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Prague is a mesmerizing city.
Its medieval Old Town is torn straight from the pages of a fairy tale, wooing millions of tourists to its cobbled lanes every year. But it’s far more than just a pretty face. Packed with attractions, the Czech capital is filled to the brim with staggering castles, world-class beer, an underappreciated history, and a sneakily trendy city life.
Go grab a beer and get planning. These are the best things to do in Prague.
Explore Old Town
The glittering centerpiece of Prague is its medieval Old Town. Built, destroyed, and rebuilt many times over the course of a thousand years, its gothic spires and hodge-podge of rickety lanes fulfill every cliched hope for a European city.
Many of the best things to do in Prague are in the Old Town. At ground level, the central square is a delight, especially over winter when its legendary Christmas market is often blanketed with a layer of snow. Don’t miss the stunning astronomical clock and the old city hall for a deep dive into the city’s history. Below street level, in a juxtaposition of splendid proportions, the city’s modern edge hides away in the form of underground cocktail bars and beer halls.
Drink some beer
While Munich’s Oktoberfest might be the ultimate pilgrimage for beer lovers, true fans know that the Czech Republic is the home of the world’s best beer. The country’s legendary pilsners are never fresher than tapped from one of the brewery-specific beer halls, where gargantuan casks hover over the traditional bars.
If you have time, get out of the city to visit one of the breweries, but don’t worry if you can’t. There are plenty of unique beer experiences to enjoy in Prague. Its oldest beer hall, U Fleku, has been serving for over five hundred years and is worth at least a quick stop to try one of its two brews. Beyond that, Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, and other recognizable names have expansive beer halls to take in the rowdy atmosphere.
If you’ve a more specific palette, the city’s craft beer scene is exploding. Bars like BeerGeek in Vinohrady (still underground) are the best place to try a range of experimental styles.
And, of course, you’ve got to try a beer spa. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Prague.
Explore Czech Republic’s museums
The Czech Republic has a long and complicated history. Long before the Velvet Revolution that freed it from Communist rule and split Czechoslovakia in two, it was a vibrant hub for artists, thinkers, and writers. Beyond that, a bloody history of Bohemian rulers, invaders, and other developments helped forge the country we know today.
The best place to find out more is the National Museum, set in a staggeringly beautiful building on the far side of Wenceslas Square. Set aside a few hours to delve deep. Other brilliant museums include the Franz Kafka Museum, the Jewish Museum, and the Museum of Communism.
Wander across Charles Bridge
While it could be placed under the umbrella of Old Town, the beautiful Charles Bridge is worth a section of its own. Built in the 14th century, the iconic bridge is stunning. Towered on both ends and lined by imposing statues of significant Czech figures and religious icons, a wander across is a mandatory Prague experience.
It’s tied closely with the city’s development and holds myths symbolic of struggles between church and state on its sandstone walkway.
A word of warning: as one of the most popular things to do in Prague, it gets packed. Bite the bullet and get there before 8 am to enjoy it by yourself. You won’t regret the peaceful experience—especially after seeing the chaos later in the day.
Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
Looming across the river from Old Town, Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral dominate the skyline. The castle complex itself is the largest in the world, covering an area of more than five football fields and boasting within its fortified walls centuries of regal development.
Getting through everything would require a significant amount of time, so if you’re tight with your itinerary, opt for a whirlwind tour of the highlights. Don’t miss St Vitus Cathedral—it’s an impressive 600-year-old cathedral, clashing in styles and all the more dramatic for it. It’s possible to stick your head in for free, but to delve deeper, you’ll need a special ticket.
On the way down from the castle, stop in the hillside vineyard and enjoy a drink as the sun sets over Prague.
Petrin Hill
For the best views of the city, head to Petrin Hill. Perfect as a last evening farewell to the city, the 643-foot high hill makes for a pleasant afternoon walk. At the top, an Eiffel Tower-esque structure looks out over the city and Czech countryside. It’s super popular with locals, but visitors often claim it’s one of their favorite things to do in Prague.
Many winding paths work their way through the park, with statues of notable Czechs dotting the route, making it an excellent place to burn off a few of the beers you’ll have been enjoying. It’s possible to head up the tower for even better views, but don’t worry too much if you don’t—the views are perfect from the park itself.
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