Charles Bridge at sunrise
The iconic Charles Bridge with Prague Castle in the background

Prague is a fairy-tale city frozen in time. Spared the bombing of WWII, its medieval Old Town, Gothic churches, and Baroque palaces remain intact, creating one of Europe's most beautiful urban landscapes. Add the world's best and cheapest beer, cozy underground bars, and a thriving arts scene, and you have a city that casts a spell on everyone who visits.

KEY FACT: Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world (70,000 sq meters). Czechs consume more beer per capita than any other nation - 143 liters per person per year. The Astronomical Clock has been ticking since 1410.

Top Attractions

Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)

Prague Castle complex
Prague Castle - the world's largest ancient castle complex

The world's largest ancient castle complex dominates Prague's skyline. Within its walls: St. Vitus Cathedral (construction took 600 years), the Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane (tiny medieval houses), and stunning views over the city. The Changing of the Guard occurs every hour, with a fanfare ceremony at noon.

Visitor Information

  • Admission: CZK 250 (Circuit B - main attractions)
  • Hours: 6am-10pm (grounds), 9am-5pm (interiors)
  • Tip: Walk up through Malá Strana gardens for the experience
  • Guard Ceremony: Every hour, noon has the full fanfare

Charles Bridge (Karlův most)

Charles Bridge statues
The 30 Baroque statues lining Charles Bridge

This 14th-century stone bridge lined with 30 Baroque statues is Prague's most iconic landmark. Construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV. Touch the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck - the spot is shiny from millions of hands. Come at sunrise to avoid crowds and see the bridge in magical morning light.

Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock

Prague Old Town Square
The magnificent Old Town Square with Church of Our Lady before Týn

Prague's heart features the twin Gothic spires of Týn Church, colorful Baroque facades, and the famous Astronomical Clock. Installed in 1410, it's the world's oldest working astronomical clock. Every hour, mechanical figures perform as crowds gather below. Climb the tower for the best square views.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Old Jewish Cemetery Prague
The haunting Old Jewish Cemetery with 12,000 tombstones layered 12 deep

One of Europe's best-preserved Jewish historical sites includes six synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery (12,000 tombstones layered 12 deep), and the Jewish Town Hall with its backwards-running Hebrew clock. The area tells the story of Prague's Jewish community over 1,000 years.

Lennon Wall

Prague Lennon Wall
The ever-changing Lennon Wall - a symbol of peace and free expression

Since the 1980s, this wall has been filled with John Lennon-inspired graffiti and Beatles lyrics. During communism, it was a symbol of rebellion. Today, visitors continue adding messages of peace and love. The art changes constantly - no two visits are the same.

Petřín Hill

Petřín Lookout Tower
The Petřín Lookout Tower - Prague's mini Eiffel Tower

Take the funicular railway up this forested hill for the best panoramic views. The Petřín Lookout Tower (1891), a 63-meter mini Eiffel Tower, offers 360-degree views. The surrounding gardens, rose garden, and mirror maze make it perfect for a relaxing afternoon escape from the crowds.

Prague Food & Drink Guide

Czech cuisine is hearty, meaty, and made for beer. Traditional dishes involve pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut - perfect fuel for cold winters. But Prague's main attraction is its beer: the Czechs invented pilsner, and their beer is world-class and incredibly affordable.

Czech beer and food
Czech beer paired with traditional svíčková - heaven

Must-Try Dishes

Svíčková

Braised beef sirloin in creamy vegetable sauce with bread dumplings and cranberries. The national dish. CZK 180-280.

Try: Lokál or U Fleků

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Roast pork, bread dumplings, and sauerkraut. Classic Czech comfort food. Hearty and satisfying. CZK 180-250.

Try: Café Louvre or Krčma

Czech Beer (Pivo)

World's best pilsners - Pilsner Urquell, Kozel, Staropramen. Half-liters for CZK 40-60 at pubs. Cheaper than water!

Try: U Zlatého Tygra (Golden Tiger) or Lokál

Trdelník

Rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon, grilled on a spit. Tourist favorite but delicious warm. CZK 80-120.

Try: Any Old Town stall (controversial among locals)

Smažený sýr

Deep-fried cheese with tartar sauce and fries. Czech pub food at its finest. Perfect beer snack. CZK 120-180.

Try: Any traditional pub

Kulajda

Creamy potato soup with dill, mushrooms, and a poached egg. Traditional Bohemian comfort. CZK 80-120.

Try: Kantýna or Café Imperial

Practical Information

Getting Around

  • Metro: 3 lines covering the city. CZK 40 single (90 minutes)
  • Trams: Excellent network, runs 24/7. Same tickets as metro
  • Day Pass: CZK 120 for 24 hours - best value
  • Walking: Old Town is compact and best explored on foot

Budget Guide (Per Day)

  • Budget: CZK 1,200-2,000 (hostels, pub food, beer)
  • Mid-range: CZK 3,000-5,000 (3-star hotels, restaurants, tours)
  • Luxury: CZK 7,000+ (5-star hotels, fine dining)

Best Time to Visit

  • Apr-Jun: Spring blooms, pleasant weather, Easter markets
  • Sep-Oct: Autumn colors, fewer crowds, wine harvest
  • Dec: Christmas markets, magical atmosphere, cold but festive
  • Jul-Aug: Peak tourist season, warm but crowded
INSIDER TIP: Cross Charles Bridge at sunrise (6am) to avoid crowds and get magical photos. Always check restaurant bills - tourist traps add hidden charges. Lokál chain serves excellent traditional food and fresh tank beer at fair prices. The #22 tram is a cheap scenic tour past major sites.

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