Best things to do in Prague
Located in the heart of Europe, Prague, on the banks of the Vltava River has become one of the world's premier tourist destinations. Known primarily for its architecture, beer, nightlife and cultural offerings, it is one of the continent's most magnetic cities.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Petrín Hill: Accessible by funicular or a none-too-demanding hike, Petrín Hill offers some of the best views of the city.
Letná Park: A favourite with locals, this park boasts sweeping views of Prague's bridges spanning the Vltava River.
Old Town Hall Tower: Climb to the top of this historic structure and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Prague's iconic red rooftops.
The best districts
Staré Město (Old Town): Explore the maze of narrow streets lined with Gothic and Baroque architecture and smart cafés; highlights include the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Tňn.
Malá Strana (Lesser Town): Nestled below Prague Castle, this district is packed cheek-by-jowl with narrow alleyways, historic churches and lots of delightful riverside spots.
Vinohrady: Foodies and wine lovers will enjoy this cosmopolitan district dotted with upmarket eateries and wine bars, all of which offer a more local feel.
Museums
Museum of Communism: Head here for an insight into life in Czechoslovakia under Soviet rule. Various mock-ups of interiors contain period objects, though most disturbing are the sections on the secret police and the Iron Curtain.
Schwarzenberg Palace: Home to the National Gallery's superb collection of Old Masters, which features works by two of the most important Czech painters of the era, Petr Brandl (1668–1735) and Jan Kupeckň (1667–1740).
Museum of Decorative Arts: A showcase for all types of decorative art, at which the inhabitants of Bohemia have consistently excelled. The museum holds one of the world's largest collections of antique glass, as well as displays relating to ceramics, tapestries, costumes and clocks.
Parks and gardens
Castle Gardens: The small, interlinking Castle Gardens are among the city's loveliest parks, with wonderful views to boot.
Wallenstein Garden: The gardens here feature a superb loggia, clipped hedges, fountains and statuary by the celebrated sculptor Adriaen de Vries.
Stromovka Park: Once a royal hunting ground, Stromovka is now a tranquil green space beloved by the natives.
Historical monuments
Charles Bridge: A Gothic masterpiece lined with beautiful sculptures and atmospheric at any time of day, though it's best visited early in the morning or at dusk to avoid the crowds.
Prague Castle: Pride of place must go to Prague Castle, the seat of royal power throughout the Middle Ages. Sitting on the top of a low ridge, casting a watchful eye over the city, there are few more spectacular sights in all of Europe.
St Vitus Cathedral: Prepare to be dazzled by its awe-inspiring facade; soaring towers and spires dwarf the surrounding buildings.
Church of Our Lady before Tňn: An immense Gothic edifice whose cloud-raking spires rise to 80m above the surrounding medieval streets, shaping the city's skyline.
Day trips in the area
Kutná Hora: One of the most popular day trips from the capital, this charming town's outstanding monument is St Barbara's Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Central European Gothic architecture.
Karlštejn Castle: Rising high above the treetops of the winding valley of the River Berounka like a medieval vision come true, Karlštejn Castle is one of the country's greatest attractions and an easy day trip from the capital.
Pilsen: Only an hour away by train from the capital, Bohemia's second city has a couple of major attractions, though top billing goes to the Prazdroj (Urquell) Brewery where a fascinating tour tells the story of the world's first and finest Pils beer.
Activities for families in Prague
From interactive museums to theatre trips, there are quite a few fun activities to keep kids happy and maybe even amuse parents.
Local transport: This can be hugely entertaining: boat trips on the Vltava are fun, a simple ride on a tram can be a great experience in itself and taking the funicular railway up to Pet≈ôín Hill thrills young ones.
Theatre: A well-chosen theatre trip can be a stimulating experience even for small children. The Lanterna Magika features dance, mime and lighting effects, while The National Marionette Theatre stages shows for all ages, including a puppet version of Don Giovanni.
Interactive museums: Child-friendly museums include the National Technical Museum, with plenty of interactive displays and The National Museum, which has collections of tropical insects and animal bones – children might be particularly enthralled by the giant insects.
Free things to do in Prague
Although fairly expensive by central/eastern European standards, Prague offers plenty of opportunities to experience its charms without spending a fortune.
Kampa Island and the Lennon Wall: This pretty square and parkland can be explored for free, and you can even feed the resident swans. Just off Kampa, on Velkop≈ôevorské náměstí is the famous Lennon Wall, one of Eastern Europe's most-visited pieces of graffiti.
City centre walks: One of the planet's most walkable cities, you can amble across the centre in an hour through a maze of traffic-free streets; around the edge of the densely built-up historical core are sweeping green spaces where you can sit and enjoy the sunshine and birdsong - all without spending a penny.
Free events: From open-air concerts in summer to traditional Christmas markets in winter, Prague's calendar is filled with free cultural happenings.
Nature and outdoor activities in Prague
Prague may be known for its urban charm, but it also offers numerous outdoor escapes and adventures catering to all sensibilities.
Hiking: From Divoká ≈†árka, a red-marked Czech Hiking Club trail runs 7.5km to Baba on the Vltava. This is an easy walk along the ≈†árecké Valley with its rock formations and forests. The Czech map app Mapy.cz will guide you through the gorge. Afterwards, catch tram No 8 or No 18 back to the centre.
Water sports: Boat rides aside, the Vltava has become something of a hotspot for paddleboarders and kayakers. There are several rental spots along the riverbanks, catering to beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Bird-watching and wildlife: For an escape from the urban bustle, and to reconnect with nature, head to Milíƒçovskň Forest or Hostiva≈ô Reservoir, both of which present opportunities to spot a variety of bird species.
