Prague has over 1,100 years of history, which is still very much visible in its architecture and culture. The medieval-looking city is known for the romance of its architecture, with grand castles, elaborate churches and charming bridges.
Prague, or “Praha” in Czech, has been the capital of the Holy Roman Empire and Czechoslovakia. The Praguers freed themselves from a communist regime in 1989 and then split from Slovakia. Prague is now the capital of the Czech Republic, and of Bohemia, and has 1.3 million residents. Many Praguers don’t speak English, but most of the tour guides do.
Spend just a few hours in Prague and you’ll see almost all the great architectural styles: Renaissance, Gothic, baroque, art nouveau and modernist. Three of those styles can be seen in just one building: Týn Church (Týnský Chrám). The city’s most famous modern building is Dancing House (Tančící Dům).
Use the iconic Charles Bridge (Karlův Most) to travel between attractions on both sides of the Vltava River. The Vltava separates the historic Old Town (Staré Město) from the Lesser Town, home to the huge Prague Castle (Pražský Hrad) complex.
Visit Vyšehrad Castle for pleasant gardens and historic fortified walls from the top of which you can spot the spires of Prague’s grand churches, including St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Víta). Visit the fascinating collection of gravestones in the Jewish Cemetery and medieval exhibits in the Powder Tower (Prašná Brána, Powder Gate).
Prague is pleasantly warm in summer while a winter visit is cold but picturesque when the snow falls. Regardless of the season, any time is the prefect time to try some of the delicious local pastries and cheap Czech beer.
Climb one of the many lookout points to see why Prague is the “City of 100 Spires.” Together with the medieval walls and terra cotta rooftops with chimneys, the church spires paint a fairytale-like picture of this historic Central European city. Add the art and nightlife to the mix and you understand why this is such a popular travel destination.
Prague
Prague Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Prague
Prague City Center
Travelers love Prague City Center for its acclaimed art galleries, and you can see more of Prague by jumping on the metro at Karlovy Lázně Stop or Staroměstská Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Old Town Square and Charles Bridge Museum.
Stare Mesto
Old Town Square and Havelska Market are top sights in Stare Mesto, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Karlovy Lázně Stop or Národní Divadlo Stop to see more sights in the area.
Prague 1
Known for its popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Prague 1. Check out top attractions like Old Town Square and Royal Route, and jump on the metro at Staromestska Station or Staroměstská Stop to see more of the city.
Nove Mesto
Charles Square and New Town Hall are top sights in Nove Mesto, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Karlovo Namesti Station or Novoměstská radnice Stop to see more sights in the area.
Prague 2
Known for its ample dining options and fascinating museums, there's plenty to explore in Prague 2. You can visit top attractions like Peace Square and New Town Hall, and jump on the metro at Náměstí Míru Stop or Namesti Miru Station to see more of the city.
Mala Strana
Consider a visit to Lennon Wall and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Mala Strana. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Malostranské Náměstí Stop or Hellichova Stop.
Reviewed on May 7, 2024
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Reviewed on May 7, 2024
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Popular places to visit
Old Town Square
This public space is as important to the people of Prague today as it was a thousand years ago.
Prague Castle
Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at this medieval fortified complex that is now the seat of the President of the Czech Republic and also houses the huge St. Vitus Cathedral.
Charles Bridge
This iconic structure with sculptures spans the Vltava River and connects the historic Lesser Town on the west bank with the Old Town on the east bank.
Prague Astronomical Clock
The hourly show put on by this early 15th-century masterpiece on the Old Town Hall is a must-see event that draws the crowds.
Wenceslas Square
Prague’s busiest boulevard is great for both shopping and nightlife and has a history as a gathering point for local uprisings and celebrations.
Dancing House
This modern building, which houses a bar and restaurant, stands out from Prague’s traditional cityscape.
Reviews of Prague
5/5 - Excellent
We live in Prague, and we love it.
5/5 - Excellent
The Corona virus shortened my ability to see everything I wanted, I will have to return
5/5 - Excellent
One of the most beautiful places we’ve visited.
5/5 - Excellent
The beautiful city has many museums and architectural monuments.
5/5 - Excellent
We loved Prague. It was our second time and it was really nice trip
5/5 - Excellent
It was our second visit. The city doesn’t disappoint ! Had a great Prague getaway !