The Proper Traveler

With so much to do in this fairytale city, it’s hard to determine what to prioritise in Prague. We’ve compiled what we consider the best of the best. That being said, there are still many things to explore throughout the city if you have time. Here is a list of our recommendations.

#10 - Letna park

Letna Park holds a special place in my heart. It was the first place we went to on our first trip to Prague back in 2015. From Letna Park, you get a gorgeous view of Prague Old Town that you just can’t get anywhere else.

What’s unique about this park is its history. Back in the middle ages, this was a military camp location. It was colonized at the end of the 19th century and was used for recreation like we do today. There was a large monument of Joseph Stalin in 1955, but it was destroyed in 1962. There have been important meetings, calls for political resignations, and even kick-off concerts for Michael Jackson here. Nowadays, you get to see locals enjoying the weather and picnicking in the sun. It’s very tranquil here and you get more of what life is like living as a local since this park isn’t super touristy. Also catch the skateboarders practicing, as this is a European destination for aspiring skateboarders.

#9 - National Marionette Theatre

If you’ve ever been to Prague before, you’ll understand when I say there are puppets everywhere! It’s true – you will find beautiful hand-crafted old-fashioned puppets on strings. Bohemia has had a long history of entertaining children and adults with collections of elaborate puppetry. And the best place to see these puppets in action is at the National Marionette Theatre. While it may seem to be an old theatre production, the company actually started in 1991. The space itself dates back at least 100 years, but even that is more recent by Europe’s standards. They tend to play classic operas, such as Don Giovanni and The Magic Flute. Since their company began in 1991, other companies have also formed around Prague, so there are other opportunities to see a puppet show, even if the National Marionette Theatre is not performing.

Hours: Box office open from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Average Cost: 480 CZK

#8 - Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock is truly something to marvel at. It is the 3rd oldest clock in the world and the oldest working clock still in operation today. It was constructed in 1410, displaying the sun and the moon in astronomical details. Each hour, Apostle figures move around what is called “The walk of the Apostles,” in addition to a skeleton figure coming out representing death when striking the time, showcasing our time is running out. Make sure you get to the clock at least 15 minutes early, as this area gets swarms of tourists each hour. I’ve personally been knocked over by crazy tourists trying to see the clock strike. But hey, if you missed your chance one hour, you can always come back the next.

According to legend, if the clock is ever neglected, the city will suffer. So, it should be around a long time for you to get the chance to see it!

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. on the hour

Average Cost: FREE

#7 - Catch the Views on One of the Many Towers

Prague is a very super picturesque and gorgeous city. You will see beautiful photos of Prague all over social media, and the most common way these photos are taken is on one of the many towers throughout the city. Our personal favourite is the Lesser Town Bridge Tower on the Prague Castle side of Charles Bridge. It hosts some of the most stunning views of the city and is passed by many tourists. A lot of tourists don’t even know that it’s an option or that it exists. If you blink, you might miss the entrance. But it’s good for us because it was entirely empty when we went this last time! We had the whole tower all to ourselves without bumping into people - we could really take our time. It’s also cheaper than the average cost of a tower in Prague, so that’s why it’s our top pick for towers. Another great option, although pricy and overcrowded, is the Old Town Hall Tower. It’s easier to walk up than other towers, you get a better view of Old Town Square, and you get the see the 12 Apostles from the other side of the clock and see governmental rooms. Each tower has its own unique history, so it’s a fun thing to do and explore while traveling through Prague.

Hours: Varies

Average Cost: 200 CZK

#6 - Beer Spas

Ok, I’m a massive fan of The Amazing Race. So, when I saw an episode of the contestants going to a beer spa in Prague, I was like, “What is this? Why didn’t we do this before?” Since then, it seems like more and more beer spas are opening up across the world, but my first experience hearing of one was right here in Prague. Look, Prague has some incredible beer (well, according to my husband…I actually hate beer). But to get to experience bathing in beer is a whole other level. We personally chose 1st Beer Spa Prague for our experience, and we were not disappointed. We were laughing so hard from how ridiculous it was, but once we immerged in the warm “beer water,” it felt amazing, especially after a long day of exploring. We were also greeted with unlimited beer (my husband was happy), beer bread, a straw bed to relax in, and other amenities. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime!

Pro Tip: Make sure to bring your own swimsuits. You can purchase a cheap swimsuit, but to save money, it’s better just to bring your own. Also, it will be a cheaper option to book one tub if you’re a couple, unless you want to pay extra for an additional tub. We were celebrating our anniversary, so we didn’t mind! Also, DON’T DRINK THE BEER IN THE TUB. It’s crazy to say this, but people think they can actually drink the beer they’re bathing in. Do you really think that’s a smart idea?!

Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (you will need to book your hour(s) in advance

Average Cost: 1,880 CZK

#5 - Prague Old Town

Prague Old Town is where you will find many of the popular destinations within Prague, such as the Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady before Týn, St Clement Cathedral, the National Gallery Prague, and others. The Old Town Square features several (pricy and overrated) restaurants and souvenir shops as well as street performers and musicians. Old Town also has a lot of fun interactive exhibitions that are either permanent or temporary, with several being very unique to Prague. Just don’t do tourist traps that you can find anywhere in other cities (cough…cough…Madame Toussauds…cough). And, If you want a fun shopping experience, walk to Havelský Market. It is the only official preserved market in Old Town, dating back to 1232. You will find fresh produce, snacks, toys, souvenirs, artwork, and more. It is open every day from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday – Saturday and 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Sundays. We suggest grabbing a snack from the market and sitting out in the main Old Town Square and watch some free performances.

#4 - Strahov Library & Theological Hall

Part of the Strahov Monestery, the Strahov Library within the Theological Hall should not be missed on your trip to Prague.

In 1670, Jeroným Hirnheim, whom was a theologian and philosopher, became the head of the abbey. In the Theological Hall (completed in 1679), you will find some of his greatest works that has survived hundreds of years. After several years of assaults and damages, the monastery was rebuilt after 1742. After 1950, the library was placed into The Memorial of National Literature. There, you will find 200,000 volumes, 3,000 manuscripts, and 1,500 first prints of various pieces of literature. On top of that, it’s just stunning to see. No photo can do it justice. You really need to experience it for yourself… and check out the entirety of the monastery. I only included a very brief history of the library itself. There is much more to discover.

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Average Cost: 150 CZK

#3 - Charles Bridge

If you’re going to be in the Old Town area of Prague, you’re going to see Charles Bridge a lot. It’s one of my personal favourite bridges in Europe because of how unique it is. It started construction in 1357, but it wasn’t completed until the 15th century. It was built to replace the poorly damaged Judith Bridge, which suffered a massive flood in 1342. It was originally called Prague Bridge or Stone Bridge and wasn’t called Charles Bridge until after 1870 due to the decree from King Charles IV to build the bridge. The bridge is 1,693 feet long and 33 feet wide. The statues on the bridge are of 30 baroque-style saints and other figures. However, don’t feel like they are what Czechs would have seen back in the day – these are all replicas of the originals who haven’t survived through the ages. Oh, and if you smell something a little funky, it might be the eggs that were used to construct the bridge. Back when it was being built, it is believed that egg yolks were added to the mortar to develop a sort of binding (like making a cake) for the construction of the bridge. So, you could be smelling history… or some sweaty tourists.

Also, if you’re a 90s movie lover or Mission: Impossible fan, you can see the main Prague filming locations from the first film. They are located to the south of the bridge on the Prague Castle side of the river.

Hours: 24/7

Average Cost: FREE

#2 - Prague Castle

Prague Castle is a gorgeous 9th century castle in the heart of Prague. The former seat for Roman emperors, Bohemian kings, and Czechoslovakian rulers, this castle is now the office of the President of the Czech Republic. When you see this castle, you will be taken by its beauty… and size. It is actually the largest ancient castle in the world, taking up more than 750,000 square feet of land. You will find a lot to see and explore at the castle, such as St Vitus Cathedral, a monastery, palaces, gardens, defense towers, and more. You will also get to see museums such as Czech history exhibitions, the Toy Museum, and temporary attractions. My personal favourite is the Golden Lane, which is a street from the 16th century that used to house the castle guards. It is now a collection of tiny local souvenir shops (the prices for the souvenirs were cheaper than anywhere else from what we observed). And, if you get here during the summer, be sure to check out the Summer Shakespeare Festival, which takes place in the courtyard of Burgrave Palace every summer. With so much history and fun in one castle, you will need to spend at least 3 hours here.

Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (varies based on attraction of castle – each attraction has individual hours, so be sure to check ahead of time)

Average Cost: 350 CZK (you can see some of the attractions for free)

#1 - Travel Down the Vltava River on a Boat

Maybe it’s for sentimental reasons, but we believe the best thing to do in Prague is go on a boat ride in the evening. We’ve been on a couple of boat rides in Prague and don’t think any other experience can beat it. Some offer food, full-service bars, live music, and other activities, so you can select which boat service is best for you. There are MANY options that you can take on along the Vltava River. You’ll get the chance to see buildings, such as the Dancing House, that you just won’t get to see at a good angle otherwise. It is the perfect way to see Prague! And when everything is lit up at night, it’s like magic and time stops for a little while. It’s a breathtakingly gorgeous experience to share with friends and loved ones… and you may have feelings for someone after the ride, like we did, since this was how my husband and I fell in love back in 2015. It is well worth the money, and we think it’s one of the best ways to see and explore Prague!