Plenty of cities have been called “the new Prague”, testament to the fact that the original – and still the best – is something worth shouting about. Here in the Czech capital, thousands of years of architectural pomp and grandeur combine to create one of Europe’s most picture perfect cities. There are more photogenic views here, more beautiful buildings, and more beer halls than even the longest stay can accommodate. So, how to narrow it down?
Here is our guide to the top ten things to see and do in Prague.
Tour the Old Town
The Old Town Square is an unmissable attraction – literally. You are sure to find yourself here time and time again as you crisscross the old town, but save pausing to watch the striking of the astronomical clock (on the hour, 8am-8pm) for early evening, when the crowds have dispersed and you can watch the saints emerge from their wooden doors in peace.
The local tipple
The only brewery in central Europe to have been brewing for more than 500 years, U Fleku is justly famous. Take a seat in one of the eight wood-panelled beer halls and knock back the Flekovskys, the flavourful dark lager brewed on site, or take the brewery tour to see the ancient brewhouse.
Baroque bridge
Surely one of Europe’s most recognisable bridges, the gothic-style Charles Bridge across the Vltava is lined with Baroque statues and affords alluring views back over the old town from its wide cobbled walkway. Pedestrian-only, it’s a lovely place for a stroll, especially at night when the lights of the city twinkle on the water.
Eat deco
After a day spent enjoying Prague’s stunning gothic, medieval, baroque and renaissance architecture, switch to something (slightly) more modern and dine in art deco style at the Hilton Prague Old Town. Here at Zinc restaurant, innovative European cuisine is served under a truly opulent ornate ceiling.
Storm the castle
The Guinness Book of World Records calls Prague Castle “the largest coherent castle complex in the world” – and it certainly is a whopper. Unfolding over a hill above the city, it features a wide range of palaces and ecclesiastical buildings, the highlight of which is St Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic Roman Catholic edifice that contains the tombs of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors.
Top of the tower
The best vantage point in Prague is at Petrin Hill, where a replica Eiffel Tower offers views over the city’s spires and as far afield as Snezka, the Czech Republic’s highest peak. Take the funicular railway up here from Ujezd Street and climb the 299 steps to the top of the tower for a vista you’ll never forget.
Classical architecture
Prague is home to a dizzying array of churches, but perhaps the best is the Church of St Nicholas, a fine example of Baroque ecclesiastical architecture. There are few more magnificent places to enjoy a classical concert (Mozart once played here), so check the website to see what’s on.
Relax with a beer
On a sunny day a beer garden can’t be beat – and Prague is home to some of the best. Letná Beer Garden has Czech Pilsner Gambrinus 10° on tap, and plenty of shady seating at large picnic tables overlooking the old town.
Cocktails in the city
Funky Zivkov, with its population of students and artists, is the perfect place for a bar crawl. Start at the Television Tower with cocktails overlooking the city skyline, before heading to the art deco Akropolis for pilsners and live music. Finish up at traditional-style Nad Viktorkou with a shot of Becherovka, a local herb bitter.
Secret art
Most of Prague’s architectural sights are eye-poppingly vast, but one of its most interesting modern masterpieces requires a little more seeking out. Tucked away in a corner off Wenceslas Square, the world’s only cubist lamp-post, designed by local architect Emil Kralicek, is a masterpiece in chunky striated concrete.
