Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of Europe's most enchanting cities. With its fairy-tale skyline, centuries of history, and remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture, it's no surprise that Prague consistently ranks among the most visited cities in the world. If you're planning your first trip or returning for more, this guide covers most visited places in Prague, complete with addresses, opening hours, and everything you need to know before you go.
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1 Website: Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the undisputed crown jewel of the city, and quite possibly the most visited monument in the Czech Republic. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, it is the largest coherent castle complex in the world, covering nearly 70,000 m². Founded around 880 AD by Prince Bořivoj of the Přemyslid dynasty, the castle has served as the seat of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and today is the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
The complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and encompasses a stunning array of palaces, churches, gardens, galleries, and historic exhibitions spanning Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural styles. Key highlights within the complex include St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, the famous Golden Lane, and the Daliborka Tower. The castle grounds offer breathtaking panoramic views over Prague's rooftops and the Vltava River below.
Opening Hours:
- Castle Grounds (courtyards, outdoor areas): Daily 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM, year-round
- Historical Buildings (summer, April 1 – October 31): Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Historical Buildings (winter, November 1 – March 31): Daily 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Gardens: Closed mid-November through end of February
Tips: Entry to the castle grounds is free. A paid ticket (450 CZK for adults) is required to enter the historical buildings and exhibitions. Arrive early, between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, to avoid the busiest crowds, which typically peak between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at noon at the main entrance.
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
Address: Karlův most, 110 00 Prague 1 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (free entry)
Charles Bridge is one of Prague's most iconic landmarks and the oldest surviving bridge across the Vltava River in the city. Commissioned by King Charles IV, construction began in 1357 and was completed in the early 15th century. The bridge stretches 516 metres in length and nearly 10 metres in width, resting on 16 arches. It is a pedestrian-only zone, meaning the only way to cross it is on foot.
The bridge is lined with 30 Baroque statues of saints, most erected between 1683 and 1928. The most famous is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, erected in 1683, whose polished plaque is said to bring good luck to those who touch it. From the bridge, visitors enjoy magnificent views of Prague Castle, the Vltava River, and the city's historic skyline.
At both ends of Charles Bridge stand impressive Gothic towers that can be climbed for an elevated view of the bridge and surrounding city. The Old Town Bridge Tower, built in 1370, is considered one of the finest Gothic towers in Europe.
Tips: The bridge is extremely busy during daylight hours. For a truly atmospheric experience visit in the very early morning or late at night. Vendors, artists, and musicians typically set up during the day. The bridge has no entry fee.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Address: Staroměstské náměstí, 110 00 Prague 1 (Old Town / Staré Město) Opening Hours: The square itself is open and accessible 24 hours a day (free entry)
Old Town Square is the historic heart of Prague and has been the city's main public gathering space since the 11th century. Surrounded by some of the finest medieval and Baroque architecture in all of Europe, it is a place where history feels alive at every turn.
The square is home to several extraordinary landmarks in its own right. The Church of Our Lady before Týn has dominated the square's skyline since the 14th century. The Baroque Church of St. Nicholas adds further architectural grandeur, while the colourful merchant houses lining the square showcase centuries of Prague's prosperity. At the centre of the square stands the Jan Hus Monument, unveiled in 1915 to mark the 500th anniversary of the Czech religious reformer's death. Look down and you'll find 27 white crosses embedded in the paving stones, commemorating the execution of Czech Protestant leaders on 21 June 1621.
Tips: The square is busiest between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Early mornings (before 9:00 AM) offer the most peaceful atmosphere and the best photography light. The Christmas and Easter markets held in Old Town Square are among the finest in Central Europe.
Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Address: Staroměstské náměstí 1/3, 110 00 Prague 1 (located on the south wall of the Old Town Hall Tower)
The Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the most remarkable medieval timepieces in the world. Installed in 1410, it is one of the oldest working astronomical clocks still in existence. The clock mechanism has three main components: the astronomical dial, which tracks the position of the Sun and Moon and displays multiple types of time (Central European, Old Bohemian, and Babylonian); the Calendar Dial, featuring medallions representing the months and zodiac symbols; and the famous Walk of the Apostles, which takes place every hour.
Every hour from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, the clock puts on its famous hourly show. Two windows slide open to reveal mechanical figures of the Twelve Apostles parading past, while four allegorical statues on either side of the clock come to life: a skeleton representing Death rings a bell and turns an hourglass, a figure with a mirror represents Vanity, a figure with a moneybag represents Avarice, and a Turk shakes his head. The spectacle ends with a golden rooster crowing and the tower bell ringing.
Viewing the Clock (Free): You can watch the hourly show from Old Town Square at no cost, any time between 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
Climbing the Tower (Paid):
- January – March: Daily 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- April – December: Daily 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tips: Position yourself in the square 5–7 minutes before the top of the hour to secure a good viewing spot. The Old Town Hall Tower is wheelchair accessible via lift and offers one of the finest panoramic views of Prague from its 42-metre-high gallery.
St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála sv. Víta)
Address: III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Prague 1 (within Prague Castle complex) Website: katedralasvatehovita.cz
St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most important buildings in the Czech Republic and the spiritual heart of Prague Castle. This stunning Gothic cathedral, which dominates the castle skyline, was begun in 1344 under King John of Bohemia and Emperor Charles IV, though construction was not fully completed until 1929. It serves as the burial place of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman Emperors, and Czech patron saints, and houses the Czech Crown Jewels (on rare public display).
The cathedral's exterior is a breathtaking ensemble of Gothic towers, flying buttresses, and intricate stone carvings. Inside, the richness of the interior is overwhelming: the nave soars to 33 metres, the stained-glass windows cast the light into extraordinary colours, and the St. Wenceslas Chapel is considered one of the most precious interiors in Central Europe.
Opening Hours (as part of Prague Castle ticket):
- Summer (April – October), Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Summer (April – October), Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Winter (November – March), Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Winter (November – March), Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Last entry is always 20 minutes before closing
Note: The cathedral is also used for religious services, which may occasionally alter visiting hours. Check the official website for updates.
Tips: Entry to the front section of the cathedral is free. A Prague Castle ticket is required to access the full interior, crypt, and tower. The Cathedral Tower (287 steps) carries an additional charge of 200 CZK and offers spectacular views over the castle complex and city.
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Address: Václavské náměstí, 110 00 Prague 1 (New Town / Nové Město) Opening Hours: Open and accessible 24 hours a day (free entry)
Wenceslas Square is the vibrant commercial and cultural heart of Prague's New Town. Despite its name, it is less a traditional square than a grand boulevard lined with shops, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, and banks. It connects Old Town with New Town and is considered the busiest pedestrian thoroughfare in the entire Czech Republic.
Originally established in 1348 as the Horse Market (Koňský trh) by King Charles IV during the founding of Prague's New Town, it was officially renamed in honour of Saint Wenceslas in 1848. The square has been the stage for some of the most pivotal moments in Czech history: the declaration of Czechoslovak independence in 1918, the Nazi occupations of the 1940s, the student protests of 1969 (when Jan Palach set himself on fire in protest of the Soviet invasion), and the Velvet Revolution of 1989.
At the upper (southeastern) end of the square, the grand neoclassical Czech National Museum (built 1885–1890) provides a dramatic backdrop. Just below it stands the iconic equestrian statue of Saint Wenceslas by sculptor Josef Václav Myslbek (1912), which remains the traditional meeting point for Prague residents. A small memorial to Jan Palach and Jan Zajíc is also located nearby.
Tips: Two metro stations serve the square: Můstek (Lines A and B) at the lower end and Muzeum (Lines A and C) at the upper end. The square hosts seasonal markets, including popular Christmas and Easter markets. It's best explored on foot.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Prague
Getting Around: Prague has an excellent and affordable public transport network of metro, trams, and buses. The metro has three lines (A – green, B – yellow, C – red) and connects most major attractions. Trams are ideal for exploring Malá Strana and reaching areas like Petřín. Tickets are valid across all modes of transport.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer the ideal combination of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. July and August are the busiest months. Winter brings fewer tourists and a magical atmosphere, particularly during the Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
Money: The Czech Republic uses the Czech Koruna (CZK). Most major attractions accept card payments, but it's worth carrying some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Language: Czech is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout tourist areas and at major attractions.
Prague City Pass: For visitors planning to see multiple paid attractions, a Prague City Pass or similar multi-attraction ticket can offer significant savings.
