Prague Attractions

A creation of fairy-tale design and outstanding beauty, Prague castle is the capital’s most popular attraction for good reason. Officially recognised as the largest ancient castle in the world, it towers over the Vltava River as the city’s picture postcard image. A non-optional visit for any tourist; take a trip down to stare, in envy, at the structure the Czech president gets to call home.

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Built over six centuries, and tightly squeezed into the Hrad’s third courtyard, St Vitus is one of Europe’s most decadent cathedrals. Housing treasures from 1400 AD, it is an attraction that must be seen in person with a lot of time to spare. With a multitude of looming gothic architecture and art-nouveau stained glass, a photo cannot quite contain its chaotic beauty, and a trip here is worthy of a whole day.

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Prague's historical epicentre, ‘Staromestske namesti’ holds the title of oldest place in the city. As the capital’s premier public space, the square has embraced its role as a tourist hotspot; swarming with cafes, bars, restaurants, entertainment and attractions, in a cavalcade of over-the-top commercialism it is impossible not to enjoy. At Easter and Christmas, the cobbles play host to the largest market in the Czech Republic, drawing traders from across Europe.

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Asked to list their favourite walls, many wouldn’t go beyond ‘Berlin’ and ‘Wailing’, but this peace-preaching tribute to the late Beatles star definitely deserves a shout out. Created in 1980, it was initially a mural to Lennon and the loving messages he preached. Now an ever-evolving public artwork, the original image is lost below layers of Beatles lyrics, personal problems and wishes for world peace. Go down, check them out, and feel free to add your own.

Aligned, aesthetically askew, between two Gothic gateways, Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most recognisable attractions. Once the only link between the two halves of Prague, it stretches across the Vltava river; a popular resting spot for tourists and locals alike. Buskers, bands and souvenir sellers, fill the air with a storybook vibe, while the famous baroque statues that punctuate its length stare down with stony indifference.

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Located on the Old Town side of Charles Bridge, the Old Town Bridge Tower has a special significance as the gate to the Old Town, having been built by Emperor Charles IV in the mid-14th century. Aside from its remarkable architecture, it also offers gorgeous views of the cityscape and the Vltava river. Here, visitors can ascend 138 steps to the top and get a 360-degree view of the stunning landscape below. Plus, the tower houses Prague's oldest astronomical clock, which is more than 600 years old.

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Every day, without fail, Prague’s infamous astronomical clock draws in a small sea of chattering tourists. Crammed into Old Town Square, they stand side by side, Nikon camera by Nikon camera, to watch the mysterious timepiece perform its hourly show. In a dance said to be more than 600 years old, its assorted figures move and tick, to the great amusement of the crowd below.

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The centre point of modern Prague, Wenceslas Square stretches from Old Town to the National Museum. The huge boulevard has played witness to some of the most critical moments in Czech history; from Nazi demonstrations to the fall of communism, sporting festivals to bloody riots. Today, it remains the focal point for protest and celebration within the city. Come down, and you can dwell in the square’s past or revel in its present, as along with a rich history, its sides are littered with some of Prague’s popular shops, restaurants and bars. As you walk through the square, it’s hard not to be impressed by the stunning architecture that surrounds you. A huge monument of Saint Wenceslas stands tall in their midst; a tribute to his life and rule (and also an impressive base for selfies!).

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Prague's “little side” lies across the bridge, to the left of the Vltava river. Gathered around the Church of Saint Nicholas, like many of Prague’s most famous spots it holds an enchanting, fairy-tale vibe. Dominated by quintessentially Czech baroque architecture, the district’s rich and enticing history dates back centuries. While host to many churches, statues and famous former residents, its most alluring feature may be its solitude, hiding a web of urban gardens to escape to when Prague is at its busiest.

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If you would like to discover the greatest views of Prague, make sure to climb the Petrin Lookout Tower located atop Petrin Hill. Ascending the 299 steps of Prague's mini version of the Eiffel Tower is an experience that can't be missed - offering spectacular, panoramic views. Lots of additional attractions surround the tower, providing visitors with an array of activities to enjoy. Get lost in the Mirror Maze, explore the Štefánik Observatory with its museum and a large telescope, take in the beauty of the Rose Garden or visit the Church of St. Lawrence and discover some local history by taking a walk along the Hunger Wall. And if you need a break from sightseeing, there are plenty of cafes to choose from where you can relax and recharge.

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This funicular railway runs from Ujezd street in the Lesser Town all the way up to the top of Petrín Hill, with a halfway stop at Nebozizek Restaurant both on the way up and on the return journey. The trip is a pleasant one, rising through the park and woodland at a fairly rapid pace. The Petrin Funicular Railway is an iconic part of Prague culture and a great way to experience the city from a unique vantage point at any time of the year.

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Kampa Island is a truly picturesque island and park situated on the Mala Strana side of Charles Bridge that offers plenty for visitors to explore. One of its primary attractions is Lovers Bridge, which provides some spectacular views of the famous 15th-century Water Mill. Another highlight is Devil's Channel, an idyllic stretch of the Vltava River with incredible views for photographers to capture. Kampa Island is also home to Museum Kampa. This modern art gallery showcases work from Central European and Czech artists that you won't find anywhere else. Magdalena Jetelova's huge chair sculpture outside the museum stands as a prominent landmark across the river. The architecture of Kampa Island is remarkable, and its many pubs, bars, and restaurants make it a popular spot for tourists. The John Lennon Pub is a favorite amongst visitors, located close to the John Lennon Wall and near Charles Bridge.

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With a range of shows based on classic tales such as The Wizard of Oz and Cinderella, the Black Light Theatre Srnec is an experience like no other. It is an entirely original non-verbal theatre genre that combines puppetry, mime, and dance with special lighting effects. You don't even need to understand Czech (or any other language) to enjoy the show! The performance is an absolute spectacle of colour and movement, creating a captivating atmosphere that will leave you spellbound.

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For those who have an interest in the history of technology, a visit to the National Technical Museum is a must. Being the largest institution of its kind in the Czech Republic, the museum has a huge exhibition featuring a wide range of technologies, from cars and aircrafts to bicycles and mining equipment, astronomical instruments, print history artifacts, different styles of architecture designs - and even early home appliances such as vacuum cleaners, washing machines and refrigerators. On top of that, there's a nice canteen with beer on tap, cakes and other refreshments, so if it’s a rainy day, this is definitely worth checking out. Who knows, you might even learn something new!

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Being the hometown of world-renowned author Franz Kafka, Prague has to have a museum dedicated to his life and works. Upon entering the building, visitors are welcomed by an unsettling air that reflects Kafka’s life as a struggling writer in Prague. The walls are covered with his writings, imbedded with symbolic meanings and sinister undertones which give one a real glimpse into Kafka’s unique writing style. The remarkable landmark of the museum is the whimsical sculpture of the men pissing outside the museum which is acknowledged by the visitors as one of its funniest attractions.

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The Czech Beer Museum gives visitors an insight into the history of beer brewing and its place in local culture. With a collection of interactive displays, it provides an educational journey through the ancient art of beer-making along with samples from some breweries throughout Europe. At the end of your journey, you'll get to sample four beers from some of the most popular Czech brews.

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The Sex Machines Museum is a unique journey into the world of human sexuality. It provides visitors with an insight into the history and diversity of sexual practices and erotic objects from around the world. Its collection of over 350 items spans over three floors in a historic building from the 17th century located in the old town of Prague. The items have been carefully sourced and the museum is designed to guide visitors through an intelligent and ironic path of curiosity, history, and perversion. It is an experience that provides insight into a world of human sexuality that many may not be familiar with. The Sex Machines Museum is the only one of its kind in the world and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating subject.

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The Museum of Communism in Prague offers a comprehensive and educational glimpse into the everyday life of Communist-era Czechoslovakia. With a range of interactive displays and informative showcases, visitors can learn more about the totalitarian regime which ruled Czechoslovakia during this time period. The museum explores sports, education, art (specifically Socialist Realism), propaganda in the media, People’s Militias, the army, the police (including the secret police, the StB), censorship and courts of repression. For those wanting to learn more about Stalinism in Czechoslovakia, there are exhibits dedicated to show trials, political labor camps and other institutes of repression. The Museum of Communism is a great way to better understand a part of history that continues to shape the present day.

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The KGB Museum in Prague holds a unique collection of items used by the KGB and its predecessors, the Cheka-NKVD-GPU-OGPU-MGB. It contains unusual pieces such as the death mask of Lenin, Trotsky murder weapon, the radio from Beria’s cabinet and equipment from the laboratories of the KGB. With its rare glimpses into the Soviet Union’s history, it is a fascinating yet eerie experience. The museum gives visitors the opportunity not only to learn about the Soviet Union’s past but also to see first-hand artifacts used by one of the world's most notorious secret police organizations.

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Home to the Czech Republic’s hockey team and host of many other sporting events and concerts, the O2 Arena in Prague has become a popular destination among locals and tourists alike. The world-class seating provides excellent views of the action no matter where you’re seated, and the amenities within ensure an unforgettable experience. The arena is also available for private events such as corporate gatherings or weddings. Whether you’re looking to catch a game or just enjoy the atmosphere, the O2 Arena has something for everyone!

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Despite not being invented here, the Czech Republic is home to some of the best absinthe on the planet. Famous for a Bohemian version of the traditional spirit, which is rumored to be hallucinogenic along with an elaborate ritual that involves setting it on fire. You can't visit Prague and not try Absinth.