The Iconic Trio: Castle, Bridge, and Square

No trip is complete without seeing the city's three most famous landmarks. Start your journey at the massive castle complex on the hill. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest ancient castle in the world. You can easily spend half a day exploring its courtyards and cathedrals.

St. Vitus Cathedral sits at the center of the grounds. Its gothic spires dominate the city skyline. You should buy a circuit ticket to see the Golden Lane and royal palaces. Check out our guide to the Prague Castle complex attractions for specific ticket prices.

Next, walk down towards the river to find the famous stone bridge. Charles Bridge connects the castle district with the Old Town. It features 30 Baroque statues lining the pedestrian path. Learn more about the Charles Bridge and Lesser Town towers before you go.

Cross the river to reach the bustling market square. This has been the city's main marketplace since the 12th century. Crowds gather here every hour to watch a mechanical marvel. Read about how to see the Prague Astronomical Clock strike to time your visit perfectly.

The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and historic churches. Street performers and food stalls fill the open space daily. In winter, this area hosts one of Europe's best Christmas markets. It is truly the heart of the city.

Historic Sites in the Jewish Quarter

The Josefov district is located just north of the Old Town. This area preserves a significant part of Prague's history. It remains one of the most valuable Jewish monuments in Europe. Many buildings here survived the 20th century intact.

You can purchase a Jewish Museum ticket to access multiple sites. This includes entry to several historic synagogues and the ceremonial hall. The Spanish Synagogue is famous for its stunning Moorish interior design. It also hosts classical music concerts in the evenings.

The Old Jewish Cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful site. Thousands of tombstones are layered on top of each other. The oldest grave dates back to the early 15th century. It is a quiet place for reflection amidst the city noise.

This district offers a deep dive into centuries of heritage. Walking tours are available for those wanting detailed stories. See our guide on monuments of the Jewish Quarter in Prague for a full itinerary. It is a must-vizit area for history buffs.

Best Views and Observation Towers

Prague is often called the "City of a Hundred Spires." Seeing the red rooftops from above is an essential experience. Several towers open their doors to the public for a small fee. The views are spectacular in every season.

The Old Town Hall Tower offers the most central view. You can see the entire square directly below your feet. An elevator makes this tower accessible for everyone. It is unmatched for photos of the Tyn Church.

For a higher vantage point, head to Petřín Hill. The Petřín Lookout Tower resembles a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower. It sits within a large park perfect for afternoon walks. Discover more observation towers and best views in Prague for 2026.

Letná Park offers famous views of the bridges. You can see several bridges lining up along the Vltava River. It is a popular spot for sunset picnics. Local skaters and artists often hang out near the metronome.

Art, Culture, and Monastic Libraries

The city is a treasure trove for culture lovers. Beautiful libraries and world-class museums wait to be explored. These indoor activities are perfect for rainy days or quiet afternoons. The architecture often rivals the exhibits themselves.

Strahov Monastery houses one of the world's most beautiful libraries. The Theological and Philosophical Halls feature stunning ceiling frescoes. Visitors can view the halls from the entryway to preserve them. Plan ahead with our Strahov Monastery and library visiting guide.

Museum lovers should visit the National Museum at Wenceslas Square. The building recently underwent a major renovation. It houses millions of items from natural history to music. You can check current exhibitions at the National Museum website.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Kampa Museum in Lesser Town. It focuses on modern central European art. For classical works, the National Gallery has several locations. Each venue offers a unique perspective on Czech culture.

Hidden Gems and Green Spaces

Sometimes you need to escape the heavy tourist crowds. Prague has plenty of quieter spots full of charm. These locations offer a more authentic local experience. They are often just a short tram ride away.

Vyšehrad is a historic fortress south of the center. It commands great views of the river without the crowds. The distinctive twin spires of the Peter and Paul Basilica are visible from afar. Read about the Vyšehrad fortress and national cemetery.

The city is surprisingly green during spring and summer. Franciscans Garden provides a rose-filled hideaway near Wenceslas Square. Wallenstein Garden features free roaming peacocks and artificial caves. Learn about other scenic parks and gardens in Prague.

Finally, look for quirky art installations across town. Artist David Černý has statues hidden in unexpected places. You might find giant crawling babies or hanging figures. These add a touch of humor to the historic streets.

If you prefer unusual history, visit a nuclear bunker. Some hotels have Cold War shelters deep underground. You can easily find offbeat and hidden gems in Prague if you look.