Prague

Prague Travel Guide

The 'City of a Hundred Spires' — a European jewel with a perfectly preserved medieval old town. The grandeur of Prague Castle, the romantic atmosphere of Charles Bridge, and the local cafe culture of Vinohrady offer a range of experiences. Some of Europe's cheapest beer paired with stunning medieval architecture makes Prague ideal for travelers seeking great value.

Essential Prague Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Prague

★ 4.7

Prague Castle

Listed in the Guinness Book as the world's largest ancient castle complex, Prague Castle has been the seat of power for the Kingdom of Bohemia and the Czech Republic since the 9th century. Highlights include the ornate Gothic architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral with Alfons Mucha's stained-glass windows, and the charming medieval cottages along Golden Lane - Franz Kafka is said to have written at number 22. The changing of the guard on the hour is another popular draw. Circuit B ticket about CZK 250 (about EUR 10). 5-minute walk from Tram 22 Pražský hrad stop.

HoursGrounds 06:00-22:00; buildings 09:00-17:00 (until 16:00 November-March).

LocationHradčany, Prague

TipsThe noon changing of the guard is the grandest - arrive before 12:00. Circuit B is the most popular ticket and covers St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane.

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★ 4.8

Charles Bridge

Commissioned by Charles IV in 1357, this Gothic stone bridge across the Vltava River is Prague's most iconic landmark. Thirty Baroque saint statues line its 516m length, and legend has it that touching the relief on the St. John of Nepomuk statue brings good luck. Early-morning mist over the bridge is one of Prague's most romantic scenes, and street artists and musicians add to the atmosphere. Bridge free (tower admission about CZK 100). 5-minute walk from Metro Malostranská (Line A).

HoursOpen 24 hours (bridge towers 10:00-18:00).

LocationMalá Strana, Prague

TipsVisit at sunrise to photograph the bridge in mist before the crowds arrive. Don't forget to touch the St. John of Nepomuk relief for luck.

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★ 4.7

Old Town Square

Prague's central square since the 12th century, the Old Town Square is surrounded by buildings spanning Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo styles. The 15th-century Astronomical Clock (Orloj) charms visitors each hour with a parade of the twelve apostles. Other highlights include the twin Gothic spires of Týn Church, the Baroque facade of St. Nicholas Church, and the Jan Hus monument. Square free (Old Town Hall tower about CZK 250). 5-minute walk from Metro Staroměstská (Line A).

HoursOpen 24 hours (Old Town Hall tower 09:00-21:00).

LocationStaré Město, Prague

TipsThe Astronomical Clock show runs on the hour from 09:00 to 23:00. Climbing the Old Town Hall tower rewards you with a panoramic view of the old town.

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★ 4.6

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Located north of Prague's Old Town, Josefov has been home to a Jewish community since the 13th century and is one of Europe's best-preserved Jewish quarters. The Old-New Synagogue (Europe's oldest active synagogue, dating to 1270) and five other synagogues form the Jewish Museum network. The Old Jewish Cemetery contains over 12,000 tombstones layered upon one another, creating a hauntingly unique atmosphere. Franz Kafka's birthplace is also in this district. Combined ticket about CZK 350 (EUR 14). 3-minute walk from Metro Staroměstská (Line A).

Hours09:00-18:00 (until 16:30 Nov-Mar; closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays).

LocationJosefov, Prague

TipsA combined ticket covers all synagogues and the cemetery efficiently. Most sites close on Saturdays (Shabbat), so plan accordingly.

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★ 4.4

Petrin Lookout Tower

Built for the 1891 Jubilee Exhibition, this 63.5m steel tower is a miniature Eiffel Tower. Standing on Petrin Hill (318m above sea level), it offers Prague's highest vantage point — on clear days, visibility reaches about 150km. Climbing 299 steps rewards you with a panorama encompassing Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town. Nearby are a mirror maze and a rose garden for a leisurely stroll. Admission about CZK 150. Take the funicular to the top of Petrin Hill, then 10-minute walk.

Hours10:00-22:00 (Nov-Feb 10:00-20:00).

LocationPetřín, Prague

TipsThe funicular accepts regular transit tickets. Visit at sunset for golden views over Prague's skyline.

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★ 4.3

Vyšehrad

Older than Prague Castle, this 10th-century fortress is tied to Czech founding myths. Its ramparts offer open views of the Vltava and the city with far fewer tourists than the castle district. Vyšehrad Cemetery is the final resting place of Czech greats including Dvořák, Smetana, and Alfons Mucha. The Neo-Gothic Basilica of St. Peter and Paul and a Romanesque rotunda are also worth visiting. Park free (casemates and Gorlice exhibition about CZK 100). 10-minute walk from Metro Vyšehrad (Line C).

HoursPark: open 24 hours (casemates: 10:00-18:00, until 17:00 Nov-Mar).

LocationVyšehrad, Prague

TipsVisit after Prague Castle for a quieter perspective on the city. Look for Dvořák's tomb in the cemetery.

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★ 4.2

Dancing House

Completed in 1996, this deconstructivist landmark was co-designed by Czech-Canadian Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry. Nicknamed 'Fred and Ginger' after the dancing duo, it stands in bold contrast to Prague's classical surroundings. Controversial when built, it is now an icon of modern Prague. The Glass Bar on the top floor offers views of Prague Castle and the Vltava. Observation deck about CZK 200. Right at Tram 17 Jiráskovo náměstí stop.

HoursExterior viewable anytime (observation deck and bar: 10:00-22:00).

LocationNové Město, Prague

TipsEnjoy a cocktail with castle views at the top-floor Glass Bar. For the best exterior photo, shoot from across the Vltava.

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★ 4.1

John Lennon Wall

After John Lennon's death in 1980, Prague citizens began painting tributes and Beatles lyrics on this wall, turning it into a symbol of resistance against the communist regime. Authorities whitewashed it many times, only for graffiti to reappear overnight. Today visitors from around the world still leave messages of peace and love, making it a living, ever-changing artwork. Tucked in a quiet Malá Strana lane near the Franz Kafka Museum. Free and open. 7-minute walk from Metro Malostranská (Line A).

HoursOpen 24 hours.

LocationMalá Strana, Prague

TipsBring a marker if you want to leave your own message. Just a 5-minute walk from Charles Bridge, so combine the two.

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★ 4.6

Strahov Monastery

Founded in 1143, this Premonstratensian monastery sits on a hill west of Prague Castle. Its main draw is the Strahov Library, comprising the Theological and Philosophical Halls with elaborate frescoed ceilings and around 200,000 historic volumes (visitors view the halls from the doorway rather than entering). The Cabinet of Curiosities displays taxidermy and oddities collected by the monks. The monastery courtyard offers views over Prague's red rooftops, and the on-site brewery serves its own monastery beer. Details may change, so check before visiting. 5-minute walk from Tram 22 Pohořelec stop.

Hours09:00-12:00, 13:00-17:00 (library, open daily).

LocationStrahov, Prague

TipsPhotography inside the library halls is prohibited. Consider finishing your visit with a craft beer at the monastery's own brewery restaurant.

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★ 4.6

Church of St. Nicholas (Malá Strana)

Built between 1711 and 1755, this is considered one of Central Europe's finest Baroque buildings, designed by Kryštof and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer along with Jan Santini. The 70m-high dome ceiling bears Jan Lukáš Kracker's fresco "Celebration of the Holy Trinity," one of the largest frescoes in Europe. The pipe organ inside is said to have been played by Mozart himself, and evening classical concerts are still held regularly. Standing at the center of Malostranské náměstí, it's a natural stop between Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Details may change, so check before visiting. Right at the Malostranské náměstí tram stop (lines 12, 15, 20, 22).

Hours09:00-17:00 (varies seasonally; open outside mass times).

LocationMalá Strana, Prague

TipsBook an evening concert to enjoy the organ music inside the church. Climb the bell tower for views over the Malá Strana rooftops.

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★ 4.6

National Theatre (Národní divadlo)

Completed in 1881 but destroyed by fire shortly after, this theatre was rebuilt by 1883 through spontaneous public fundraising by the Czech nation. Inscribed with the motto "Národ sobě" ("The Nation to Itself"), it stands as a symbol of Czech national identity and is nicknamed the "Golden Chapel" for its gilded roof ornaments. It hosts opera, ballet, and drama, and offers a guided tour showcasing its opulent auditorium and ceiling paintings. The view from across the Vltava or from Charles Bridge is especially striking at night. Details may change, so check before visiting. Right at the Národní divadlo tram stop (lines 17, 22).

HoursBox office 10:00-18:00 (performance start times vary by show).

LocationNové Město, Prague

TipsBook performance tickets in advance on the official website. For the best night photos, shoot from across the river near Kampa Island.

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★ 4.3

Powder Tower (Prašná brána)

Construction of this Late Gothic tower began in 1475; it was originally one of the gates into the Old Town. It earned its name after being used to store gunpowder in the 17th century. A viewing gallery at 44m of its 65m height offers views over the Old Town, Republic Square, and the spires of Týn Church. The tower connects directly to the Art Nouveau Municipal House, making the two easy to combine. Climbing the narrow, steep spiral staircase requires some stamina. Details may change, so check before visiting. 2-minute walk from Metro Náměstí Republiky (Line B).

Hours10:00-20:00 (varies seasonally; last entry 30 minutes before closing).

LocationStaré Město, Prague

TipsThe stairs are narrow, so leave large bags behind if possible. Combine with the adjoining Municipal House for an efficient visit.

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★ 4.6

Municipal House (Obecní dům)

Completed in 1912, this Art Nouveau masterpiece is also the historic site where Czechoslovak independence was declared. Leading Czech artists of the era, including Alfons Mucha, contributed to its interior, filled with ornate stained glass, mosaics, and sculpture. The building's Smetana Hall is the iconic concert venue that opens the annual "Prague Spring" music festival. Guided tours reveal otherwise inaccessible spaces such as the Mayor's Hall (decorated by Mucha), and the ground-floor café and restaurant are celebrated for their Art Nouveau interiors. Details may change, so check before visiting. Right next to the Powder Tower, 2-minute walk from Metro Náměstí Republiky (Line B).

Hours10:00-19:00 (café and shops; guided tours run at scheduled times).

LocationStaré Město, Prague

TipsGuided tours are popular, so book ahead. Even without a tour, you can enjoy the Art Nouveau interior over coffee at the ground-floor café.

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★ 4.4

National Museum (Národní muzeum)

Completed in 1891, this is the Czech Republic's largest museum, standing majestically atop a hill at the head of Wenceslas Square. Its facade still bears bullet-hole scars from the 1968 Soviet invasion, and the building reopened in 2019 after an 8-year renovation. Highlights include natural history collections of minerals, fossils, and specimens, exhibits on Czech history, and the domed ceiling fresco of the central Pantheon hall. The rooftop terrace offers views over Wenceslas Square and the New Town. Prices vary by exhibition and may change, so check before visiting. Right at Metro Muzeum station (Lines A, C).

Hours10:00-18:00 (open daily except public holidays).

LocationNové Město, Prague

TipsIf you only care about one exhibition, a single-hall ticket is cheaper. Don't miss the domed ceiling of the central Pantheon hall.

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★ 4.4

Wenceslas Square

Laid out by Charles IV in 1348 as part of the New Town, this 750m boulevard was originally called the "Horse Market." It has witnessed major moments in modern Czech history: the 1918 declaration of Czechoslovak independence, Jan Palach's 1969 self-immolation protest, and the 1989 Velvet Revolution. At its head stand the equestrian statue of St. Wenceslas and the National Museum, while today the square buzzes with shops and restaurants. At night, the illuminated facades give it a completely different atmosphere. Free and open. Directly connected to Metro Můstek (Lines A, B) and Metro Muzeum (Lines A, C).

HoursOpen 24 hours.

LocationNové Město, Prague

TipsLook for the small memorial to Jan Palach near the base of the St. Wenceslas statue. Start an evening stroll from the National Museum end for the best views.

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★ 4.5

Letná Park & Metronome

This expansive park on a hill north of the Vltava is one of Prague's best viewpoints, framing Prague Castle, the Old Town, and Charles Bridge in a single sweep. The spot where the giant Metronome now stands once held the world's largest Stalin monument, completed in 1955 and dynamited in 1962; the 25m Metronome, symbolizing the flow of time, replaced it in 1991. The area has become a hub of Prague's underground culture, drawing skateboarders and street artists, and pop-up beer gardens open here in summer for sunset views. Free and open. About a 15-minute walk from the Old Town across Čech Bridge and up the stairs.

HoursOpen 24 hours.

LocationLetná, Prague

TipsVisit at sunset to see Prague's skyline bathed in golden light. The stairs are steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

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★ 4.7

Prague Zoo

Opened in 1931 in the Troja district, Prague Zoo is regularly ranked among the world's best zoos by international travel media. It is celebrated for pioneering the successful breeding and reintroduction of the endangered Przewalski's horse, and is home to gorillas, elephants, giraffes, and more. A chairlift takes advantage of the hilly riverside terrain, offering a unique way to move between zoo sections. From March to October, you can even reach the zoo by steamboat from the Old Town. Details may change, so check before visiting (discounts for online booking). About 15 minutes by bus 112 from Metro Nádraží Holešovice (Line C).

Hours09:00-18:00 (varies seasonally; until 21:00 in summer).

LocationTroja, Prague

TipsSummer evening entry after 5pm comes at a discounted rate. Take the chairlift to reach the hilltop sections comfortably.

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★ 4.5

Kampa Island

Formed where the Vltava's side channel, the "Devil's Stream" (Čertovka), splits off near Malá Strana, Kampa was once named the world's second most beautiful city island. Kampa Park scatters modern artworks throughout, including David Černý's bronze "Babies" (Miminka) sculptures and a statue of Sri Chinmoy, while the Kampa Museum, housed in a converted mill building, showcases Central European modern art. Just below Charles Bridge, it's ideal for riverside strolls and picnics, and is a short walk from the John Lennon Wall. Park free (Kampa Museum admission separate). 5-minute walk from the Hellichova tram stop (lines 12, 15, 20, 22).

HoursPark: open 24 hours (Kampa Museum: 10:00-18:00).

LocationKampa, Malá Strana, Prague

TipsSnap a photo with David Černý's crawling "Babies" sculptures. The path along the channel under Charles Bridge is quieter than the main tourist routes.

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Things to Do in Prague

Tour

Vltava River Dinner Cruise

A dinner cruise on the Vltava River offering night views of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the National Theatre while enjoying Czech cuisine. About 2 hours with live music.

Price About CZK 1,500-3,000 (EUR 60-120)Duration About 2-3 hours

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Tour

Prague Beer Tasting Tour

A guided tour of 4-5 local pubs in the world's top beer-consuming country, sampling diverse Czech beers with explanations of brewing history and techniques.

Price About CZK 1,200-2,000 (EUR 48-80)Duration About 3-4 hours

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Culture

Prague Old Town Night Walking Tour

A night walking tour through illuminated Old Town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle, hearing medieval history and legends. Experience a completely different romantic atmosphere from daytime.

Price About CZK 500-1,000 (EUR 20-40)Duration About 2 hours

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Nightlife

Prague Jazz Club Experience

Enjoy live jazz performances in Prague, home to one of Europe's top jazz scenes. Jazz Dock and Reduta Jazz Club (visited by Bill Clinton) are the standout venues.

Price About CZK 300-600 (EUR 12-24, cover + drink)Duration About 2-3 hours

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Culture

Kutná Hora Bone Church Day Trip

A day trip to the Sedlec Ossuary in Kutná Hora, 1 hour by train from Prague. This unique chapel decorated with bones of 40,000 people is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Price About CZK 400-800 (EUR 16-32, transport + admission)Duration About 5-6 hours

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Shopping

Náplavka Farmers' Market

Prague's largest farmers' market held every Saturday along the Vltava riverbank. Browse local Czech cheeses, honey, bread, sausages, and enjoy street food.

Price Free entry (purchases separate)Duration About 1-2 hours

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Must-Try Food in Prague

Svíčková

🍱 Traditional

Braised beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with knedlíky bread dumplings — a Czech classic. About CZK 200-350 (EUR 8-14). Lokal in Vinohrady or U Fleků in the Old Town are recommended.

Czech Dark Beer

🍵 Drink

From the world's top per-capita beer drinkers — Pilsner Urquell and Kozel Dark are the iconic picks. A 500ml pint costs about CZK 50-80 (EUR 2-3). Local pubs in Žižkov or Vinohrady offer better value than tourist-area bars.

Trdelník

🍰 Dessert

A cylindrical grilled sweet dough coated in cinnamon and sugar, a popular Czech street dessert. About CZK 80-150 (EUR 3-6). Ice-cream-filled versions from Old Town stalls are a hit.

Vepřové Koleno (Pork Knuckle)

🍱 Traditional

Slow-roasted pork knuckle with a crispy exterior and tender interior — a Czech pub staple. About CZK 250-400 (EUR 10-16). Lokál Dlouhááá in the Old Town offers authentic flavor at reasonable prices.

Smažený Sýr (Fried Cheese)

🍢 Street Food

Deep-fried breaded Edam cheese, a beloved Czech national snack. About CZK 100-180 (EUR 4-7). Try it with tartar sauce at stalls near Wenceslas Square or the Lokál chain.

Nakládaný Hermelín (Marinated Camembert)

🍱 Traditional

Camembert marinated in olive oil with garlic and chili peppers, a quintessential Czech pub appetizer. About CZK 80-150 (EUR 3-6). Best paired with Czech beer at a local pub in Žižkov.

Ovocné Knedlíky (Fruit Dumplings)

🍰 Dessert

Traditional Czech dumplings stuffed with fresh plums or strawberries, topped with butter and curd cheese. About CZK 120-200 (EUR 5-8). Try handmade fruit dumplings at Café Savoy in Vinohrady.

Prague Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Prague?

April-June and September-October are ideal - quieter and pleasant. December Christmas markets are also famous.

How much does it cost to travel in Prague?

Daily budget around $50-105 (accommodation $30-55, meals $15-30, transport and entry $7-20).

How do I get around in Prague?

About 40 minutes from Václav Havel Airport to the city via bus 119 and the metro. Metro, trams, and buses cover the city well; 24- or 72-hour transit passes are recommended. Prepaid SIMs are available at the airport (Vodafone CZ, T-Mobile, etc., about CZK 200-300/EUR 8-12 per week). Card payments are accepted at tourist venues, but some small shops and trdlo stalls need cash. Tipping 10% at restaurants is standard.

Do I need a visa to visit Prague?

Korean passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days under the Schengen Agreement.

Is Prague safe for tourists?

Generally safe, but watch for pickpockets on Charles Bridge, in Old Town Square, and on public transport.

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