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The Czech Republic’s Prague tourist attractions are the stuff fairy tales are made of, and in this post, we will discuss them to make your trip to this enchanting city a memorable experience.
About Prague
With its gold-tipped towers, romantic castle, towering church domes, dramatic bridge, and scenic Vltava River, Prague is a traveler’s dream! This beautiful city that seems to be constantly permeated with magic in the air is not only all of that, but it also offers a plethora of wonderful activities that are fun and—best of all—free!
If you are bound for Prague in the near or distant future, here are the top tourist attractions that you must see and experience to get the most out of this amazing city. Again, the great thing is: that they’re absolutely free!
1. Prague Castle
According to Guinness World Records, Prague Castle is the biggest ancient castle in the world. It stands on a hill and rises like a glorious beacon over the beautiful city below. Its facade may not be as obvious or grandiose as that of Germany’s Burg Eltz, but it’s still magnificent.
While it’s a bit of a trek going up the hill to Prague Castle, it’s a breathtaking experience (literally if you’re out of shape, and figuratively with Prague’s beauty), nonetheless. With each step you take, the beautiful panorama below that is the city of Prague slowly comes into view.
2. Watch the changing of the guards
While entrance to the insides of Prague Castle comes with a fee, viewing the changing of the guards outside is, however, free. It’s a fairly simple affair with minimal fanfare that takes place daily at noon in the first courtyard. Simple yet a great watch to tick off from your bucket list, nonetheless. Come early to find a good spot to watch since a lot of people flock to see the show.
3. Marvel at the magnificence of St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is, hands down, one of the most beautiful churches I’ve seen! It has an intricate design with lots of outstanding and interesting details. I sat on a bench outside for some time just to marvel at its gorgeousness and gloriousness.
For an in-depth look at St. Vitus Cathedral, see St. Vitus Cathedral: Must-See When in Prague.
4. Gaze upon St. Nicholas Church
From the castle, you can find your way to the Old Town via a set of stairs located at the back of the castle grounds. Along the way, you’ll come across this remarkable Baroque church dedicated to St. Nicholas that also bears his name.
The current St. Nicholas has been built on the site of a former Gothic church by well-known Baroque artists and is considered to be their masterpiece. Sadly, they never got to see its completion. It’s by far the largest Jesuit-founded church in Prague and is said to be the most impressive example of Prague Baroque. It is used today as both a church and a concert hall.
While entrance to this famous edifice in Mala Strana comes with a fee, admiring its impressive white structure from the outside is free.
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Where to Stay in Prague
For the best deals on hotels and accommodations in Prague, you can do your search below.
Booking.comYou can also check out An Amazing Yet Cheap Hotel in Prague to see the wonderful hotel where we stayed during our trip. It was one of our best stays ever!
5. Laze around Old Town Square
A few minutes’ walk from St. Nicholas is the Old Town Square, one of the two famous squares in Prague. Flanked on its sides with many beautiful edifices and monuments (the statue of Czech priest, philosopher and reformer, Jan His, takes center stage), it’s an interesting place to find oneself. It’s also a nice spot to go enjoy a cup of coffee, munch on some Trdelnik (a cake/sweet pastry made from rolled dough that is placed around a stick, then grilled and topped with sugar and walnut mix) or two, and go people watching.
6. Admire the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn at night
When in the Old Town Square, it’s quite difficult to miss this magnificent church (although its entrance probably is, as it’s hidden behind the restaurants fronting it).
With its high towers soaring into the sky, this 14th-century Gothic masterpiece provides a nice backdrop to the cobbled lanes of Old Town Square. It also houses the oldest pipe organ in Prague. Try visiting it at night when it is wonderfully lit up. Entrance is free, although donations via a donation box at the exit are most welcome.
7. Watch the Astronomical Clock Show
Just a little bit off the square is the much famous Prazsky Orloj or more commonly known as the Astronomical Clock. It’s probably the most visited or viewed emblem in Prague (there’s a HUGE crowd flocking it every hour when it’s set to perform its hourly show) and one of the most interesting with the many curious figures that make their appearance during the show. Arrive early before the hourly display starts, to be sure you’ll find a good viewing spot. Trust me, it gets crowded.
8. Stroll through Charles Bridge
Walking the length of this famous bridge is a must when you’re in Prague. It’s beautiful and especially enchanting during sunset. At night, it is filled with vendors selling their wares, musicians showcasing their talents, and tourists doing their share of the requisite stroll. If you want to avoid crowds, an early morning walk is the way to go.
9. Enjoy the view of the scenic Vltava River in Prague
Prague is built around the Vltava River. While a river cruise comes with the expected fee, taking in the scene has been just the opposite. Picture-taking is also recommended.
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10. See The Lennon Wall in Prague
The Lennon Wall is just a graffiti-filled wall located at Velkoprevorske Namesti in Prague’s Mala Strana district. It was started as a tribute to the late musician John Lennon to commemorate his plea for world love and peace. The graffiti now ranges from simple to elaborate, with the overall effect of being artistic and unique. A selfie is, of course, free.
11. Wander around Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is the other popular square in Prague, located in New Town. It’s a boulevard lined with restaurants, hotels, shops, and other business establishments, flanked on the top by the statue of St. Wenceslas, once Bohemia’s good King and at present Prague’s patron saint. Wenceslas Square is the center of Prague’s entertainment and nightlife, and a stroll through its nifty boulevard is a pleasurable endeavor.
12. Take a selfie in front of the Dancing House
Also called the “Fred and Ginger” (from American dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers), the Dancing House stands (or leans, if you may) differently and uniquely from the old art nouveau structures prevalent in Prague. It resembles two people dancing close together and is an office building. Be sure not to miss this spectacle if you’re a fan of modern architecture. There’s an upscale French resto and bar on top, where you can enjoy some good views of Prague. The entrance is free when you buy drinks.
13. Pay homage to the Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter or the Josefov is an area in Prague composed of many synagogues, museums, other Jewish buildings, and a cemetery. Going inside the buildings comes with a fee, but walking around the area, taking a look at the structures, and remembering the Jews who perished during the war are free.
Prague Tour Guide
For a more enriching visit to Prague, you can avail of these Prague tour guides that offer much information about the city and take you around for a more in-depth look and satisfying experience.
What is Prague best known for?
Prague is best known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively atmosphere draw millions of visitors each year. Additionally, Prague is famous for its delicious beer and hearty Czech cuisine.
Is Prague a good tourist destination?
Absolutely! Prague is a good tourist destination with its picturesque architecture, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, strolling along charming streets, or enjoying a night out, Prague offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
Wrapping Up
So there you go, the Czech Republic Prague tourist attractions. Remember that traveling need not be expensive to be fun! Happy travels!
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