Prague, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires,’ enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. This updated guide details the top 20 must-visit attractions, offering practical information to help you navigate its cobblestone streets and discover its timeless beauty.

1. Prague Castle

Description: A vast complex of palaces, churches, gardens, and alleyways, serving as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic and historically home to Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and Czechoslovak presidents.
History: Founded in the 9th century, it has been the seat of power for Bohemian rulers for over a millennium, witnessing numerous architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque.
Google Maps: Prague Castle Location
Official Website: Prague Castle Official Website
Tickets: Book Tickets – Circuits available, prices vary. Free entry to some outer areas like courtyards.
Opening Hours: Castle grounds typically open 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM; historical buildings 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal variations apply). Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Tram 22 to Pražský hrad or Malostranské náměstí (then walk uphill); Metro A (green line) to Malostranská (then walk uphill).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Terasa U Zlaté studně: Fine dining with panoramic views overlooking the city.
– Lokál U Bílé kuželky: Traditional Czech pub fare and excellent Pilsner Urquell, known for its hearty dishes.
Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially for St. Vitus Cathedral. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance.

2. Charles Bridge

Description: A historic bridge crossing the Vltava river, connecting Old Town and Lesser Town (Malá Strana). It is adorned with a continuous alley of 30 statues, mostly baroque-style, of saints and patron saints.
History: Construction began in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, replacing the Judith Bridge. It was completed in the early 15th century and remained the only means of crossing the river until 1841.
Google Maps: Charles Bridge Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Charles Bridge
Tickets: Free entry – Free to cross. Bridge towers at each end have separate admission fees.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Walk from Old Town Square or Malostranské náměstí; Nearest Metro A (green line) Staroměstská or Malostranská.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kampa Park: Upscale dining on Kampa Island with river views, known for modern international cuisine and seafood.
– Hergetova Cihelna: Trendy restaurant with a riverside terrace near Charles Bridge, offering Czech and international dishes.
Tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting. Touch the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck.

3. Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

Description: The historic heart of Prague, a vibrant public space surrounded by magnificent architecture, including the Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and St. Nicholas Church.
History: The square has been a marketplace since the 10th century and has witnessed many significant events in Czech history. The Astronomical Clock, a masterpiece of medieval engineering, was first installed in 1410.
Google Maps: Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Old Town Square
Tickets: Free entry – Free to enter the square. Tickets required for Old Town Hall Tower and Astronomical Clock interior.
Opening Hours: Always open (square). Old Town Hall Tower typically 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (seasonal variations). Astronomical Clock show hourly 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
Travel Options: Walk from most central locations; Metro A (green line) Staroměstská; Metro B (yellow line) Můstek.
Nearby Restaurants:
– U Medvidku: Historic brewery and restaurant known for traditional Czech cuisine and strong Budvar beer.
– Restaurant Mlýnec: Modern Czech and international cuisine with Vltava river views, located near the square.
Tips: Watch the Astronomical Clock show on the hour, but be aware of crowds. Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views of the square and city.

4. St. Vitus Cathedral

Description: A magnificent Gothic cathedral within Prague Castle, serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Prague and containing the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. It’s a prime example of Gothic architecture.
History: Construction began in 1344 under Charles IV but took nearly 600 years to complete, finally finished in 1929. It stands on the site of earlier churches dating back to the 10th century.
Google Maps: St. Vitus Cathedral Location
Official Website: Prague Castle – St. Vitus Cathedral
Tickets: Book Tickets – Entry to the main nave is free; access to other parts (choir, crypt, treasury) requires a Prague Castle Circuit ticket.
Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday-Saturday), 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Sunday). Check official website for current hours and mass times.
Travel Options: Part of Prague Castle complex; Tram 22 to Pražský hrad; Metro A (green line) to Malostranská (then walk uphill).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Terasa U Zlaté studně: Fine dining with panoramic views overlooking the city.
– Lokál U Bílé kuželky: Traditional Czech pub fare and excellent Pilsner Urquell, known for its hearty dishes.
Tips: Be respectful during visits, especially if a service is taking place. The stained-glass windows, especially Mucha’s, are a highlight.

5. Lennon Wall

Description: A wall in Prague, originally a normal wall, that has been filled with John Lennon-inspired graffiti and lyrics from Beatles’ songs since the 1980s. It symbolizes peace, love, and free speech.
History: After John Lennon’s murder in 1980, an image of him was painted on this wall, along with lyrics and political grievances against the Communist regime. It became a symbol of non-violent rebellion and a silent protest against state oppression.
Google Maps: Lennon Wall Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Lennon Wall
Tickets: Free entry – Free to visit.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Walk from Charles Bridge or Malostranské náměstí; Metro A (green line) Malostranská; Tram 12, 15, 20, 22, 23 to Hellichova.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurant Pod Lesy: Local eatery in Mala Strana, offering traditional Czech dishes in a cozy setting.
– Velká Klášterní Restaurace: Part of the Grand Priory Square, offering traditional Czech food near the Wall.
Tips: Bring a marker to leave your own message (respectfully). Be mindful of other visitors trying to take photos.

6. Petrin Tower

Description: A 63.5-meter-high steel framework observation tower resembling a miniature Eiffel Tower, located on Petřín hill. It offers spectacular panoramic views of Prague and the surrounding area.
History: Built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition, it was inspired by the Eiffel Tower and constructed in just under two years. It was originally used as an observation tower and a transmission tower.
Google Maps: Petrin Tower Location
Official Website: Petrin Lookout Tower
Tickets: Book Tickets – Admission fee for ascending the tower. Discounts available.
Opening Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (seasonal variations). Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Funicular railway from Újezd (Tram 9, 12, 15, 20, 22, 23); Walk uphill from Malá Strana.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Nebozízek Restaurant: Located on Petřín Hill with scenic views, serving Czech and international cuisine.
– Restaurant U Modré Kachničky II: Elegant restaurant in Lesser Town known for roasted duck and traditional Czech specialties.
Tips: Take the funicular up Petřín Hill for a scenic ride. On a clear day, the views from the top are incredible. Consider visiting the adjacent Mirror Maze.

7. Dancing House

Description: A deconstructivist building on the bank of the Vltava river, designed by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry. Its unique design resembles two dancers, often referred to as Fred and Ginger.
History: Completed in 1996, the building was controversial at the time due to its non-traditional design amidst Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau architecture. It has since become a modern architectural landmark.
Google Maps: Dancing House Location
Official Website: Dancing House Official Website
Tickets: Check ticket details – Free to view exterior. Gallery and Glass Bar on rooftop have separate fees/menu purchases.
Opening Hours: Exterior viewable 24/7. Gallery and Glass Bar hours vary, check official website.
Travel Options: Tram 17 to Jiráskovo náměstí; Metro B (yellow line) Karlovo náměstí, then a short walk.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ginger & Fred Restaurant: Located on the rooftop of the Dancing House, offering modern international cuisine with panoramic city views.
– Restaurace U Medvidku: Historic brewery with traditional Czech dishes and strong beer, a short walk away.
Tips: Visit the rooftop bar (Glass Bar) for stunning views, especially at sunset. The internal architecture is also interesting.

8. National Theatre

Description: A majestic Neo-Renaissance opera house that stands as a national monument of Czech history and art. It hosts opera, ballet, and drama performances.
History: The National Theatre’s construction began in 1868, funded by a national collection to symbolize the revival of Czech culture. It tragically burned down in 1881 but was rebuilt and reopened in 1883.
Google Maps: National Theatre Location
Official Website: National Theatre Official Website
Tickets: Book Tickets – Ticket prices vary by performance and seating. Booking online is recommended.
Opening Hours: Box office hours vary. Performance times usually in the evening. Check official website for schedule.
Travel Options: Tram 2, 9, 17, 18, 22 to Národní divadlo; Metro B (yellow line) Národní třída, then a short walk.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Louvre: Historic grand café known for its elegant atmosphere, traditional Czech cuisine, and cakes.
– Restaurace U Pinkasů: One of Prague’s oldest pubs, famous for serving unpasteurized Pilsner Urquell and hearty Czech food.
Tips: Attend a performance for a memorable cultural experience. Consider a guided tour to explore the opulent interiors if not attending a show.

9. Vyšehrad Fortress

Description: A historic fort located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River. It includes the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Vyšehrad Cemetery (resting place of many famous Czechs), and offers beautiful panoramic views of Prague.
History: Vyšehrad was a royal residence in the 11th century, predating Prague Castle as the seat of Bohemian rulers. Though it lost its royal status, it remained an important stronghold and a place of national pilgrimage and myth.
Google Maps: Vyšehrad Fortress Location
Official Website: Vyšehrad Official Website
Tickets: Check ticket details – Free to enter the grounds. Entry fees for Basilica, Špilberk Gate, and Casemates.
Opening Hours: Fortress grounds generally open 24/7. Basilica and other attractions typically 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations). Check official website.
Travel Options: Metro C (red line) Vyšehrad, then a short walk; Tram 3, 7, 17, 27 to Výtoň or Albertov, then walk uphill.
Nearby Restaurants:
– U Kroka: Popular traditional Czech restaurant near Vyšehrad, known for excellent goulash and roast duck.
– Restaurace Pod Vyšehradem: Cozy local restaurant offering Czech specialties and a pleasant atmosphere close to the fortress.
Tips: Explore the tranquil park, visit the cemetery to see the graves of Dvořák and Mucha, and enjoy the stunning views of the Vltava and Prague Castle.

10. Wenceslas Square

Description: One of the main city squares and the center of the business and cultural communities in the New Town of Prague. It’s a long boulevard lined with shops, restaurants, hotels, and terminates at the majestic National Museum.
History: Founded by Charles IV in 1348 as the Horse Market, it has been the site of many historical events, including demonstrations, celebrations, and public gatherings. It was renamed Wenceslas Square in 1848.
Google Maps: Wenceslas Square Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Wenceslas Square
Tickets: Free entry – Free to walk through the square.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Metro A (green line) or C (red line) Můstek; Metro A (green line) or C (red line) Muzeum; many tram lines nearby.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Duplex Restaurant: Rooftop restaurant and club offering international cuisine with panoramic views of Wenceslas Square.
– Restaurant Výtopna Railway: Unique restaurant where drinks are delivered by model trains, serving pub food and Czech dishes.
Tips: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, as it can be a busy area. Visit the equestrian statue of St. Wenceslas at the top of the square.

11. Mala Strana (Lesser Town)

Description: A charming historic district nestled between Prague Castle and the Vltava River. Known for its Baroque architecture, picturesque squares, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning gardens.
History: Established in 1257 as a royal town, it was largely rebuilt in Baroque style after a devastating fire in 1541. It has long been home to nobility, foreign embassies, and artists.
Google Maps: Mala Strana (Lesser Town) Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Malá Strana
Tickets: Free entry – Free to explore the district. Individual attractions have their own fees.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Metro A (green line) Malostranská; Tram 12, 15, 20, 22, 23 to Malostranské náměstí. Best explored on foot.
Nearby Restaurants:
– U Malířů 1543: Historic restaurant with a romantic setting, offering French and traditional Czech cuisine.
– St. Martin: Cozy restaurant near St. Nicholas Church, known for its traditional Czech and Central European dishes.
Tips: Dedicate ample time to wander the charming streets. Don’t miss Wallenstein Garden (seasonal) and St. Nicholas Church.

12. Kampa Island

Description: A picturesque island in the Vltava River, often called ‘Venice of Prague’ due to the Čertovka (Devil’s Channel) that separates it from Malá Strana. It features charming houses, parks, and museums.
History: Originally a mill island, Kampa was created by the Čertovka canal, built to power water mills. It became a desirable residential area in the 17th century and has since maintained its tranquil charm.
Google Maps: Kampa Island Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Kampa Island
Tickets: Free entry – Free to walk around the island. Kampa Museum has an admission fee.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Walk from Charles Bridge or Malá Strana; Metro A (green line) Malostranská, then a short walk.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kampa Park: Upscale dining with exquisite river views, known for modern international cuisine and seafood.
– Hergetova Cihelna: Trendy restaurant with a large terrace overlooking the Charles Bridge, offering a mix of Czech and international dishes.
Tips: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Kampa Park. Look for the ‘Babies’ sculptures by David Černý and the Kampa Museum.

13. Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Description: Prague’s historic Jewish Ghetto, a neighborhood rich in history and culture. It contains several synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Jewish Museum, and the Old Jewish Town Hall.
History: The Jewish community has lived in Prague since the 10th century, confined to a ghetto for centuries. Much of the district was demolished and rebuilt in the late 19th/early 20th century, but several key historic buildings were preserved.
Google Maps: Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Location
Official Website: Jewish Museum in Prague
Tickets: Book Tickets – Entry to the Quarter is free, but a single ticket grants access to most synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
Opening Hours: Opening hours for individual sites (synagogues, cemetery) vary, typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays). Check official website.
Travel Options: Walk from Old Town Square; Metro A (green line) Staroměstská; Tram 17, 18 to Staroměstská.
Nearby Restaurants:
– La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise: Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Czech fine dining with tasting menus.
– King Solomon Kosher Restaurant: Elegant restaurant in the Jewish Quarter, serving traditional kosher Czech and international dishes.
Tips: Purchase a combined ticket to visit multiple sites. Dress respectfully when entering synagogues. Plan your visit to avoid Saturdays and Jewish holidays when most sites are closed.

14. Strahov Monastery Library

Description: A breathtaking library housed within the Strahov Monastery, renowned for its two magnificent Baroque halls: the Theological Hall and the Philosophical Hall. It contains over 200,000 volumes, ancient manuscripts, and globes.
History: The Strahov Monastery was founded in 1143. The library’s core collection began to grow in the 17th century, with the ornate Theological Hall completed in 1679 and the larger Philosophical Hall added in 1785.
Google Maps: Strahov Monastery Library Location
Official Website: Strahov Monastery Official Website
Tickets: Check ticket details – Admission fee required for library halls. Photography fee applies.
Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed for lunch 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM). Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Tram 22, 23 to Pohořelec, then a short walk; Walk from Prague Castle.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Klášterní pivovar Strahov: Monastery brewery and restaurant offering traditional Czech cuisine and excellent craft beers brewed on-site.
– Restaurace Peklo: Restaurant built into a cave, offering unique ambiance and traditional Czech food near the monastery.
Tips: Photography inside the halls usually requires an extra fee. The library is often visited as part of a trip to Prague Castle, due to its proximity.

15. Letna Park

Description: A large park on a plateau above the Vltava River, offering expansive green spaces, walking paths, and one of the best panoramic viewpoints of Prague, including the Old Town and its bridges.
History: Originally a royal vineyard, it was transformed into a public park in the 19th century. It has been a significant site for public gatherings and events, including a massive Stalin monument during the Communist era, later replaced by a giant Metronome.
Google Maps: Letna Park Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Letná Park
Tickets: Free entry – Free to enter and explore the park.
Opening Hours: Always open.
Travel Options: Tram 1, 8, 12, 17, 25, 26 to Letenské náměstí or Sparta, then walk uphill; Metro A (green line) Hradčanská, then walk up the hill.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Letenský Zámeček Restaurant: Restaurant with a beer garden and terrace within Letná Park, offering Czech cuisine and stunning city views.
– Střecha Vítězná: Casual eatery with a terrace and views, offering quick bites and drinks near the Metronome.
Tips: The viewpoint near the Metronome is excellent for sunset photos. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

16. Powder Tower

Description: One of the original city gates of Prague, a prominent Gothic tower that separates the Old Town from the New Town. It served as a gunpowder store in the 17th century, hence its name.
History: Begun in 1475, it was intended as a grand entrance to the city and a ceremonial gateway for Bohemian kings. It was heavily damaged in the 1757 Prussian occupation and later restored to its current Gothic appearance.
Google Maps: Powder Tower Location
Official Website: Prague.eu – Powder Tower
Tickets: Book Tickets – Admission fee for ascending the tower.
Opening Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations). Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Walk from Old Town Square; Metro B (yellow line) Náměstí Republiky; Tram 6, 8, 15, 26 to Náměstí Republiky.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurace Zlatá Praha: Rooftop restaurant at the Hotel InterContinental with panoramic views, offering modern Czech and international dishes.
– Lokál Dlouhááá: Popular traditional Czech pub known for its fresh Pilsner Urquell and classic Czech dishes, a short walk away.
Tips: Climb to the top for excellent views of the Old Town and the Municipal House next door. It’s an important part of the Royal Route.

17. National Museum

Description: The largest museum in the Czech Republic, encompassing natural history, history, arts, and music. Its magnificent main building dominates the top of Wenceslas Square and recently underwent extensive renovation.
History: Founded in 1818, the museum’s iconic Neo-Renaissance main building was constructed between 1885 and 1891. It has been a symbol of Czech national identity and a repository of vast collections.
Google Maps: National Museum Location
Official Website: National Museum Official Website
Tickets: Book Tickets – Admission fee for various exhibitions. Combined tickets may be available.
Opening Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations). Closed on Tuesdays. Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Metro A (green line) or C (red line) Muzeum (right at the entrance); Tram 3, 5, 6, 9, 14, 24 to Václavské náměstí, then a short walk.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Grand Café Orient: Unique Cubist café offering coffee, cakes, and light meals in a historic setting near the museum.
– Hostinec U Pinkasů: Traditional Czech pub famous for its Pilsner Urquell and hearty cuisine, a short walk from Wenceslas Square.
Tips: Allocate several hours to explore the extensive collections. The main building itself is an architectural marvel.

18. Church of Our Lady before Týn

Description: A dominant Gothic church with two prominent spires, located in the Old Town Square. It’s one of Prague’s most recognizable landmarks and a major example of Gothic architecture.
History: The site has hosted a church since the 11th century. The current Gothic structure began in the 14th century, replacing an earlier Romanesque church. It served as the main Hussite church in Prague before returning to Catholic control.
Google Maps: Church of Our Lady before Týn Location
Official Website: Týn Church Official Website
Tickets: Check ticket details – Free entry for worship. A small donation is often requested for tourists visiting outside of services.
Opening Hours: Typically open for visitors late morning to early afternoon, and late afternoon to early evening (hours vary daily, check official website for specific times).
Travel Options: Walk from Old Town Square (it’s on the square); Metro A (green line) Staroměstská; Metro B (yellow line) Můstek.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Staroměstská restaurace: Located directly on Old Town Square, offering Czech and international dishes with views of the church.
– Kotleta: Steakhouse and traditional Czech restaurant just off Old Town Square.
Tips: Visit the interior to admire its Baroque altars and the tomb of Tycho Brahe. Be respectful of the ongoing religious services.

19. Museum of Communism

Description: A museum dedicated to the totalitarian regime in Czechoslovakia from the 1948 Communist coup to the Velvet Revolution of 1989. It offers insights into daily life, propaganda, censorship, and the secret police.
History: Established to preserve the memory of the Communist era, the museum opened in 2001. It aims to educate visitors about the political, economic, and social conditions under Communist rule.
Google Maps: Museum of Communism Location
Official Website: Museum of Communism Official Website
Tickets: Book Tickets – Admission fee required.
Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily. Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Metro A (green line) or B (yellow line) Můstek; Metro B (yellow line) Náměstí Republiky. Easily walkable from Old Town Square or Wenceslas Square.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Field Restaurant: Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Czech cuisine and tasting menus, located nearby.
– Lokál Dlouhááá: Popular traditional Czech pub known for its fresh Pilsner Urquell and classic Czech dishes.
Tips: Allow at least 1-2 hours to properly absorb the exhibits. The museum offers a stark look at a significant period of Czech history.

20. Prague Zoo

Description: A large and highly-regarded zoo located in the Troja district, home to over 5,000 animals across approximately 500 species. It’s known for its conservation efforts and diverse exhibits.
History: Founded in 1931, Prague Zoo has grown significantly over the decades. It has played a crucial role in breeding endangered species and has been consistently ranked among the top zoos in the world.
Google Maps: Prague Zoo Location
Official Website: Prague Zoo Official Website
Tickets: Book Tickets – Admission fee required. Discounts for children, students, and seniors.
Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations, closes earlier in winter). Check official website for current hours.
Travel Options: Metro C (red line) Nádraží Holešovice, then Bus 112 directly to the zoo; alternatively, take a scenic ferry from Rašínovo nábřeží (seasonal).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurant Gaston: Located directly within Prague Zoo, offering a range of meals, snacks, and drinks.
– Restaurace Salabka: Elegant restaurant and vineyard in Troja, near the zoo, known for fine dining and wine tasting.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is quite large and hilly. Consider purchasing tickets online to save time. The cable car inside the zoo offers a nice way to navigate.