Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Prague, Czech Republic

Are you curious about activities in Prague? This guide presents the finest experiences this remarkable city offers. Prague’s history extends over a millennium, rivaling any European city in sheer aesthetic charm, yet it offers much more than mere visual appeal.

Divided by the Vltava River, Prague will captivate even the most seasoned traveler with its Gothic elegance, Renaissance structures, and numerous world-class museums alongside baroque churches and bridges.

TIP – It is advisable to arrange some tours and activities in advance: Best tours in Prague. Additionally, consider the Prague City Card for discounts and unrestricted access to public transport.

Wander through the medieval streets during the day, stroll riverside in the evening, and if sightseeing becomes too exhausting, indulge in hearty Czech cuisine paired with some of the world’s best lagers.

With offerings that include jazz music, puppet shows, pork knuckles, an astronomical clock, and a mind maze, here is our selection of the top activities in Prague.

1. See the Infant Jesus of Prague

Situated in Mala Strana at the city’s core, the Infant Jesus of Prague (also referred to as the Child of Prague) is a Roman Catholic statue portraying Jesus Christ as an infant. Daily, numerous devotees visit this shrine to pray, kneel, and express wishes in the hope that they will be fulfilled. The statue is housed in an ornate gilded shrine, and though its origin remains uncertain, it is believed to date back to the 16th Century.

2. Explore the Old Town Square

Despite Prague’s tumultuous history of invasions, the Old Town Square has largely remained unaltered since the 10th Century. Crowds of tourists fill the historical streets, populating the outdoor restaurants each day. The square is an ideal location to admire Prague’s outstanding architecture, and if architecture does not interest you, the various street performers, musicians, and vendors lining the streets will provide ample entertainment.

3. Watch the Astronomical Clock Strike an Hour

While visiting the Old Town Square, synchronize your time to arrive at the Old Town Hall to witness the performance of the mechanical clock as it marks the hour. This clock, located on the southern face of the town hall, is a source of pride for Prague. Constructed in the fifteenth century, it has endured damage and repairs throughout its existence, yet it remains widely recognized as the most well-preserved medieval mechanical clock in the world. The show at the top of each hour consistently delights the many observers.

4. Stroll across the Charles Bridge

The saying that “the best things in life are free” exemplifies the experience of crossing the Charles Bridge in Prague. A simple stroll along this 14th Century bridge is among the most enjoyable and memorable experiences one can have in Prague. Commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV to replace an older bridge washed away by floods, although completed in 1390 with the addition of striking statues in the 17th century, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the bridge was named after Charles.

5. Witness the old Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish quarter, known as Josefov, is situated between the Old Town and the Vltava River. Its origins trace back to the 13th century when Jews in Prague were mandated to vacate their residences and congregate in this single area. They were prohibited from residing elsewhere in the city and were later joined by exiled Jews from various European nations. To exacerbate their plight, many buildings in the area were demolished in the late 19th century during a remodel of the city layout. Thankfully, numerous significant historical structures remain, including six synagogues, which are well worth visiting.

6. Visit Prague Castle

Located in Hradcany (the Castle district), Prague Castle is undeniably the city’s most frequented tourist site, and it is easy to understand why. This spectacular castle has historically been the residence of Czech rulers and is presently the official home of the president. Entry to the castle grounds is complimentary, although access to several buildings such as St Vitus Cathedral, Basilica of St George, and Golden Lane requires a combined entry ticket. To skip the lengthy lines, consider acquiring a Skip the Line: Prague Castle Tickets. For a guided experience, you might opt for the 2.5-Hour Tour (including admission ticket).

7. See the Treasures of St Vitus Cathedral

As previously noted, St Vitus Cathedral is one of the prominent attractions within the castle grounds. Visible from various locations throughout Prague, despite its appearance suggesting an ancient structure, the cathedral was completed in 1929. Visitors are greeted with numerous treasures, including the tomb of St John of Nepomuk, the exquisite Chapel of St Wenceslas, and stunning art nouveau stained glass.

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

8. Golden Lane – Playground for Alchemists

Also located within the castle grounds, the enigmatic Golden Lane got its name from legends suggesting that alchemists sought reactions here to transform common materials into gold. Despite the name, it is uncertain whether alchemists actually lived or worked here. Notably, Czech-Jewish author Franz Kafka inhabited a house on this street for approximately two years, enjoying the tranquil environment while working on his writings.

9. Eat a Pork Knuckle

This meat lover’s delight, also known as Koleno, is a substantial piece of pork knuckle that enjoys immense popularity in Czech (and German) cuisine. The meat is typically marinated in beer and served with pickled vegetables and dark Czech bread. The sizable portion may attract attention, but the combination of fragrant, succulent pork with crispy skin makes the dish well worth the experience.

10. Investigate the KGB Museum

This small museum, founded by a Russian enthusiast, features an extensive array of memorabilia related to the Soviet Union’s secret police. It is possible that you will receive a guided tour from the collector himself, showcasing an assortment of spy cameras, clandestine weapons, and interrogation apparatus. An intriguing exhibit within the museum includes photographs of Prague captured by a KGB officer in 1968, revealing eerily deserted streets.

11. Spot a Seven Foot Tall Sigmund Freud

As you walk through the stunning urban district of Stare Mesto in Old Town Prague, look upwards, and you may be amazed to discover a seven-foot-tall sculpture of the renowned psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud suspended from a metal beam above the cobbled streets. This unique artwork has gained popularity and has traveled globally to cities such as Chicago, London, and Berlin. Frequently misconstrued as a suicide attempt, the sculpture has also led to multiple emergency calls since its installation.

12. Admire the Lennon Wall

Although located far from Liverpool, the birthplace of The Beatles, fans should undoubtedly visit this tribute dedicated to one of the most iconic bands in history. The wall has been adorned with graffiti, lyrics, and quotes from John Lennon and The Beatles since the 1980s, making it a popular spot among tourists and young fans wanting to honor the group.

13. Spend some Koruna at the Farmer’s Market

Situated along the river embankment below the Vysehrad fortress, food enthusiasts should not miss this farmer’s market, which takes place every Saturday. Engage with locals while sampling the finest culinary offerings the city has. The market typically features seasonal vegetables, freshly baked bread and pastries, pickled items, sausages, and other specialty meats. Enjoy your selections while relaxing by the riverbank and observing the daily lives of Prague’s inhabitants.

14. Learn about Communism

Europe is a continent rich in history and political upheaval, and the Czech Republic is no exception. The nation was a communist state from 1948 until the Velvet Revolution of 1989. Under communist administration, over 200,000 Czechs were detained, and 327 were shot while attempting to escape the country. Within the Communist Museum, visitors can explore photographs, films, and sculptures that document the state-sponsored terrorism experienced during this regime.

15. Watch a Puppet Show

It quickly becomes apparent that the citizens of Prague harbor a strong passion for puppetry. The city boasts over 20 specialized puppet shops, 30 puppet artisans, and even a museum dedicated to puppetry. The Czech affinity for puppets is thought to date back to the 12th Century when they were utilized for entertainment during royal feasts and ceremonies. The National Marionette Theatre and Theatre Spejbla & Hurvinek are premier venues for witnessing exceptional puppet performances in Prague.

16. Take a Cruise on the Vltava

Experiencing Prague from the Vltava River presents a unique opportunity to view the city’s historical structures and monuments from a fresh perspective. Cruises are competitively priced and often include meals, depending on the time of the excursion. Opting for a cruise lasting two hours or more ensures an escape from the energetic city center, allowing one to appreciate the tranquility of the quieter riverbanks along the Vltava.

17. Drink a world famous beer (or two)

The Czechs take pride in their claim of having the finest beer (pivo) globally, and Prague serves as an excellent place to test this assertion. The city features a vast selection of bars offering renowned Czech lagers such as Budvar and Staropramen, as well as craft beers from top local microbreweries. Most Czech beers are typically lighter, brewed naturally with hand-picked hops.

Breweries are increasingly producing dark ales as alternatives; however, most Czechs prefer their beer light, well-chilled, and with a generous head. Beer enthusiasts should also ensure to visit the Prague Beer Museum, which offers more than 31 high-quality beers on tap.

18. Walk the backstreets of Mala Strana

Across the river from the Old Town lies the baroque backstreets of Mala Strana (the Lesser Quarter), established in the 17th and 18th centuries by victorious Catholic clergy and noblemen on the foundations of their Protestant predecessors’ Renaissance palaces. At its center is a baroque square featuring quaint shops, traditional Czech pubs and restaurants, along with stunning river views.

19. Immerse yourself in the Prague nightlife

Prague’s nightlife offers a diverse and vibrant experience, renowned for its jazz and classical music scenes with numerous live music venues throughout the city. For a delightful evening, consider a stroll along the riverside to JazzDock, which frequently hosts top local jazz musicians. For avid clubgoers, the Cross Club provides an industrial nightclub atmosphere, with a décor of gadgets and mechanical features that move to the rhythm of the music. If you wish to begin your night in local pubs before concluding in one of Prague’s largest clubs, look into this tour.

20. Watch the Changing of the Guard

Arrive at the castle before noon to secure a suitable viewing spot for the ceremonial changing of the guard, which includes a fanfare and flag ceremony. The guards serve primarily for the president of the Czech Republic and must meet strict height requirements ranging from 1.78 to 1.88 meters. The uniforms worn by the guards are distinctive, featuring light blue attire in summer and dark blue in winter.

21. Climb 299 Steps to Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill, situated on the left bank of the Vltava River, offers splendid views of the city and is one of Prague’s greenest spaces. A gentle walk to the summit affords numerous benches for resting while enjoying the picturesque scenery on your ascent. Alternatively, one can opt for the funicular railway from the Lesser Quarter directly to the top of Petrin Hill. At the summit, visitors can find a replica of the Eiffel Tower, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the unique Church of St Michael, a wooden structure relocated from Ukraine. If walking is not appealing, consider this Segway Tour.

22. Watch Skateboarders at the Letna Park

This park, once the site of a massive Stalin statue before its demolition in the 60s, serves as a popular gathering place for skateboarders. Perched on the steep riverbank of Letna Hill, visitors can relax at one of the many beer gardens while engaging in people-watching. Should the skateboarders fail to alleviate boredom, the stunning cityscape will certainly provide entertainment.

See our recommended hotels in Prague.

23. Devour some Pickled Cheese

This Czech specialty is a must-try for any adventurous food lover. An ideal accompaniment to a chilled glass of pivo, it has become a staple in Czech pubs. The dish consists of a soft cheese, similar to Camembert, submerged and pickled in oil, garlic, and spices, served alongside chili peppers and Czech fried bread. This snack offers a delightful combination of heat and creaminess, presenting a casual introduction to Czech gastronomy. For additional culinary experiences, consider some of the available Food Tours.

24. Test yourself at the Mind Maze

Inspired by the legends surrounding alchemists, the Mind Maze in Prague presents a fascinating challenge. Upon entering the Mind Maze, participants become locked in the Alchemist’s chamber, where they are allocated 60 minutes to solve a series of riddles and puzzles to escape. Initially, the chamber appears old-fashioned and sparse, yet investigation reveals a myriad of intriguing objects that enhance the experience. Bring a friend, as teamwork often leads to success!

25. Enjoy nature at Jelení Príkop (Stag Moat)

If the hustle and bustle of Prague begins to overwhelm you and relaxation is in order, this lesser-known spot offers the perfect solution. Once serving as a moat behind Prague Castle, this area now features a beautiful expanse of greenery. Whether you choose to enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll, allow yourself time to recharge from the exhaustive explorations of Prague.