Located on the Vltava River, is a beautiful city, full of history: Prague. With millions of tourists flocking to Prague each year, it is likely to be on your travel bucket list.
Prague composted of three towns: the Old town, the Lesser town, and the New town. Each portion of town includes its must-see attractions. With so much to see, it is easy to be overwhelmed when planning what to see in Prague.
My advice? Grab a map and wander around. Try and plan a route that will allow you to do all eight of the following things!
Cross the Charles Bridge
According to my tour guide, “A person has not been to Prague if he/she did not cross the Charles Bridge.” The bridge allows pedestrians to walk accorss the Vltava River, connecting Prague Area to the city’s Old Town.
The bridge features over 30 statues of Saints. On each side the bridge features a tower: The Lesser Town Bridge Tower and the Old Town Bridge Tower.
See the Old Town Square
Prague’s Old Town Square is the most significant square. The square houses the Old Town hall, the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the Church of Saint Nicholas, the Rocco Kinsky Palace, and the monument to Jan Hus.
A visit to the Old Town Square will allow visitors to witness both Baroque and Gothic style buildings. Standing in one of the most historic locations and observing your surroundings is a must while in Prague.
Gather at the Astronomical Clock
While in the Old Town Square, visit the Astronomical Clock (the Orloj) at the Old Town Hall. Every hour on the hour between 9am and 11pm, the clock delivers a performance of the 12 apostles. But be careful: this is the most popular area of the city for pick-pocketers.
Try “koleno”
Food in Prague is exquisite. Koleno is quite literally translated as a pork knee. The large hunk of meat that is marinated in dark beer and herbs, roasted, and served with vegetables. This is a must-have in the Czech Republic. Ask any hotel/hostel staff where to get the best one: you will always receive a different answer.
Most importantly, remember: one serving is enough food for two or three people… order accordingly.
Visit the John Lennon Wall
The John Lennon wall has been covered in John Lennon inspired graffiti since the 1980s. The original graffiti, which was a painting of John Lennon, was placed on the wall in 1988. The graffiti was a message of opposition against the communist leader, Gustav Hustak.
A hot-spot for young travelers, the wall is known mainly by Millennials as an iconic spot for a great Instagram picture. Spend some time reading the messages protestors write and draw, you are sure to find something you connect to.
Visit the Jewish Quarter
Once home to the Jewish Ghetto, Josefov is presently known as Prague’s Jewish Quarter. During the 13th century, Jews were forced to vacate their homes and settle into this area, which is completely surrounded by Prague’s Old Town. There are six synagogues located in the Quarte. The Old-New Synagogue is the only one still used as a house of prayer today.
Most notably, during World War II, Adolf Hitler ordered for Josefov to be preserved as a “Museum of an Extinct Race.” For this reason, many artifacts from all over Europe were gathered by Nazi’s and brought here for display.
Admire Prague Castle
Prague Castle is famous for many many things. First and foremost, it was built back in the 9th century and completed in 1929. Originally, the castle was home to kings of Bohemia and Roman emperors. Additionally, it is the largest ancient castle in the world according the Guiness Book of Records. Presently, it serves as an official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
Lastly, it is located inside of a UNESCO World Heritage Site- the Historic Center of Prague. The castle houses St Vitus Church.The Golden Lane is also worth a quick visit and is located nearby.
Eat a trdelnik
Now this is important… listen very carefully. You absolutely MUST eat a trdelnik in Prague. A trdelnik is rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick and grilled, topped with a sugary powder. It is sometimes served with Nutella or ice cream, but I recommend getting it with both!
I visited Prague, Cesky Krumlov, and Karlovy Vary all in three days- before going on a Danube River Cruise! Have you visited any of these Czech cities? Which is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below.
