Put Prague Castle at the top of your list of top things to do in Prague. Towering over the city and the winding Vltava River, Pražský hrad, or Prague Castle, is impossible to miss. Its majesty is equalled only by its size: this is the biggest ancient castle in the world, with palaces, art galleries, churches and gardens in its grounds. An excellent audioguide helps navigate you inside and around the castle.
Take a stroll across the Charles Bridge
In the mood for exploring Prague by foot? Walking the Charles Bridge is one of the best things to do in Prague. Set off from Prague Castle towards Charles Bridge, which connects Mala Strana (Little Quarter) to Stare Mesto (Old Town). Go in the early morning when crowds are thinnest, and bring your camera for the imposing Gothic bridge tower and the stern faces of the 30 statues that line the balustrade.
Historical gems: Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock
Time your arrival in the teeming Old Town Square to about 15 minutes before the hour strikes: just enough time to grab a prime spot to watch the mechanical figures of the famous Prague Astronomical Clock. Created in 1410, it was considered a wonder of the medieval world and is still one of the best things to see in Prague six centuries later. After viewing the Prague Astronomical Clock, take a tour inside the Old Town Hall and witness spectacular views of St Nicholas Church.
Admire the High Baroque interior of St Nicholas Church, then get lost in the historic lanes around the square. Peruse one of Old Town’s authentic marionette shops, where local artisans craft charming souvenirs, and enjoy a coffee in a literární kavárna (literary cafe).
Visit Wenceslas Square
The Bohemian king Charles IV created Wenceslas Square around 1348 to mark the founding of Nove Mesto, or New Town. It’s been an epicentre of Prague history and culture ever since, from the protests of 1968’s Prague Spring to 1989’s Velvet Revolution. Definitely one of the things to see in Prague and explore – as today, Wenceslas Square is home to excellent theatres, arthouse cinemas, sidewalk cafes and shops. Come late at night you’ll find stands serving smažený sýr — breaded and fried cheese — a delicious post-nightlife treat and something to experience.
Read more about things to see in Prague here.