Home to Gothic castles and Baroque palaces, Prague looks like it's been plucked straight from a fairytale. Nestled in Central Europe, the culture-filled Czech capital is overflowing with art, architecture and historical landmarks so it can be hard narrowing down the list of things to do. Do you have a craving for gorgeous green spaces? Take your pick from Wallenstein Garden Vysehrad Park, or Great Furstenberg Garden. Eager to see the sights from a new perspective? Cruise along the Vltava River on a private boat tour or climb the futuristic Zizkov Television Tower for dizzying city views. Keen to experience Prague’s musical past? Enjoy an evening of classical performances at the Estates Theatre, which opened in 1783 and premiered two of Mozart’s operas. If you’re looking for inspiration on things to do in Prague, you’ve come to the right place...
- Uncover the art scene
- Cruise along the Vltava River
- Wander around the markets
- Savour Czech beer with the locals
- Unwind with a night at the opera
- See the city from above
Uncover the art scene
Discovering the city’s eclectic artwork is a must when it comes to things to do in Prague. Head to the National Gallery (home to the most extensive art collection in the Czech Republic) for an array of exhibitions and original pieces. Visit the independent Zdenek Sklenar Gallery, tucked away in the heart of the city, to discover the latest creative talents. And don’t miss the Dancing House Gallery. It’s famed for its distinctive modern architecture, which stands out against the neighbouring Gothic buildings, and has three floors of contemporary art.
Cruise along the Vltava River
Forget walking tours and cruise along the Vltava River (the longest river in the Czech Republic) for some of the best views of the city. Jump aboard a vodouch (small traditional wooden boat) and enjoy a leisurely trip past the city’s historic districts, the iconic Charles Bridge and, of course, the famous Prague Castle. The Certovka canal is worth boating along too. Don’t let its nickname (devil’s canal) put you off; the waterway is far from ominous, with views of pastel-coloured houses and picturesque watermills.
Wander around the markets
Exploring the bustling markets is next up on our list of things to do in Prague. There is something for everyone, from farmer's markets and stylish stalls to pop-up shops and antique-filled avenues. Dive into the urban frenzy with a visit to Naplavka Farmer's Market, which borders the banks of the River Vltava and often features live music. A visit to Holesovice Market, north of the Vltava River, is also a must. This historic market has gone from selling agricultural products and cattle to artisanal crafts and pastries; a lot has changed since its origins at the end of the 19th century.
Savour Czech beer with the locals
Prague is renowned for its beer. Sip your way around the city on an exclusive beer-tasting tour, complete with a private guide who can explain the intricacies of each beer – from the lightness of a Pilsner to the depths of a Porter. Keen to escape the crowds? Head to the Vinohrady district and enjoy a drink with the locals at Riegrovy Sady beer garden or stop by the Strahov Monastery Brewery for a close-up glimpse of Prague Castle.
Unwind with a night at the opera
With classical music entrenched into the city’s heritage, an evening trip to the opera is among the best things to do in Prague. And you’re spoiled for choice, with three dedicated opera houses plus an array of classical concert venues. Some of our favourites are the Estates Theatre in the Old Town and the State Opera (one of the main stages of the National Theatre).
See the city from above
Climb one of Prague’s many towers for a different perspective of the city. Aptly nicknamed the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, Prague’s skyline is brimming with tall turrets, gothic spires, and piercing towers. Scale the Old Town Bridge Tower for panoramic views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge or take on Powder Tower’s 186 spiral steps for a bird’s eye view of the old and new towns. Make sure to also add a visit to Zizkov Television Tower to your growing list of things to do in Prague. It features a viewing platform (accessed via a lift to give your legs a break), a restaurant, and even an exclusive hotel.
Written by Amy Larsen | Image by Bjoern Steinz/PANOS REA
