Are you visiting the Czech Republic and looking for things to do in Prague? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Prague is a city that sure knows how to impress. From the minute I got there I was taken aback by the beautiful Baroque architecture, the soft pastel-coloured facades, and the hundreds of domes and spires dominating the city’s skyline. The city is nothing short of breathtaking and this is also very true of the residential areas and neighbourhoods that are a bit further removed from the centre of town. For anyone planning a trip to the Czech capital, today I’ll be highlighting 50 things to do in Prague, Czech Republic:
Prague Travel Guide (Top 50): What to Do, See, Eat, Drink & Experience in Prague, Czechia
(1) Walk across Charles Bridge
Once known as the Stone Bridge, Charles Bridge is the most popular bridge in all of Prague. Until 1841, this was the only means of crossing the Vltava River and reaching Prague Castle from the Old Town. Today you’ll find musicians playing everything from classical pieces to blues, artists drawing unflattering caricatures, and vendors selling postcards and jewelry.
(2) Take a stroll around the Old Town Square
Prague’s Old Town Square is nothing short of beautiful! Picture Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings painted in cheerful colours, old cobbled streets, and cute little cafes serving up traditional Czech food. Like with most popular attractions, this place gets very crowded during the day – especially when the Astronomical Clock strikes the hour – however, if you come by early in the morning you’ll have this place all to yourself.
(3) Explore the Jewish Quarter
Prague’s Jewish Quarter, or Josefov, is located directly north of the Old Town Square. The area is home to many synagogues, many which date back to as early as the 16th century. Some of the synagogues have been converted into museums and memorials to the Holocaust victims, and you’ll also be able to find Europe’s oldest surviving Jewish cemetery in this neighbourhood.
(4) Wander down the Golden Lane
The Golden Lane gets its name because legend has it that Emperor Rudolf II had alchemists working along this road on his quest to find a way to turn metal into gold. That was enough to peek my interest! The cottages along this lane are painted in bright colours and you’ll most likely have to duck your head when you walk through the doorways. Today these former homes have been turned into souvenir shops and you can buy anything from handmade Czech puppets to literature by Frank Kafka who spent a few years writing on this lane.
(5) Test your deciphering skills at the Mind Maze
Prague’s Mind Maze was one of the highlights of my visit to the city and I can’t stop raving about it! If you grew up watching room escape games like “Fort Boyard”, or playing computer games like “Encarta’s MindMaze”, then you’ll love this! The premise behind this game is that you get locked in the Alchemist’s Chamber and you have 60 minutes to figure a way out. You’ll have to decipher riddles, open locks, and complete puzzles, which eventually lead to the Philosopher’s Stone and a way out.
(6) Spend a day exploring Prague Castle
Another one of the top things to do in Prague is to visit Prague Castle, seeing as it’s the largest castle complex in the entire world! It is made up of a series of palaces, courtyards, towers, halls, gardens, and lanes, and it also houses a chapel, basilica, and cathedral. In short, the place is massive and there is a lot to see! You could easily spend half a day wandering through the grounds and only see a fraction of it all.
(7) Admire the stained glass inside St. Vitus Cathedral
Located within the walls of Prague Castle, St. Vitus is a gothic cathedral that contains the tombs of many of the Bohemian Kings and Holy Roman Emperors. One of the most unique aspects of this cathedral is that some of the stained glass windows were designed in the Art Nouveau style by Alphonse Mucha. If you visit the cathedral at the right time of day, you’ll find that the light streaming in through the stained glass lights up the surrounding walls which are covered in tiny mosaics. It truly is a sight to behold.
(8) Pick up a roll of Trdelník
This sweet pastry may have mixed origins, but it’s still a favourite here in Prague. The hollow cylinder pastry is usually topped off with powdered sugar, but you can also get it with nutella inside. The perfect mid-afternoon snack!
(9) Enjoy an evening at Prague National Theatre
Opera, ballet, drama? You may go in for the performances, but you’ll also be dazzled by the building’s regal interior. Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling.
(10) Enjoy a sliver of nature at Jelení Příkop
This long strip of land used to act as a moat around the backside of Prague Castle, but today it’s a beautiful stretch of greenery where you can relax and enjoy some tranquility. Few visitors know about this place, so it’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll, a picnic, or even a little nap on the grass.
(11) Visit the KGB Museum
Prague’s KGB Museum is one of the quirkier museums in town. While the museum may be small, it is full of unique gadgets and it is run by a man who has lots of stories to share.
(12) Visit the library at the Strahov Monastery
It’s a steep walk to reach the Strahov Monastery which sits above Petrin Hill, however, the long walk will reward you with beautiful views of Prague’s persimmon coloured rooftops below. You can also visit the monastery’s library which includes over 16,000 texts and one of the oldest monastic collections in the whole country.
(13) Walk down Nový Svět
There is a little street not too far from Prague Castle, which is knows as Novy Svet (literally, New World). It’s a place where very few tourists venture, yet everything about this street oozes charm – the detailed doorhandles, the crooked walls, the worn cobbled streets. Novy Svet is worth the detour after a visit to the castle, and if you’re looking for a place to rest your weary feet, you can pop in to one of the cute little cafes and order yourself a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
(14) Listen to a concert at the National Museum
The National Museum may be closed for renovations, however, it’s still possible to admire the grand interior and velvet-carpeted staircases if you attend one of the concerts that take place in the evenings. Mozart, Bach, Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky – this is the place to go!
(15) Take a luxury car tour around the city
For a more upscale experience touring the city, you can hire a luxury vehicle to drive you around Prague. We saw some pretty swanky cars driving tourists as they sipped on Champagne. Prices start at 1200 Czech Korunas.
(16) Watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour
If you’re coming with great expectations, you may be underwhelmed, but nevertheless, seeing the Astronomical Clock is one of the top things to do in Prague. The clock was first installed in 1410, which makes it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still working! Every hour crowds gather with cameras in hand and watch the clock work its magic. A little skeleton rings a golden bell, the apostles make their appearance at the windows, and then a little golden rooster crows.
(17) Catch Sigmund Freud dangling from a beam
There’s a famous piece by David Cerny in Prague’s Old Town which is called Man Hanging Out. The 7 foot sculpture depicts Sigmund Freud, one of the best known psychoanalysts, hanging by one hand high above a street and pondering whether or not to let go. Freud suffered from several phobias including fear of his own death, which is what this particular piece alludes to.
(18) Drop by Kampa Island for a little visit
Kampa Island is an island located on the Vltava River and it is the starting point for many of the city’s boat cruises. There is also a nice park you can walk through. To reach the island you’ll want to take the staircase that veers off of Charles Bridge on the west bank.
(19) Check out the Lennon Wall
Another popular stop on this list of things to do in Prague, is the Lennon Wall. If you’re a Beatles fan, then you’ll want to swing by this wall which is covered in graffiti, song lyrics, and portraits of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. The wall is located on Velkopřevorské náměstí just slightly south of Charles Bridge. “All we are saying is give peace a chance.”
(20) Soak in Art Nouveau at the Mucha Museum
You can’t talk about Art Nouveau without mentioning Mucha’s name. The Czech painter was one of the leaders of this artistic movement which focused on natural forms, curved lines, and creating harmony with the natural environment. The Mucha Museum in Prague is dedicated to Mucha’s work and it displays over 100 paintings, drawings, lithographs, and pastels produced by the artist.
(21) Take a tour of the Klementinum
The Klementinum is a complex of buildings near the Old Town. You can sign up for tours of the Klementinum, which include access to the Baroque Library Hall, the Mirror Chapel, and the Astronomical Clock Tower. (You’ll have to immortalize the beauty of the library with your eyes because no photography is allowed!)
(22) Take a walk around Vyšehrad
Vyšehrad is an old historical fort located on the Eastern shores of the Vltava River and it dates back to the 10th century. While little remains of Prague’s ‘other’ castle which once stood here, you can still visit the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, the Vyšehrad Cemetery, and the Rotunda of St. Martin which is the oldest of three Romanesque round churches found in Prague (pictured above).
(23) Feed the swans on the banks of the Vltava River
For a chance to feed swans, head over to the Western banks of the Vltava River, right by the Franz Kafka Museum. There is a nice little area where the swans like to gather and families come to feed them breadcrumbs.
(24) Drop by “Farmer’s Market Jirak” on a Saturday
If you’re up early on a Saturday morning, it’s worth swinging by this little farmer’s market. You’ll be able to find anything from freshly baked cakes to organic honey, and I also recommend you pick yourself up a tasty Balkan burger with mustard – delicious!
(25) Wander through the Vyšehrad Cemetery
Much like Buenos Aires‘ La Recoleta or Montreal’s Mount Royal, this particular cemetery is one filled with mausoleums and sculptures that pay homage to artists, composers, politicians, and great thinkers who lived many centuries ago. This is the final resting place for many famous Czechs, including Alphonse Mucha who was one of the leaders of the Art Nouveau movement.
(26) Check out the Museum of Communism
The Museum of Communism takes a look at the post–World War 2 Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. Much of the museum’s collection is made up of items that were picked up at flea markets and sales around Prague and the surrounding area. Expect lots of sculptures and posters heavy on propaganda.
(27) Enjoy the art of puppetry
You don’t have to be in Prague very long to notice that marionettes play an important role in the city. Puppetry has been a favourite form of entertainment for hundreds of years, and if you go for a walk around town, you’ll inevitably come across souvenir shops selling puppets, puppeteer workshops where the marionettes are hand-made, and even puppet theatres.
(28) Stroll past the Dancing House
Nicknamed Fred and Ginger, the Dancing House is a cool building that was designed in the Deconstructivist style. There was quite a bit of controversy when this building was first built because it doesn’t exactly blend in with the Baroque and Art Nouveau style that dominates the streets of Prague, however, I think it’s a nice addition to the city. The building is located on eastern banks of Jiráskův Bridge.
(29) Take a scenic river cruise
For a leisurely way to spend the afternoon, you can consider taking a cruise down the Vltava River. There are many options available from 1 hour journeys to longer outings which include dinner and live music.
(30) Climb up to Petrin Hill
Petrin is a hill on the left bank of the Vltava River and it offers great views of the city. It’s a very pleasant walk if you decided to climb on foot, and there are also plenty of benches for you to rest along the way. Alternatively, you can take the funicular up the hill and save your legs for the walk down.
(31) Drink a Pilsner
The Pilsner is a type of pale lager that gets its name from the city of Plzeň in the Czech Republic. You’ll find it being served in pubs and restaurants all over Prague, and considering it’s cheaper than water, you may want to order yourself a pint.
(32) Visit the Church of Our Lady in front of Týn
This church is located in Prague’s Old Town and it has been the city’s main church since the 14th century. It also holds the oldest pipe organ in Prague.
(33) See the Infant Jesus of Prague
This wooden statue dates back to the 16th century and it is popular with faithful followers as it is believed to hold miraculous powers. You’ll find the statue inside the Church of our Lady Victorious.
(34) Visit the Frank Kafka Museum
Franz Kafka was a German language writer who was born in Prague. You’ll find a museum dedicated to him and his works on the left bank of the Vltava River just north of Charles Bridge. The museum contains first edition volumes of his works, as well as letters, manuscripts and drawings. In the museum’s courtyard you’ll spot a giant K for Kafka next to an odd sculpture entitled Piss by David Cerny… I can’t figure out what significance the sculpture bears to Kafka’s works, but it’s certainly memorable.
(35) Go for a walk around Mala Strana
Mala Strana, also known as the Lesser Quarter, is one of the most historic districts in Prague. The area is dominated by beautiful Baroque architecture.
(36) Experience the city at night
Prague looks completely different when the sun goes down and the lights come on. The crowds disperse and a certain magic hangs over the streets. Go for a stroll across Charles Bridge and enjoy the view of the castle all lit up in the distance.
(37) Drink Absinthe
Ah, Absinthe! The Green Fairy, the Green Muse, the Green Goddess – she has so many nicknames. This drink may have originated in Switzerland and grown in popularity among artists in Paris, but it still plays a big role here in Prague. You’ll find little bottles of the anise flavoured alcohol sold all over the city, and it’s one of those things that you just have to try.
(38) Admire cubist architecture
The House of Black Madonna is a cubist building located in Prague’s Old Town. It also houses the Czech Museum of Cubism.
(39) Look up inside Prague’s train station
Prague’s main train station Praha Hlavni Nadrazi was designed in the Art Nouveau style. If you happen to arrive by train, walk in through the main doors and have a look at the dome and ornate windows and arches.
(40) Blink twice at the Zizkov TV Tower
Prague’s TV Tower is already quite a unique structure to look at as it consists of 3 columns with 9 futuristic looking pods. But that’s not all; you’ll also find babies crawling up and down the tower! This was another piece by artist David Cerny. The installation went up in 2000 and at the time it was supposed to be a temporary piece, however, people enjoyed it so much that the babies became a permanent fixture.
(41) Visit Galerie Rudolfinum
Galerie Rudolfinum is a space that features contemporary art ranging from visual art exhibitions to musical performances. The gallery will be closed over the summer of 2014 as it undergoes some renovations, however, it’s scheduled exhibitions will resume after that.
(42) Hop on a segway
Segway tours are quite popular in Prague and you’ll find people zipping around the Old Town or even heading uphill towards the Strahov Monastery on these. If you decide to hop on a Segway, you will get teamed up with an experienced guide who will share his insights about the city.
(43) Enjoy some traditional Czech food
If you’re looking for a hearty meal to fill you up after a long day of sightseeing, then look no further than a traditional Czech restaurant! One of the most popular items you’ll find on the menu is goulash. Yes, goulash may be Hungarian, but the Czechs have come up with their own twist on the dish. Czech goulash is all about the meat – no vegetables, no potatoes – and it is served with slices of steamed bread which are known as dumplings. Yum and yum!
(44) Go clubbing at Klub Karlovy Lazne
This club holds the distinction of being the largest club in Central Europe and it has 5 different floors which play different music genres. (They age policy used to be 16+, but they recently changed it to 18+ which will hopefully help appeal to a more mature crowd.)
(45) Get yourself some souvenirs
Puppets, Art Nouveau posters, small bottles of absinthe, colourful tin cups – there are lots of cool things you can pick up for your friends and family back home.
(46) Watch the changing of the guard
When you visit Prague Castle, you can also use this as an opportunity to watch the changing of the guard. The fanfare and flag ceremony takes place at 12.00 noon in the First Courtyard, or alternatively, you can watch the changing of the guard at the castle gates which happens on the hour from 7.00 to 20.00 in the summer and 7.00 to 18.00 in the winter.
(47) Climb the steps of Petrin Lookout Tower
This tower slightly resembles the Eiffel Tower in Paris, though at 63.5 meters it is actually much shorter. It’s 299 steps to reach the top.
(48) Check out the Brownnosers
Who could be behind these sculptures if not David Cerny? This permanent installation is located at the Futura Gallery and it depicts two giant statues leaning forward with giant ladders leading up to their rear ends. Visitors can climb up these ladders and peer in to watch a video of Czech President Vaclav Klaus and the head of the National Gallery Milan Knizak spoon-feed each other. Clearly Cerny is not one to shy away from political commentary.
(49) Enjoy the humour behind some of the city’s street art
Prague is full of unique art projects, and if you know a little German you’ll get the joke behind this twist on the ‘Champs Élysées’.
(50) Watch the skateboarders practice at Letná Park
This park used to be home to a giant monument of Stalin which was destroyed in the 60s, and has since been replaced with a giant metronome. The area is a popular meeting point with skaters looking to test out their new tricks.
Where to stay in Prague
Prague has a variety of accommodations to fit every budget, ranging from hostels to B&Bs and hotels. Here’s a selection of properties in some of the best neighbourhoods for travellers.
Stare Mesto (Old Town)
Luxury: Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Hotel Kings Court, Buddha Bar Hotel Prague
Midrange: Hotel Golden Crown, Apartments Happy Prague, Wenceslas Square Terraces
Hostels: Hostel One Home, Ahoy Hostel, Hostel Downtown Prague
Vinohrady
Luxury: Le Palais Art Hotel Prague
Midrange: Boutique Hotel Seven Days, Miss Sophie’s, Eurostars Thalia
Hostels: Czech Inn Hostel, Pension & Hostel Artharmony
Mala Strana
Luxury: Augustine a Luxury Collection Hotel Prague, Golden Well U Zlate Studne
Midrange: Residence U Cerneho Orla, Hotel The Golden Wheel, Archibald At The Charles Bridge Hotel Prague
Hostels: Charles Bridge Economic Hostel
Another option is AirBnB, where you can find entire homes and apartments for $25-60 per night, and much lower if you’re just looking for a private room in someone’s home. We opted for a studio apartment on our visit. If it’s your first time using AirBnB, you can use my $40 discount here .
And lastly, if you’re looking for a closer look at the city, here’s a video Sam and I made during our 1-week stay in Prague:
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Practical Prague Planner: Smart Routes, Savvy Costs, Sweet Eats & Stress-Free Days
Getting Around Without the Hassle
Metro, Trams & Your Feet
Prague is gloriously walkable, but cobbles + hills will humble even the best shoes. Mix walking with a tram or two and you’ll cruise.
- Metro: 3 lines (A/green, B/yellow, C/red). Fast for longer hops—Old Town ↔ Vinohrady ↔ Castle area (via Malostranská).
- Trams: Scenic, frequent, perfect for river crossings and short uphill assists (hello, #22 to the castle).
- Tickets: Time-based (e.g., 30/90 minutes, 24h/72h). Validate once; then hop as you please within the window.
- Night trams: Run when you’ve lost track of time along the Vltava and music is too good to leave.
Quick route cheats:
- Old Town → Castle: Walk across Charles Bridge + climb, or tram #22 to Pražský hrad.
- Old Town → Vyšehrad: Metro C to Vyšehrad, walk through the park and ramparts.
- Old Town → Letná Park (Metronome): Tram to Čechův most, cross the bridge, send calves up those stairs for the view.
Where to Stay (By Vibe, Not Just by Map)
You already have great hotel ideas; here’s how to pick a neighbourhood that matches your style:
| Area | Why You’ll Love It | Who It Suits | Tiny Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staré Město (Old Town) | Postcard streets, quick hits to Square & Clock | First-timers, short stays | Busy, pricier, tourist menus |
| Malá Strana (Lesser Town) | Baroque beauty, castle-side charm | Couples, photographers | Hills + steps, quieter nights |
| Vinohrady | Leafy, cafés, brunch, local markets | Foodies, longer stays | 20–30 min walk to Old Town |
| Žižkov / Karlín | Creative, budget-friendlier, great beer halls | Backpackers, creatives | Less “pretty”; you’ll tram a bit |
| Letná / Holešovice | Parks, galleries, skyline views | Runners, museum lovers | Fewer late-night options |
Plan Like a Local: Easy Mini-Itineraries
Day 1: The Classics Without the Crowds
- Early: Charles Bridge at sunrise → Old Town Square before the hourly clock crush.
- Late morning: Josefov (Jewish Quarter) museums + cemetery.
- Lunch: Hearty Czech plate or open-face chlebíčky.
- Afternoon: Klementinum tour (library swoon) or Strahov Monastery library + beer.
- Golden hour: Castle gardens + St. Vitus light show through stained glass.
- Night: Watch the city glow from the riverbank; dessert = trdelník twist if you must, or a proper cake slice in a café.
Day 2: Hills, Parks & Oddities
- Morning: Petrín Hill (funicular up, walk down) + Mirror Maze for giggles.
- Midday: Malá Strana lanes → Lennon Wall → Kampa Island.
- Afternoon: Kafka Museum courtyard (spot that sculpture) → riverside swan stop.
- Sunset: Letná Metronome overlook or Vyšehrad ramparts.
- Evening: National Theatre performance or a jazz boat cruise.
Day 3: Museums & Quirks
- Morning: Museum of Communism → Wenceslas Square context walk.
- Lunch: Market stall eats (weekend farmers’ markets) or bistro day menu.
- Afternoon: DOX/modern art in Holešovice or Mucha Museum.
- Bonus: Dancing House photo stop + rooftop lookout for sunset.
Prague Passes vs. DIY Tickets (What Actually Saves Money)
| Option | What You Get | Best For | Watch Outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prague Visitor Pass / similar city passes | Castle circuit, select museums, transit included | First-timers doing 5–7 paid sights + transit daily | Only worth it if you use the big-ticket entries |
| Transit day pass (24h/72h) | Unlimited metro/tram/bus/funicular | Park-hoppers, far-flung museums | Doesn’t include most museum entries |
| DIY single tickets | Pay as you go | Walkers focusing on a few key sights | Validate times; fines are real |
| Targeted combo tickets (e.g., Castle circuits) | Bundled castle buildings | History/design lovers | You still climb/queue—arrive early |
Easy Eats Between Sights
Classic Czech Comforts
- Svíčková na smetaně: Beef sirloin, silky root veg cream sauce, cranberry, dumplings.
- Vepřo knedlo zelo: Roast pork + dumplings + sauerkraut trifecta.
- Guláš: Czech style—meat-forward, gravy-rich, dumplings ride shotgun.
- Bramboráky: Crispy potato pancakes, garlicky and perfect with a beer.
Lighter Bites & Sweets
- Chlebíčky: Open-face sandwiches, mayo art included.
- Koláče: Fruit or curd cheese pastries for your tram snack.
- Medovník: Honey cake layers (order coffee, take a long look at life choices).
Drinks Cheat Sheet
- Pilsner / Světlý Ležák: “Beer cheaper than water” is practically a love language.
- Kofola: Nostalgic cola with herbal vibes.
- Becherovka / Slivovice: Herb liqueur / plum brandy—sip, don’t shoot (okay, maybe shoot once).
Photo Spots (And When to Be There)
- Charles Bridge: Sunrise silhouettes (and no selfie sticks).
- Old Town Square: Early morning pastel facades.
- Castle South Gardens: Golden hour line-up of domes/spires.
- Letná Park: Best wide skyline of Old Town + bridges.
- Vyšehrad: Gothic romanticism + sunset over the river curves.
- Kampa / swan beach: Dreamy reflections + castle backdrop.
Day Trips That Pair Perfectly with Prague
- Kutná Hora: Bone Church (Sedlec Ossuary) + St. Barbara’s; go for the gothic, stay for quiet lanes.
- Karlštejn Castle: Fairy-tale day out; an easy train and walk.
- Terezín: Sobering history and essential context; plan for a full day.
- Plzeň: Pilsner Urquell brewery pilgrims, this is your Mecca.
Budget Snapshot (Per Person / Per Day)
| Style | Sleep | Food & Drink | Sights | Transit | Total (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | Hostel bed | Street eats + 1 sit-down | 1–2 paid entries | 1–2 tram rides | €35–€55 |
| Mid-Range | Boutique / apartment | Café breakfast, bistro lunch, classic dinner | 2–3 paid entries or pass | 24h transit pass | €80–€140 |
| Splash | Design/luxury | Tasting menus + shows | City pass + extras | Taxi + transit | €180–€300+ |
(Season swings prices; holidays = book early.)
Pre-Trip & Daily Checklists
Before You Go
- Book castle/major museum entry times if offered (fewer lines).
- Reserve National Theatre or concert seats (the interiors are half the show).
- Screenshot tram/metro maps + save offline Google Maps.
- Pack good tread shoes (cobbles laugh at ballet flats).
- Bring a reusable bottle; refill at cafés or your hotel.
Each Morning
- Check opening hours (some museums close Mondays).
- Slot the most popular site right at opening time.
- Build a midday park/café break; Prague rewards lingering.
- Carry cash + card; small coins are handy for toilets/tips.
Prague Trip FAQ (12 Quick Answers You’ll Actually Use)
How early should I go to Charles Bridge to beat the crowds?
Aim for sunrise to 8 a.m. You’ll share it with photographers, joggers, and the odd sax player—but not the tour buses.
Do I need to prebook Prague Castle?
Not strictly, but in high season, prebooking a circuit ticket/time slot and arriving before 10 a.m. saves your patience (and your shade-hunting energy).
Is the Astronomical Clock show worth waiting for?
It’s charming and historic, not pyrotechnic. If you happen to be there at the hour—watch! If you’d be elbowing through a crush, enjoy it later from a café table.
Can I see the best of Prague in two days?
Yes—Old Town + Castle + one hill park on Day 1, Malá Strana + Petrín/Letná + a museum or theatre on Day 2. Add a river cruise if your feet beg mercy.
What’s the easiest way to get to the castle without the big climb?
Take tram #22 to Pražský hrad or Pohořelec and walk down through the complex and gardens—gravity is your friend.
Where can I find good, non-touristy Czech food?
Stray 2–3 streets off the main squares; look for short lunch menus (polední menu) and locals inside. Vinohrady and Karlín are dependable for hearty, honest plates.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Yes. Prague’s tap water is safe. Refill your bottle at your hotel/apartment; ask in cafés if you’re unsure.
Should I get a city pass or buy tickets as I go?
If you plan multiple paid sights + daily transit, a pass can win. If you’ll wander + pick 2–3 paid entries, buy à la carte and grab a 24h/72h transit pass only on heavy travel days.
What’s a fair tip in restaurants?
Roughly 10% for good service. You can say “Poprosím přidat [amount] korun” when the bill arrives to add it before they run the card, or leave cash on the table.
Are trams safe at night?
Yes, generally. Keep bags zipped, avoid empty carriages if it feels off, and use official stops. Night lines are lifelines after concerts and long dinners.
Which day trip should I pick if I only have one?
Kutná Hora—the bone church + St. Barbara’s + medieval lanes make a varied, easy day that still gets you back for dinner in Prague.
What should I wear inside churches and the National Theatre?
Smart casual is perfect. Modest attire in churches (shoulders and knees covered is respectful), and bring a light layer—stone can be cool even in summer.
Wow! 50 awesome things to do in Prague! This is an amazing list, Audrey! The reason why I am so happy to read this because Prague is one city that has fascinated me in the recent times. I love its architectural beauty and the way you have presented it, I can’t wait to visit it!
Glad to hear it provided some travel inspiration, Renuka. 🙂
AWESOME list, Audrey! There really is so much to do in Prague. I only just scratched the surface when I was there for 3 days last summer!
For a small city it sure has a lot to offer! I had over a week there and I still left feeling there was so much more to see.
So weird, doing some last minute photo editing on my Prague photos and about to post it! Prague is a wonderland, I want to come back!
Nice! I hope you also enjoyed your time in the city. 🙂
I’ve always wanted to go to Prague, for so many of the reasons you’ve listed, but a Mind Maze!!?? That is amazing!! I will for sure be trying that when I go!!
great ideas! I was only 20 when I went so absinthe and clubbing were my main goals lol, but I def need to go back and try out more!
Haha, that’s understandable. Did you visit the mega-club that has 5 floors?!
This all sounds good, except for the absinthe.
Praha – an amazing city. You just brought back fab memories for me… coffee houses, pubs and dumplings galore! Thanks Audrey.
Nice post Audrey – can I be pedantic and add in the sex machines museum as number 51, really interesting museum and one that I have yet to see in another city on my travels. Worth a look. Jonny
Prague is indeed very special. Looks like you guys had gorgeous weather when you were there, which makes all the difference!
We did get a couple of rainy days, but we just turned those into museum days. 🙂
Prague has always enticed me with its medieval beauty and well-preserved charm. I’ll be hoping to get there this next year when I’m living in Spain. Thanks for the great list of things to do there!
I have visited Prague many times and that was my first travel destination when I was a little girl. Amazing and wonderful city, full of traditions and history. I often go for a walk across the Charles Bridge and dig into trdelnik. Have you tried it? So sugary, but extremely delicious!
We loved Mala Strana and Novy Svet! Wonderful list! Will tweet! 😉
Audrey! What a great list. There’s still quite a few I’ll have to do. I really like the idea of solving the cyphers as well.
Amazing guide Audrey! Just what I needed since I’ll be headed to Prague sometime this week before my friend’s wedding. Cannot wait to do some of these. Probably most excited to see the castle but there are heaps of other nifty things on here. Rock on, thanks!
…This list was EXACTLY what I needed–it’s me and my aunt’s goal to go to Praha together this winter, so it’s nice to have someone’s definitive, go-to type list!!…
Wow that’s a lot to see and do! I spent 3 days there and thought I saw quite a bit but now, maybe I really do need to get back there.
Some fab ideas in here. You must have spent quite some time there
Greta list! I used to live in Prague and it’s my favorite place in the world 🙂 Keep trying to spread the word about how amazing this city is!
Beautiful pictures Audrey, especially love the color in the Jewish Quarter pic.
Prague is such a gorgeous city and we just didn’t get enough time there (is there ever enough time anywhere?). In the Old Town Square one night there was a bunch of people grilling meat with big vats of potatoes and onion simmering over open grills. It wasn’t very crowded, so I’m not sure if it’s a every day thing, but it was one of the highlights of our trip!
Fantastic list Audrey. I havn’t been to Prague but this list as well as the video has definitely moved this city up the priority list. Thanks for putting this together 🙂
Great tips! I had no idea there was a Kafka museum in Prague. Would love to visit. Not so sure about a trip to Karlovy Lazne club though… I don’t generally put much stock in TripAdvisor reviews, but the ones detailing violence from bouncers at Karlovy against young/naive/female backpackers are horrific.
This is a pretty cool list! I didn’t know that you could do this much on Prague. I would really like to go there and experience your list first hand.
Great article, I did many of these things when I visited Prague and had forgotten about Golden Lane which was very interesting and quaint. Also enjoyed the cheap lager and some great food.
Wow… What a great list!!! This is great for my weeklong visit to Prague this summer. And I want to do that mind maze soooo badly!!
I’m glad to hear this list will come in handy, Anna! Wishing you a wonderful time in Prague! The maze is a lot of fun, just be sure to sign up a couple of weeks in advance as slots can fill up quickly – especially in the summertime when there are more visitors in the city. Enjoy! 🙂
So glad I saw this–I just love this list! I agree with so many things, but especially the green area behind Prague Castle (which almost no one knows about), Novy Svet (one of my favorite areas of Prague–I used to go there and walk around back in 1996!), Strahov Monastery, and spending a whole day at the Castle. You really make me want to go back there NOW. 🙂
Thanks Jenna! I remember reading that you lived in Prague so I perused your blog for a few ideas of places to check out during my visit. 😉 The area directly behind the castle was such a great find – especially that park! I only ended up there because I saw a little gate was open and curiosity led the way…
Great list of things in Prague, a truly beautiful city. I really like Czech food and beer as well. They make a nice combination.
I really enjoyed Czech food too. The meals were so hearty and filling. 🙂
My daughter said there are only two things to eat, one of them being meat and the other potatoes. She managed to stay vegetarian. (Which was her idea, as everything has been from about the age of 5; that girl thinks for herself).
Definitely clipping this page! So many things to do in Prague 🙂 Great list!
Nice job with your post! My younger daughter was fortunate enough to spend the past spring semester as an exchange student in Prague at the Czech Technical Institute. She loved it and spent every spare minute barnstorming around Europe. She will remember it for the rest of her life. The price was not cheap for me but kids are never cheap, are they? All they do is give our life meaning. Everything else, even the person we love, pales in comparison.
Thanks so much for this Audrey, I’m in the midst of planning our 5 day stop in Prague and this has given me loads of ideas. I’m glad we will be able to catch the market before heading onto Bratislava! Well I will need a snack or two for the train!
Great list! I live in Prague and I’ve never even been on so many places haha. But I would love to recomend some more 🙂 When you are tired of walking, it’s nice to sit on Náplavka. It’s a place where young people meet and drink a beer or read a book or just meet with friends. It’s along the river under the Palackého most (close to Dancing house/Tančící dům) and it’s on Karlovo namesti subway/metro station or at Palackého náměstí train station 🙂 Other great stuff is to buy a drink, rent little boat (we call it šlapadlo) and just relax on Vltava river.
And also if you want to buy absinth, just go to local shop, because the shops in a city centre are too expansive.
Hi Lucie, im planning to travel around prague next year..can i have ur website or facebook?
Great post Audrey,
Prague is my next planned trip, after Portugal and Denmark, and I love your list of things to do. Trouble is, I’ll only have a weekend, so I hope I can see enough in that time span.
It looks like a great city. Thanks for sharing.
That is a tight schedule 🙂
We love your list! So many great ideas and mix of classic, touristy and local activities.
If we may we would add renting a little boat to explore the river on your own and ride the tram 22 from Náměstí Míru to Pohořelec (upper entrance to the Prague Castle) – just beware of pickpockets there:)
And do not forget to visit cool shop with clock and watches. More like a museum of old timekeepers! It is in Old Town in Jewish part of city in Maiselova st. 16. I bought nice pocket watches for my wife.
This is so great. Thank you for this! I’ll be there in a couple of months and I’m glad to finally see a list without the same ol’ shit on it. Thanks for some new ideas!
What a great list! We just arrived in Prague today, and we’ll be sure to check many of these things out. Thanks for putting this together!
If you visit Prague it’s worth exploring the local historical architecture.
For me walking through the streets of historical Prague, is like walking through a gallery of all major European architectural styles, spanning a thousand years of architectural history in enchanting colors and shapes and, it is interesting to discover how these splendid buildings shaped the history of the Czech Republic and in contrast, how history shaped the designs of many of these buildings and what they came to symbolize in a historical context.
In the historical centre of Prague you can walk past the Municipal House, the Art Nouveau jewel of Prague, that is covered in floral motives, gilded wroth iron curved around beautifully shaded stain glass.
And continue through the Gothic and neo-Gothic style powder tower going to the Celetna street, covered with Baroque palaces with Gothic interiors and Renaissance courts yards. On the way you encounter the unique Cubist house at the Black Madonna with its straight angular lines, then continues on to the medieval Ungelt compound with its Renaissance palace , past the heavily Baroque St, James Church and into the Old town Square with its legendary Astronomical clock. Which is followed by the Art Nouveau Jewish Quarters with its ancient synagogues.
My favourite city, been there eight times and this July.
Stay at the newly renovated ARIA hotel and enjoy dinner at the panoramic Terrace restaurant. Visit the Ernest Hemingway bar and try the cocktails by the mixologist.
Hemingway never visited Prague.
Last Year I visited the Czech Republic with my office mates but due to lack of time, we couldn’t visit prague and other main attractions so we are going again there next week now we will definitely visit these mentioned places in this city thanks for the post!
Great advice, some sight I didn’t visit yet. So I have something new to discover! 🙂