Things to Do in Prague

Alternative Ideas for Exploring Prague

Sightseeing is just one of many things to do in Prague. So, please don't think Prague begins and ends with its architecture and history. There are plenty of other activities that will make your visit to Prague more colorful.

 See Prague by Paddle Boat.

This page suggests a few alternatives to sightseeing in Prague - with an emphasis on activities. It's sort of my big list of things to do in Prague.

This list touches on ideas and activities that aren't so common.

These are local but tourist friendly - things that give you a broader idea of Prague.

Fun Things to Do in Prague

These are my personal fun things to do in Prague. These are good to combine with any visit to Prague.

Segway Tours - Okay, this borders on sightseeing, but don't you just want to try one of these two wheeled contraptions?

Paddle Boat Rentals - if the weather is right rent a paddle boat - you won't regret it. This is one of my favorite things to do in Prague. I suggest renting from the tip of Žofin Island. You can cruise around Střelecký Ostrov (Island) with great views. Take tram 9, 18 or 22 to Národní Divadlo - you'll see the boats just across the street.

Rent a bike and explore Prague on your own or with a guide. Contact us for more information and rates.

Tram Ride - not all things to do in Prague involve walking. Jump on any number of trams for a real look at Prague. The historical center isn't necessarily the real Prague - you've got to see the outer parts too. Take the 9 tram to gritty Žižkov or cross the city from end to end on the 22.

Or, try the Nostalgia Tram from April-October for a public transit flashback. Take tram 1, 2, or 18 to Vozovna Střešovice - the starting point and Transit Museum.

Beer Tasting - Book a beer tour or Pub Crawl and discover why the Czech Republic has the highest per-capita beer consumption in the world. I can book either a Beer Tasting or an adventurous Pub Crawl for you - just contact us.

Towers - Prague is called the City of Hundred Spires and what better way to see them than by climbing a few? In particular, try Petřín Tower, the towers on Charles Bridge or the strange Žižkov TV Tower (metro Jiřiho z Podrebrad).

Horse Racing - You can bet all your money on unknown horses in the suburbs of Prague. Hop on the train at Smíchovské nadraží to Velká Chuchle. Trains depart every 30 minutes. Races are on Sundays April-October.

River Cruise - One of the best things to do in Prague is to take a river cruise. There are a number of boats offering views, dinner, jazz, drinks and even accommodation from the Vltava River. You can even take a day trip through little villages to the Labe River. You can book a short cruise today if you'd like - just contact us.

Prague Zoo - The local zoo combines natural environs with walking paths and interesting animals. It's a perfect place to explore with children.

Combine the trip with its impressive neighbor Trójský Zamek (Chateau). This Baroque chateau has a beautiful garden and extensive gallery with ongoing exhibitions. Take bus 112 from Nadraží Holesovice to the last stop. The Zoo and Chateau are side by side. Or, walk there by following the signs in Stromovka Park (see below).

Cemeteries - You may find this morbid, but Prague has a number of interesting cemeteries that combine history and subtle beauty. Visit the huge tree filled cemetery in Žižkov (metro Želivského) or the cemetery at Vyšehrad Castle (metro Vyšehrad). Here you'll find ornate graves of famous Czechs including Antonin Dvořak.

Explore Prague's Parks

Prague has wonderful parks right in the city center. Each one offers lots of things to do in Prague - from just sitting on a bench and reading a book to for actually doing stuff!

Petřín Hill - You can spend a whole day in this green oasis overlooking Prague. It's filled with meandering paths, napping spots and splendid sights of the city.

I suggest that you... climb Petřín Tower for the best views of Prague, see sunspots or the night sky in Štefánik Observatory, visit the House of Mirrors (Bludiště), wander the numerous paths, have a beer or ice cream near the tower or follow the immense so-called Hunger Wall through the entire park.

How to get there: Take tram 9, 12, 20 or 22 to Újezd. From Újezd you can walk up through the park or take the cable car.

Stromovka Park - This huge park feels far removed from the nearby bustling streets of Prague. Huge trees, running/biking trails and little ponds make it a great place to relax. But, the park contains a variety of other options as well.

Adjacent is Výstaviště Exhibition Grounds. The grounds have a couple of theatres, exhibition halls and the Lapidary which holds numerous statues including some originals from Charles Bridge.

Here too, you'll find the Křižík Singing Fountain. This unique outdoor venue has nightly performances of concerts, operas or ballets - all featuring a lighted fountain and orchestra.

Stromovka also includes Prague Planetarium. It has a decent hands-on exhibition and programs in English. Nearby you can also find the Prague Aquarium. It is a good indoor activity for kids with an interesting selection of sea creatures and sharks.

In the rear of Stromovka is Mathew Fairgrounds (Matějská Pouť) It's an eclectic carnival of sorts with a typical grimy collection of rides, games and even a roller coaster.

How to get there: Take tram 5, 12 or 14 to stop Výstaviště.

Letna Park - This park often goes unnoticed by visitors, but it just may offer the best view of Prague and the winding Vltava River. Grab a beer in the enormous shaded beer garden, go for a run on the paved paths or just bring the kids to the playground. And, don't miss the giant metronome that rocks above the city. The largest known statue of Lenin once stood here.

Letna connects to the Royal Gardens of Prague Castle making an uninterrupted line of nature. For a longer green walk, start at Petřín Hill (above) and continue under Strahov Abbey and over to the Stag Moat of Prague Castle. Follow the moat beside the castle to the eastern end going past the Summer Palace. Then continue across the footbridge into Letna Park.

How to get there: Take tram 26 to stop Sparta then cross through the opposite fields.

Hvězda (Star) Summer Palace

Obora Hvězda - The main attraction in this park is the impressive Summer Star Palace. This 16th century palace was built in the shape of a 6 pointed star and the original hunting reserve around it now serves as a large wooded park. There are three beautiful promenades leading to the palace with trees everywhere.

The palace itself has splendid stucco ceilings and gorgeous marble floors. There's a permanent exhibition on the first floor dedicated to the palace and a detailed exhibition of the Battle of White Mountain in the basement.

The palace is open from April - October and has a small entrance fee, but the grounds are open year round.

How to get there: Take tram 22 to stop Vypich then cross the street on your right and walk along the sidewalk. Ahead, you will see the large entrance bordering the large field.

Craggy Rocks of Divoká Šarka

Divoká Šarka - This park offers tons of things to do in Prague. You'll find long walking trails, vistas, swimming spots, beaches, wildlife and of course, a pub / beer garden. So, it's a perfect place to spend the day without actually leaving Prague.

The area is mostly wooded with a spring fed pool in the center and plenty of walking trails for hiking, biking and running. Adjacent to the park is a small lake with beaches and a swimming area.

But, my favorite part of Divoká Šarka is the incredible geological formations that give the park a prehistoric feeling. Hike to the top of the domed hill in the center for a pleasant view of the whole park, its craggy rocks and the canyon beside the hill. It's spectacular.

How to get there: Take tram 8 or 36 (subject to change) to the last stop, Divoká Šarka. Follow the street beside the nearby field down into the park.

Hang Out in Prague's Gardens

Looking for relaxing things to do in Prague? Prague's gardens might be just the thing. The city has many beautiful, well manicured gardens that often go unnoticed. Some require a small fee, but are well worth it. Take a book or pick up a Prague Post (local English newspaper) and make an afternoon of it.

Valdštejnská Gardens

Valdštejnská Zahrada - These gardens are easily overlooked with a little entrance just near the Malostranská metro station. But don't miss them! They are of the must-see variety.

Open from April-October the gardens include manicured hedges, roaming peacocks, fish to feed, a great castle perspective and occasional free concerts -- and many, many benches. The sculptures and unique indescribable wall inside is quite special. Located just behind metro Malostranská.

Botanical Gardens - These gardens combine a park feel with wonderful plant related exhibitions and numerous walking trails and greenhouses with all kinds of plant varieties. I enjoy just meandering through the Japanese garden and seeing the vista overlooking Prague. Combine a visit here with the Prague Zoo and/or Troja Chateau just down the street. Take bus 112 from Nadraží Holesovice to the last stop. The Zoo and Chateau are side by side. Or, walk there by following the signs in Stromovka Park (see above).

Vrtbovská Zahrada - hidden and beautiful, this Baroque secret garden is a gem. Take tram: 12, 20 or 22 to Malostranské náměstí.

Prague Castle Gardens - there's a variety of gardens both wild and manicured near the castle. Stroll Jelení Příkop (Stag Moat) or the Royal Garden; both are free. Most are only open April-October. Take tram 22 to Pražšky Hrad.

Břevnov Abbey - Visit this gorgeous quiet spot just outside the city center. The grounds have a big beautiful Baroque church, free tours and swaying willow trees. Take the 22 tram to Břevnovský Klášter.

Sports Related Things to Do in Prague

Here's a quick list of sporty things to do in Prague.

Prague Football - Prague has four local football teams that participate in the Gambrinus Liga - the Czech Republic's top league. It includes SK Slavia Praha and AC Sparta Praha who are common participants in the Champions League. FK Viktoria Žižkov and Bohemians 1905 have small venues and with great atmospheres, fun crowds and cheap tickets. The season runs August-June with a winter break from November to February.

Fun Island has a wide assortment of outdoor stuff to do on the Vltava River. Activities include: archery, paintball, beach volleyball, ropes course, shooting range and more. Take tram 12, 14 or 20 to Lihovar. (south from Anděl metro)

Go Rollerblading in Ladronka

Rollerblading in Ladronka Park. You can rent skates for all ages and cruise the long smooth paths. Or, stay inside for a game of bowling. From here walk to Hvězda Summer Palace for a relaxing walk amongst the trees. Take tram 22 to Vypich and walk diagonally through open field. Or take bus 191 to U Ladronky.

Swimming - take a swim at Podolí, Prague's main pool complex. It includes an Olympic sized indoor pool, two outdoor pools and a small pool for children. Open all year. Take trams 3, 16, 17 or 21 to Kublov.

Tennis - Czech Lawn Tennis Club is the largest and oldest tennis club in Prague. It offers many outdoor and indoor courts. Take metro to Vltavska or Florenc. The club is on Štvanice Island.

Ice Skating - Rent skates at the Winter Stadium Štvanice. Take metro to Vltavska or Florenc. The rink is on Štvanice Island.

Other Thoughts

These are just a few of the many things to do in Prague. Of course there are plenty of day trips out of Prague as well. The Czech countryside is covered with little cute villages, castles, chateaus, castle ruins and much, much more.

When you plan to visit Prague, give yourself at least 3 or 4 days. You will have plenty of time for sightseeing and for a few things to do in Prague.

If you have any questions about things to do in Prague, please contact us. Or, if you have your own favorite things to do in Prague - please let us know. We would love to share your tips with other readers.

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