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Prague
Czech Republic
Visit Prague
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a mesmerizing blend of history, architecture, and vibrant cultural life, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. Known as "the City of a Hundred Spires," Prague is renowned for its stunning skyline dotted with historical monuments that have withstood the vicissitudes of time. The city's heart lies at the Old Town Square, where the Astronomical Clock strikes every hour with a fascinating mechanical performance that captivates audiences. The surrounding areas are a labyrinth of narrow streets that open up into secluded courtyards, each telling its own story of centuries past.
A walk across the Charles Bridge offers one of the most scenic views of Prague. This iconic bridge, built in the 14th century, is lined with statues of Catholic saints and buzzes with the energy of artists, musicians, and vendors. It serves as a pedestrian gateway between the Old Town and the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), leading directly to the foot of Prague Castle. The castle, an ancient symbol of Czech statehood, provides a panoramic vista of the city and houses the St. Vitus Cathedral, which is a prime example of Gothic architecture and home to the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors.
Beyond its historical allure, Prague is also a city of vibrant contemporary culture, with numerous theaters, opera houses, and galleries. The National Theatre stands as a testament to the national cultural identity and offers an array of performances from traditional opera and ballet to modern theatre. Prague's culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring both traditional Czech cuisine and international dishes. The city's pubs and cafés serve as social hubs where traditional Czech beers can be enjoyed in a lively, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, enjoying its art and music, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of its streets and squares, Prague promises an unforgettable experience that combines the charm of the past with the energy of the present.
Prague Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
27°F
36°F
7
February
30°F
42°F
11
March
34°F
46°F
11
April
42°F
57°F
11
May
50°F
64°F
11
June
57°F
73°F
11
July
59°F
75°F
11
August
59°F
77°F
11
September
52°F
66°F
7
October
43°F
57°F
7
November
36°F
46°F
11
December
30°F
36°F
11
Need to Know Before You Go To Prague
Nickname:
The City of a Hundred Spires
Primary Language:
Czech
Time Zone:
Europe/Prague
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type E
Annual Visitors:
8.8 million
Primary Export:
Machinery and transport equipment
Busiest Travel Months:
May, June, September
Quietest Travel Months:
January, February, November
Find your Next Adventure in Prague
Explore Prague
Iconic Landmarks
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
This historic castle has been a seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. The Guinness Book of Records lists Prague Castle as the largest ancient castle in the world. It includes palaces, churches, and gardens, most notably St. Vitus Cathedral, which is an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
A famous historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river. Constructed in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, this bridge is adorned with a continuous alley of 30 statues and statuaries, most of them baroque-style, originally erected around 1700 but now mostly replaced by replicas.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Located in the heart of Prague's historic Old Town, this square is surrounded by exquisite buildings in various architectural styles, including the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn and the medieval Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall. The square is a popular gathering place and hosts many markets, performances, and celebrations throughout the year.
Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Situated on the Old Town Hall in Old Town Square, the medieval astronomical clock dates back to 141
Every hour, it offers a fascinating mechanical performance that draws crowds of tourists.
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
This vibrant city square and cultural hub is named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. It is a traditional setting for demonstrations, celebrations, and other public gatherings. The square is lined with hotels, offices, retail stores, restaurants, and bars.
The Lennon Wall
Once a normal wall, this landmark became a symbol of peace and free speech during the communist era. It’s filled with John Lennon-inspired graffiti and pieces of lyrics from Beatles' songs. It continuously evolves as new messages and artwork are added.
Cultural Experiences
Explore Prague Castle
This iconic castle has been an important symbol of the Czech state for more than a thousand years. It is one of the largest castle complexes in the world and includes palaces, churches, gardens, and much more. The castle's history, architecture, and the stunning views it offers over the city make it a must-visit.
Walk across Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river. Its construction started in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, and it was completed in the early 15th century. The bridge is famous for its alignment of 30 baroque statues of religious figures and offers picturesque views of the Prague skyline.
Attend a performance at the National Theatre
Known for its stunning architecture and cultural significance, the National Theatre in Prague is a prime venue for opera, ballet, and drama performances. It stands as a symbol of Czech national identity and cultural heritage.
Visit the Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock
The Old Town Square is a historic square in the Old Town quarter of Prague, known for its architectural diversity ranging from the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn to the baroque St. Nicholas Church. The Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is one of the oldest clocks of its kind still operating and draws crowds with its hourly show.
Experience the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
This area is one of the most preserved Jewish ghettos in Europe and includes several significant sites such as the Old-New Synagogue, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum in Prague. The history encapsulated in this quarter provides deep insights into the Jewish community in Prague through the centuries.
Enjoy a classical music concert in a historic venue
Prague is known for its classical music heritage, being the city of Mozart and Dvořák among others. Attend a concert in one of the city’s historic venues like the Rudolfinum, the Estates Theatre, or even one of the beautiful churches or palaces. This experience combines the pleasure of music with the ambiance of Prague’s historic settings.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in Divoká Šárka
Divoká Šárka is a nature reserve on the outskirts of Prague, featuring rugged terrain and scenic valleys. It's a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. The area has several trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty, making it suitable for all levels of hikers.
Cycling along the Vltava River
Rent a bike and explore the scenic paths along the Vltava River. You can ride through the city or head towards the countryside. The riverbanks offer numerous routes, and you can even cycle to the impressive Karlštejn Castle, located about 30 kilometers from Prague.
Boating on the Vltava
Rent a paddle boat or a rowboat and enjoy a leisurely time on the Vltava River. It’s a relaxing way to see some of Prague’s famous sights from a different perspective, including the Charles Bridge and the picturesque riverside architecture.
Rock Climbing at Srbsko
Just outside Prague, the area around the village of Srbsko offers excellent rock climbing opportunities. It's known for its limestone cliffs and is suitable for climbers of various skill levels. The region also features beautiful hiking trails if climbing isn't your preference.
Paragliding in Letnany
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, paragliding in Letnany offers a thrilling aerial view of Prague and its surroundings. There are several schools and clubs that offer tandem flights, making it accessible even for beginners.
Visit Petřín Hill
Petřín Hill is not only a great spot for a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery but also offers several attractions like the Petřín Lookout Tower, which resembles a small Eiffel Tower, and the Mirror Maze. The hill provides excellent views of the city and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Off the Beaten Path
Visit the Vyšehrad Fortress
While most tourists flock to Prague Castle, Vyšehrad offers a quieter but equally historic alternative. This ancient fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the Vltava River, is steeped in myth and legend. It's a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the city, explore ancient ruins, and visit the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where many famous Czechs are buried.
Explore the Divoká Šárka Nature Reserve
This natural reserve on the outskirts of Prague offers a stark contrast to the city's bustling center. With its rugged terrain, cliffs, and streams, Divoká Šárka is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and even swimming in natural pools during the summer. It's a breath of fresh air and a glimpse into the Czech Republic's beautiful landscapes.
Discover the Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia
This is one of Prague's oldest Gothic buildings and a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city. The convent, which is now a branch of the National Gallery, houses a collection of medieval and early Renaissance art from Bohemia and Central Europe. The serene cloisters and quiet gardens make it a perfect spot for reflection away from the crowds.
Take a stroll through the Olšany Cemetery
As the largest graveyard in Prague, Olšany Cemetery is a place of peace and beauty, featuring ornate tombstones and mausoleums set among leafy trees. It's also a place of historical significance, with graves of many notable figures from Czech history and culture.
Visit the Strahov Monastic Brewery
Located within the Strahov Monastery, this brewery dates back to the 13th century. After touring the beautiful monastery and its famous library, you can enjoy some of the best craft beers in Prague right at their source, along with traditional Czech pub fare.
Explore the streets of Žižkov
Known for its bohemian spirit and vibrant nightlife, Žižkov is a district often overlooked by tourists. It's home to the National Monument at Vítkov Hill, which offers some of the best views of the city, as well as quirky bars, cafes, and the Žižkov Television Tower, adorned with giant sculptures by Czech artist David Černý.
Prague Fun Facts
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is rich in history and culture. Here are ten fun facts about this enchanting city:
- Astronomical Clock
The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Prague Orloj, located in the Old Town Square, is over 600 years old and is one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world. Every hour, it features a fascinating mechanical performance known as "The Walk of the Apostles".
- Charles Bridge
This famous historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river was constructed in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV. It is rumored that egg yolks were mixed into the mortar to strengthen the construction of the bridge.
- City of a Hundred Spires
Prague is often called the "City of a Hundred Spires" because of its profusion of grand, historical buildings with gothic and baroque architectural styles, each topped with a spire.
- The Largest Castle
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, occupying an area of almost 70,000 square meters.
- John Lennon Wall
Once a normal wall, this site has become a tribute to John Lennon and messages of peace since the 1980s. Despite repeated coats of white paint, the wall continuously fills up with new messages and artwork.
- Beer Capital
The Czech Republic is renowned for its beer, and Prague is at the heart of this tradition. It’s often cheaper to buy a beer than a bottle of water in Prague!
- The Velvet Revolution
In 1989, the non-violent Velvet Revolution began in Prague, leading to the restoration of democracy in Czechoslovakia. This marked the end of Communist rule, with playwright and dissident Václav Havel becoming the president.
- Franz Kafka
One of the most influential writers of the 20th century, Franz Kafka, was born in Prague in 1883. His presence is still felt in the city, with several memorials and a museum dedicated to him.
- Alchemist’s Alley
Located within the grounds of Prague Castle, Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička) is famous for its picturesque, colorful tiny houses. Legend has it that alchemists lived here during the reign of Rudolf II, attempting to turn ordinary materials into gold.
- The Petřín Lookout Tower
Resembling a small version of Paris's Eiffel Tower, the Petřín Lookout Tower was built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition. The tower is set atop Petřín hill, accessible by a funicular railway, and offers one of the best views of the city.
Featured Picture Gallery
Experience the Architecture of Prague
Visit the St. Vitus Cathedral During the Sunrise
Explore the Culture While Seeing the Vltava River
Enjoy Breathtaking Views Near the Vltava River
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