beauty but there is much more on offer than just a pretty face.

Bisected by the Vlatava River, Prague will astound even the most well traveled tourist with its Gothic grace and Renaissance architecture, its many world-class museums and baroque style churches and bridges.

Explore the medieval streets in the daylight, meander down the riverside in the evening and if all of the sight seeing becomes too tiring you can always relax with some hearty Czech cuisine and a choice of the finest lagers in the world.

From jazz music, puppet shows and pork knuckles to an astronomical clock and a mind maze, without further ado, here is our list of the best things to do in Prague .

1. See the Infant Jesus of Prague

Located in the Mala Strana in the heart of the city, the Infant Jesus of Prague (also known as the Child of Prague) is a Roman Catholic statue of Jesus Christ as an infant. Everyday hundreds of believers pay a visit to this shrine to pray, bow and make wishes hoping that they will come true. The statue itself is encased in an ornate gilded shrine and while the origin of the figure is unknown, it has been dated back to the 16th Century.

2. Explore the Old Town Square

Despite Prague’s lively history of invasions, the Old Town Square has remained relatively untouched since the 10th Century. Swarms of tourists crowd the historical streets, packing out the alfresco restaurants everyday. The square itself is the perfect place to admire the wonderful architecture Prague has to offer and if that isn’t your thing then the various street performers, musicians and merchants that line the streets here will certainly keep you entertained.

3. Watch the Astronomical Clock Strike an Hour

Whilst in the Old Town Square, time your visit to the Old Town Hall so that you can watch the spectacle of the mechanical clock marking the turn of an hour. The clock itself is on the south face of the town hall and is the pride of Prague. It was built in the fifteenth century and despite being damaged and repaired during its lifetime, it is widely regarded as the best preserved medieval mechanical clock in the world. The show at the top of the hour never fails to disappoint the many onlookers.

4. Stroll across the Charles Bridge

Whoever said that “the best things in life are free” may well have been referring to the Charles Bridge in Prague. A simple walk across the 14th Century bridge is one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of visiting Prague. The bridge was commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV to replace an older bridge that had been washed away by floods. Although completed in 1390, with the striking statues added in the 17th century, the bridge did not take Charles’ name until the 19th century.

5. Witness the old Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish quarter, also known as Josefov, is located between the Old Town and the Vltava River. Its history began in the 13th century when Jews living in Prague were ordered to vacate their homes and settle in this one area. The Jews were banned from living anywhere else in the city and were joined by fellow exiled Jews from other European countries. To add to their hardship, many buildings in the area were destroyed in the late 19th century when the cities layout was remodeled. Fortunately, many significant historical buildings remain including six synagogues and are well worth a visit.

6. Visit Prague Castle

Located in Hradcany (the Castle district), Prague Castle is without a doubt the city’s most popular tourist attraction and it is easy to see why. The breath-taking castle has traditionally been the seat of Czech rulers and is today the official residence of the president. Entry to the grounds of the castle are free although many buildings such as the St Vitus cathedral, Basillica of St George and Golden Lane can be visited with a combined entry ticket. If you want priority access to skip the huge lines you should buy the Skip the Line: Prague Castle Tickets , for a guided tour you should consider this 2.5-Hour Tour (including admission ticket) .

7. See the Treasures of St Vitus Cathedral

As mentioned previously, the St Vitus cathedral is one of the attractions located in the castle grounds. It is visible from all around the city of Prague. Although the cathedral looks many hundreds of years old, it was in fact completed in 1929. Many treasures await visitors including the tomb of St John of Nepomunk, the splendid Chapel of St Wenceslas and the magnificent art nouveau stained glass.

The Vitus Cathedral is included in this top rated tour: 2.5-Hour Prague Castle Tour (including admission ticket)

8. Golden Lane – Playground for Alchemists

Also located within the grounds of the castle is the mysterious Golden Lane, so called because, according to legends, alchemists had to look on this street to find a reaction to turn ordinary materials into gold. Despite the streets name, it is debated whether alchemists ever worked or lived here. Czech-Jewish writer Franz Kafka used a house on the street for around two years as he enjoyed the peaceful environment it provided whilst writing.

9. Eat a Pork Knuckle

This meat lovers dish, also known as Koleno, is a rather large hunk of pork knee and is very popular in Czech (and also German) cuisine. Expect the meat to be marinated in beer and served with pickled vegetables and dark Czech bread. Eating such a large chunk of meat can attract the attention of plenty of onlookers but the mix of aromatic tender pork and crispy skin renders the dish well worth eating despite of the audience.

10. Investigate the KGB Museum

This small museum was established by a Russian enthusiast and houses a large variety of memorabilia relating to the secret police of the Soviet Union. You may well be shown around by the collector himself and you can expect to find an assortment of spy cameras, secret weapons and interrogation equipment. Another interesting exhibit within the museum are the photographs of Prague taken by a KGB officer in the year of 1968 in which the streets of the city appear eerily empty.

11. Spot a Seven Foot Tall Sigmund Freud

Walk through the sublime urban area of Stare Mesto within the Old Town of Prague and look to the sky. You will be surprised to find a seven foot tall sculpture of the world famous psycho-analyst Sigmund Freud hanging from a metal beam above the cobbled streets at your feet. The unusual artwork has proven so popular that it has been exhibited in cities all over the world including Chicago, London and Berlin. Often mistaken for a suicide attempt, the sculpture has also been responsible for several calls to the emergency services since its creation.

12. Admire the Lennon Wall

Although Prague is a long way from Liverpool, the birthplace of the Beatles, fans should certainly check out this shrine to one of the most famous bands of all time. The wall has been covered in John Lennon and The Beatles graffiti, lyrics and quotations since the 1980s and is very popular among tourists and young fans wishing to pay homage to the group.

13. Spend some Koruna at the Farmer’s Market

Nestled upon the river embankment just underneath the fortress of Vysehrad, gourmets would be wise to visit this farmer’s market, which pops up every Saturday. Blend in with the locals as you experience some of the best food (and sights) that the city has to offer. The market usually offers seasonal vegetables, freshly baked bread and cakes, pickles and preserves along with sausages and other specialist meats. Enjoy your bounty whilst sitting by the riverside and watching the people of Prague go about their Saturdays.

14. Learn about Communism

Europe is a continent rich in history and political turmoil and the Czech Republic does not buck that trend. The country was a communist nation from 1948 until the Velvet revolution of 1989. Under communist rule, more than 200,000 Czechs were arrested and 327 shot dead as they attempted to flee the country. Inside the communism museum you will find photographs, films and even sculptures documenting the state-sponsored terrorism that occurred under communist rule.

15. Watch a Puppet Show

It will not take you long to realize that the citizens of Prague are passionate about their puppets. The city has over 20 specialised puppet shops, 30 puppet makers and even a puppet museum. The Czech love affair with puppets probably dates back to the 12th Century when the figures were used as entertainment at royal feasts and ceremonies. The best places to catch a puppet show in Prague are the National Marionette Theatre and Theatre Spejbla & Hurvinek which both offer popular performances.

16. Take a Cruise on the Vltava

Seeing Prague from the river Vltava is a unique experience and offers a way to see the many historical buildings and monuments from a different perspective. Cruises within the city are competitively priced and often include lunch or dinner depending on the time of day you choose to embark. Choosing a cruise with a duration of two hours or more, will ensure that you are aboard long enough to escape the hustle and bustle of Prague city center and allow you to enjoy the serenity of some of the quieter riverbanks on the Vltava river.

Book your cruise beforehand to ensure a ticket: Prague Cruises

17. Drink a world famous beer (or two)

The Czechs claim to have the best beer (pivo) in the world and Prague is a great place to test their claim. The huge choice of bars in the city offer famous Czech lagers such as Budvar and Staropramen alongside craft beers from the top microbreweries in the country. Most Czech beers are light beers, brewed naturally from hand-picked hops.

Increasingly, breweries are producing a dark ale too as an alternative, but most Czechs like their beer light, nicely chilled and with a tall head. Beer aficionados should also ensure a visit to the Prague Beer Museum which offers more than 31 quality beers on tap. Check out this Czech Beer Museum Tour and Bottle Your Own Beer .

18. Walk the backstreets of Mala Strana

Across the river from the Old Town are the baroque backstreets of Mala Strana (the Lesser quarter), built in the 17th and 18th century by victorious Catholic clerics and noblemen on the foundations of their Protestant predecessors Renaissance palaces. At its heart is the baroque square which offers small shops to browse, traditional Czech pubs and restaurants and some fantastic views of the river.

19. Immerse yourself in the Prague nightlife

Prague’s nightlife has it all. World renowned for its jazz and classical music, there are many live music venues in Prague that can provide a good evening of entertainment. Take a stroll down the riverside and arrive at JazzDock which draws some of the best local jazz musicians. For serious clubbers, the Cross Club is an industrial nightclub in every sense of the word. Located in an industrial setting, the interior is a must-see jumble of gadgets, shafts and cranks, many of which move to the music. Want to start in the pubs and end in the largest club of Prague? Then check out this tour .

20. Watch the Changing of the Guard

Arrive at the castle before midday to ensure a good view and watch the ceremonial changing of the guard including a fanfare and flag ceremony. The guards technically serve only the president of the Czech Republic and have some rather strict recruiting requirements including the specification that a guard must be between 1.78 and 1.88 meters tall to serve. The uniforms worn by the guards are unique to the castle guards and are light blue in summer and dark blue in winter.

21. Climb 299 Steps to Petrin Hill

Petrin is a hill on the left bank of the Vltava River, it offers great views of the city and is one of the greenest spaces in Prague. It is a pleasant walk to the top of the hill and there are plenty of benches to rest your legs on whilst admiring the view on the way up. Alternatively, you can ride the funicular railway from the lesser quarter all the way to the top of Petrin Hill. At the summit, you will find a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower, landscaped gardens and the unusual Church of St Michael, a wooden building relocated from Ukraine. Don’t wanna walk? Try this Segway Tour .

22. Watch Skateboarders at the Letna Park

This park, which used to be home to a giant statue of Stalin until it was destroyed in the 60’s, is a popular meeting spot for skateboarders. The park is located on the steep river embankment of Letna Hill. Sit down and relax at one of the many beer gardens here while people watching and if the skateboarders fail to entertain, the cityscape certainly will not.

See our list of recommend hotels in Prague

23. Devour some Pickled Cheese

This Czech delicacy is a must try for the traveling foodie. It is the perfect accompaniment to a cold glass of pivo making it a Czech pub classic. The dish is essentially a soft Camembert like cheese, with an edible rind, submerged and pickled in oil, spices and garlic before being served with chilli peppers and Czech fried bread. This snack is both potently hot and creamy at the same time and is a casual introduction to Czech cuisine. Want more? Then try some of the available Food Tours .

24. Test yourself at the Mind Maze

Inspired by the legends of alchemists, the mind maze in Prague is an interesting and memorable challenge. Upon entering the Mind Maze, you will find yourself locked in the Alchemist’s chamber and will have 60 minutes to escape by solving a series of riddles and puzzles. When you first enter the chamber it looks old-fashioned and rather empty, however as you begin to investigate the objects around the room, you will soon realize there is much more to this small room than meets the eye. Take a friend as teams are allowed and two heads are better than one!

25. Enjoy nature at Jelení Príkop (Stag Moat)

If the hustle and bustle of Prague begins to wear you down and you need to unwind, this lesser known location is ideal. Once used as a moat along the backside of Prague castle, this strip of land is now a beautiful stretch of greenery. Enjoy a picnic or pre-dinner stroll within this area and allow yourself time to recover from the tiring exploration of Prague.

25 Best Things to Do in Prague (Czech Republic):

• See the Infant Jesus of Prague
• Explore the Old Town Square
• Watch the Astronomical Clock Strike an Hour
• Stroll across the Charles Bridge
• Witness the old Jewish Ghetto
• Visit Prague Castle
• See the Treasures of St Vitus Cathedral
• Golden Lane – Playground for Alchemists
• Eat a Pork Knuckle
• Investigate the KGB Museum
• Spot a Seven Foot Tall Sigmund Freud
• Admire the Lennon Wall
• Spend some Koruna at the Farmer’s Market
• Learn about Communism
• Watch a Puppet Show
• Take a Cruise on the Vltava
• Drink a world famous beer (or two)
• Walk the backstreets of Mala Strana
• Immerse yourself in the Prague nightlife
• Watch the Changing of the Guard
• Climb 299 Steps to Petrin Hill
• Watch Skateboarders at the Letna Park
• Devour some Pickled Cheese
• Test yourself at the Mind Maze
• Enjoy nature at Jelení Príkop (Stag Moat)

• Transportation
• Staré Mesto & Josefov
• Tours & Trips
• Traveler Ressources

10 Top Prague Tourist Attractions (With Maps) 

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Visit the prague castle (prask hrad), stroll over the charles bridge (karluv most), check out the prague astronomical clock (prague orloj), explore the spanish synagogue , take in the sights of the jewish quarter, tour the prague national theatre , enjoy nature at the prague zoo, witness the wenceslas square (václavské námesti), climb the petrin lookout tower (petřínská rozhledna), gaze in awe at the žižkov television tower, stop by the national museum (národní muzeum), marvel at vyšehrad, admire the john lennon wall , pay a visit to the st. nicholas church, learn about the municipal house , gaze at the powder gate, peruse literature at the national library, explore the best attractions in prague.

Prague attractions have earned it the “city of a thousand spires” moniker. Views of the capital’s magnificent dome-topped cathedrals and soaring medieval towers, many of which date back more than a thousand years, rendering it among the world’s architectural wonders. Magnificent examples of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau are some of the best tourist attractions in Prague , strikingly contrasting with the ancient Prague Castle.

The charming city is home to most of Prague’s top attractions , including ancient architecture, and its winding alleys lead to stunning squares surrounded by old houses. The magnificent Jewish Quarter, with its ancient synagogues, is among Prague’s tourist attractions , and, of course, the many ancient churches are also among the numerous attractions in Prague.

We have compiled a list of Prague attractions so you can explore this beautiful city. Use our free and printable Prague attractions map for the best experience in the capital.

The Top-Rated Prague Attractions in Prague

Prague Castle , one of the best attractions in Prague , is a large complex of museums, chapels, castles, and parks that dates back to the 9th century. It sits atop a hill above the renowned Charles Bridge as well as the beautiful Vltava River. Located in the heart of Prague’s historic neighborhood and an exceptional remnant of architectural past, it’s one of Prague’s must see attractions for any traveler to the City of a Hundred Spires.

It sits on 45 hectares of land. It’s hard to find a more breathtaking view than that of Prague Castle.

Address : Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia

The beautiful Charles Bridge , built in the fifteenth century, is among the most recognizable symbols and Prague’s major attractions . There are Sixteen stone arches on the spectacular Gothic bridge, along with two towers for protection and thirty statues of saints from the Baroque period that have been charred black.

After floodwaters severely damaged the Judith Bridge in 1342, the construction of this Prague’s oldest bridge began. 

Beginning in 1357 under the patronage of Charles IV, work on the bridge, also known as Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, was completed in 1402. 

The bridge has since been known as Charles Bridge from the year 1870.

Address: Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia

The Astronomical Clock is a mechanical masterpiece and one of Prague’s Old Town attractions that has been fascinating visitors to Prague since it was first constructed in the fifteenth century. Tourists wait in the dozens to view the display every hour as the clock hits on the southern end of Prague’s grand city hall in the renowned Old Town Square. 

Around the southern end of the Old Town Hall Tower is where you’ll find the tower’s medieval clock. Every hour between 9:00 am and 11:00 pm, the 12 Apostles march in procession.

Address : Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia

This spectacular Prague’s major attraction is widely regarded as the continent’s most magnificent synagogue.

The Spanish synagogue is the most recent of the six historical synagogues in Prague that was constructed in the latter part of the nineteenth century in Spanish Moorish architecture.

Oriental-inspired stylized designs are used for the decoration of the walls, sculpted doors, railings, exhibition spaces, and dome. Windows made of stained glass and plaster arabesque designs enhance the overall effect. 

Address : Vězeňská 1, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia

Josefov, Prague’s Jewish neighborhood , is situated between the popular Old Town Square and the beautiful Vltava River.

The tumultuous past of the earlier Jewish Ghetto dates back to the thirteenth century when Jews were forced to relocate from all across the city to live in one concentrated region.

As a growing number of Jews were forced to settle in the area because they were forbidden to live elsewhere in Prague, and as exiles from Moravia, Germany, Austria, and Spain flocked to come to join them, the neighborhood became increasingly crowded.

Today, Josefov is among the top 10 attractions in Prague . Among the many historic structures in the Jewish Quarter are six synagogues, each with its own unique place in Prague’s past. Named after the Latin word for “enclosed space,” the Klausen Synagogue is now the biggest in town.

Address : U Staré školy, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia

This gem is among the best attractions in Prague and it reflects the Czech people’s yearning for self-determination and independence. 

Funding for its construction came from contributions made by a diverse range of people, from commoners to aristocrats to the emperor personally. On May 16, 1868, a ceremony commemorating the opening of the theatre would become a national holiday.

In 1881, the theatre first opened its doors to the public. The devastating fire that year prompted a flood of new donations to help rebuild the theatre. 

Since its rededication in 1883 with the opera Libuše ( Bedřich Smetana), the Prague National Theatre continues to serve as a symbol of Czech national pride and a showcase for Czech art and culture until this day.

Address : Národní 2, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

This zoo is one of the leading Prague nature attractions and the globe’s most picturesque locations.

More than 4,000 animals representing over 650 species call the Prague Zoo home. Many of the species housed there are endangered or critically endangered.

The Prague Zoo first welcomed visitors in 1931, although its roots go back much deeper. Around 1881, Count Sweerts-Sporck began planning what would become the Prague Zoo.

Today, families flock to this scenic area so their kids can visit the kid-friendly Zoo and pet the animals there.

Address : U Trojského zámku 120/3, 171 00 Praha 7, Czechia

Unwind at the Kampa Island 

Kampa Island is among the best tourist attractions in Prague .This artificial Island is situated at the far end of the famous Charles Bridge and is widely regarded to be among the world’s most attractive urban green spaces. Grassy spots on the island are popular places to have picnics and unwind.

Today the island is clearly split into two sections. A small, intimate square forms the first section, which is closest to Charles Bridge; the remaining section is a park built when many old gardens were combined. 

As early as the end of the twelfth century, while a Johannine monastery was established on the tiny island, Kampa was being discussed. 

The island’s shape has been changing for millennia as a result of the repeated flooding that plagued it. Vltava’s Čertovka waterway separates Kampa and Malá Strana. Before the middle of the 16th century, there wasn’t much going on on the island but three watermills. Both mill wheels are still visible today. Craftsmen who were tasked with maintaining Charles Bridge came to Kampa Island in the sixteenth century.

Address : Island in the Vltava

The boulevard-like Wenceslas Square is one of Prague’s Czech Republic tourist attractions , among the most significant public squares in the capital. It is broad and tree-lined, with designer boutiques and sidewalk coffee shops, giving off an air of cutting-edge and international. Historical significance abounds in the plaza, from the complex art nouveau architecture to the moving tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Soviet rule.

Charles IV established the New Town around 1348, and it was at this time that the square was built. The Prague National Museum (1885–1891) and a monument of St. Wenceslas made by Josef Václav Myslbek (erected in 912) stand out today.

Address : 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

Petrin Tower is a miniature Eiffel Tower that sits atop Petrin Hill and is one of Prague’s top attractions . Being the capital’s highest point, visitors from all over the world go to the monument to take in the breathtaking views of Prague from above.

It was constructed in 1891 for the Jubilee Exposition as a sloppy imitation of the Eiffel Tower (at a 1:5 ratio). It stands at exactly 58.70 meters tall as the original Eiffel Tower, and has 299 steps leading to its summit.

Address: Petřínské sady 633, 118 00 Praha 1-Malá Strana, Czechia

More Prague Must See Attractions

Located in the heart of the Žižkov neighbourhood, this 216-meter-tall attraction in Prague is not just the city’s tallest but also the city’s most recognizable icon. 

Ascend 93 meters to a viewing platform that lays you all of Prague 360 degrees below you. 

On one floor, guests can unwind and, most importantly, indulge in gourmet delights of the highest calibre. 

During the 1980s, designers Václav Aulick and Ji Kozák created the tower’s architecture. Around the base of the tower are ten life-size sculptures of infants by renowned Czech sculptor David ern.

Address : Mahlerovy sady 1, 130 00 Praha 3-Žižkov, Czechia

Not only is Národní Muzeum a prominent symbol of the Czech capital, it is also among the best tourist attractions in Prague . It is located on the northwest corner of Wenceslas Square. 

In addition to the “main construction,” or what is commonly referred to as “the National Museum,” there are ten smaller museums that are under the National Museum ‘s care in the capital and a further five across other Czech cities. 

The museum’s exhibits are on par with those of other European museums because it houses a wide variety of scientific and historical artifacts. The building’s beautiful interior, however, is where its charm and distinctiveness really shine.

Address: Václavské nám. 68, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

Vysehrad, an ancient fortification overlooking the Vltava River, constitutes one of Prague’s must see attractions .

The ancient fort of Vysehrad in the middle of Prague is one of the most important cultural landmarks in the country. The castle, situated atop a hill overlooking the Vltava River, is said to have been the original residence of Czech dukes. It currently protects many architectural monuments and provides a breathtaking panorama of Prague.

Vysehrad is a vast complex with lots of green space and winding alleyways where you may get away from the crowds.

Vysehrad has a mysterious and enchanting air even in the modern era because of its rich history, which includes the burial sites of many well-known Czechs and its abundance of tourist attractions. It’s easy to see why the castle attracts so many sightseers every year — it has some of the best vantage points in all of Prague, plus it’s a comfortable place to relax and a gateway to the city’s many cultural and spiritual treasures.

Address: V Pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00 Praha 2-Vyšehrad, Czechia

This famous wall represents the peaceful protests and free expression of Czech youth. Construction on the wall began after Lennon’s assassination in 1980. The wall was built as a memorial to John Lennon by the young of Prague, despite the fact that he never set foot in the city.

 Young creatives and activists wrote tributes to Lennon and pledged to keep his message alive on the wall. Young people in Central and Eastern Europe looked forward to John Lennon because his music encouraged joy and independence—two things they rarely experienced under the Soviet-backed Totalitarian-Communist regime. 

The wall, which was formerly covered in anti-Communist graffiti, has become a symbol of peace across the globe. The famous wall, situated in Mala Strana, is among the leading Prague attractions for young adults visiting the Czech Republic.

Address:  Velkopřevorské nám., 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia

Situated in the northwest quadrant of the Old Town Square, St. Nicholas Church is an impressive Baroque center of worship constructed from 1732 until 1737 amid the era of the revival of Catholicism in the Czech territory following the Thirty-Year War.

One of Prague’s top attractions and the most fascinating examples of Baroque architecture in all of Europe’s central region is the Church of St. Nicholas. The entrance, marked by a grand cupola and backed by twin tall towers, leads to a hall filled with works of art and historical relics from the Czech Republic.

Address: Malostranské nám., 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia

This structure, constructed between 1905 and 1911 is the one of Prague’s main attractions, a sensual structure, and a masterpiece of Art Nouveau. This flashy Art Nouveau structure is covered in intricate filigree and flower designs. Famous all throughout the globe for its windows made of stained glass. The interior is decorated with beautiful murals and tiles, many of which are the work of the renowned Czech Art Nouveau professional Alfons Mucha. 

Smetana Hall, a renowned performance venue in the city of Prague, is located within this municipal building. It may be found in the heart of the city at the intersection of Námst Republiky and Powder Gate.

The site of the earlier Royal Court Palace now houses the Municipal House . Between 1383 and 1485, this was the official residence of the monarch of Bohemia. The current Municipal House, which dates back to 1905, was built to replace the knocked-down Royal Court palace. It first opened in 1912.

Address: Náměstí Republiky 5, 111 21 Staré Město, Czechia

One of Prague’s Old town attractions , the Powder Tower , is also among the city’s most well-known towers.

Arguably the most famous example of Late Gothic architecture in Prague, this entryway was used by the inauguration procession of Czech monarchs to get into the Old Town. The Powder Gate Tower, originally built as a gunpowder storage and completed in 1475, continues to mark the beginning of the Inauguration or Monarch Route to Prague Castle. 

In 1475, construction began on the present-day gate, among the Old Town’s original thirteen. It burned to ashes in 1541 but was rebuilt quickly. The tower got its current name from its service as a gunpowder storehouse two centuries later, in the 17th century.

Address: Nám. Republiky 5, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia

Appreciate the Strahov Monastery And Library

The spectacular Baroque library is one of the Prague, Czech Republic attractions located next to Prague Castle and the charming Petn Hill, is frequently included in lists of must-see tourist destinations. The Strahov Monastery, where the library is housed, was established as far back as the twelfth century. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the country that continue to fulfill its original purpose and house monks today. The monastery welcomes visitors 365 days a year, and tours run nearly every day.

Over two hundred thousand medieval manuscripts, along with artifacts, first editions, and other rarities, can be found in the monastery library’s collection of over 200,000 volumes.

The monastery also features a significant gallery showcasing one of the most valuable collections of religious art in Central Europe. About 1,500 works of art from the Gothic architecture and Romantic periods are on display.

Address: Strahovské nádvoří 132/1, 118 00 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia

In 1777, the city’s most extensive library and one of the top Prague, Czech Republic tourist attractions , the National Library, was founded. There are books from India, Iran, and Turkey in addition to the vast collection of Czech literature. The renowned Codex Vyssegradensis and the Passional of Abbes Kunigunde are two prized medieval writings housed in the library. In 2005, it won a prestigious prize on a global scale. 

Approximately fifty percent of the library’s collection is housed in the ancient Klementinum building in the heart of Prague. The Hostiva neighbourhood houses the remaining half of the collection. With a collection of about 6 million items, the National Library of the Czech Republic is by far the country’s largest library. About 20,000 people are using the library’s services right now.

Address: Klementinum 190, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia

Prague CoolPass: Save Time and Money on the Best of Prague

The Prague CoolPass is a digital pass that gives you free entry to over 70 of Prague’s top attractions, museums, tours, and cruises. You’ll also get a 2-hour bus tour, a romantic cruise, and one sightseeing cruise from Prague Boats. Plus, you’ll get special discounts on other tours, activities, and restaurants.

• Free entry to over 70 of Prague’s top attractions, museums, tours, and cruises
• 2-hour bus tour
• Romantic cruise
• One sightseeing cruise from Prague Boats
• Special discounts on other tours, activities, and restaurants
• Entry to over 70 of Prague’s top attractions, museums, tours, and cruises (one-time entrance per attraction)
• 2-hour bus tour “Historical Prague”
• Romantic cruise “Prague Venice”
• Digital guide with attraction information and navigation
• Special price for 1-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour

Thirty years ago, Prague attractions were unknown to tourists; today, these attractions are the continent’s most famous, welcoming almost 4 million people annually. So, today take advantage of the Prague card to visit any of the above Prague major attractions and save a lot.

The Prague Card is a multi-attraction pass that gives you access to various tourist sites and discounts on things like public transportation. You can see plenty of top attractions in Prague . However, it’s important to remember that there are also many local attractions in Prague that you should consider visiting if you’re looking for something off the beaten path—and that’s where your trusty city map comes into play.

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Home » Europe » Prague

32 BEST Places to Visit in Prague (2024)

Prague is on everyone’s travel list at the moment and for good reason. It’s less expensive than other places in Europe but still has all the attractions of the European cities that have captured the public’s imagination for years. It has an incredible history, beautiful and historic architecture, a vibrant and exciting community, and delicious foods. Basically, if you’re looking for places to visit in Prague, you’ll be able to see some of the best attractions that Europe has to offer.

There’s just so much to do here and that can make your job a little harder when you’re trying to decide what to do in Prague. There’s good reason why Prague is one of the most popular destinations in Eastern Europe, it’s jam packed with imposting Gothic architecture and enchanting culture.

Prague is a vibrant and exciting city that’s well set up for tourists and offers some of the best sights in Europe. So, if you’re looking for a Prague itinerary, here are some ideas to get you started.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Prague, Czech Republic:

These are the best places to visit in prague, czech republic, faq on the best places to visit in prague, czech republic.

Are you ready to take a stroll through the old town, new town, lesser town and Zizkok? All these vibrant tiny towns make up Prague and are full of great places to stay. Check out where to stay in Prague so you’ll have somewhere to put your feet up before and after exploring all this city has to offer.

There’s a good amount of budget accommodation around town with the hostels in Prague being great quality, there’s also a good selection of Airbnb’s in Prague to check out too.

Old Town is the most centrally located neighbourhood in Prague. This is where most tourists stay for their first time in Prague, as the area concentrates many historical sights and restaurants.

• Look at the city from above on the rooftop of the Old Town Hall
• Watch the show at every hour on the astronomical clock
• Walk the Royal Route like ancient Czech Kings on their way to Prague’s castle

There are a whole heap of amazing things to do in Prague , so we’ve laid them all out there so you can plan your time here effectively.

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#1 – Saint Vitus Cathedral

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• One of the most stunning Gothic style cathedrals in Europe.
• This Prague must-see is one of the most decorative cathedrals in Europe.
• It looks great in photos too, so make sure you take plenty of them.

Why it’s so awesome: This cathedral took almost 600 years to build. It was started in 1344 and was finally completed in 1953. Along the way, it is because of the centre of religious and cultural life in the Czech Republic and home to some of the greatest religious treasures in the country. Dedicated to the patron saint Vitus, it’s one of the most stunning tourist attractions in Prague.

What to do there: The exterior of the cathedral is suitably Gothic and looks great in photos. But as with many things, the real treasures lay inside. Make sure you see the 14th century mosaic of the Last Judgement, the tomb of Charles IV, the Chapel of St. Wenceslas, and the art nouveau stained glass created by Alfons Mucha. If you enjoy architecture and exploring lots of different features that somehow combine to make it whole, you’ll love this cathedral.

#2 – The Charles Bridge – One of the most incredible places to go to in Praque

• One of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
• Crosses the historic Vltava River
• By 9am, it turns into a fairground of tourists and hawkers.

Why it’s so awesome: The Charles bridge was commissioned in 1357 after the existing bridge had been destroyed by floods from the Vltava River. It was completed in 1390 and has stood the test of time for 500 years since. Over the years, the bridge has become a gathering place for monuments and statues, and some of the best sculptures in the city now line its parapets. After WWII the bridge was made pedestrian-only, and now is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

What to do there: This bridge is almost always busy and that can be fun too. While you’re strolling under the baroque statues that line the parapets, make sure you take advantage of the hawkers to have a snack, buy a souvenir, or just people-watch. If you want to see the bridge at its absolute best, arrive at dawn when no one’s around and you can enjoy the Prague hotspot without interruptions. It’s a fine example of the Gothic Architecture of Prague.

Sidenote: While the bustle on this bridge is indeed enjoyable, this spot has been known to be popular for pickpockets as it’s one of the top tourist attractions. Be sure to hide your money in that secret pocket you’ve sewn in your shoe and keep your valuables close while exploring here.

With a Prague City Pass , you can experience the best of Prague at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Prague Castle – One of the nicer places in Prague to sightsee!

• You can’t travel to this city and not see the castle complex, and this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague.
• Make sure you take lots of photos of the city to show everyone back home.
• The castle complex is huge, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to explore it.

Why it’s so awesome: This castle could be straight out of a fairy tale. Looming above the city centre, it has towers, spires and palaces just like out of old stories. The inside is even better. It contains historic buildings, museums, and art galleries that contain some of the most important cultural treasures in the country. So, when you visit the castle complex, you’re likely to spend all day there exploring everything it has to offer. It’s a fine example of spectacular architecture.

What to do there: Make sure you put aside an entire morning or afternoon to explore this Prague must-see because you won’t regret it. Take pictures with the fairy tale castle in the background and then go inside to explore the museums and art galleries. Just remember that you will need to go through a security check before entering the castle, so make sure you have your passport with you.

#4 – The Old Town Square – A great place to see in Prague if you love architecture

• The most picturesque part of the city, and one of the best places in Prague to visit!
• Make sure you take lots of photos in this area so you can show them to everyone back home.
• This is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or even a whole day exploring the history and stopping off at cafes and restaurants to try the food.

Why it’s so awesome: You probably have an image in your head when it comes to Prague of picturesque buildings and streets that could have come right out of a fairytale. This area is where you’ll see those dreams come true. This part of the city has been mostly untouched since the 10th century and the architecture is dreamy enough to draw locals and tourists in droves. There’s a reason it’s one of Prague’s most famous attractions.

What to do there: Take lots of pictures while you’re in this area, because they’ll turn out amazing. And once you’re done with that, just wander around and take everything in. Old Town could be straight out of a fairy tale or your best dreams of what Europe should be, so enjoy it. The area is full of al fresco restaurants, so when you want to rest your feet you can have a great meal and sit down while you take everything in. A great way to explore this area is to take a walking tour.

#5 – The Astronomical Clock

• One of the most striking attractions in Prague.
• Located on the town hall it’s one of the most famous attractions in Prague.
• The Prague astronomical clock is the best preserved medieval mechanical clock in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: The Prague astronomical clock dates back to medieval times and despite being damaged and repaired repeatedly across the years, it’s still the best-preserved medieval clock in the world. Located on the south face of the town hall, it’s the pride of the city and a must-see while visiting Prague.

What to do there: While you’re in Old Town Square, make sure you’re waiting at the Old Town Hall to see the Prague astronomical clock on the turning of the hour. There’s a small show as the hour changes that draws crowds all throughout the day, and it’s a Prague must-do and one of the top tourist attractions in the city. If you have the time you can also visit the inside of the town hall itself.

#6 – The Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague – One of the more unique places to visit in Prague!

• A great place to see the darker side of Prague’s history.
• A creepy and fascinating look at historic beliefs in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to explore Prague, then you need to see more than the castles. You need to understand its darker side as well, and you can do just that at this museum. During the 16th century, King Rudolf II had a keen interest in the occult arts and turned Prague into their unofficial capital. He funded alchemists and sorcerers from all over Europe, including famous names like John Dee and Edward Kelley. For a long time, Prague was Europe’s centre of dark arts and this museum celebrates this creepy history in all its strangeness.

What to do there: There are two levels of displays in this museum and they trace the history of the occultists who once lived in Prague. It includes an alchemist’s lab in the tower of the building, stocked with scrolls and grimoires, as well as stunning artistic scenes of failed magicians being dragged into hell by the devil. If you’re interested in this kind of display, make sure you take the time to explore every corner of the museum, because it will really teach you about another side of Prague’s history.

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#7 – Strahov Monastery

• If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Prague, these stunning libraries fit the bill perfectly!
• Art lovers will absolutely adore the interior of the Strahov Monastery as well as the curiosities they contain.

Why it’s so awesome: The Strahov Monastery is the second oldest in the city and is located on top of one of Prague’s hills. It was first built in 1140 but had to be rebuilt numerous times after various walls. The Monastery itself is fairly ordinary, but the library within is simply astounding. It’s divided into two halls that contain thousands of rare volumes of religious and philosophical texts. And, as if this wasn’t enough, the walls of the libraries are masterfully decorated with vibrant and beautiful frescos that must be seen to be believed.

What to do there: If you enjoy libraries then you’ll love the Strahov Monastery. Make sure you check out the unique card catalogue system, which uses wooden cartouches with images on them to tell you about the stored books. Also, have a look at the cabinet of curiosities, which were brought from the estate of Karel Jan Erben in 1798. They contain parts of a dodo bird, ocean specimens, insects, and anthropological artefacts and are a slightly strange but fascinating look at one man’s obsession.

#8 – Magical Cavern – One of the most amazing places in Prague!

• A stunning display of artistic talent.
• A psychedelic empire of colour and movement.

Why it’s so awesome: On Petrin hill, the artist and sculptor Reon created a psychedelic empire of art and covered every wall in his building with hand-sculptured facades. The otherworldly cave system that resulted called Argondia is a Prague must-see while you’re in the city. It combines the rough look of natural stone with decorative roots, strange angles, and swirling colours.

What to do there: Every traveller backpacking through the Czech Republic should have this landmark on their Prague itinerary. It’s well worth a visit to have a look at the stunning artwork. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, with trippy paintings and columns that are carved to show off faux-Roman busts of mythical creatures. So, make sure you take the time to explore and take in this incredibly beautiful piece of art.

#9 – Speculum Alchemiae – One of the most underrated places to see in Prague

• A site uncovered by the 2002 floods.
• A creepy and fascinating look at a previously unknown part of Prague’s history.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a secret site that was only uncovered in 2002 by floodwaters and it’s a creepy and fascinating look at another way of life. It contains all the tools that alchemists used to do their work, namely trying to turn lead into gold, as well as a number of other curiosities that will amaze and delight you.

What to do there: When you get to this Prague must do, hidden in the city’s historic centre, it looks like a ground floor studio containing curiosities. You’ll see the hide of a black bear, sporting portraits and books, but when you twist the small statue in the library, an underground world will open up. Go down the stairs and explore the sprawling laboratory beneath. The museum is a little gimmicky and you can only see it with a tour guide, but it’s still a fascinating look at a darker part of Prague’s history.

#10 – The Idiom Installation

• An infinite tower of books that you must see to believe.
• This display is like a mix of a dream and a nightmare and will make for some great photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a display created by artist Matej Kren and it’s called Idiom. It’s a long-term art display where hundreds of books are stacked in a cylindrical tower. Carefully placed mirrors give the impression that the tower is infinite, and this mind-bending display is best seen through a tear-shaped opening on one side of the tower. Peeking through at this world will give you a taste of what it’s like to sink into a well of books and never come out again.

What to do there: Whatever you go, don’t try and pull a book out of this towering display because the slightest imbalance and the whole thing will come crashing down. Instead, just enjoy the architectural masterpiece . This has become one of the most popular displays in Prague and was even featured on the cover of Science magazine in 2011.

#11 – Dripstone Wall – Quite the quirky place in Prague!

• An eerie wall that may just give you nightmares!
• It looks great in photos too.
• Surrounded by lush gardens that will give you a nice break from the rush of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Created between 1623 and 1630, this wall was once part of the Wallenstein family’s private residence. After World War II, the land fell into the hands of the government who used it for elite negotiations. They’re created in early baroque style and divided into several distinct areas, the most interesting being ‘The Grotto’ which is an eerie landscape that includes the Dripstone Wall. When it comes to Prague tourist attractions, this is a creepy display of snakes, monsters and random faces with an acoustic element.

What to do there: The Dripstone Walls is the best part of the garden and looks like it’s constructed from dripping skulls. It’s actually made of stalactite-like rocks, but when you look closely you can see human and animal faces peeping out from the stone. There is also a mystery to this wall as there are clues that it could contain secret passageways into the residence. So, while you’re there, see if you can see the clues and solve the mystery that has enthralled visitors for years.

#12 – Wenceslas Square – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Prague

• Home to some of the most beautiful and architecturally significant buildings in the city.
• The city’s best public space for celebrations and demonstrations.
• Make sure you  take your camera  and be prepared to spend at least a full day in this area!

Why it’s so awesome: This square is absolutely one of the best places to go in Prague. It’s a highlight of the Old Town district and includes many important and beautiful buildings. It was named after the patron saint of Bohemia, whose statue is located in the area, and was first created in the 14th century under the rule of Charles IV as a horse market. These days, it’s one of the most important points of interest in Prague.

What to do there: It’s absolutely free to visit the square, though no doubt you’ll find a lot to do there that will cost you some cash. This area is home to the city’s best dining and shopping experiences as well as a number of architectural marvels. If you’re visiting at Christmas, it also has a huge Christmas Market that’s worth braving the crowds for.

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#13 – The National Museum

• Newly renovated, the huge national museum must be on your Prague itinerary !
• Either take all day so you can see everything or work out what you’re interested before so you can pick and choose where you go in the national museum.

Why it’s so awesome: The national museum is spread across several locations and houses some of the city’s most important collections in a variety of different fields. So, when you’re visiting Prague , make sure you stop by to explore the city’s take on archaeology, zoology, anthropology, art, music, entomology, or mineralogy. It’s the oldest museum in Prague and was first established in the early 1800s.

What to do there: Just explore the national museum! No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something fascinating in this Prague must-see landmark. Take the time to explore the archaeology exhibit with its collection of Roman artefacts as well as the entomology collection which contains around 5 million specimens.

#14 – The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn – One of Prague’s coolest historical sites!

• One of Prague’s most recognizable churches.
• This is also one of the most famous places in Prague.

Why it’s so awesome: This church is unmistakable, and you’ve probably already seen it in photos. It includes twin spires that are 80 meters tall and support four smaller spires each on either side of the building and is the perfect image of a medieval church. Completed in the 15th century, the building has been changed numerous times over the years as it changed hands, but the Gothic appearance and Baroque altar paintings on the inside have thankfully remained intact.

What to do there: This is a beautiful old church and it looks great in photos. But make sure you go inside as well because there’s a lot to see. Check out the fine tombs, the Gothic northern portal complete with crucifixion sculpture, and the Baroque altar paintings while you’re visiting. All of these features combine to make the church one of the hotspots in Prague as well as a great place to spend an afternoon.

#15 – Palac Lucerna

• One of the most popular attractions in Prague for tourists and locals alike.
• A great place to spend an afternoon for easy entertainment and great shopping options.

Why it’s so awesome: Palac Lucerna is an early 20th century cultural complex just off Wenceslas Square that contains everything you could want for an easy, fun afternoon. The arcade boasts an attraction that’s in everyone’s photo of their time in Prague, a sculpture of St. Wenceslas riding an upside-down horse. This was created by artist David Cerny and it’s set against stained glass windows that throw light and colour around the space. The arcade also has an independent cinema, bars with live music and dance parties, and a concert hall.

What to do there: Get there during the day so you can take a photo of the upside-down horse with colour and light all around it. And then, after the sun sets, watch an independent film at the Kino Lucerna or head over to the Lucerna Music Bar for a late-night party and live music. And if you’re looking for places to visit in Prague that are a bit grungier, try a microbrew at Kavovarna pub.

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#16 – The Devil’s Stream

• A beautiful place for a walk.
• There are legends about ghosts and witches associated with this stream, so keep an eye out for anything strange!

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like checking out a place with lots of stories associated with it and Devil’s Stream fits this bill exactly. According to some of the stories, the area is blessed by water sprites. Another says it’s cursed by a vicious old woman who lives off Maltese Square. Whatever’s true, this is still one of the most atmospheric and picturesque points of interest in Prague.

What to do there: If you like to walk, you’ll love this area. You can walk through the trees and cross the bridges at sunset, enjoying a slice of nature and fairy tale surroundings at the same time. And when your feet get tired, stop in at one of the local bars or restaurants for a meal or a drink. Tato Kojkej and Mlynska are particularly good and they keep up the drama by having ancient water wheels inside the buildings where you can enjoy the history and sounds.

#17 – Vrtba Gardens – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Prague!

• Everyone visits the Wallenstein gardens, but these are mostly unknown and just as stunning.
• A great place to get away from the steel and concrete and enjoy a bit of nature.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like spending time in a garden for relaxation and revitalization and this is one of the best gardens in the city. These gardens aren’t as well known as other options in the city but boast geometric designs, fresco paintings, and Baroque details. It’s very close to Petrin Hill and is a Prague must-see.

What to do there: Wander around the gardens. You’ll have them mostly to yourself because the other tourists will go to other gardens, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy the Baroque aesthetics without the crowds. And when you’re done, you’re really close to Petrin Hill, which is another one of the most famous places in Prague.

#18 – Vysehrad – One of the nicer places in Prague to sightsee!

• A quieter place to see the view of Prague away from the crowds of tourist.
• There are lots of historic sites and beautiful gardens to see in this area, so put aside at least half a day for wandering.

Why it’s so awesome: The crowds in Prague can get a bit tiring and sometimes you just want to explore something on your own. Vysehrad is the perfect place to do that. It’s a gothic cathedral that has a striking view, a cemetery, cafes and galleries all around it, so it’s perfect for an afternoon of history and exploration.

What to do there: You can easily get to this fort because the red line has a stop named after it. It’s just off the Vltava River too, which means you’ll get stunning river and city views from the top of this fort. When you’re done exploring the building, make sure you wander around the area as well. The gardens are beautiful and there’s also a cathedral, cemetery and gallery that deserve some attention. This collection of beautiful and interesting sites is what makes this one of the best places in Prague.

#19 – St. Cyril and St. Methodius Cathedral – A fascinating educational place to visit in Prague

• Another stunning church in Prague.
• But what really makes this one of the best places to visit in Prague is the history behind it.

Why it’s so awesome: Prague has some of the world’s most spectacular churches and this one definitely should go on the list. But it’s the history behind this building that’s really amazing. This church has a strong connection to the fall of the Nazis in Bohemia, one of the Czech Republic’s three regions, and the museum in the basement of the church explores this connection in depth.

What to do there: Take pictures of and explore the church and then go down into the basement to really have your mind blown. There are video clips, photos and memorabilia from the war that will teach you about the occupation of the castle and the ruler’s overthrow by the Czech rebels. This isn’t a place for children as the story isn’t always happy, but the courage and determination of the men who freed Bohemia is inspiring.

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#20 – Langhans

• A coffee shop that’s dedicated to providing discussions and education on tolerance, humanity, and other world issues.
• A great place to stop and have a Fair-Trade coffee with non-dairy milk.

Why it’s awesome: The idea of European intellectuals gathering around local watering spots to discuss world issues is a common and seductive one. And this is a café that does just that. Here you’ll find discussions on freedom, democracy, humanitarian and development aid along with coffee that doesn’t exploit growers.

What to do there: This is the place to get a coffee, pull up a chair, and enjoy the talk. A venue like this evokes the spirit of old Europe, where revolutionaries and great thinkers gathered to try to change the world through ideas and discussion. Just remember that they don’t serve dairy milk with their coffees, nobody and nothing gets exploited here, so be prepared to try an alternative if you like milk with your drink.

#21 – Strelecky Island – Awesome place to visit in Prague with kids!

• A peaceful natural space popular amongst tourists and locals alike.
• The best place in the city to go for a picnic with the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: When you’re looking for Prague vacation ideas, you need some locations that are just relaxing, and this island is the perfect choice for that. It’s a small island on the Vltava River that’s often the location for open-air events in the city. The rest of the time, it’s a quiet natural area lined with trees and park benches where you can take a picnic and escape the city.

What to do there: in the summer, this area often plays host to live music events, dance parties and film screenings so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and just show up. The island is accessible via stairs on the Legion Bridge and will give you some great views of the city’s skylines if you want to take more pictures. Other than that, take a picnic basket, find a stretch of grass, and just relax in the natural surroundings.

#22 – Rudolfinum – A perfect place to visit in Prague if you are on a budget!

• Most of the exhibitions at this site are free so check the website to see what’s on in the city.
• A late 19th century, Neo-Renaissance concert hall that also includes an art gallery and café.

Why it’s so awesome: Visiting Prague can be expensive and sometimes you just want to go somewhere that will be fun and free at the same time. This is the perfect place for that. Most of the exhibits are free and there is also a gallery filled with European art, a park and a café nearby so you can enjoy a whole afternoon at this site without spending much money at all.

What to do there: Check the website for events that you’re interested in. Once you’re there, sneak around to the riverside where two sphinxes guard the door and then go upstairs for the free exhibits. Afterwards, spend time in Art Park with the family or head into the café. You can look through art books while you sip your tea or play the piano, it’s all up to you.

#23 – Jilska Absintherie

• The home of the green fairy.
• Absinthe was once one of the most popular drinks in Europe and you can try it at this shop.

Why it’s so awesome: Jilska Absintherie is very close to Old Town and explores the history of this alcoholic beverage in happy detail. This drink was the darling of Europe for years and there are still several venues in Prague that serve different varieties of distilled absinthe that you can try. The Jilska Absintherie is one of the best in the city and it’s within walking distance from the usual tourist spots.

What to do there: The best time to go to this location is on the weekend, when each drink is served with spectacle and hype. But no matter when you go, ask for a distilled absinthe because the macerated drinks are like drinking firewater. Each drink has its own herbal taste and just ask the bartenders for their recommendations if you’re unsure about what to try. Just remember that this drink packs a punch so make sure you have something in your stomach first and drink it slowly!

While Prague is safe for travellers , this punchy green drink as well as alcohol, in general, is popular here and makes Prague a prime party destination. Be aware that it can get rowdy as the sun sinks further down at dusk while the liquid in your glass does too.

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#24 – Olsany Cemetery

• Learn more about Prague’s history in a beautiful, scenic space.
• A serene place to explore art nouveau monuments and creations.

Why it’s so awesome: The plague struck Prague in the 17th century and the survivors decided that it was unhygienic to bury the victims in the city itself. So instead, they created this cemetery instead. It was used again a century later after another plague and then continuously throughout the years until the 20th century. Despite these grisly beginnings, the cemetery is actually a beautiful, peaceful place to visit with a variety of elaborate art nouveau grave monuments.

What to do there: This is the largest cemetery in Prague and there are 12 separate sections that represent different faiths and cultural groups. If you want to learn more about this location on your Prague itinerary, then there are guided tours available that will take you from the older sections to the most modern. A variety of famous figures are buried here, so make sure you have a look at the graves of Jan Palach, a student who burned himself to death in protest of the occupation of Czechoslovakia and Pavel Roma, a famous ice skater.

#25 – The Dancing House of Prague – A great place to see in Prague if you love architecture

• The dancing house is another weird and wonderful example of the famous architect Frank Gehry’s work right in the middle of the city.
• This location has been given a variety of names, from “Fred and Ginger” given to it by the architect to ‘The Drink House’ as named by local residents.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Prague, then the dancing house must be on your list. Completed in 1996, it took 4 years to complete and is a fine example of Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic’s work. It sits on riverfront land and is surrounded by 18th and 19th-century architecture, so the building looks shockingly out of place where it is! It’s one of the top tourist attractions for good reason!

What to do there: The dancing house really is picture-worthy. It curves in on itself like it’s taken a great punch and contrasts nicely against the stately buildings on either side. The building is full of offices that aren’t open to the public, but you can visit the lobby and there’s also a restaurant on the 7th floor of the dancing house. The restaurant has a rooftop patio for taking photos, so take your camera and you’ll get some great shots of the Vltava River and Prague Castle.

#26 – Cross Club – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Prague

• One of the most colorful and exciting places in Prague.
• A meeting place for art of all descriptions.

Why it’s so awesome: This club looks like an industrial pirate’s cove and is full of light, colour and sound. It was created in 2002 by a group of friends to give DJs and other creatives a place to practice. Word spread quickly about the club though, and it has expanded throughout the years. It’s now a three-story factory for art of all descriptions and provides education, electronic concerts, and a place for activists to gather.

What to do there: If you’re trying to decide what to do when you travel to Prague, then there’s always something going on at this location. At night they have music ranging from electronic to punk, reggae and ska. During the day they run family-friendly programs like puppet shows and theatre. And you can also catch a free lecture on everything from religion to computer programming. So, check out what’s on while you’re in the city or just show up to the bar and café and see what’s going on.

#27 – Bohnický Hrbitov Cemetery

• A creepier look at Prague’s past.
• Definitely not for the kids, this is a place for a darker thrill.

Why it’s so awesome: This neglected cemetery could be straight out of a horror film. Over the years it’s been robbed by thieves and vandalised, but even without that, you’ll see immediately that there’s something very wrong with this place. The rows of graves are mostly unmarked and without even a tombstone to record the name of the occupant. That’s because this graveyard houses the mentally ill, suicides from the nearby mental asylum, and murderers. The graveyard was in use until the asylum was closed in 1963 and was abandoned shortly afterwards.

What to do there: There are lots of strange stories about this graveyard that makes it one of the hotspots in Prague at night. People swear they’ve seen strange sounds and lights and some even claim that stranger things have happened to them. So, if you’re looking for a darker thrill, visit this cemetery to find out for yourself. And even if you’re not looking for a thrill, the cemetery is a hushed, peaceful place with a melancholy vibe that can give visitors a nice, sombre break from the rush of the city.

#28 – Nuclear Bunker Museum

• This museum is located beneath a seemingly ordinary wall.
• If you’re interested in the history of the Cold War, this place will give you a firsthand view of what it was like.

Why it’s so awesome: This was once a civilian bunker, located beneath Prague’s Parukarka hill, and is a symbol of the fear that gripped the people during the Cold War. These types of bunkers sprung up all over Europe but were especially common in the Eastern Bloc as the communist economies focused on the very real possibility of invasion. This bunker was meant to protect civilians during a nuclear attack rather than to house them for the years afterwards.

What to do there: You can explore this museum as part of a tour. The tour runs for 2 hours and will take you through the communist spots in Old Town, ending in the bunker. There you’ll see gas masks, books, photographs and newspapers from the time in the cramped, panic-inducing surroundings. You can buy tickets for the tour online or at the Prague Special Tours ticket office in Old Town.

#29 – Franz Kafka Museum

• A museum dedicated to one of its most famous and troubled sons.
• If you want to experience the author’s ideas as well as see personal artefacts, this is where to do it.

Why it’s so awesome: Franz Kafka was born in Prague in 1883 and remains one of the most popular novelists to come out of the city. This museum celebrates not only his life but his eerie ideas on the world. The author had an unusual talent for combining reality and fantasy in his works and this museum follows that path. It blurs the lines between fact and fiction to illustrate Kafka’s life in Prague and how it influenced his writing as well as how Prague was changed by his work.

What to do there: When you encounter a museum that’s trying to convey a bigger, more abstract message like this, you just have to pay attention. This museum uses journal entries, soundscapes, 3D installations to create intellectual, artistic and nightmarish displays using the streets of Prague to explore Kafka’s suffering and uncertainty. Mechanical statues are used to illustrate his strange ideas, and everything mimics the haunting, dreamscape world that Kafka’s pen created. Long after you leave this museum, you’ll be thinking about the things you saw, and that’s the mark of a truly masterful display.

#30 – Trifot

• A weird display that looks amazing in photos.
• If you’re looking for a place to go in Prague that’s just slightly weird and fun, this is it.

Why it’s so awesome: Prague is full of surprises, and this display is yet another example of that. This kinetic sculpture was created by artist David Cerný as a provocative statement about modern life. It’s located outside of the Photo Centre Gallery and stands as mute testimony to the nature of modern life, surveillance and privacy.

What to do there: This is a forty-foot statue that looks like vintage cameras with staring, bulging eyes that move independently to watch passers-by. The images are then projected onto one of six monitors in the area. It’s an unattractive but extremely effective display with Orwellian undertones and deserves some of your attention and time while you’re in the city.

#31 – The Clementinium and the National Library – A great place to visit in Prague if you are alone/traveling solo

• The Clementinium is one of the largest collections of historic buildings in Europe.
• A beautiful and picturesque part of town that shouldn’t be missed.
• If you’re interested in historic buildings, architecture, or books, this is one of the best places in Prague to spend some time.

Why it’s so awesome: There are several beautiful baroque buildings in this area including the National Library of the Czech Republic. This historic site was once part of a Jesuit College and houses the Jesuit book collection. Later, the books from the Karolinum were added and the site became a public library in 1782.

What to do there: If you’re a book lover, then you’ll love this place. It contains more than 6 million books, including copies of every book published in the Czech Republic. But make sure that you don’t spend all your time reading because the building itself is stunning. Some of the highlights you should check out include the Baroque Library Hall, which has incredible ceiling artwork. You can also visit the amazing Mirror Chapel and the Astronomical Tower. And if you want to learn more, English tours are available to give you a deeper understanding of the site and its significance.

#32 – The National Gallery

• The best place in the city for art lovers.
• Contains a variety of important art collections.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t go anywhere in Europe without exploring the artwork and this gallery is one of the best places in Prague to do just that. The gallery exhibits both foreign and local artists and some of the biggest names in history have their work at this venue. The collection is spread across a couple of different locations and no matter what type of art you like, you’ll find something amazing.

What to do there: While you’re exploring this gallery, make sure that you look for your favourite artists. The art is spread across several buildings, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. Don’t miss the stunning 17th century Sternberg Palace, where there are works by the greats such as van Goyen, Rubens, van Dyck, Rembrandt and Goya. At the Kinsky palace, you’ll see Asian art as well as art from the ancient world. There’s also a dedicated Modern Art Museum here too. So, no matter what type of art you love, you’ll be able to see the best examples of it in the world at this site.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Prague

What are unmissable places to visit in Prague?

St. Vitus Cathedral, The Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and The Museum of Alchemists and Magicians are my top unmissable attractions in the city.

Is three days enough time to visit Prague?

Three days should be enough time to see all the main attractions, but it’s one of those cities you could easily spend longer in.

What is Prague famous for?

Prague is famous for its Baroque and Gothic cathedrals as well as medieval architecture throughout the city. It’s also a great city break for nightlife.

Is Prague expensive?

Prague isn’t super expensive but it is not cheap either. Compared to most European cities, it’s much more affordable.

Prague is one of the most popular cities in the world at the moment amongst travellers and there are a lot of good reasons for that. A good Prague itinerary is filled with great food, incredible landmarks, and astonishing history and makes for an exciting trip.

It’s also markedly cheaper than some other countries in Europe, which is why it’s on everyone’s bucket list. And it should be on yours as well. Check out how affordable Prague is !

So, if you’re ready to explore all the best places to visit in Prague, then this list will help you choose what to see first! There’s a lot to do, so consider taking a walking tour to get an insider look.

Had a great time in the capital OF THE Czech Republic? Take some of the wonderful day trips from Prague too.

Agness and Cez

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Hello. Letná park is great. Really beautiful and calm part of Prague(and free!) with some of the best views over Prague. And close to city centre.

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• Prague History

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The top 10 most visited places in Prague

Here is a list of the 10 most visited places in Prague

Prague :Most Visited Places

If you're looking to explore Prague, the Czech Republic's capital city, then you'll want to know where the most popular tourist destinations are. Here is a list of the 10 most visited places in Prague , based on data from Google Reviews and Tripadvisor.

1. Prague Castle 

Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague. It’s also the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic. The castle complex consists of a number of buildings, gardens, and courtyards, and is divided into several distinct areas.

Get your Skip-The-Line Tickes here

Official Information on Prague Castle

2. Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is a stone bridge that crosses the Vltava River in Prague . It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague , and is often crowded with visitors. The bridge is over 600 years old and has been the scene of many historical events.

3. Old Town Square

  The Old Town Square is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague and it’s easy to see why. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Astronomical Clock and Old Town Hall. There are also a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the square, making it the perfect place to people watch and soak up the atmosphere.

  4. The Dancing House

  The Dancing House is a building in Prague that’s often referred to as the Fred and Ginger Building, because of its resemblance to the dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The building was designed by Frank Gehry and completed in 1996.

5. Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square is a large square in the center of Prague, named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. The square is home to a number of buildings, including the National Museum and the Trade Fair Palace, and it’s often used as a venue for events and protests.

6. Prague National Museum

The Prague National Museum is home to a number of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the Czech Republic. The museum has exhibits on everything from the history of art to the history of Czechoslovakia, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Get Skip-The-Line Museum Tickets here

7. St. Vitus Cathedral

  The St. Vitus Cathedral is a cathedral in Prague that’s dedicated to Saint Vitus. It’s the largest and most important church in the Czech Republic and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague. The cathedral has been damaged and rebuilt a number of times over the years, and the current building

  8. Petřín Hill

  Petřín Hill is a hill in Prague that’s often used as a park and recreation area. The hill is home to a number of attractions, including the Petřín Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. There are also a number of gardens and parks on the hill, making it the perfect place to relax.

9. Prague Zoo

  The Prague Zoo is a zoo located in Prague, Czech Republic. It’s home to a number of animals from all over the world, including tigers, lions, and elephants. The zoo is a great place to learn about animals and their habitats, and it’s also a lot of fun to visit. Online ticket price is 44 euros. Check availability and see more info and photos here: 4 Alternative Things to Do in Prague

10. Malá Strana

People visit these places for many reasons. Some attractions, like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, are centuries old and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Other places, like the Dancing House and Petřín Hill, are more modern and offer beautiful views of Prague. And finally, some places, like the Prague National Museum and the Prague Zoo, are simply fun to visit. No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be a place in Prague that you’ll enjoy visiting . 

Are there any hidden gems that only locals know about?

There certainly are! A few examples include the Na Písečku beer garden , the Kampa Park and the Žižkov Television Tower. Each of these places has its own unique charm and is worth checking out if you want to get a different perspective on Prague.

PROVIDERS OF Prague Things to Do

Based on Real Travel Experiences

Smart spend of your time, unlock all of prague's doors with this smart card.

• Enjoy entry to 60 of Prague’s best museums and attractions, including the National Museum and Jewish Museum
• See the best views in the city at no extra cost – a sightseeing bus and some river cruises are included
• Step inside Prague Castle , the City Gallery and more, and get heavily discounted entry to other museums

Alongside entry to museums, your Prague Card also gives you admission to historic landmarks including Prague Castle , St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Royal Palace.

It’s not just castles and churches you’ll get to visit – your ticket also includes entry to Golden Lane and St. George’s Basilica. There are loads of fun activities for the family to enjoy like the Mirror Maze in Petřín Park and Prague Zoo .

• Sightseeing Tour
• River Boat Cruise
• Discounted admission to 40+ attractions
• Up to 50% discount on tours, cruises, concerts, and restaurants
• Detailed printed map and mobile app, Prague Cool Pass – a free interactive guide around the city

What's Included

• Prague Castle
• St. Vitus Cathedral
• Royal Palace
• Golden Lane
• St. George's Basilica
• Jewish Museum – synagogues and Old Jewish Cemetery (7 sites)
• National Gallery (7 sites)
• National Museum (9 sites)
• Prague City Gallery (5 sites)
• Prague City Museum (6 sites)

flip for more!

• Vyšehrad Fortress (4 sites)
• Petřín Tower and Petřín Mirror Maze
• Štefánik Observatory
• Powder Tower
• Pedagogical Museum of J. A. Comenius
• Czech Police Museum
• Admission to castles and châteaus of Troja, Ctěnice, Roztoky, and Nelahozeves
• Old-New Synagogue
• Loreto Sanctuary
• Lobkowicz Palace
• Charles Bridge Museum

List of 10 most visited places in Prague

• Prague Castle (over 130.000 Google Reviews)
• Old Town Square (over 74.000 Google Reviews)
• The Dancing House (over 37.000 Google Reviews)
• Prague National Museum (over 20.000 Google Reviews)
• Wenceslas Square
• St Vitus Cathedral
• Petřín Hill
• Malá Strana

9 Hidden gems of the Prague Castle

10 Must-Take Day Trips from Prague

 Exploring Historical Hidden Gems of Prague

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The Ultimate FREE Prague Tourist Map (Things to Do, Photo Spots & More!)

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Looking for a Prague tourist map that covers all the main sights?

Great news! Hi – I’m Christina, a shameless travel nerd who has already made one. WITH cute stamp icons… that are colour coded.

So yes, below, you’ll find a handy Google Map that you can use on your phone that includes…

• Top Prague museums & sights
• The prettiest photo spots and views in Prague
• Prague food, drink & bar recommendations
• Fun shopping spots to visit in Prague

I hope you find it helpful!

Save this Free Prague Map for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

My Free Prague Tourist Map

On mobile? Click this link here and the map should automatically open on your Google Maps app.

NOTE: Free sights are marked with a green background – be sure to expand the Map Legend to see the different layers and categories I’ve included!

More Prague Travel Resources

Finally, if you’re a bit more old school, then here are some articles and blog posts to help you out with your Prague planning!

• Things to do in Prague
• Are Prague’s Christmas Markets Worth It?

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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• Real Estate
• Prague Guide
• Food & Drink

EXCLUSIVE: The Honest Guide on tourist traps, overtourism, and favorite Prague spots to visit

Prague influencer janek rubeš sat down with expats.cz to give his candid views on the state of tourism in the capital – from scams to hidden gems..

Expats, tourists, or simply those who can’t get enough of watching fraudsters squirm will most likely be familiar with Janek Rubeš, the face of Honest Guide – an online scam-busting and tip-giving channel about all things Prague and Czechia.

Making weekly videos for eight years along with his videographer Honza Mikulka, Janek has around 1.4 million subscribers with a whopping 130 million cumulative video views on YouTube . Among other things, he explores exchange-office scams, gives restaurant recommendations, shows the most affordable ways to navigate the city, and explores the uncertain origins of the ubiquitous trdelník.

We sat down with Janek at the grand Červený jelen restaurant in the center of Prague to get his insights on things to look out for, places to avoid, and hidden spots in the capital – and to see his insider knowledge of the Czech capital could match that of our Prague-savvy audience.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

You’ve been doing this for several years…what made you start the channel?

We started off as a way to guide and help tourists. I thought that most were seeing things that I would not want to see myself – very mainstream stuff – so I thought: “Let me show them what I like to do.” I wanted to show more hidden things off the beaten path.

Before Honest Guide, I was also part of a show called “Prague versus Crooks,” where I exposed scammers operating in Prague. That was quite stressful and went on for a few years – so I decided to do something calmer and more positive. 

“There is nothing more positive than helping someone in need – and tourists very often are.”

What was Prague versus Crooks about?

It was a show to reveal scam taxi drivers , rip-off exchange offices, and son. We gained inspiration from an earlier show called “Scam City” that depicted similar tourist traps – but the City of Prague actually sued the director, claiming he was falsifying the scams!

When my ex-colleagues and I saw that, we were surprised. We thought: “We are Czechs; we don’t know the life of a tourist in Prague,” but we wanted to gain insight.

I speak English with an American accent, so I thought I could pretend to be a tourist and expose scams.

Where do you get ideas/tip-offs for scammers to expose?

Scammers are out there…in fact, they’re right under your nose. You just need to change your perspective and put yourself in the shoes of a tourist. Then, I see a lot more things. If I look at Prague the way locals do, you won’t recognize the scams – Czechs are often oblivious to what’s happening.

Other than that, I often get tips from tourists and locals, though only a few are genuine scams – many are just about overpriced goods and rip-offs.

Seeing a string of bad reviews for an innocuous service on Google Maps also makes me think something odd is happening.

And do you see any recurrent themes or repeated scams/rip-offs?

It’s almost all money or cash-related. Using a different currency [than the Euro] makes scams and rip-offs so much easier for crooks. When tourists in minimarkets buy a beer or a canned soft drink for CZK 150, they may not know how much they’re paying.

Of course, there’s an argument that they can count for themselves. But still, the fact stands that someone is taking advantage of them. If you walk into a minimarket (potraviny) and ask for the price of an item in Czech, it’ll often be substantially cheaper.

Rip-off exchange offices and individuals offering to exchange currencies on the street are also common trends.

What are some of the most popular scams you have exposed?

One of my personal favorites is the expose of how visitors to Czechia were tricked into buying overpriced highway vignettes at the border and faced very bad exchange rates.

Another big one showed how food sellers and vendors in Prague trick tourists by charging for items (like sweets, ham, or fruit) by weight rather than quantity. For example, sellers at the Havelské tržiště nearby Můstek would charge small baskets of fruit for EUR 20 or EUR 30.

Were there any episodes that ultimately failed? Or have you had any situations that you simply couldn’t show?

I believe that throughout the eight years we have been doing this, we filmed just one episode [about a car rental company] and did not publish it. Sometimes, we don’t show things because we know doing so may cause more harm than good. So, we tell the people involved that they should improve instead of airing their mistakes.

"We’ve been doing this for so long that nothing surprises us: sometimes, you get ignored by someone you think is going to punch you, and sometimes, you get punched by someone who you think is going to be peaceful."

You recently published a video about Euronet [an ATM network] deceiving people. They were not happy about it. Have any of your videos and exposes led to legal problems? Have you ever been taken to court?

Never. People are often unhappy with us exposing them, but other companies and people are the ones who violate many rules and laws. We just describe and show how people do their business.

Have your videos ever caused a business to close?

Two I can think of. 

One was an exchange office on Old Town Square called Chequepoint, which offered truly terrible rates for currency exchanges. It was a British-owned company, and I remember the guy who owned it saying in a thick London accent on the day we were filming there: “This branch has been here for 25 years, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

Prague's most notorious exchange office loses license at last

We then uploaded a video that showed him holding the store sign while he was leaving the branch!

The second was a different chain of exchange offices – the Czech National Bank fined them millions of crowns [for setting low and illegal rates], and they closed up and left the country.

Has the situation regarding dodgy exchange offices improved in the last few years?

Yes, significantly, in fact, there is a law that we helped introduced – I still refer to it as “our law” – and it grants you three hours to get your money back after you exchange it at an exchange office.  

"Quite often – this happened all the time – people would get shortchanged by hundreds or thousands of crowns when exchanging their cash."

We sat with two politicians who asked us, “What can we do to improve the situation?” I suggested this move. Now, things are better.

Now, onto overtourism. You recently published a video showing the paternoster elevator at Prague City Hall. This led to an influx of tourists, the elevator being shut, and a new entrance fee. Have you ever regretted publicizing such places?

There are 25 paternoster elevators in Prague. If you are Czech or live in Prague, you most likely know of 24 other elevators. So why would you be unhappy that there’s one where tourists will be charged to ride it? 

"I don't think most people who complain about me unveiling hidden gems or showing places even go to them!"

I've seen people who like legit hate me for bringing tourists to their workplace.

There has never been a case of us destroying a place with mass tourism. The only exception is Skautský Institut [on Old Town Square], which was from an overload of Czechs because we covered it on a Czech show.

With the paternoster, I am probably going to be tortured and burned as a witch for that – but the Prague City Hall was unhappy with the fact that I sent tourists to enjoy the elevator. 

Can you think of other former ‘hidden gems’ that have become very popular due to videos?

Yes, and actually TikTok does a big job of driving tourists to areas, as it targets people based on location – but without context. For example, tourists will queue up to see the Infinity Book Tower of Prague but have no idea they’re entering the Municipal Library.

I do not know or recall a place we showed, and then, as some claim, it would be destroyed.

I take this topic seriously: we always ask a venue whether we can publicize it before filming.

TikTok creators, on the other hand, do not discuss this with the places we film in.

Is the City of Prague doing a good job of combating overtourism? What could they do differently?

This will sound harsh, but I don’t know what job they are doing. I don’t think they can affect it. I don’t think any of us can affect it.

They’re not enforcing their own rules. I can point out 10 activities in the Old Town that are currently restricted or banned, but tourists are still doing them. 

I recently saw two cops on Old Town Square, and I thought to myself: “Wow! You rarely see those here.” And I don’t mean that in a bad way.

"If the city is to ban e-scooters, for example, who will enforce it? You cannot drink at Old Town Square, but people are not fined."

If, once in a while, a stag party that’s loud and drinking in public was just told they could not do this, maybe it would help. 

Overtourism in Prague leads to hunger strike, proposed ban on stag-party costumes

But it’s laughable. When the city is discussing new rules, regulations, or laws, I would say you can't even enforce the simplest and basic ones.

Despite the mass tourism that Prague experiences, do you think the Czech capital is still a livable city?

There’s no doubt that, with the emergence of cheap flights, things have massively changed since I was younger. However, tourism affects 1 percent of Prague. Prague 1 is 1 percent of the area of Prague. For example, if you live in Dejvice, you’re unlikely to come across a tourist! Prague is certainly still livable.

How much have things changed in recent years?

Back at the start of Covid-19 days, you could see what Prague would look like without mass tourism. It was a different world – the prices were four to five times lower than today! Euronet ATMs have cropped up everywhere – interestingly, during Covid-19, these were all switched off, which shows they are just tools to get money from tourists.

There are also many overpriced minimarkets now that don’t sell basic amenities. They’ll charge you more if you don’t speak Czech, and a taxi driver from the Prague main station will not take you if you do.

Speaking of the overpriced minimarkets, should there be more regulation for them?

If it’s a city-owned building, the municipality should not rent it to someone who will target and exploit tourists. We don’t need any more minimarkets – the city is not a money-making machine; it should try to improve life in the city.

"I get criticized for the paternoster, but there are still huge issues with the minimarkets and the Euronet ATMs."

Which videos would you say have been most helpful for viewers?

I think it would be our videos on public transport. It's important that we tell people that it's safe, reliable, and fast – the response to our video on how to get from the airport to the city center was huge. 

It still draws constant viewership. It’s the one thing that every tourist searches for. Showing tourists that you can do this for only about EUR 2 and that it takes 35 minutes is very well-received.

Did you ever imagine that you would become as big as you are now when you started doing this?

Never ever. I vividly remember that in the first episodes, I was just saying: “Let’s never, ever do anything negative.” I just wanted to show nice, positive stuff. That changed quite quickly – and even more so when we started doing videos in Czech.

I would walk down the street and get recognized by a tourist, and my Czech friends would say: “Wait, what?” I explained that I do a show in English, and then I decided to make a Czech version [Kluci z Prahy, or “Boys from Prague”]. 

Now, more Czechs follow our content.

You are the face of the Honest Guide, but what goes on behind the scenes, who helps produce your videos, and how long does it take?

Hozna is my videographer and video editor; he’s the brains behind the project.

We aim to produce one video per week. A basic (or explainer) video, such as one showing the different types of beer, will take around half a day to film and a day to edit.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honest Guide (@realhonestguide)

But if we are doing a complicated series on how a certain scam works, the one thing that I always want to have “bulletproof” is that if I accuse someone of doing something, I want to be certain about it. So that will take days, weeks, months, or even years to film due to collecting separate footage and sometimes interviewing the scammers.

You’ve published a print guide and become a viral video sensation. What’s next for you to conquer?

Honestly, I don’t know. We may well shrink to a smaller level and focus on our Patreons [subscribers to a paid platform, offering exclusive content]. We make custom maps for them relating to different topics, and we also want to do more personal guiding.

A question from one of our readers: would you ever consider becoming the mayor of Prague if the opportunity arose?

Definitely not. With the current system or and how it’s set up, you cannot change many things as a mayor. 

And have you met with any current or former mayors or senior politicians?

In the past, I’ve met the current mayor, Bouslav Svoboda, and interviewed him about taxi scams – I believe he wrote in his book that I’m an inspiration for what he’s doing (although I haven’t seen any evidence yet to suggest that)!

"I met with most of the mayors during my time doing this. I spoke with ex-Mayor Jan Kasl, who opened the City Hall to the public, and I’ve met with the former mayor multiple times. He actually interviewed me, which was weird."

One reader wants to know: Why not accept the trdelník already?

I absolutely respect the food – I am the only one who put it on a T-shirt and sold it as merch! I don’t think it’s Czech though…it wasn’t around when I was a kid.

I think it’s something that tourists brought with them and left it here. I was raised and taught as a kid that I should ensure a place is cleaner when I leave it. It seems ]they are doing the opposite!

You speak great English, by the way – how did you learn?

Ha-ha, thank you. My parents spoke English when I was a kid; I guess they would kind of force me to study. 

My mom actually translated the Jesus Christ Superstar rock opera, so when I was a kid, we would listen to it over and over again. My dad also sent me to the U.S. for summers.

Which European city would you most like to live in if you couldn’t live in Prague?

I know very few European cities. Most of the ones I visited, I loved, and I could imagine living in any of them. I’ve just recently been to Barcelona, which I absolutely loved. The language barrier would be tough, though. I love London and Kyiv, but the weather would be nice in Barcelona. 

But hey, Prague is the best!

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Little-known European town is a ‘prettier’ Prague alternative — only without the stag dos

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If you love European city breaks but hate the immense crowds that typically go hand-in-hand with them, a little-known scenic town in the Czech Republic could be just the tonic.

With its 13th-century medieval castle, meandering cobbled alleys, and Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements, it’s safe to say that Český Krumlov looks like something straight out of the pages of a fairytale.

Frequently described by travel industry as a ‘ Prague in miniature’, this small medieval town has a population of just 13,056.

But while it might be smaller than the capital city, it still has a lot to offer visitors with its rich history and charming location – nestled by the rolling hills of the country’s South Bohemia region and beside the Vltava river.

In fact, UNESCO hailed Cesky Krumlov as an ‘outstanding example of a small central European medieval town’ in 1992 and listed it as a World Heritage Site .

Miraculously, the city escaped bombing during the Second World War, leaving a perfectly-preserved Old Town – perhaps one of the largest contributing factors to its reputation as ‘one of the most picturesque towns in Europe ’.

In many ways, the spot is just as beautiful as Prague – only it comes without the huge crowds and notorious stag do reputation. Bonus points all round.

How to get to Český Krumlov

This ‘small scale Prague’ is actually located around 110 miles south of the capital city.

For those flying into the capital, or planning to visit both destinations during one trip, it takes around two hours and 50 minutes to get to Český Krumlov from Prague by train.

A simple glance at a map will show you the closest airport to Český Krumlov is actually Austria’s Linz airport, which is 64.1 km away. But it’s worth pointing out that flights here from the UK aren’t direct and come with one stopover in France.

Alternatively, Salzburg, Vienna and Munich are also nearby airport options for those planning their route – all with direct flights from the UK.

Flights options:

UK to Prague – flights start from £25 return from London, Manchester and Edinburgh, on Skyscanner.

UK to Linz – flights start from £64 return on Skyscanner.

UK to Salzburg – flights start from £31 return on Skyscanner.

UK to Munich – flights start from £78 return on Skyscanner.

The best time to visit Český Krumlov

It’s worth pointing out that Český Krumlov might be small but it’s still mighty, as despite its compact stature it attracts around 800,000 tourists every year. Most visitors come during the main season – from April to October. 

During these peak summer months, you’ll find it rife with backpackers enjoying the scenic riverside picnic spots, as well as raft and canoe enthusiasts looking to take to the waters of the Vltava River.

As a result, winter is considered a good time to head to Český Krumlov – with a Christmas market held in the main square and a snow-covered castle (if you’re lucky).

However, while November to March sees fewer tourists, it’s worth pointing out that the castle interiors are closed during this period – an important point to keep in mind when planning a trip.

What is weather like  in Český Krumlov?

Summers in the town tend to be reasonable and comfortable.

In July, peak season, Český Krumlov has an average high temperature of 21°C and an average low temperature of 11°C – the warmest of the year.

Whereas in the winter months, from December to February, temperatures plummet to below freezing, averaging between -6°C to -4°C, and often covering the town in snow.

Things to do in Český Krumlov

@jonmiksis The most beautiful town in Europe ✨🌍 #travelblogger #ceskykrumlov #czechrepublic #tiktoktravel #hiddengems ♬ –

As the location has such a rich history, there’s plenty to see and do. However, it’s worth pointing out that you can walk across the town in under 30 minutes. So it could be a good choice for those who enjoy slow travel and love taking their time to soak up a destination’s offering.

Top attractions to tick off include Český Krumlov State Castle – as well as the castle museum, tower and garden – alongside the art centre, Egon Schiele.

But don’t forget to simply take a stroll to immerse yourself in the magical architecture of the city, from the red-roofed houses and plaza fountains, to the striking Church of St Vitus.

Not to mention the positively Disney-like cobbled streets, lined with pastel-coloured houses and shops.

Where to stay

Four star hotel rooms on Booking.com in Český Krumlov in August hover at around £100 per night, based on two adults.

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Due to its smaller scale, a long weekend (or 2-3 days) is plenty of time to soak up the town’s offering.

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