Prague · 30 Places · Best May, June, September, October
Prague
Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and well-preserved Old Town that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The city straddles the Vltava River and boasts a rich history spanning over a thousand years, from Gothic cathedrals to Baroque palaces and Art Nouveau masterpieces. Prague offers an exceptional blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and nightlife that makes it one of Europe's most beloved destinations.
Prague, the Golden City, is one of Central Europe's most beautiful capitals, sitting along the banks of the Vltava River. The city's historic center is a treasure trove of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture, with the iconic Prague Castle complex dominating the skyline. Visitors come for the cobblestone streets, world-class museums, thriving arts scene, excellent Czech cuisine and beer, and legendary nightlife. Prague is highly accessible, compact enough to explore on foot, and offers exceptional value compared to other European capitals.
The 30 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
The largest ancient castle complex in the world by area, covering over 70,000 square meters. Prague Castle has been the seat of Czech rulers for over a millennium and today houses the President of the Czech Republic's official residence. The complex includes St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, the Golden Lane, Lobkowicz Palace, and many other historic buildings and gardens. The views from the castle over Prague's red rooftops and the Vltava River are among the most spectacular in Europe.
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
One of Europe's most famous medieval bridges, Charles Bridge was built by King Charles IV beginning in 1357 and completed in the early 15th century. The 516-meter long stone bridge is adorned with 30 Baroque statues of saints added between 1683 and 1714. It connects the Old Town with Malá Strana and offers magnificent views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River. The bridge is lined with artists, musicians, and vendors during the day and transforms into a romantic promenade at night.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
The heart of Prague's Old Town and one of Europe's most beautiful historic squares. The square is surrounded by magnificent buildings representing Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architectural styles. Key highlights include the famous Astronomical Clock (Orloj), the Gothic Church of Our Lady Before Týn, the Baroque St. Nicholas Church, and the Jan Hus Memorial. The square comes alive with markets at Christmas and Easter and hosts concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
The Prague Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is the world's oldest working astronomical clock and one of Prague's most iconic landmarks. Every hour, on the hour, the clock performs a mechanical procession with the Twelve Apostles appearing through windows while Death rings a bell. The clock displays astronomical information including the position of the sun and moon, the time of day, and the zodiac calendar.
Josefov Jewish Quarter
One of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, Josefov was the former ghetto of Prague's Jewish community. The quarter contains six historic synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Town Hall. The cemetery, one of the most poignant sites in Prague, contains approximately 12,000 gravestones layered over several centuries due to lack of burial space. The Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, and the Old New Synagogue are among Europe's most important Jewish heritage sites.
Vyšehrad
A historic fort perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Vltava River, Vyšehrad is one of Prague's most underrated gems. According to legend, it was the original seat of Czech rulers before Prague Castle. The complex contains the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, the famous Vyšehrad Cemetery where Czech luminaries including composers Dvořák and Smetana are buried, beautifully preserved Romanesque rotunda, and extensive fortification walls with spectacular views over the city.
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Prague Explorer
Day 1Arrive in Prague, explore city center
Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Prague
Days 1-2Prague city highlights
Days 3-4Regional exploration
Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Prague
Days 1-3Prague comprehensive city tour
Days 4-6Northern region exploration
Days 7-9Eastern highlights
Days 10-12Southern attractions
Days 13-14Return to Prague, departure
Where to stay in Prague
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $40
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $100
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $300+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Prague
110 00 Prague 1 · $$$$
One of Prague's most iconic luxury hotels, situated directly on the Vltava riverbank with unrivalled views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. The hotel occupies three historic buildings including a Baroque, Neo-Classical, and a modern wing. Features the acclaimed CottoCrudo restaurant, a luxurious spa, and impeccable service.
Set in a beautifully restored 14th-century Dominican monastery and adjacent Baroque church in Malá Strana, the Mandarin Oriental Prague is a masterpiece of heritage luxury. The hotel features a stunning spa in a former monastery chapel with original Baroque frescoes, an exceptional restaurant, and serene gardens.
The Augustine Hotel, a member of The Luxury Collection, occupies a cluster of seven historic buildings in Malá Strana including a 13th-century Augustinian monastery. The hotel has a distinctive character with Gothic vaulted ceilings, original frescos, and carefully preserved historical elements combined with contemporary luxury. The on-site spa and the monastery bar (serving beer brewed by Augustine monks) are highlights.
A unique boutique luxury hotel dedicated to music, the Aria Hotel is set in a former Baroque palace in Malá Strana. Each floor is themed around a musical genre (Classical, Opera, Jazz, Contemporary) and each room is dedicated to a specific musician. The hotel features a music library, regular concerts, a rooftop terrace garden with castle views, and is adjacent to the Vrtba Garden.
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise
Modern Czech · $$$$
La Degustation is Prague's most celebrated fine dining restaurant and holds a Michelin star. Chef Oldřich Sahajdák serves innovative tasting menus that reinterpret historical Czech cuisine through a modern lens, drawing on recipes from 19th-century Czech cookbooks. The restaurant offers 7 or 11-course tasting menus with optional wine pairings. Intimate setting with outstanding service.
Field Restaurant
Modern European · $$$$
Field holds a Michelin star and showcases the finest Czech and European ingredients in creative, beautifully presented dishes. The restaurant champions local producers and seasonal ingredients, with menus that change regularly to reflect what is freshest and best. The elegant, light-filled dining room and attentive service make for an exceptional dining experience.
Alcron Restaurant
Seafood / French · $$$$
Alcron is an intimate, award-winning restaurant in the Radisson Blu Alcron Hotel, famous for its exceptional seafood and French-inspired cuisine. The Art Deco dining room, seating only 40 guests, creates an exclusive atmosphere. The tasting menus feature the finest seasonal ingredients and the wine list is outstanding.
SaSaZu
Asian Fusion · $$$
SaSaZu is Prague's premier pan-Asian restaurant and one of the city's most celebrated dining destinations. Set in a dramatic converted warehouse in Holešovice, the restaurant serves sophisticated Asian fusion cuisine inspired by Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and China. The menu features fresh seafood and premium ingredients. The attached club is one of Prague's best nightlife venues.
Eska
Modern Czech · $$$
Eska is a celebrated bakery-restaurant in Karlín that has helped define Prague's modern dining scene. The restaurant occupies a beautifully converted historic bakery building, retaining the original industrial character. The menu focuses on wood-fired cooking, fermentation, and locally-sourced ingredients with Czech and Scandinavian influences. The in-house bakery produces exceptional breads and pastries.
Lokál
Czech · $$
Lokál is Prague's most beloved traditional Czech pub restaurant, always buzzing with a mix of locals and savvy visitors. The long, vaulted space on Dlouhá Street is famous for serving perfectly conditioned tankové (tank) Pilsner Urquell, considered among the best pints in the Czech Republic. The menu covers classic Czech pub food including svíčková, goulash, schnitzel, and excellent Czech snacks.
Prague has an excellent, integrated public transport network operated by DPP (Dopravní podnik hl. m. Prahy) covering metro, trams, and buses. A single ticket is valid across all modes of transport. The historic city center is very walkable, and many top attractions can be reached on foot. Prague is also well-served by Bolt and Uber rideshare apps.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in CZK, broken out by category.
Category
Budget
Mid-range
Luxury
Accommodation
$15
$60
$200
Food (per day)
$12
$25
$70
Transportation
$5
$8
$20
Activities
$8
$15
$40
Daily total
$40
$100
$300+
Best time to visit Prague
Weather through the year in Czech Republic
Best timeShoulderWorth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Czech Republic.
Essential travel tips
Buy a 3-day transit pass for unlimited travel on metro, trams and buses
Visit Prague Castle early morning to beat the crowds
Czech Republic uses the Czech Koruna, not the Euro
Many restaurants add a bread/appetizer charge automatically - you can decline
Tipping 10% is customary at sit-down restaurants
Hidden gems
Off-the-beaten-path corners most travellers miss.
Nusle Bridge Lookout
Stunning views over Nusle Valley rarely visited by tourists
Nusle, Prague 4
Divoká Šárka Nature Reserve
Wild nature reserve with swimming pond minutes from the city
Prague 6
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Resting place of Czech luminaries including Dvořák and Smetana
Vyšehrad
Safety information
INFO
Watch your belongings in crowded tourist areas
INFO
Use licensed taxis or Bolt/Uber apps
INFO
Avoid money changers on the street - use ATMs or banks
INFO
Be aware of overpriced restaurants near tourist sites
INFO
Keep copies of important documents
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Prague?
Entry requirements follow Czech Republic rules. EU citizens can enter freely; US, Canadian, Australian, and UK citizens can visit without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Prague?
The currency in Prague is the Czech Koruna (CZK). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Prague?
The main language(s) spoken in Prague: Czech. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
Explore Prague by city
The cities below have their own guides — hotels, attractions and where to eat, in depth.
