This magical city is ideal for lovers of romance and history. In the old streets, you will feel like you’re in another century—during the time of kings. Prague is a popular tourist destination to enjoy quality bars, the biggest music club in Central Europe, and rich history. Discover the top things to do in Prague as you plan your trip.
The Best Things To See and Do In Prague
The Czech capital and its surroundings are full of great things to do. As you walk the beautiful streets of this bohemian city, you will learn a lot about the history and most emblematic places. With so much on offer, we have put together this list of the 25 top things to do in Prague:
25. Take a Selfie in Front of the Dancing House and Visit the Terrace
The Dancing House has become one of the most photographed places in Prague. You cannot leave this city without first going to admire its spectacular architecture. The facade consists of two towers that resemble a dancing couple named Fred Astair and Ginger Rogers.
On the upper floor, you will find an elegant restaurant and on the terrace, there is a dome covered with a steel mesh that resembles the head of a jellyfish. From the terrace bar the views of the city, as well as the castle and the Charles Bridge, are wonderful!
24. Visit The Žižkov TV Tower
This high-tech architectural creation is located in the Žižkov district and was built between 1985 and 1992. Very peculiar features of this structure are the babies crawling between the pillars of the towers, which are sculptures by the Czech artist David Černý. Its shape resembles a rocket ship and because of that, it has received many nicknames from the inhabitants.
There are some capsules at the top that make up this tower. And in some of them, there is an elegant restaurant, a bistro-type café, an events room, hotel, and an observatory where you have an impressive 360-degree panoramic view of the city from its heights.
23. Walk Up the Hill of Vyšehrad
This place has an interesting history. It is full of magic and legends, besides being a beautiful hill on the bank of the Vltava river. Its center of attraction is the Basilica of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. In Vyšehrad, there are also a number of significant monuments as well as a national cemetery where important personalities from the Czech art world are buried.
Among the facilities in the park, there are restaurants, cafés, a beer garden, tennis courts, and finally a beautiful view of Prague. To get here, you can take the metro (red line) at Vysehrad station, the tram at Vyton station, or simply walk from the viewpoint of the Vltava river.
Planning your trip to Prague? Use our helpful guides to the best luxury hotels, things to see at the Prague Castle, and unbelievable day trips to take.
22. Take a Historic Ride in Vintage Cars
In Prague there are multiple ways to explore its charming streets. And a very common way is in vintage cars driven by a friendly chauffeur dressed in costumes from the 30s.
At the same time, your driver will guide you through a little of the history of the most important places in the city. These cars can be found parked around the Old Town Square and Malostranská náměstí in Mala Strana.
21. Rent a Pedal Boat on The Vltava River
These boats are generally available during the warmer months. It is a different and romantic experience to enjoy your stay in Prague. In addition, the views of the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle from the river are a privilege. The pedal boats can be found around the Slavic island (Slovanský ostrov) near the national theater.
20. Have a Coffee At The Famous Slavia Cafe or Louvre Cafe in Prague
These two cafés have a special place in the history of Prague. Slavia café is located in a place with a privileged view of the historic Charles Bridge, the national theater, and part of Hradčany through its large glass windows. It was established in 1881 and was very popular because many famous Czech artists used to meet there. The menu has a variety of desserts, Czech cuisine, and international food. An added bonus is the live classical piano music to accompany your coffee.
The Louvre café with its elegant belle epoque style and pink walls are very famous and historic. It has been open since 1902 with visits from great personalities such as Albert Einstein. The building has a gallery, large rooms, and a small terrace. The menu is extensive from excellent breakfasts and desserts to traditional Czech and international food.
19. Taste A Variety of Beers at The Beer Museum (Muzeum Piva)
When you come to the Czech Republic, do not forget to taste the wide variety of locally made beers. It is considered one of the countries with the highest consumption and production of beer. Here, Pilsner-type beer was produced for the first time in the world—this light lager is currently produced under the trade name Pilsner Urquell.
If you want to get to know the history and the secrets of the development of this precious liquid and taste different types of beers, go straight to the beer museum. You will be guided down into the basements of the 13th century and there you will discover what the breweries were like in the times of communism. It will be a fun and interesting experience for sure.
18. Stroll Through the Gardens of Wallenstein Palace
Within this complex is the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, which has a beautiful baroque façade. Wander through the extensive geometric-shaped gardens with their labyrinths of trees. Also, there are many attractions to enjoy, such as an artificial cave with stalactites, interesting sculptures, a fountain with the statue of Venus and love, a large pond full of fish, gardens with a variety of flowers, and some turkeys too.
These gardens were created in parallel with the construction of the Wallenstein Palace from 1623 to 1629. These green spaces are also used for concerts, important events, and plays.
17. Visit the Strahov Brewery, Monastery, and Library
Among the main attractions that you can visit in this Czech national and cultural monument is the impressive library with its stucco ornamentation and beautiful frescoes on the ceiling. This library has a baroque theological room and a classical philosophical room, a cabinet of natural curiosities, animals, minerals, and more.
You will also find the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, the convent building, some sculptures and small architectural pieces as well as the large Strahov garden.
Pro Tip: I recommend visiting the craft brewery that is located within the area of the Strahov monastery complex to try the traditional draft beer.
16. Discover the Adventure of the IMAGE Black Light Theatre
The black light theater (černé divadlo) is a theatrical performance based on the optical effect of darkness and ultraviolet lighting. The costumes and instruments used in the scene glow in the dark, creating visual illusions with shows of different styles. The Black Theater will be a different experience on your trip to Prague.
15. Listen to a Classical Music Concert at the Municipal House or Rudolfinum
If you like classical music, then enjoy a concert in the Smetana Hall of the Prague municipal house complex (Obecní dům). Important concerts are held here, such as the Prague International Spring Music Festival in May. It is also the home of the Prague Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the year, they have an extensive program with a series of concerts, art exhibitions, as well as guided tours.
Another option is the Rudolfinum. This architectural monument is associated with music and the arts. It is also the headquarters of the Czech Philharmonic and its large concert hall is named Dvořák in honor of the famous Czech composer. Within its facilities, there is also a gallery and an elegant café.
14. Enjoy an Opera Concert in Prague
For opera lovers, there are also many options in the Czech capital. Among the best places to book and admire the opera are: The State Opera (Státní opera) and the National Theater (Národní divadlo). The Prague State Opera is currently integrated into the company of the Prague National Theater. It is considered one of the most beautiful opera theaters in Europe.
Important conductors and singers have performed here and the repertoire is quite wide, based on the opera of the 20th century as well as newer works. The National Theater (Národní divadlo), with its impressive façade, is one of the richest Czech cultural and historical jewels in terms of artistic tradition and is the central soul of opera. Here, you can admire the art of opera, drama, ballet, and performances by Laterna magika.
13. Visit a Gallery or Museum
There are many museums and galleries to visit. Among the most important that we can recommend is The National Museum, which is the largest museum in the Czech Republic and where you will find a great variety of art, scientific collections, and exhibitions.
In addition, the museum includes a series of buildings and monuments around Prague. Such as the Czech Music Museum, the Vítkov National Monument, the Antonín Dvořák Museum, the Bedřich Smetana Museum, among others. A gallery that you cannot miss is the Lucerna Gallery, which is located in a historic passage (Palác Lucerna)—the first passage building in Prague.
This gallery is the venue for many important public and private cultural events, art and photo exhibitions, and concerts. In this passage building, you will also find gourmet restaurants, a historic and elegant café, a pub in the traditional style of old Prague, antique shops, and outlets. Be sure to have your photo taken in the peculiar sculpture called Horse made by famous Czech artist David Černý.
12. See the Moving Sculpture of Franz Kafka’s Head
The statue is located in front of the Quadrio shopping center in Národní třída. With panels that rotate and align themselves, this sculpture moves and shapes into the head of famous Czech writer, Franz Kafka. It is a 21st-century technical marvel created by Czech artist David Černý.
11. Walk Through the Famous Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square has been the scene of many important historical events, demonstrations, and celebrations in the past and present in the Czech Republic.
This long street looks like a boulevard. At the end of the avenue in the southeast part, is the Czech National Museum. In this important square is the Wenceslas monument, considered the patron of Bohemia. There are also shopping centers, a variety of stores, excellent restaurants, and interesting places.
Heading to Prague? Check out our guide on how to visit the Prague Castle and discover its fascinating history. Also, see the top things to do in the city to make your trip memorable!
10. Visit the John Lennon Wall
This famous and important wall is a commemoration of the singer-songwriter John Lennon and the Beatles. It is also a symbol of freedom of expression, where people could rebel against communism. The wall is covered in a colorful multitude of graffiti works dedicated to the lyrics of the songs by John Lennon and the Beatles.
Even today, people leave candles and flowers in honor of Lennon and the brave. And leaving your mark on the wall is allowed, so don’t forget to add something of your own to this famous wall. To get to this controversial wall, head to the Mala Strana neighborhood in front of the French embassy.
9. Stroll Through the Most Beautiful Neighborhood in Prague (Mala Strana)
The Mala Strana neighborhood is very picturesque with its cobbled streets and surrounded by beautiful historical buildings, palaces, beautiful churches, and gardens. To get here, walk from the old town across the Charles Bridge or take the tram.
There are many attractions and important places to see, such as the famous church where the statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague is located. Other things to do in this historic neighborhood include visiting the narrowest street in Prague, sailing by boat through the Čertovka canals, and strolling along Nerudova Street.
8. Explore Prague on The Historic Tram
This tram has an interesting tourist route, passing through the most iconic and popular destinations in Prague. They normally work every weekend. All depart at hourly intervals. You can buy your ticket on the tram. To check the routes, visit the website.
Additionally, the transport company of the capital city of Prague also offers private rides for groups and individuals or provides special trams for private parties and celebrations with a bar and DJ.
7. Take a Cruise Along the Vltava River
Everything will depend on what type of trip you are on in Prague. If you are on a romantic trip, sail the Vltava river in an elegant boat with a glass roof and enjoy live music and a gourmet dinner. In this case, we recommend the modern glass boat called Grand Bohemia.
Alternatively, you can take an hour-long cruise. You will enjoy the best views from the river of beautiful Prague, including the impressive castle and the Charles Bridge as you sail under it. Onboard, you can enjoy the bar.
There are several companies that offer these tours with similar routes, but with different fleets of boats. Among the most prominent cruise companies is Prague boats, which has programs with lunch included, jazz music, and or simply the tour. Most of the piers are along the Vltava River in the old city.
6. See Prague from Different Towers
Prague is known as the city of 100 towers, so seeing Prague from one or more of its many towers is a must. Here are some of the most historic and outstanding towers with the most attractive views:
The Tower of the old town hall is located in the old city and has a Gothic and Renaissance style. It provides excellent views of the entire old town square as well as the Týn church and the beautiful Prague rooftops.
The Powder Tower is one of the original gates of the old city of Prague and its name comes from the fact that gunpowder was stored here in the past. Inside the tower, there are sculptures of monarchs and once you get to the top, you will have a beautiful view of Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky).
Finally, the Towers of the Charles Bridge are the two towers at each end of this beautiful and historic bridge. The bridge tower of the old city holds symbolic meaning as it was the route of the kings to their coronation in the castle. Then, the small town bridge tower (Malostranské mostecké věže) is made up of two towers linked by an arch. The door between the two towers gives access to the Mala Strana neighborhood. From the viewpoint of these towers, you can admire the Moldavian river and the center of the old town.
5. Visit the Petřín Hill
To disconnect a bit from the city and breathe some fresh air, head to Petřín. To go up this hill, take the beautiful old funicular or walk up and enjoy the beautiful landscape. On Petřín hill, there are many attractions like the mirror maze, which has about 35 mirrors—some create interesting distortions. It’s a fun experience! Additionally, you can visit the Štefánik observatory where there are interesting exhibitions, space objects, and telescopes to observe the day and night sky.
However, the main attraction is the viewpoint of Petřín tower, which looks like the Eiffel tower only smaller. The base of this observation tower is metal and it was built for the regional exhibition of the jubilee of Prague. To go up to the viewpoint, you can take an elevator at a fee or, if you like adrenaline, you can take the stairs. Once you’re at the top, the panoramic view of the city is impressive and well worth it. Also, there are restaurants and cafés on the hill.
4. Explore the Prague Zoo
The Prague Zoo is one of the most visited places in the country after the Prague Castle. There are many activities and things to do there and you will have the opportunity to a wide diversity of animal species from all over the world. Walking through the zoo, you will find different themed pavilions like the Indonesian jungle, African house, and many animals such as gorillas, giraffes, lions, elephants, hippos, bears. and more.
In 2007, Forbes magazine rated the Prague Zoo as the number seven zoo in the world. In addition, the prestigious travel site Tripadvisor ranked this zoo number four in the 25 best zoos in the world, based on the opinion of millions of users. Also, there is a lot of entertainment, guided tours, restaurants, a playground, recreation yards, bicycles, souvenir shops, and many activities for children inside the zoo. Finally, you can arrive at the zoo by bus, boat, or car.
3 Walk Through the Historic Old Town of Prague
The old town of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Old buildings with baroque and gothic architecture and cobbled streets surround the entire historic old square, and at its center is the symbolic monument to Jan Hus—an important figure in Czech history.
Here, one of the highlights is the old town hall and its facade, adorned with the famous medieval-style astronomical clock. It has captured the eyes of many onlookers. This historical jewel also represents the position of the moon and the sun, the months of the year, and the signs of the zodiac. The most characteristic thing about this clock is that the twelve apostles move every hour.
Another thing to do in the old town square is to visit the Týn church, which has two towers and an impressive Gothic façade. The San Nicolás church, as well as important monuments. The walking tour through the Jewish quarter is also interesting as well as getting to know the States Theater where Mozart’s opera, Don Giovanni was premiered. In the past, this historic center was part of the royal route that kings took during their coronation.
2. Cross the Vltava River Over the Charles Bridge
To get to the bridge, walk from the old town or from the beautiful Mala Strana neighborhood. This historic cobbled bridge was founded by Charles IV in 1357. Across the Vltava River from this charming bridge, you get wonderful views of the impressive Prague Castle.
On the Charles Bridge, you will see around 30 significant statues of saints and angels—the most prominent sculpture is of John of Nepomuk (Jan Nepomucký) the patron saint of Bohemia, who was thrown into the river from this bridge.
1. Explore Prague Castle and Its Gardens
The top thing to do in Prague is to visit the entire extensive castle complex. You can get here by tram on route 22 from Staroměstska station in the old city. Also, you could walk from the Mala Strana neighborhood through its beautiful streets. One of the main attractions of the complex is the beautiful Cathedral of St. Vitus with its Gothic style, where important kings of Bohemia were crowned.
Some other things you can do inside the castle are: see the changing of the castle guard every hour, visit the castle gardens, the Basilica of St. George, and the golden street (Zlatá ulička) with its picturesque little houses where Franz Kafka once lived, galleries, and much more. Within the castle complex, there are also restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafés.
Where to Stay in Prague
Prague has a rich cultural history that is seen in both the Old Town and New Town areas of the city. Plan where to stay in this magnificent old city in the best neighborhoods.
Leave a Comment