Prague is the Czech capital and the largest city in the country. This place is nicknamed the Golden City because of the beauty the city is rich in and the unmissable sights in Prague.
Prague is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and the historic centre of Prague is even on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
It’s therefore not surprising that Prague is in the top 5 tourist cities in Europe. Before you leave for the Golden City, it’s good to prepare yourself, so that during your city trip to Prague you don’t waste time planning your city break and standing in queues at popular attractions.
During our bike tour you’ll discover why Prague is so beloved by travellers from all over the world. Enjoy your time in Prague to the fullest without worrying about planning or long queues.
Here’s a quick list of the best Prague sights that you shouldn’t miss.
Prague Castle / Pražský hrad
One of the most impressive sights in Prague is Prague Castle, also known as Pražský hrad in Czech.
Prague Castle isn’t actually a castle but a collection of churches, palaces, towers, gardens and a colourful crowd of tourists.
Prague Castle is very likely the largest castle complex in the world, not so much the castle itself, but the area around Pražský hrad. The front alone is half a kilometre long. Yet on some days the castle complex is too small for the numerous tourists, as more than one million visitors stream through the enormous Pražský hrad complex annually.
- Read more about Prague Castle
- Tickets to Prague Castle: Buy tickets online
Buy your access to a centuries-old symbol of the Czech Republic and one of the most important cultural institutions of the Czech Republic. This historic complex was once the centre of the Holy Roman Empire. Nowadays Prague Castle serves as the residence of the Czech president and the repository of the crown jewels.
Tip: Make sure you’re on time, as the guide only holds the ticket for 15 minutes after the start time. The best way to reach the castle is via the side entrance, just a 10-minute walk from Malostranská metro station.
How to best reach Prague Castle?
Take line 22 and get off at Pražský hrad stop. Turn left and you’ll reach the second courtyard of Prague Castle within 5 minutes.
Charles Bridge / Karlův most
One of the most popular sights in Prague is Charles Bridge (in Czech also called “Karlův most”). The almost 700-year-old bridge connects the Old Town of Prague with the Malá Strana district in the New Town of Prague and spans the Vltava River. The bridge is approximately 520 metres long and has 30 statues depicting saints. On the bridge you’ll find not only many tourists but also artists hoping to sell their wares. This sight connects the old and new town of Prague, very nice!
The Old Town Square / Staroměstské náměstí
The Old Town Square is one of Prague’s main attractions. As soon as you walk onto the square you’ll see multiple buildings from different periods. This gives you a fantastic mix of eras combined in one square. From every point on the Old Town Square it seems as if the square has a different appearance. You’ll also find several restaurants and bars here where you can enjoy a drink and the wonderful ambiance.
- Read more about The Old Town Square in Prague
- Book a bike tour in Prague
Discover Prague’s sights by bike
Would you like to experience the charms and famous sights of Prague in a typically Dutch way?
Then sign up for our guided bike tour with a local guide.
In just three hours we reveal the secrets of Prague in a safe, enjoyable and engaging way. This relaxed bike ride takes you past the breathtaking sights that Prague is rich in.
Our route also includes the historic Jewish Quarter and the old Jewish cemetery. You’ll explore various green oases such as Wenceslas Park and the picturesque Malá Strana & lush Kampa Park. Impressive buildings such as the National Theatre and the National Museum are also featured.
During the tour our passionate guide brings the city to life with fascinating stories and fun anecdotes. Prague’s rich history is as enchanting as its architecture, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
St. Vitus Cathedral
Part of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most imposing buildings in the complex. The 99-meter-high tower and the enormous nave that forms the skeleton of the building were intended to build the largest cathedral in the world. Construction began in the early 14th century and most of what you see has been standing for more than 600 years. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy this cathedral.
Visit the Clock Tower and the Old Town Square: Buy tickets directly online
Golden Lane
Perhaps the most popular attraction in Prague. This Golden Lane is a fairly small alley within the northern wall of Prague Castle. There’s little gold about the lane itself, but legend has it that goldsmiths lived in the lane and that’s where it gets its name. The houses on this street mainly function as souvenir shops but were once residential homes. Even Franz Kafka, perhaps the greatest writer of the 20th century, lived at number 22 for a while.
Boat cruise along Prague’s attractions including lunch
Want to discover in a unique and fun way? Then consider this enchanting boat cruise through historic Prague, which also takes you past the attractions outside and around Prague. The tour lasts two hours and includes a lunch buffet, a welcome drink and live music. From the cruise you experience city life from the water in a relaxed way and see the main attractions of Prague. Such as the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the Rudolfinum, the National Theatre, the Dancing House and much more.
Want to be sure of a spot on the boat? Book your ticket here.
Prague Astronomical Clock
The astronomical clock sounds like something futuristic and perhaps it was, 600 years ago when it was built. With 3 discs that rotate independently of each other, it’s a complex affair. It actually displays 5 different times. Think of sidereal time, solar time and local time.
Whatever the time, the Prague Astronomical Clock is an impressive structure that is definitely worth seeing.
The Dancing House
Not all attractions in Prague are 600 years old. There is a large art nouveau movement in Prague and the Dancing House by Frank Gehry is a good example of this. This building in the New Town is described as constructivist. This is a movement within art nouveau that experiences society as confusing and uncertain. The artists clearly reflect this in their designs. The Dancing House is not like other houses. The shapes are unique and it does indeed seem somewhat as if the house is dancing.
As you can see, there are many attractions in Prague that you shouldn’t miss. This city is therefore rightly a popular destination for tourists. We’re not surprised when someone describes Prague as the most beautiful city in Europe.
Jan Hus
Jan Hus was a Czech theologian and philosopher who lived in Prague in the 15th century. He was one of the most important figures of the Bohemian Reformation and opposed the corruption of the Catholic Church.
Hus preached in the Týn Church in Prague and his sermons attracted many followers. He criticized the practices of the church, including the sale of indulgences and mandatory celibacy for priests. He advocated for a reformation of the church and believed that the Bible was the only authority for the faith of Christians.
In 1415, Hus was condemned by church authorities for heresy and burned at the stake. His death led to an uprising in Bohemia and was a precursor to the Protestant Reformation in Europe. Today, Hus is remembered as a national hero in the Czech Republic and a symbol of religious freedom and resistance against oppression.
Jewish Quarter Josefov & Old-New Synagogue
The Jewish Quarter in Prague, also known as Josefov, is a historic district that was once the center of the Jewish community in the city. During World War II, the district was used by the Nazis as a ghetto and many Jewish residents were deported to concentration camps.
Today, the district has been restored and houses a number of important Jewish monuments, including six synagogues and the cemetery of the old Jewish community. The district is also the location of the Jewish Museum of Prague, which highlights the history and culture of the Jewish community in the city.
The Old-New Synagogue in Prague is the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe in this district. It is an important monument of the Jewish Quarter in Prague and a popular tourist attraction. The synagogue is built in Gothic style and has a rich history, including the legend of the Golem of Prague.
During World War II, the synagogue was used as a storage facility for stolen Jewish artworks and possessions. The Old-New Synagogue is a symbol of the Jewish community in Prague and a reminder of the history of Jews in Europe.
Letná Park
Letná Park is a beautiful park in Prague that sits atop Letná Hill and overlooks the Vltava River. The park features many walking paths, green lawns and a large number of trees. It’s a popular spot for walkers, joggers and cyclists and offers spectacular views of the city. The park is also home to several attractions, including the Letná Metronome.
The Letná Metronome is a giant metronome that stands on Letná Hill in Prague. It’s a popular attraction in the city and draws many visitors because of the beautiful views it offers over the Vltava River and the city. The metronome was built in 1991 and stands on the spot where a statue of Stalin once stood. It has become an iconic symbol of Prague and is often used as a venue for events and festivals in the city.
Map of the top attractions in Prague
Plan your visit to Prague optimally with our detailed interactive map. We’ve highlighted the city’s most famous attractions for you, such as Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square, Prague Castle and the Dancing House. Also check out the historic Jewish Quarter Josefov and the Letná Metronome in Letná Park. Simply follow the paths on the map for an unforgettable journey through the Golden City.