Introduction
Prague, known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires,’ offers an enchanting blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, along with vibrant cultural sites. This guide provides everything you need to explore Prague’s top 20 attractions, including historical insights, travel tips, and nearby dining recommendations. Whether you’re here for history, scenic views, or traditional Czech cuisine, Prague has something for everyone!

1. Prague Castle

Description: One of the world’s largest ancient castles, Prague Castle houses St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and beautiful gardens.
History: Established in the 9th century, the castle has been a center of power for centuries, serving as the residence of Czech kings and presidents.
Google Maps Link: Prague Castle Location
Official Website: Prague Castle Site
Tickets: Starts at 250 CZK (€10); purchase at the castle or online.
Nearby Restaurants: *U Zlaté Hrušky* (famous for traditional Czech dishes like svíčková).
Additional Tips: Arrive early to explore with fewer crowds; allocate at least 3 hours for the entire complex.

2. Charles Bridge

Description: This iconic 14th-century Gothic bridge spans the Vltava River and is adorned with 30 statues.
History: Commissioned by Charles IV in 1357, the bridge connects Old Town and Lesser Town and has become a symbol of Prague.
Google Maps Link: Charles Bridge Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Mlynec Restaurant* (known for its modern twist on traditional Czech cuisine).
Additional Tips: Visit at sunrise or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene views.

3. Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

Description: The bustling heart of Prague, featuring the medieval Astronomical Clock that performs an hourly show.
History: The Old Town Square dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Old Town Hall.
Google Maps Link: Old Town Square Location
Nearby Restaurants: *U Prince Restaurant* (offers Czech classics like goulash and roast duck).
Additional Tips: Plan to arrive before the hour to catch the clock’s show; guided tours are available at the Old Town Hall.

4. St. Vitus Cathedral

Description: A magnificent Gothic cathedral within Prague Castle, known for its stunning stained-glass windows and the tomb of St. Wenceslas.
History: Construction began in 1344 and took nearly 600 years to complete, resulting in a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Google Maps Link: St. Vitus Cathedral Location
Tickets: Included in Prague Castle tickets.
Nearby Restaurants: *Strahov Monastery Brewery* (popular for Czech dishes and house-brewed dark beer).
Additional Tips: Look for the beautiful rose window at the entrance, and don’t miss the tower for panoramic views.

5. Lennon Wall

Description: A colorful graffiti wall inspired by John Lennon, symbolizing peace and freedom.
History: The wall became a symbol of rebellion during the communist regime in the 1980s and continues to be a site for messages of peace.
Google Maps Link: Lennon Wall Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Lokal U Bile Kuzelky* (known for Czech food and fresh Pilsner).
Additional Tips: Free to visit; bring a marker if you’d like to add your own message to the wall.

6. Petrin Tower

Description: Often called “Prague’s Eiffel Tower,” Petrin Tower offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location.
History: Built in 1891 for the Prague Exposition, the tower stands 63 meters tall and is reached by a scenic funicular ride.
Google Maps Link: Petrin Tower Location
Tickets: 150 CZK (€6); funicular tickets sold separately.
Nearby Restaurants: *Café Savoy* (famous for coffee and traditional Czech pastries).
Additional Tips: Climb the 299 steps for the best views, or take the elevator for an additional fee.

7. Dancing House

Description: A modern architectural marvel with a unique, twisted design by Frank Gehry.
History: Built in 1996, the Dancing House represents the post-communist era’s creative freedom and modernity.
Google Maps Link: Dancing House Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Ginger & Fred* (serving Czech-inspired cuisine with a view from the top floor).
Additional Tips: Free to admire from the outside; book a table at the rooftop restaurant for panoramic views of the city.

8. National Theatre

Description: A striking Neo-Renaissance theater offering performances of opera, ballet, and theater.
History: Opened in 1881, it’s a cultural landmark representing Czech national pride and artistic excellence.
Google Maps Link: National Theatre Location
Tickets: Prices vary by performance; book on the National Theatre website.
Nearby Restaurants: *Café Louvre* (a classic Czech café frequented by famous figures like Kafka and Einstein).
Additional Tips: Book tickets early, as shows often sell out. Tours of the theater are available on select days.

9. Vyšehrad Fortress

Description: A historic fortress offering panoramic views, gardens, and a cemetery where Czech heroes are buried.
History: Dating back to the 10th century, Vyšehrad served as the original seat of Czech royalty.
Google Maps Link: Vyšehrad Fortress Location
Nearby Restaurants: *U Kroka* (serving Czech dishes like pork knuckle and roast duck).
Additional Tips: Free entry; the Vyšehrad Cemetery is a peaceful place to explore and includes graves of notable Czech figures.

10. Wenceslas Square

Description: A vibrant shopping district with historic buildings and a statue of Saint Wenceslas.
History: Known for its role in significant historical events, Wenceslas Square is a central point of Prague’s modern history.
Google Maps Link: Wenceslas Square Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Vytopna Railway Restaurant* (known for its unique system of delivering food via a model train track).
Additional Tips: Free to explore; great for shopping, people-watching, and soaking up Prague’s atmosphere.

11. Mala Strana (Lesser Town)

Description: Known as Lesser Town, Mala Strana is a historic district with colorful baroque buildings, narrow streets, and hidden gardens.
History: Established in 1257, Mala Strana has maintained its medieval charm and is home to beautiful palaces, churches, and parks.
Google Maps Link: Mala Strana Location
Nearby Restaurants: *U Modre Kachnicky* (famous for duck dishes and traditional Czech fare).
Additional Tips: Perfect for a leisurely stroll; the area is photogenic and relatively peaceful in the early morning.

12. Kampa Island

Description: A picturesque riverside island filled with art installations, charming parks, and views over the Vltava River.
History: Kampa Island has been a peaceful retreat in Prague since the 12th century and is now a cultural spot with unique sculptures and galleries.
Google Maps Link: Kampa Island Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Kampa Park* (offers modern Czech dishes with riverfront dining).
Additional Tips: Free to explore; don’t miss the John Lennon Wall nearby and the famous “babies” sculptures by David Černý.

13. Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Description: A historic neighborhood home to several synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum.
History: Josefov has been Prague’s Jewish quarter since the 13th century, preserving Jewish heritage and history in its synagogues and historic sites.
Google Maps Link: Jewish Quarter Location
Tickets: Entry to the Jewish Museum, synagogues, and cemetery is included in a pass for 500 CZK (€20).
Nearby Restaurants: *King Solomon* (known for kosher Czech dishes).
Additional Tips: Allow 2-3 hours to explore, as there are several sites within Josefov.

14. Strahov Monastery Library

Description: Known for its stunning Baroque and Theological halls, the Strahov Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
History: Founded in the 12th century, the library holds rare manuscripts, globes, and exquisite frescoes.
Google Maps Link: Strahov Monastery Library Location
Tickets: 150 CZK (€6) for entry; additional fee for photography.
Nearby Restaurants: *Bellavista* (a great spot for Czech cuisine with panoramic views over Prague).
Additional Tips: Closed on Mondays; take time to appreciate the intricately decorated ceilings and antique collections.

15. Letna Park

Description: A sprawling green park offering some of the best panoramic views of Prague’s cityscape and Vltava River.
History: Letna Park has long been a recreational spot and was once the site of a massive Stalin monument, replaced by the popular Metronome sculpture.
Google Maps Link: Letna Park Location
Nearby Restaurants: *Letna Beer Garden* (perfect for a relaxed drink and snacks with a view).
Additional Tips: Free to enter; visit during sunset for breathtaking views and a laid-back local atmosphere.

16. Powder Tower

Description: A striking Gothic tower that once marked the entrance to Prague’s Old Town.
History: Built in 1475, the Powder Tower served as a gunpowder storage facility, hence its name, and was part of the city’s fortifications.
Google Maps Link: Powder Tower Location
Tickets: 150 CZK (€6) to climb the tower.
Nearby Restaurants: *U Pavouka* (offering a medieval dining experience with live entertainment).
Additional Tips: Climb the narrow staircase to the top for views of the Old Town and a glimpse into Prague’s medieval past.

17. National Museum

Description: The largest museum in Prague, showcasing Czech history, natural history, and cultural artifacts.
History: Established in 1818, the National Museum’s grand Neo-Renaissance building is a landmark of Czech national pride.
Google Maps Link: National Museum Location
Official Website: National Museum Site
Tickets: 250 CZK (€10); book online to avoid lines.
Nearby Restaurants: *Vinohradsky Parlament* (a popular spot for traditional Czech dishes like pork with dumplings and sauerkraut).
Additional Tips: Plan for at least two hours; the main exhibits are in the historic building, which is especially beautiful at night.

18. Church of Our Lady before Týn

Description: A Gothic church with distinctive twin spires, dominating Prague’s Old Town Square.
History: Built in the 14th century, this church has been a spiritual center and an architectural highlight of Prague for centuries.
Google Maps Link: Church of Our Lady before Týn Location
Tickets: Free entry during service hours; donations are welcome.
Nearby Restaurants: *Café U Tyna* (offers coffee, pastries, and light meals with a cozy atmosphere).
Additional Tips: Look for the impressive altarpiece inside; photography may be restricted, so check before taking pictures.

19. Museum of Communism

Description: A museum dedicated to life under communist rule in Czechoslovakia, featuring exhibits on propaganda, censorship, and daily life.
History: Opened in 2001, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the impacts of communism on Czech society.
Google Maps Link: Museum of Communism Location
Tickets: 290 CZK (€12); tickets available online or at the entrance.
Nearby Restaurants: *Lokal Dlouhaaa* (a casual Czech pub known for dishes like schnitzel and goulash).
Additional Tips: Allow around 1-2 hours; the museum provides important historical context for Prague’s transformation.

20. Prague Zoo

Description: One of Europe’s top-rated zoos, featuring over 5,000 animals and beautifully landscaped habitats.
History: Established in 1931, the zoo has grown to become a top family attraction with a focus on conservation.
Google Maps Link: Prague Zoo Location
Official Website: Prague Zoo Site
Tickets: 250 CZK (€10); purchase at the zoo or online.
Nearby Restaurants: *Kavárna Černý Kůň* (offers family-friendly dining with light meals and pastries).
Additional Tips: Plan for at least half a day; the zoo is large, and there’s a fun chairlift for panoramic views.

Conclusion

Prague is a city that beautifully combines history, culture, and charm. This guide to Prague’s top attractions will help you plan an incredible trip, from iconic landmarks and scenic views to unique cultural sites and delicious Czech cuisine. Save this article as your go-to travel guide for exploring the best of Prague!