What to see in Prague

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, offers visitors a rich history and cultural heritage that is reflected in its stunning architecture, including Gothic and Baroque styles. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, which are a must-see for any traveler. The city is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and its many cafes, bars and clubs make it a great place for nightlife. Prague is also surrounded by natural beauty, with parks, gardens, and nearby mountains that provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and stunning views. The city is known for its affordable and delicious traditional Czech cuisine, and the friendly locals and safe environment make Prague a popular travel destination. Additionally, its central location in Europe and good transport links make it easily accessible from many other countries.

Here are some must-see attractions in Prague:

Charles bridge

Old bridge over the Vltava river. People visit Charles Bridge in Prague for several reasons:

  1. Iconic landmark: Charles Bridge is one of the most recognizable and historic landmarks in Prague, known for its stunning views of the city and the river.
  2. Artistic value: Charles Bridge is lined with statues and sculptures, adding to its artistic and cultural value.
  3. Scenic views: The bridge offers breathtaking views of the Prague Castle, the Old Town, and the Vltava River, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
  4. History: Charles Bridge dates back to the 14th century and has a rich history, including being the only bridge connecting the two sides of the city for hundreds of years.
  5. Cultural experience: Walking across Charles Bridge offers an authentic Prague experience, with street performers and vendors, as well as an opportunity to see the city from a unique perspective.

Prague castle

Prague Castle is a large castle complex located in Prague, Czech Republic and is one of the largest castles in the world. It has served as the seat of power for Czech kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The castle consists of multiple buildings and structures, including:

  1. St. Vitus Cathedral: A Gothic cathedral with stunning stained-glass windows and intricate stone carvings.
  2. Old Royal Palace: A historical building that served as the residence of Czech kings.
  3. Golden Lane: A street lined with tiny colorful houses that once housed castle marksmen.
  4. Rosenberg Palace: A Renaissance palace that houses the Czech president.
  5. St. George’s Basilica: An 11th-century Romanesque basilica.

Visitors to Prague Castle can explore the grounds and buildings, admire the stunning views of Prague, and learn about the castle’s rich history. The castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Prague and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

There is a Guard Changing ceremony at Prague Castle. The ceremony takes place every hour in front of the main entrance to the castle, and involves the exchange of guards in ceremonial dress. The ceremony is a popular attraction for visitors and provides an opportunity to see the traditional uniforms and drills of the Czech military. The exact schedule of the Guard Changing ceremony can vary, so it is best to check the official website or tourist information center for current information.

Old Town Square

Old Town Square (StaromÄ›stské námÄ›stí) is a historic square located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town district. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations and a hub of cultural and social activity. Some notable features of Old Town Square include:

  1. The Astronomical Clock: A medieval clock on the facade of the town hall, which attracts crowds every hour to watch its animated figures and chimes.
  2. St. Nicholas Church: A baroque church with a distinctive green dome, which is one of the most recognizable buildings in the square.
  3. Tyn Church: A Gothic church that towers over the square and provides stunning views of the city.
  4. The Municipal House: A Art Nouveau building that serves as a concert hall and cultural center.
  5. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops: The square is surrounded by historic buildings that now house many restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a popular spot for dining, shopping, and people-watching.

Old Town Square is a beautiful and historic location that provides visitors with a glimpse into the heart of Prague’s culture and history.

The Astronomical clock at the Old Town Square

The Astronomical Clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, is a medieval astronomical clock located on the Old Town Hall in Prague’s Old Town Square. The clock, which was first installed in 1410, is one of the oldest and most famous astronomical clocks in the world. Some notable features of the Astronomical Clock include:

  1. Timekeeping: The clock displays the time, date, and various astronomical information, such as the positions of the sun and moon.
  2. Animated Figures: Every hour, the clock performs a “show” that includes moving figures, such as the Twelve Apostles, who appear in two windows above the clock face.
  3. Mechanism: The clock is a complex mechanism made up of several intricate parts, including gears, weights, and levers, which are all housed within the tower.
  4. History: The Astronomical Clock has a rich history, with several modifications and renovations over the centuries, and is considered one of the most important examples of medieval clockmaking in Europe.

The Astronomical Clock is a popular tourist attraction in Prague, drawing crowds of visitors every hour to watch its performance and admire its intricate mechanical details.

The Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, is a neighborhood in Prague, Czech Republic that was once a self-contained Jewish ghetto. The quarter is home to several historic synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum, which offer insight into the rich history and culture of the Jewish community in Prague. Some notable sites in the Jewish Quarter include:

  1. Old-New Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in Europe and one of the most important Jewish monuments in Prague.
  2. Pinkas Synagogue: A memorial to the Holocaust, with the names of over 80,000 Czech Jewish victims inscribed on its walls.
  3. Maisel Synagogue: A former synagogue that now houses the Jewish Museum’s exhibitions on the history of Prague’s Jewish community.
  4. Spanish Synagogue: A beautiful and ornate synagogue, known for its stunning interiors and stained-glass windows.
  5. Old Jewish Cemetery: One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, featuring thousands of tombstones packed tightly together.

The Jewish Quarter is a fascinating and historically significant part of Prague, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the city’s Jewish heritage and its contributions to the cultural and artistic life of the city.

Wenceslas square

Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) is a major commercial and cultural hub in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. It is named after St. Wenceslas, a 10th-century Czech prince and patron saint of the Czech people. Some notable features of Wenceslas Square include:

  1. National Museum: A large museum located at the top of Wenceslas Square, which is dedicated to Czech history and natural history.
  2. Shopping: The square is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular destination for shopping and dining.
  3. Historic events: Wenceslas Square has been the site of many significant events in Czech history, including the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which led to the overthrow of the communist government.
  4. Cultural events: The square is often used as a venue for cultural events, such as concerts, festivals, and political rallies.

Wenceslas Square is a vibrant and central part of Prague, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s modern cultural and commercial life, as well as its historical significance.

The National Museum

The National Museum in Prague is the largest museum in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest museums in Europe. Established in 1818, the museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the cultural and natural heritage of the Czech people. Some notable features of the National Museum include:

  1. Collections: The museum has a vast collection of artifacts and specimens, including fossils, minerals, scientific instruments, decorative arts, historical objects, and more.
  2. Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts exhibitions on a wide range of topics, from natural history to art and cultural heritage.
  3. Natural History: The museum’s natural history collection is particularly notable, with a large collection of fossils, minerals, and taxidermy specimens.
  4. Architecture: The museum’s building, located on Wenceslas Square, is a grand and historic structure, with a neoclassical facade and impressive interiors.
  5. Research: The National Museum is also an important center of research, with a dedicated team of scientists and experts who conduct research and preserve the museum’s collections.

The National Museum is a must-visit for visitors interested in history, science, and culture. The museum’s vast collections, expert staff, and historic building make it a truly exceptional institution and a cornerstone of Prague’s cultural heritage.

Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill is a hill in the city of Prague, Czech Republic, located west of the historic center. The hill offers stunning views of the city and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Some notable features of Petrin Hill include:

  1. Petrin Tower: A 60-meter-tall steel observation tower, modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which offers panoramic views of the city.
  2. Gardens: Petrin Hill is home to several beautiful gardens, including the Rose Garden, the Observation Terrace, and the Mirror Maze.
  3. Museums: There are several museums located on Petrin Hill, including the Museum of the Miniature Wonders and the Hunger Wall Museum.
  4. Hiking: The hill is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, with several trails winding through the gardens and woods.

Petrin Hill is a peaceful and scenic escape from the busy city, offering visitors a chance to enjoy nature and take in the beauty of Prague from a different perspective.

The Petrin Hill Cable Car (Lanová dráha na Petřín) is a fun and convenient way to reach Petrin Hill from the center of Prague. The cable car runs from Újezd, to the top of Petrin Hill and you just use a regular tickets the same as for the metro or tram.

Dancing house

The Dancing House, also known as the Ginger and Fred building, is a modernist skyscraper located in Prague, Czech Republic. The building is so named because of its distinctive shape, which resembles a couple dancing. The building was designed by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry and was completed in 1996. Some notable features of the Dancing House include:

  1. Design: The Dancing House’s unconventional design, with its curved and angled glass façade, makes it a striking and recognizable landmark in Prague.
  2. Location: The building is located on the banks of the Vltava River, near the historic center of Prague and other important landmarks, such as Charles Bridge and the National Theatre.
  3. Galleries: The Dancing House is home to several art galleries, including the French Institute and the Czech Center, which showcase contemporary art and cultural exhibitions.
  4. Restaurant Ginger and Fred: The building also houses a restaurant, with a terrace offering panoramic views of the city and the river.

The Dancing House is a unique and iconic example of modernist architecture in Prague and is a popular destination for tourists and architecture enthusiasts. Its distinctive design and prime location make it a must-visit for anyone visiting the city.

Vyšehrad castle

Vyšehrad Castle is a historic fortification located in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and is considered one of the oldest parts of the city. Vyšehrad Castle has a rich history, and some notable features include:

  1. Age: Vyšehrad Castle is thought to have been founded in the 10th century and was one of the first settlements in the area that later became Prague.
  2. Fortifications: The castle was originally built as a fortification, with walls and towers that were meant to protect the settlement from invaders.
  3. Architecture: The castle’s architecture is a mix of styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Some of the castle’s buildings, such as the rotunda of St. Martin, are considered important examples of these styles.
  4. Cemetery: Vyšehrad Cemetery, located within the castle walls, is the final resting place of many famous Czechs, including composers, artists, and politicians.
  5. Views: The castle offers stunning views of the city, the Vltava River, and the surrounding countryside.

VyÅ¡ehrad Castle is a historic and cultural treasure, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Prague and the Czech people. Visitors can explore the castle’s buildings and fortifications, stroll through the picturesque cemetery, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from its hilltop location.

Loreta Monastery

The Loreta Monastery is a complex of buildings in Prague, Czech Republic, that includes a church, a cloister, and a sanctuary. It is known for its Baroque architecture, ornate decoration, and important cultural and religious heritage. Some notable features of the Loreta Monastery include:

  1. History: The Loreta Monastery was founded in the early 17th century and has a long history of religious and cultural significance.
  2. Architecture: The complex is notable for its Baroque architecture, which is characterized by ornate decoration, curves, and gilding. The church is particularly impressive, with a beautiful facade and interior filled with works of art.
  3. Loreto Sanctuary: The Loreto Sanctuary is a replica of the Holy House of Loreto, Italy, which is believed to be the home of the Virgin Mary. The sanctuary is an important place of pilgrimage for Catholics and is famous for its acoustics, which make it a popular venue for concerts.
  4. Cloister: The cloister of the Loreta Monastery is a peaceful and beautiful place, surrounded by lush gardens and fountains. It is a popular place for quiet reflection and meditation.
  5. Museum: The Loreta Monastery also houses a museum, which displays important religious artifacts and works of art, including the famous Holy Infant of Prague statue.

The Loreta Monastery is a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultural and religious heritage of Prague. Its stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history make it a unique and memorable destination.

Žižkov Tower

The Žižkov Television Tower is a distinctive structure located in the Žižkov district of Prague, Czech Republic. It is one of the tallest structures in the city and is known for its unusual architecture and interesting history. Some notable features of the Žižkov Television Tower include:

  1. Height: The Žižkov Television Tower is one of the tallest structures in Prague, standing at nearly 330 feet (100 meters) tall.
  2. Architecture: The tower is known for its unusual design, which features three steel masts and numerous antennas that give it a somewhat futuristic appearance.
  3. History: The Žižkov Television Tower was built in the 1980s during the communist era in Czechoslovakia. It has been the subject of controversy and criticism over the years, but it is now considered an important part of the city’s cultural heritage.
  4. Observation Deck: The tower has an observation deck located at a height of nearly 900 feet (270 meters), which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  5. Art Installations: The tower is also known for its unusual art installations, including a group of crawling babies, which were added to the tower in 2000. These sculptures have become a popular attraction and are considered an important part of the city’s cultural heritage.

The Žižkov Television Tower is an interesting and unusual structure that is worth a visit for anyone interested in the history and architecture of Prague. Its height and observation deck offer stunning views of the city, and its art installations make it a unique and memorable destination.