Prague, “The City of 100 Spires”, is home to many major museums, including a wide assortment of theaters, markets, cultural attractions and historical exhibits. It is a city full of beautiful Gothic art and architecture, some dating back to the 15th century. The city is full of beautiful public gardens for those looking for a free and relaxing day, or you can venture to one of Prague’s many theaters to catch a musical performance or puppet show. Spend a day exploring the majestic Prague castle, and then enjoy heart-warming food at one of many Czech taverns in the city. With seemingly endless opportunities, the city has emerged as one of the top tourist spots in Europe.
Pražský Hrad (Prague Castle)
Home to the Crown Jewels of Bohemia and the current official office of the President of the Czech Republic, the Prague Castle is a necessary stop to any tourist in the city. Built in the 9th century, the Prague Castle has been home to the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and Presidents of Czechoslovakia. Now considered the largest castle complex in the world, the numerous rooms and gardens of the castle can be explored for hours on end. To learn more about the Prague Castle’s history, how to get there from different parts of the city and schedule a tour visit the Prague Castle’s official website.
Staroměstské Náměstí (Old Town Square)
The Old Town Square has been one of the most central and heavily visited parts of Prague dating back to the 10th century. Originally used as a main trading spot at the crossroads of many European trade routes, the Old Town Square was home to vendors, pop-up shops, trading posts, inns, churches and taverns; everything a traveler could need. In earlier times the Old Town Square was used as a public gathering forum for executions and other such punishments. Nowadays the Old Town Square is composed mostly of pop-up vendors and shops for travelers and tourists. The Old Town Square is also home to historical landmarks such as the Old Town Hall, the Church of the Virgin Mary before Týn, and the world-famous Prague astronomical clock. Being one of the oldest and most important squares in Prague, the Old Town Square is a must stop location during your exploration of Prague. To learn more about the buildings in the Old Town Square and their history, visit the Prague tourism website.
Karlův Most (Charles Bridge)
Commissioned by Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1357, the Charles Bridge is a Gothic style bridge connecting the Old Town and the Lesser Town. The bridge consists of two towers on both ends, and is lined with a total of 30 Baroque statues that were placed starting in the 17th century. Today the bridge is often occupied with musicians, artists and local vendors. The bridge is typically full of people throughout the day. If your visit is timed correctly, you will be able to see a beautiful sunrise or sunset over Prague Castle. To learn more about the history of Charles Bridge, to view a map or for a virtual tour visit the official Prague tourism website.
Prague Metronome
Overlooking the Vltava River and Prague’s Old Town Square stands the Prague metronome. Located in Letná Park the 75-foot-tall, functioning metronome provides an amazing spot for people to enjoy a view of the city and has become a paradise for skateboarders. Constructed in 1991, the Prague Metronome was erected to symbolize a new era and hope for the people of the Czech Republic. For more information on the Prague Metronome and how to get there, visit the Prague tourism website.
Letná Park
Built upon a plateau along the Vltava River in Prague, Letná park is a large grassy park used recreationally by people for sports, picnics, or walks. The land the park now sits on was originally used in the Middle Ages as the home to military camps because of its strategic location. Letná Park was also the site of demonstrations against the communist government. In November 1989 close to 750,000 people gathered at Letná Park to protest for two days against communism. Letná Park is also used for larger social events, such as concerts. To learn more about Letná Park’s history and location visit the Prague tourism website.