Guide to Prague Attractions

These Prague attractions are of the "don't miss" variety. Of course there are countless other sights, but these are the main attractions. For off the-beaten path, try my hidden Prague sights. prague attractions castle

My quick guide will give you some background to each one. So if you're here on a short city break, these are all you'll need.

It's possible to see the main Prague attractions in only one or two days. But you might feel stressed to see everything.

I suggest planning to visit for at least 3 days - and 4 days is better yet.

If you have any questions, visit our Guide to Prague. It's a Q & A Forum where readers can ask us direct questions - and get direct answers from real people.

Main Prague Attractions

Prague Castle

prague castle prague attractions

Prague Castle is probably the most recognized of all Prague attractions. It's the absolute historical and architectural crown of Prague and cannot be missed.

The castle is the largest functioning castle in the world and it's the seat of the Czech government.

The castle is a complex of buildings. The most visible being Prague Cathedral - St. Vitus Cathedral.

The castle grounds, gardens and much of the cathedral are free to enter. But, tickets are required for many individual buildings and areas.

Read more about Prague Castle and Prague Cathedral.

Charles Bridge

charles bridge prague attractions

Charles Bridge in Prague is unforgettable. It's steeped in history and legend and can't be missed.

Basically, the bridge is the original connection between the Little Quarter where Prague Castle is and Old Town. It was constructed in the 14th century after the destruction of the original Judith Bridge and is lined by 30 statues.

Crossing the bridge provides a chance to see both sides of Prague. But, It's also very crowded. I suggest seeing it in the early morning or late afternoon and at night.

Old Town Prague

old town prague attractions

Old Town (Staré Město) is considered by many to be the very heart of Prague. It has lots of tiny streets and is chock full of sights and sounds.

Most streets seem to lead to Old Town Square - one of the largest and most impressive open public spaces in Europe.

Old Town seemingly has its own Prague attractions too. It's highlighted by Old Town Square, Church of Our Lady Before Tyn, the amazing astronomical clock and many Prague museums.

There are numerous good museums, restaurants, cafes and concerts to attend here as well. Of course with the sights come the biggest crowds of tourists too.

Click here to read more about Old Town.

Wenceslas Square

wenceslas square prague attractions

Of all the Prague attractions, Wenceslas Square is more of a large area than one sight.

It's a huge boulevard and is essentially the shopping and business center of Prague. Here you'll find the plenty of shops, restaurants, cafes and big hotels.

Aside from shopping, the square has long been a historical monument. It's also home to lots of nightlife, including plenty of clubs, red light stuff, cinemas and theaters.

Jewish Quarter

old cemetery prague attractions

Hidden amongst the little streets of Old Town you'll find what's left of Prague's Jewish Quarter. This small and incredibly interesting area near is often called Josefov. It's a small version of the former Jewish Ghetto that was mostly destroyed in the 19th century. Regardless, many original synagogues have survived along with a wonderful storied past.

Maybe the most remarkable sight of the Jewish Quarter is the Old Jewish cemetery - seen here. It dates from the 14th century.

More Prague Attractions

Strahov Monastery

strahov monastery prague attractions

This beautiful 12th century monastery is not far from Prague Castle. You can combine a visit here with the castle and other nearby sights.

Honestly, I think the monastery deserves more attention. It has gorgeous halls, a gallery space and the neighboring Strahov Library is simply breathtaking. Plus, the monastery borders Petřin Park - here you'll find wonderful views of Prague. Read more about Strahov Monastery.

Vyšehrad Castle

prague attractions vysehrad castle

This little visited castle is more of a fortress - but it's well worth a visit. Vyšehrad sits high above the Vltava River and offers splendid views and plenty of green space for relaxing.

Personally, I think it's huge bricked walls and gates alone are worth seeing. The amount of effort it took to build these old walls always impresses me. More importantly though, take a peek at the cemetery just outside the castle's church. It's filled with artistic gravesites including many famous Czechs like composer Antonin Dvorak. Read more about Vysehrad Castle.

Loreta

prague attractions loreta

Many Prague attractions are steeped in story. The Loreta is no exception. It's a small collection of baroque buildings near Strahov Monastery and Prague Castle. Inside is a 17th century replica of Santa Casa - the Sacred House of the Virgin Mary. Legend says that angels carried the original Santa Casa to the Italian town of Loreto before invading armies came to Nazareth.

The Loreta also includes the 18th century Chruch of the Nativity of Our Lord, an interesting treasury of valuable objects and the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows. Read more about the Loreta.

Malá Strana

prague attractions mala strana

This area is known as the Little Quarter or Lesser Town. This charming area is just below Prague Castle. Here you will find lots of little streets, overlooked churches, sights and quiet gardens and parks.

Most visitors overlook this area entirely with their sights set on Old Town. Please explore this area. You will not regret it. Read more about Mala Strana.

Petrin

This giant park offers plenty to see and do. It's really a destination all its own. You can easily spend a full day here. And, if you like to take photos of Prague - well, this is the spot.

There are plenty of trails here for wandering, a cafe with great views, a restaurant with terrace above the park and even a secret garden. (See if you can find it.)

And there's lots to do for children too - including playgrounds, the House of Mirrors, Stefanik Observatory, a funicular and more. Read more about Petrin.

Infant of Prague

One of the most interesting sights in Prague is this little wax statuette. It's visited by thousands each year and is said to have miraculous powers.

You don't have to be Catholic to visit the Church of Our Lady Victorious where the Infant Jesus is watching over the pilgrims that come to Prague to pray and see this 16th century figure.

It only takes a short time to visit and it's close to other Prague attractions as well like Charles Bridge. Read more about the Infant of Prague.

Obecní Dům (Municipal House)

prague attractions obecni dum

This beautiful building in Old Town is definitely worth a visit. It's design and construction was a collaboration of early 20th century artists including Alfons Mucha.

So to say the least, this building is an array of lush details - from the grandiose entrance and painted facade to the various music halls - it's an eyeful.

For a closer look you can take a tour, visit the exhibition halls or take in a concert. There are daily concerts and gallery exhibitions as well. The house also is home to two restaurants, gift shop and a cafe.

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