With one week in Prague, we hit the ground running trying to see and experience as much as we could in the Golden City. There were times when I was wandering down mazes of cobbles that I had to pinch myself. Is this city even real or is it a dream? We had high expectations and Prague’s beauty and charm managed to exceed all of them. Historical, bohemian, inexpensive and fun. This is a city that is best explored on foot. The swan-filled Vltava River divides this magical city filled with rustic bridges, ancient cathedrals and walled courtyards. Chomping on hearty goulash and drinking a pint of Pilsner, which is cheaper than water, is your reward in the evening after your legs have turned to jello. If you planned on only staying a few days that’s truly a shame. After a full week we felt reluctant to leave.
The following is a list of the Top 35 things to do in Prague:
35 Things to Do in Prague: Summer Travel Guide!
Prague Photo Essay
1) Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world and it is home to several palaces, as well as a cathedral, a basilica, and gardens. Given the entire complex is over seven times the size of a sports stadium, this 13th century charmer would take days to properly appreciate.
Some of the top highlights include visiting St. Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane and the tomb of St. John of Nepomuk. Although there are many activities in Prague that are free, a visit to Prague Castle is certainly worth the price of admission.
Visiting Pražský Hrad is a journey through the ages, offering a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, and Renaissance styles. The location of Prague Castle offers some of the best views in the city. From its terraces, you can gaze out over the red-tiled roofs of Prague, the winding Vltava River, and the iconic Charles Bridge. It’s a panorama that’s especially magical at sunset.
Get There
- By Tram: Take tram numbers 22 or 23 to the Pražský hrad stop, which is right by the main entrance.
- By Metro: The closest metro station is Malostranská, followed by a short tram ride or a scenic walk.
- By Foot: For those who enjoy a walk, the route from Charles Bridge up to the castle is steep but filled with charming sights.
Visitor Tips
- Check for Events: Sometimes, parts of the castle may be closed for state events or renovations. Check the official website for the latest updates.
- Photography: Be mindful of areas where photography is not allowed, especially inside certain buildings.
- Food and Drink: There are cafes and restaurants within the castle grounds, but they can be pricey. Consider bringing your own snacks and water.
- Respect the Sites: Follow the rules and respect the historic artifacts and buildings.
2) Novy Svet
For a quiet little escape from Prague Castle, I highly recommend wandering down Novy Svet. At one time, this cozy little neighborhood was home to servants of the Castle. With a lengthy winding cobbled street, you’ll be in the company of writers and artists who now call this neighborhood home.
Visiting Nový Svět, which translates to “New World,” is like stepping back in time. This tiny, historic street, located near Prague Castle, dates back to the 14th century. Its beautifully preserved medieval houses, many of which have quirky names and pastel colors, showcases Prague’s past.
Visiting Nový Svět feels like discovering a well-kept secret. It’s not as well-known as other tourist spots in Prague. Thus, you can explore at your own pace without the usual tourist hustle. You’ll discover cozy cafés and unique shops as you pound the cobblestone.
Getting There
- By Foot: Nový Svět is easily accessible on foot from Prague Castle. From the main entrance of the castle, it’s just a short walk downhill. Enjoy the scenic route and take in the views along the way.
- By Public Transport: Take tram number 22 or 23 to the Pohořelec stop. From there, it’s a pleasant walk to Nový Svět, passing by the Strahov Monastery.
Visitor Tips
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
- Early Arrival: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to experience the street at its most peaceful.
- Respect the Area: Be mindful that Nový Svět is a residential area. Respect the privacy of the locals and avoid making excessive noise.
3) Kafka Museum
Franz Kafka (1883-1924) was a German language writer of novels who lived mos of his brief, anguished life in Prague. This museum is dedicated to him and his work and you’ll find some of his letters, diary entries and photographs inside. If you want to understand the mind behind “The Metamorphosis” and “The Trial,” a visit to the Kafka Museum is essential. In the courtyard you’ll notice a rather strange sculpture entitled “The Piss”. Inside you’ll find manuscripts, documents and first editions of his work displaying his often darkly paradoxical work.
The Kafka Museum isn’t your typical literary museum. It features a collection of Kafka’s original manuscripts, letters, and diaries, but what truly sets it apart is the way these items are presented. The museum uses dark, atmospheric settings, haunting soundscapes, and innovative installations to transport visitors into Kafka’s surreal world. Thus, making it a deeply immersive experience.
Kafka’s writings are often described as complex and surreal, reflecting his own troubled life. The museum provides a comprehensive look at Kafka’s personal life, his relationship with Prague, and how the city influenced his writing. You’ll learn about his family, his education, and his struggles with anxiety and illness.
One of the most striking pieces is the sculpture of two urinating men by artist David Černý, located in the museum’s courtyard. AKA the piss. It’s an example of the museum’s commitment to engaging visitors in unexpected and memorable ways.
Getting There
- Address: Cihelná 2b, 118 00 Malá Strana, Prague 1, Czech Republic.
- Public Transport: You can take tram lines 12, 20, 22, or 23 to the Malostranská stop and then walk for a few minutes.
- By Foot: If you’re exploring the city on foot, the museum is a pleasant walk from other major attractions like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.
Visitor Tips
- Early Visit: To avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience, consider visiting the museum early in the morning.
- Take Your Time: Plan to spend a decent amount of time exploring the museum to fully appreciate the exhibits and installations.
- Explore the Area: After visiting the museum, take some time to explore the beautiful Malá Strana district. There are plenty of charming cafes, restaurants, and historic sites nearby.
4) John Lennon Wall
Stroll along the John Lennon Wall and you’ll encounter portraits of Lennon and Yoko Ono. At one time this was just a normal wall; however, since the 1980s it has been covered by images of Lennon with Beatles song lyrics. The graffiti is always evolving, so you never know what you’ll find. The wall represents ideals associated with youth including peace and love. Admire the wall slowly or stand in front of it to take a selfie 😉
The wall became a canvas for rebellious graffiti and Beatles lyrics following John Lennon’s murder in 1980. It served as a medium for young Czechs to express their frustration with the communist regime. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of art as a form of protest and expression. Each visit offers something new, as fresh layers of paint, messages, and artwork cover the previous ones. It’s a dynamic, living piece of history that you can contribute to.
Getting There
- Address: Velkopřevorské náměstí, 100 00 Praha 1, Czech Republic.
- Public Transport: Take tram lines 12, 20, 22, or 23 to the Malostranská stop and walk for about 10 minutes.
- By Foot: If you’re near Charles Bridge, it’s a short, scenic walk across the bridge to the Malá Strana side.
Visitor Tips
- Be Respectful: While adding to the wall, remember it’s a shared space. Avoid covering up important messages or artwork.
- Stay Safe: Keep an eye on your belongings, as popular tourist spots can attract pickpockets.
- Take Your Time: Spend a while reading the messages and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a powerful place that deserves more than just a quick visit.
5) Prague TV Tower
One of the most distinct landmarks in the city is Prague’s TV Tower (Czech: Žižkovský vysílač). Kind of sticking out like a sore thumb, this modern tower stands tall over the city’s traditional skyline. With an unconventional design resembling a rocket, you’ll notice that there are babies crawling up and down. The local enfant terrible sculptor David Černy is also responsible for creating ‘The Piss.’
6) Czech Food: Goulash
Up next we have a heaping plate of Goulash. Goulash is actually Hungarian but the Czech Republic does have its own variety. What differs between the two is that the Hungarian is usually served with meat, noodles and vegetables and the one from the Czech Republic only has meat. I this at least once a day – while living in Prague – and it is the kind of hearty stick to your ribs meal that goes very well with a Pilsner beer.
7) Saturday Market – Farmarske Trziste Jirak
You can’t visit Prague without checking out a local Farmer’s Market. We just happened to stumble across Farmarske Trziste Jirak, where we were be able to pick up some pastries, cakes, street food and organic products. It was the perfect place for a great leisurely brunch. We ended up feasting on a Balkan burger while snacking on pastries for dessert while people watching.
8) Prague’s Old Town Square
Prague’s Old Town is a place you can’t miss. The elegant buildings in varying pastels are a place that you’ll want to photograph. If you come early in the morning there is hardly anyone, which is in stark contrast to the afternoon when it is a sea of humans.
9) Saint Vitus Gothic Cathedral
Saint Vitus (Czech: Katedrála svatého Víta) is a Gothic cathedral located within the walls of Prague Castle. Inside you’ll be able to admire beautiful stained glass windows designed in the art nouveau style. The cathedral houses the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors as main feature of the Prague Castle complex.
10) Jewish Quarter
If you keep going north from the Old Town Square you’ll find yourself in the Jewish Quarter of Josfov (German: Josefstadt). Completely surrounded by the Old Town, this district was preserved during Nazi German occupation with the intention of being made into a museum of an extinct race. Today, you’ll be able to many architecturally stunning synagogues.
11) KGB Museum
On a rainy afternoon you should consider the KGB Museum as one of the more quirky attractions in the city. Inside the KGB Museum you’ll find old propaganda as well as some unusual pieces like a copy of Lenin’s death mask, the radio from Beria’s cabinet and Trotsky murder weapon.
12) Golden Lane
The Golden Lane (Czech: Zlatá ulička) gets its name because legend has it that Emperor Rudolph was a fan of alchemy. He had alchemists working tirelessly to find a way to turn metal into gold, and to find the secret to eternal life. Dotted with tiny colored homes, you’ll find a museum of armory as one of the top highlights.
13) Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge (Czech: Karlův most) is one of the most popular historic landmarks in the city crossing the Vltava river in Prague. If you walk across during the day, you’ll find musicians, artists, and vendors selling souvenirs. Marvel at the Old Town bridge tower, considered to be a magnificent example of civil gothic-style buildings in the world. Also, be sure to compare and contrast the bridge early in the morning versus mid-afternoon. It is astonishing how quiet and busy it is during these two distinct times in the day.
14) Prague’s Museum of Communism
Prague’s museum of Communism (Czech: Muzeum komunismu) takes a look at the post–World War II Communist regime in former Czechoslovakia. Expect to see lots of posters heavy on propaganda, genuine artifacts and multimedia presentations. Fascinating is the origins of this museum founded by American businessman and Prague bagel extraordinaire Glen Spicker. Much of the collection in the museum was gathered by him at flea markets around the city.
15) Astronomical Clock
When in Prague you can check out the medieval Astronomical Clock (Czech: Pražský orloj) . Founded in 1410, this third-oldest astronomical clock goes off every hour and it is right in the heart of the Old Town. Most fascinating is the skeleton ringing the bell.
16) Czech Street Food: Trdelník
You can’t come to Prague and not sample the street food. One particularly popular item is the Trdlenik (Czech: Trdelník). You can order it with icing sugar, or if you’re feeling adventurous, ask for nutella on the inside. It is fascinating to watch it made: rolled dough wrapped around stick, grilled and covered in a sugary walnut mix. As one of the most popular street food snacks in Prague, you’ll have no problem finding a stall selling these.
17) Feed Swans
Now one of the things I love the most about travel is the unexpected surprises. We didn’t have this particular activity on our schedule but here we are out feeding swans. They’re obviously very used to human contact as we were able to get up close without them feeling intimated.
18) Funicular
For really great views of the city you can consider taking the funicular up the hill. However, we ended up walking because the line was really long at the time. Whether walking or taking the tram, it is well worth your time making it to the top for some of the most spectacular views of Prague.
19) Petrin Tower
Petrin Tower (Czech: Petřínská rozhledna) stands 63 meters high on a hill overlooking Prague. It strongly resembles the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and it’s a fairly easy climb to the top. Once used as a lookout and transmission tower, it is now a popular tourist attraction.
20) Maze of Mirrors
Another activity to consider is the Maze of Mirrors. It is more geared towards children but it is still a fun thing to do. As a quirky attraction it is certainly not a must see/do activity; however, if you’re nearby Petrin Tower it is worth a visit.
21) Vysehrad
Vyšehrad is a historical fort located in the city of Prague. Here you’ll find the ruins of Prague’s other castle built in the 10th century, as well as a cemetery that’s the resting place for many of Prague’s artists and great thinkers. Rotunda of St. Martin, just happens to be Prague’s oldest surviving building dating back to the 11th century. According to some, Vysehrad is the first area of settlement in the city.
22) Vltava River Cruise
For a leisurely afternoon, hop on a river cruise and enjoy a scenic journey down the Vltava River. Considering crossing one of its 18 bridges – the most famous being Charles Bridge (mentioned above).
23) Drink Pilsner Beer
Pilsner beer is a Czech institution. This pale lager is known for its golden color, high level of foam and a nice light taste. Deriving its name from the city of Plzen, Bohemia when it was first made back in 1842, the original company is still making it today. The best thing about it is that it is cheaper than water and cola. You better believe I had more than just one 😉
24) Jeleni Prikop Park
After all that sightseeing around the city, you’ll likely want some time to relax. The Jeleni Prikop Park located right behind Prague Castle is a great place for a picnic or a little nap on the grass. It is one of Prague’s many quiet ‘green escapes’ from the heavily frequented tourist attractions.
25) Concert at the National Museum
Here is a cool little fact. Even though the National Museum is currently closed you can still attend musical performances in the evening. You can see if you’re interested in any of the concerts and that way you can get a peek inside of the National Museum.
26) Dancing House
The Dancing House (Czech: Tančící důmis) a building which stands out from the rest, done in the deconstructionist style. Also known as the Fred and Ginger, it was completed in 1996 and is controversial for its non-traditional design in a city known for its Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles of architecture.
27) Try Absinthe
Anise is a flavored spirit that is extremely popular in Prague. This anise flavored spirit is potent coming in at 45-74% (90-148 proof) derived from flowers and botanicals. You can see it all over in all kinds of different stores. My initial impression was that it was quite tasty. I love any alcohol that tastes like licorice.
28) Mind Maze
There is an activity in Prague called Mind Maze. Basically, you’re locked in the Alchemist’s room for an hour and you have to go through clues to try and figure a way out. It is a mind game that involves a lot of teamwork and hashing out ideas together to solve the puzzle and get out of the room. We ended up doing better than average (according to our guide at the end); however, we didn’t make it out of the room in 60 minutes. Apparently, only 1 in 5 does. Considering it was our first time playing I thought we did okay.
29) Segway Tour
If you tire of walking, Segways are a fun way to get around the cobbled streets. This is especially a good idea if you’ve been walking around the city for a few days in a row and your legs are getting sore.
30) Miniature Museum
Another cool thing you can do is visit the Miniature Museum where you can marvel at microscopic art miniatures by Anatolij Konenko. By wielding a magnifying glass you’ll discover a three dimensional model of the Eiffel Tower and a caravan of camels, just to name a few.
31) Mucha Museum
The Mucha Museum pays homage to Alphonse Mucha, and it’s a must visit if you enjoy art nouveau. Drawing from over 100 exhibits you’ll find paintings, drawings, pastels, photographs and more.
32) Take a Tram
The tram is an easy and inexpensive way to get around the city, plus if offers more of a local experience. We used public transportation frequently as a way to conserve our walking legs.
33) Luxury Car Tour
If you want to explore the city in a more fashionable way we’ve seen people taking luxury car tours. We noticed most 30 minute to one hour tours starting at around 40 Euros.
34) National Museum
One of the most important landmarks in the city, unfortunately the National Museum is closed until 2016 because it is undergoing renovations; however, the collection itself is spread across ten museums here in Prague so you can still visit those.
35) Strahov Monastery
It’s a bit of steep walk to reach the monastery, but the long climb offers great views of the city below. Also, the library inside the monastery is certainly worth a peek!
Prague Final Thoughts
And that sums up our visit to Prague! Our 1 week in the city left us bedazzled and it’s a place that we’d be happy to revisit again in the near future.
Beneath the spires of ancient Prague A city steeped in stories old A place where history’s many fog Lies thick upon the cobbled roads
From Charles Bridge to Old Town Square The past and present intermingle With architecture fine and rare A feast for every sense and single
Above it all, the Castle stands A sentinel to time gone by The echoes of a thousand hands Whose work and dreams will never die
And in the heart of this great place A pulse that beats with life anew A thriving culture, full of grace That welcomes every traveler through
Oh Prague, how you enchant us so With all your wonders to behold A city that will ever glow In memories that will never grow old.
What are some of your favorite things to do in the city? Please let us know in the comment section below.
Hi Samuel, greetings from Prague 🙂 Excellent list! Indeed not too touristy. I am especially happy that you mention: Goulash is actually Hungarian food.
And excellent photos!
Would you please tell me what theme are you using? I am looking for something similar. Thanks in advance.
Prague is a very beautiful city! I loved spending 4 days there but it seems that I missed a lot of things! great post, congrats :))
I’ve never been to Prague but its on our list for 2015 – I really want to go as it looks beautiful!
Hey Samuel. Great list – we’ve been in Prague now for almost 2 months and the city has grown on us. Actually, our favorite thing to date, something you haven’t mentioned, was long the other side of the river started at the Letná Beer Garden: http://bbqboy.net/photo-essay-pragues-scenic-walk/. The views over the city are amazing and it’s a park-like atmosphere with few people. Especially gorgeous in the late afternoon.
You suggestion of the Dancing House is a good one. I read that you need reservations just to get in the elevator (there’s a fancy restaurant and rooftop bar). We went to check it out and were able to get to the top without anyone stopping us – great views from the top of the river and the castle. Maybe we just got lucky. But I recommend to anyone that it’s worth a shot…
Still working through your list. By the time we’re done here (a month left) I’ll be doing my own list of things to do here. Just a great city. And the transport is great (and, as you mention, tram rides especially are fun)
Good job,
Frank (bbqboy)
PS. Some of the Czech towns great as well. Cesky Krumlov and Kutna Hora very pretty. And, costs about half of what they are in Canada…
Thanks for sharing your experience and article Frank!
Hi Samuel,
I promised I’d do my own list of things to do in Prague: http://bbqboy.net/50-things-prague/. We spent 3 months there and fell in love with the city. We’ll be back one day. Thanks for your suggestion of the fort of Vyšehrad, it wasn’t listed in my guide book and we would have missed it. Ended up being a special day.
Frank
I actually agree with Marta. I went to Prague in the summer and found it beautiful, but too touristy for my taste. Perhaps your idea of visiting at another time of year would change my mind.
Prague looks like so much fun! I might be going at some point in the near future so this is definitely getting bookmarked, thanks for the tips! 🙂
Done, done…..damn, I miss Prague so much! One of the most charming cities I’ve visited with mouthwatering food, I definitely need to go back there. Beautiful photos! 🙂
Thanks Vlad! It is a city I’d enjoy revisiting as well 🙂
Quite a list Samuel – makes me want to go to Prague even more!
I have managed to visit a few Eastern Europen cities, my favourite so far being Tallinn; but I’ve not made it to Prague yet despite it being on my bucket list for years.
Obviously it is no longer Europe’s great secret any more – just how touristy has it become these days?
what an excellent tour, there’s so many things to do and explore in Prague, will definitely make it there some day
I find this guy with pretty good tips. He even create tour map. Take a look: http://hitchhikershandbook.com/2013/12/31/prague-free-walking-tour-sightseeing-guide/
I really had no idea Prague had so much to offer, I’d often been told it was an amazing city but never had anyone elaborate on it.
Thanks for an awesome list!
Thanks Nick! It is definitely a city worth exploring 🙂
Great list of things to do while in Prague! I’ve always wanted to go there – looks like such a beautiful city.
Thanks Jayme!
I highly recommend it if you get a chance to go 🙂
What a list! Many are already on my wish list for when I get to Prague, but it looks like I’ll need to add a few more.
Thanks Andrea! I hope this gives you a few new ideas to consider 🙂
We’d love to visit Prague – especially the Prague Castle. And the goulash sounds very tasty too :-). Great list of things to do, which we’ve bookmarked for when we (hopefully) visit .
Thanks! Those are two of my personal favorites – especially eating Goulash 😉
Ha, very nice…now that I’ve been I can relate to so many of these. Love wandering up the hill, though I went along the side of the wall up the steep hill trying to find a way on top (epically failed and cut up by thorns). John Lennon wall was really cool. Wandering around was just overall fun. The beer…YES the beer. Did you go to the Prague Beer Museum? Amazing. and my favorite as the bratwurst from the street stands.
Cool to hear about your experiences in Prague Ryan 🙂 We didn’t get to the Prague Beer Museum! Wow, so many things to do 🙂
For Prague born traveler and fan of yours is glad to hear you enjoyed it! Pretty impressive list for one week. There is much more hidden places to visit and be there just with locals.
1. You can even visit same places but in different hour then travel agencies take groups there. Prague Castle is great about 9pm (close at 11pm) with beautiful view over night Prague.
2. go to Slovansky ostrov (island on Vltava river) where is Zofin garden (and palace) and you can rent a small boat.
3. great place for chill out is Naplavka. 5min. walk from Slovansky island (just turn right when you leave island and walk 5min, unce you get to white building Manes modern art galery go along the river and you´re there). Its great place just beside the river. You can walk, ride a bike or inlines, run, or just sit under the umbrella and enjoy your beer in Bajkazyl while you have your bike fixed.
4. Unce you´re there you can take a boat ride to Prague ZOO (belong to top 10 ZOO in the world). Use this link and google translater 🙂 : http://www.paroplavba.cz/lodi-z-rasinova-nabrezi-do-zoo
5. across the river on west river bank is small (200m long) sand beach. Use this link, info in from 2009 but the beach is still there: http://www.momondo.com/blogs/mashak/archive/2009/06/18/beach-life-in-the-metropole-prague.aspx
and much much more you can do in Prague and feal like you´re between locals.
(sorry for all those link, its easier then explain it)
6. In Prague is also big Couchsurfing comunity. There is always someone to meet who will take you to places where the locals go.
P.s.: just little correction about Franz Kafka. All Czech will tell you he was a Czech writer …..
Hope it was helpful
Enjoy it in Prague
Vit
Thanks Vit!!!
These are fantastic additions! I’m glad I didn’t do a bad job of showcasing the awesome city where you are from 🙂
I thank you Samuel for being inspirational for other travelers 🙂
I did enjoy Prague, but I found it a bit too touristy to my taste. I do admit that I only spent 2 days there and it is not enough to explore the whole city (I haven’t seen at least half of the things you are writing about here), but since I love to photograph I found the crowds unbearable to take a good shot, unless it was late and night or early in the morning. If I ever get a chance I do want to come back, but I think I will pick winter to do so.
Marta, I think coming in winter would be a great idea. In fact, I’d love to travel around Europe that time of year.