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.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Prague.
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1
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.
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip queues · The grounds are free to enter; fees apply for buildings · Night views from the castle are breathtaking
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2
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.
Tip: Visit at sunrise for stunning photos without crowds · Watch for pickpockets in busy periods · The Old Town Bridge Tower has great views from the top
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3
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.
Tip: Watch the Astronomical Clock chime at the top of each hour · Climb the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic views · Visit during Christmas markets for a magical atmosphere
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4
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.
Tip: The best view of the procession is from the square, not up close · Crowds gather 5-10 minutes before each hour
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5
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.
Tip: Buy a combined Jewish Museum ticket for best value · Visitors should dress modestly; head coverings available · Pařížská Street (luxury shopping) borders the quarter
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6
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.
Tip: Far fewer tourists than Prague Castle despite similar views · Combine with a walk along the Vltava riverbank · The summer concerts in the grounds are wonderful
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7
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Wenceslas Square is the main boulevard and commercial center of Prague, stretching 750 meters from the National Museum to Můstek metro station. Named after the patron saint of Bohemia, the square has been the site of many key historical events, including the 1989 Velvet Revolution when hundreds of thousands gathered to demand the end of Communist rule. Today it is lined with hotels, restaurants, cinemas, and shops, anchored at the top by the grand National Museum.
Tip: Look for the memorial to Jan Palach who self-immolated in protest of Soviet invasion · The square is actually a boulevard, not a traditional square · Be aware of pickpockets in the busy lower section
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8
Malá Strana (Lesser Town)
The Lesser Town (Malá Strana) is one of Prague's oldest and most picturesque districts, nestled between Charles Bridge and Prague Castle on the west bank of the Vltava. The neighborhood is filled with Baroque palaces, charming cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and beautiful churches. The Church of St. Nicholas with its dramatic dome is the district's most prominent landmark. Malá Strana is also home to many embassies, upscale restaurants, and atmospheric wine bars.
Tip: Explore the many hidden gardens and courtyards · Nerudova Street leads directly up to Prague Castle · Many beautiful baroque gardens are open only in summer
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9
National Museum (Národní muzeum)
The National Museum is the largest museum in the Czech Republic, housed in a magnificent Neo-Renaissance building at the top of Wenceslas Square. Founded in 1818, its collections cover natural history, archaeology, mineralogy, zoology, and Czech history. The recently renovated building itself is a masterpiece, with an ornate marble interior and grand staircase. The museum houses over 14 million items across its collections.
Tip: The building's interior is stunning even if collections don't interest you · Combined tickets with other national museums available · Free entry on the first Wednesday of each month
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10
Municipal House (Obecní dům)
Prague's most exuberant Art Nouveau building, the Municipal House was built between 1905 and 1912 and is considered the masterpiece of Czech Art Nouveau. The building houses Smetana Hall, Prague's premier concert venue, as well as several ornate halls decorated by the greatest Czech artists of the era including Alfons Mucha. The building also contains a café, restaurant, and wine bar with stunning original interiors.
Tip: Book a guided tour to see all the stunning interior rooms · Attend a concert in Smetana Hall for an unforgettable experience · The café downstairs has beautiful Art Nouveau decor and good cakes
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.