Top 10 Things To Do in Prague
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is one of Prague's most iconic features and often found on the front of holidays adverts and postcards. It is a stone, Gothic bridge that crosses the Vltava River and dates back to the 1350’s during the rule of King Charles (hence Charles Bridge, if you hadn’t guessed it already). The bridge is lined with beautifully carved statues that tower over you, running down both sides of the bridge. (15 Statues on each side).
It’s historic significance comes from both it’s design and also the fact it served as the most important connection between the Castle and the old town. It also helped support Prague's ability to trade with Western Europe.
Cost: Free
Opening Hours: 24/7
2. Gothic Quarter/ Gothic City Gate
Throughout Prague there are incredible pieces of Gothic architecture, still in fantastic condition. Sometimes it almost feels like you are in a Dracula movie, and these buildings are one of the many things that make Prague so unique. One of the most beautiful landmarks is a large Gothic tower, called The Powder Tower. This was one of the original city gates that separated the old town from the new town.
Cost: 100 CZK/ £3.50
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (Winter) / 10:00-22:00 (Summer)
3. Castle & St Vitus Cathedral
Prague castle is more than just a castle, it is a large complex that sits within the castle walls, and contains a cathedral (St Vitus), Palaces and ecclesiastical buildings and, It is considered the largest castle complex in the world. Over the years the castle has undergone significant repairs, so it’s in fantastic condition.
It’s a hike in itself getting to the castle, but there are bar stalls at the top offering a range of drinks with a view.
I strongly suggest taking your time to explore the castle before relaxing, and taking a seat at one of the outdoor drinks stalls to soak up the atmosphere and the views.
Cost: 350 CZK / £12
Opening Hours: 9:00 - 16:00
4. Boat/River Tour
I stand by this being one of the best things to do in Prague, even if you’ve seen most of Prague's main attractions on foot. A river tour or Prague is a great way to see a lot of the cities main attractions and learn about the city's history in one go, especially if you are a bit pressed for time. The tours start near the entrance to St Charles bridge, and include a beer (oh how I love Prague), and a snack.
A 1 hour tour costs just £10, and they depart every hour. If you have time , the marina restaurant is located on the river side, and is a great place to have a few drinks while admiring Prague Castle and Charles bridge from afar.
Cost: £10
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 19:00
5. Astronomical Clock
Prague is home to the world's oldest functional astronomical clock, that is now one of Europe's biggest tourist attractions.
The clock strikes every hour for 45 seconds, and you will find hundreds of tourists gathered around the clock to witness it in action. We won’t give it away in this article, but there is a lot of history related to this clock, so it’s definitely worth getting a guide for your trip here. You can get a tour for as little as £10, and they will also take you to the Old town half and around the Old town square.
Cost: 250 CZK / £9
Opening Hours: 9:00 - 22:00
6. Petrin Tower / Park
Petrin Tower is located on Petrin hill in the lesser known town. It climbs 63.5 m and resembles the Eiffel tower. At the top of Petrin tower there is an observation deck which offers incredible panoramic views of Prague, where you can see the castle, and the Old Town. To reach the top of the tower you will have to climb it’s 299 steps to the top.
You can either walk up Petrin hill which will take about 30 mins. It’s quite steep, but it’s a beautiful walk if the weather is nice. Alternatively, you can take the tram up to the top, and then it’s just a short walk to Petrin Tower. The tram costs 60CZK (£2) for an adult fare.
Cost: Free
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 22:00
7. Brewery Tour
If you even remotely like beer, then you know that the Czech Republic is one hell of a producer. They bought us, Budweisers Budvar, Pilsner Urquell and staropramen. So really, it’d be rude to go to Prague and not go on at least one brewery tour. At least you can then blame your excessive alcohol consumption on the fact you were taking a lesson in local history and culture.
There’s lots of brewery experiences in Prague to choose from. The best options involve going on a tour where you can visit multiple breweries and try a range of beer, and obviously it needs to include unlimited tastings. Get your guide has a great option, that last 3 hours, includes 3 breweries and unlimited tastings for just £50. However, they have other options as well.
Cost: 1500 CZK / £50
Opening Hours: Set times depending on the tour
8. Lennon Wall
Prague is known for being rich with artistic culture and the wall is a symbol of that. What was once an average wall, became canvas for John Lennon inspired graffiti since the early 1980’s. It is located over the bridge and in the area Mala Strana (or the Lesser Town). There is also graffiti that addresses local and global political issues and is since as a place of expression. The spot is now, very much a tourist, selfie area and sometimes it’s even hard to get a spot on the wall to get your own photo. Due to this I would highly recommend heading over to Lennon wall early in the day and by the afternoon it’s packed.
Cost: Free
Opening Hours: 24/7
9. Jewish Quarter
The development of the Jewish Quarter began, in the 13th century. This was when the whole Jewish community were forced to vacate their current home, and only permitted to live in this area. To this day this area still remains a testament to the history of the Jews in Prague, with many of the historic buildings still intact. Including, six synagogues. During the second world war, Adolf Hitler decided to preserve this area, as a “Museum of an Extinct Race”.
I’d highly recommend taking a Jewish Quarter Tour, to learn about the extensive history of the area of Prague, as well as getting tickets for the museum monuments.
Cost: 300 CZK / £10
Opening Hours: 9:00 - 18:00 (Sun-Fri)
10. Old Town Square
Prague’s old town square is where you’ll find the old town hall, the astronomical clock and Rococo Kinský Palace. The square has bared witness to many historical events, and it’s lined with Gothic architectural buildings. Memorial stones also line the pavement to remind us of the execution of 27 Czech lords in 1621. This area is great for booking onto a walking tour, and this normally includes your guided tour around Prague's Astronomical clock, mentioned above.
Cost: 250 CZK / £8.50
Opening Hours: 9:00 - 22:00
So there you have it, our list of the Top 10 Things to do in Prague. If you are only there for weekend city break and you want to know how to spend just 3 days in Prague to fit it all in, head to our 3 Day in Prague Itinerary.
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