19 Best Things to Do in Prague: Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems

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Prague is one of Europe’s most iconic cities, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. With its fairytale skyline, centuries-old buildings, and unique mix of history and art, the city feels like a storybook come to life.

But Prague isn’t just about checking off a list of famous landmarks. There’s also a more unique side to discover, quiet corners, quirky statues, peaceful parks, and even the occasional nutria by the riverbank.

In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to do in Prague, from classic must-sees to underrated gems, all based on my own experience. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, this list will help you make the most of your time in the Czech capital.

Table of Contents

1. See the Charles Bridge at Sunrise

Tina in a yellow jacket happily poses with arms wide open on an early morning walk across Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge. The sky is overcast, and the baroque statues and historic skyline add a dreamy backdrop. — Sunrise is the only time where it’s that quiet on the Charles Bridge (pic from April)

The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in Prague and one of the busiest. By midday, it’s packed with tourists, street performers, and vendors, making it hard to enjoy its beauty. That’s why I recommend visiting at sunrise.

It’s the only time you’ll catch the bridge in near silence. It’s still not completely empty (this is Prague, after all), but it’s quiet enough to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the views.

While you’re there, stop at the Statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, the small figure being thrown into the river. It’s said that if you make a wish while touching it, your wish will come true (as long as you don’t tell anyone what it was!).

2. Enjoy the View (and the Nutria) at Park Cihelná

View of the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague spanning the Vltava River, with historic buildings and church domes on the left under a sky filled with fluffy clouds. — How cute are the nutria?

Two nutria snack on orange bell pepper pieces near the cobblestone edge of the Vltava River while a swan and ducks paddle nearby. It’s a quirky, peaceful moment of wildlife in the city. — How cute are the nutria?

If waking up for sunrise isn’t your thing, or you’ve already walked the Charles Bridge, head to Park Cihelná for a different perspective. Located just across the river from the Old Town, this quiet spot offers amazing views of the Charles Bridge without the crowds.

But the real stars of the show? Nutrias, adorably rodents that look like a mix of beavers and rats. They hang out by the water’s edge. The first day we stumbled on them by chance, but came back the next day with carrots, which they happily munched on.

We honestly ended up taking more photos of the nutrias than the bridge, and we weren’t the only ones. Just bring some carrots, and you’ll make some furry friends.

3. Climb the Old Town Bridge Tower

A bird’s-eye view of Prague’s Charles Bridge seen through a stone arch window atop a tower, showing crowds of people walking the historic span across the Vltava River. The red rooftops of the Lesser Town and the spires of Prague Castle stretch out in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

For one of the best panoramic views in Prague, head up the Old Town Bridge Tower at the end of the Charles Bridge. It’s a short but steep climb, and totally worth it for the incredible view across the bridge and the river.

The tower itself is part of the old fortification system and dates back to the 14th century. Inside, there’s a small exhibition, but the real draw is the open-air terrace at the top.

Tip: Go early! You’ll get a 50% discount within the first hour of opening, and it’s much quieter (at least it was when we visited). Check out my post on things to do in Prague for free to save more money.

4. Visit Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral & the Golden Lane

The grand Gothic facade of St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, towering with ornate spires and a large rose window. The stonework is intricately detailed, glowing warmly under the sunlight and blue sky.

The vast and elegant Vladislav Hall inside Prague Castle, featuring a beautifully vaulted ceiling with intricate rib patterns. Visitors line the sides of the long hall beneath soft natural light from tall windows.

The Prague Castle complex is one of the city’s top attractions and for good reason. It’s massive, with stunning views, grand courtyards, and centuries of history.

Your entry ticket covers several highlights, including the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and the charming (but very crowded) Golden Lane.

The cathedral alone is worth the visit, it’s one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Europe, with breathtaking stained glass windows, including a unique Art Nouveau window by Mucha.

Timing is everything here. We went later in the day, and the Golden Lane was so packed it was hard to enjoy. If I could do it again, I’d arrive right when the castle opens to beat the crowds.

🏰 Book your guided tour for the Prague Castle now!

5. Watch the Astronomical Clock Show

Close-up of the Prague Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall building, showing its ornate dials and surrounding gothic architectural details. — It get’s really crowded every hour for the clock show

A large crowd of tourists gathers in Prague’s Old Town Square, all facing the iconic astronomical clock on the Old Town Hall building. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow on the historic buildings surrounding the square. — It get’s really crowded every hour for the clock show

The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks and watching the hourly show is a must see. Just don’t expect anything too dramatic.

When the clock strikes the hour, small wooden figures come out and rotate, with the grand finale being a rooster that crows at the end. It’s short, subtle, and honestly a bit underwhelming. But it’s such an iconic part of Prague that it’s still worth seeing.

Tip: Be extra careful with your belongings. The area gets incredibly crowded, and it’s a known pickpocket hotspot since everyone’s standing still and focused on the clock.

6. Write a Message of Peace on Lennon Wall

Tina in a mustard yellow coat and pink headband stands in front of Prague’s vibrant Lennon Wall, covered in colorful graffiti, peace signs, and messages like “Be Kind” and “LOVE.” The cobblestone path beneath her adds to the artsy, bohemian vibe. — Me at Lennon Wall

The Lennon Wall is one of Prague’s most colorful landmarks, a constantly evolving canvas covered in graffiti, peace messages, and art. It started with short messages against the communist regime in the 1960s.

Although John Lennon never visited Prague, the wall became a tribute to him after his death in 1980. And to this day it stays a symbol of free expression.

You’re welcome to leave your own message of peace, just use a pen or marker, as spray paint is now prohibited after some drunk visitors got carried away.

7. Join a Free Walking Tour Through the Old Town & Jewish Quarter

If it’s your first time in Prague, I highly recommend starting with a free walking tour, it’s the perfect intro to the city’s history, legends, and layout.

The one I joined covered Old Town, the Jewish Quarter, and the Charles Bridge in just under three hours. It included stories about Kafka, the Prague Golem, how to read the Astronomical Clock, and ended at the Lennon Wall.

Tours run daily and are free, but you’ll need to book online as spots fill up fast. Tips are appreciated, and while some guides take cards, cash is easiest.

👣 Book your free walking tour now before it fills up!

8. Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and Prague’s Historic Synagogues

A dense cluster of weathered tombstones leans in all directions in Prague’s Old Jewish Cemetery, surrounded by fresh spring greenery and framed by historic buildings and trees under a bright blue sky. — Old Jewish Cemetery

A stunning shot of the Spanish Synagogue’s richly decorated interior, with its domed ceiling, ornate arches, golden patterns, and stained glass windows glowing in natural light. — Old Jewish Cemetery

To really understand Prague’s Jewish history, set aside time to visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and the historic synagogues in the Jewish Quarter. You’ll need a combo ticket, it’s not possible to buy single-entry tickets. The ticket gives you access to:

Old Jewish Cemetery
Old-New Synagogue
Spanish Synagogue
Maisel Synagogue
Pinkas Synagogue

The Spanish Synagogue is by far the most stunning, its rich Moorish interior is absolutely breathtaking and it reminded me of the Alhambra palace in Spain.

The Old-New Synagogue is the most fascinating. It’s over 700 years old and is said to house the remains of the Golem in its attic. Its name comes from the legend that its foundation stones were brought by angels from Jerusalem’s destroyed temple “on condition” (al tenai in Hebrew).

9. Visit the Powder Tower (and the Elegant Café Next Door)

The ornate facade of Prague’s Municipal House with its decorative archway, mosaic, and sculptures, next to the dark gothic Powder Tower. People and cars fill the busy square out front.

The Powder Tower is one of Prague’s original city gates and a striking piece of Gothic architecture. You can climb it for views, but even from the ground, it’s worth a stop.

Right next to it is the beautiful Obecní dům (Municipal House) and the elegant Kavárna Obecní dům, one of Prague’s most Instagrammable cafés. The café has a gorgeous art nouveau interior, but be warned: It’s pricey, and reviews on food and service are mixed.

10. Shop at Havelské tržiště

A vibrant street view of Havel’s Market (Havelské Tržiště) in Prague, with colorful produce and souvenirs displayed under a red-and-white striped canopy. Historic buildings and church towers line the bustling pedestrian street under a partly cloudy sky.

If you’re in the mood for a little browsing, stop by Havelské tržiště, Prague’s oldest market. It’s a mix of souvenirs, local crafts and fresh produce. While it’s definitely geared toward tourists these days, it’s still a charming spot to wander through.

Tip: Bring cash in Czech Koruna, as not all vendors accept cards. And don’t pay in Euro, the bad exchange rates at shops and market stalls are one thing you have to avoid in Prague.

11. See the Kafka Statues (and Other Quirky Public Art)

A crowd gathers around the massive kinetic sculpture of Franz Kafka’s rotating head, made of shiny mirrored layers, surrounded by modern glass buildings in Prague.

A surreal statue of Franz Kafka, showing a smaller Kafka figure riding on the shoulders of a headless, suit-clad giant, located in a small park in Prague. The buildings and bare trees set a wintry urban backdrop.

If you’re a fan of Kafka or just love art, Prague has two must-see statues of Franz Kafka:

The first is the rotating Kafka head by David Černý, a mirrored sculpture that constantly shifts and reassembles his face.
The second is the Kafka statue in the Jewish Quarter, inspired by one of his short stories, where Kafka is depicted riding on the shoulders of a headless figure.

Click here to check out the full list of amazing statues in Prague.

12. Walk up Wenceslas Square and Visit the National Museum

Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) is one of Prague’s most famous boulevards, lined with shops, hotels, and historical monuments. It’s been the backdrop for major protests, celebrations, and pivotal moments in Czech history.

At the top of the square sits the National Museum, a grand neo-Renaissance building with exhibitions on natural history, culture, and Czech heritage.

When I visited, the square was under heavy reconstruction, so it wasn’t exactly scenic, if I’m being honest, not at all. But even so, you could still imagine how impressive it usually is.

13. Dance in Front of the Dancing House

Tina in a mustard yellow jacket strikes a playful pose in front of Prague’s famous Dancing House, a modern architectural landmark with curvy lines and contrasting glass and concrete towers. The sky is partly cloudy, and the street around her is lively with cars and pedestrians.

Nicknamed “Fred and Ginger,” the Dancing House is one of Prague’s most famous modern buildings and a total contrast to the city’s historic skyline. Its curvy, whimsical design is meant to resemble a pair of dancers, and whether you love it or hate it, it’s definitely a fun photo stop.

We couldn’t resist doing a little dance of our own in front of it (because how can you not?). Just watch out for traffic, it’s located at a busy intersection, so be careful when snapping pics or striking a pose.

14. Visit Vyšehrad and Its Stunning Church

The front view of the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul in Vyšehrad, Prague, showcasing its dark Gothic twin towers and intricately decorated entry doors. The sky above is partly cloudy, adding contrast to the dramatic stone facade. — How cool is the inside of Vyšehrad church?

Inside the richly decorated Vyšehrad church in Prague, showcasing arched columns and vaulted ceilings covered in intricate, colorful murals of saints, angels, and floral patterns. Sunlight filters through tall stained glass windows, adding to the serene atmosphere. — How cool is the inside of Vyšehrad church?

If you’re craving a quieter side of Prague, head to Vyšehrad. This historic fortress sits slightly outside the center, and somehow it still flies under the radar, even though it has one of the most beautiful churches in the city.

The Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul is stunning inside, with art nouveau–style decorations that make it feel completely different from the more famous churches in Prague.

The surrounding cemetery is peaceful and filled with Czech cultural icons, and the park with views over the Vltava River is a perfect place to relax or go for a walk.

15. Explore Petřín Hill and Climb the Petřín Tower

If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk and don’t mind a bit of a climb, Petřín Hill is one of Prague’s best green escapes. It’s peaceful, leafy, and offers great views over the city.

At the top stands the Petřín Lookout Tower, often called Prague’s Eiffel Tower. While the structure itself is much smaller, the top of the tower actually reaches the same sea level as the real Eiffel Tower, thanks to the hill’s elevation.

You can either walk up the hill or take the funicular (it’s closed until 2026), and then climb the tower’s stairs for the full view.

16. Visit One of Prague’s Beautiful Libraries

If you love libraries or just enjoy beautiful interiors, Prague has two stunning historic libraries worth checking out: the Klementinum Library and the Strahov Monastery Library.

Both are breathtaking, but you can’t actually step inside either, just view them from the doorway to help preserve the books.

If you don’t have time to see both, my vote goes to the Klementinum. It’s more central, includes access to a viewing platform, and you can get 50% off if you book the first tour of the day, a great way to save and beat the crowds.

17. Try Traditional Czech Food (Vegan Version, of Course!)

A plate of three vegan potato dumplings served on braised red cabbage, topped with crispy fried onions and rich brown gravy, alongside a tall glass of iced berry drink with a dried citrus garnish. The table setting suggests a cozy, casual restaurant vibe. — Vegan version of stuffed Czech dumplings

Czech cuisine isn’t exactly known for being vegan-friendly, but Prague makes it work. There are plenty of fully vegan restaurants that serve plant-based versions of traditional dishes.

One of my top recommendations is Střecha, a cozy spot that serves hearty, comforting Czech meals, all 100% vegan. Another great pick is Vegan’s Prague on the other side of the river from the old town, which also has beautiful views from the tiny terrace.

18. Visit Prague’s Main Train Station (and Take a Day Trip While You’re at It)

Inside the art nouveau dome of Prague’s main train station, Fantova kavárna is visible with people gathered under the grand yellow ceiling adorned with coats of arms and intricate moldings.

Prague’s main train station (Hlavní nádraží) is home to a stunning art nouveau hall dating back to 1909. The upper level of the station still retains its original charm, and it’s absolutely worth a visit.

The best way to experience it? Walk in, admire the architecture, and then actually catch a train from there. Prague makes a perfect base for day trips. Here are a few great options:

Kutná Hora: Visit the famous bone church and charming medieval town
Karlštejn Castle: One of the most impressive castles in the Czech Republic
Brno: The second-largest city in the country and a chill, authentic alternative to Prague. Check out my post about what to do in Brno for a day
Terezín: A sobering but important WWII memorial site

19. Relax in One of Prague’s Beautiful Parks

A peaceful view of Waldstein Garden in Prague, with a stone fountain spraying water in the foreground, neatly trimmed hedges, and baroque sculptures lining the paths. The sun shines through scattered clouds, casting a golden light over the scene. — Waldstein Garden

After all that sightseeing, take some time to slow down and relax in one of Prague’s many parks and gardens, they’re the perfect way to end your visit on a peaceful note.

Waldstein Garden: A bit of a hidden gem in Prague near the palace complex, complete with peacocks, sculpted hedges, and a lovely pond, surprisingly quiet given its location.
The Royal Garden: Another park near the Prague Castle, this is a great spot for a scenic stroll. It’s well-kept, with wide walking paths and a relaxed vibe.
Letná Park: Located slightly away from the tourist crowds, this park offers panoramic views over the city and Vltava River, and has a more local, everyday feel.

👣 Don’t forget to book your free walking tour!

Final Thoughts: What to Do in Prague

Whether you’re into grand castles, hidden corners, quirky art, or just feeding nutrias by the river, Prague offers an incredible mix of experiences. From iconic landmarks to unexpected finds, this city has more than enough to fill your days and leave you wanting to come back.

If you’re planning to stay for a few days, check out my 3-day Prague itinerary to see how to make the most of your time without feeling rushed.

Tina Riegelnegg

Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She's a vegan with wanderlust, who shares tips and stories from her travels to 31 countries as a vegan minimalist. After 2.5 years of full-time travel with just a personal item-sized bag, she’s now based in Vienna, helping fellow travelers explore the world with ease and compassion.