Prague is a charming medieval city. Every corner is full of history and tradition ; For this reason, it has become one of the most visited cities in Europe . Walking its streets you will find true jewels of medieval architecture that will make you travel back in time. The capital of the Czech Republic is a city steeped in history. Discover with us essential places that you have to see in Prague . Although each place in this city is unique, here we tell you 11 places to see in Prague that you cannot miss .
Essential places to see in Prague
To begin the tour of this city that seems stopped in time, nothing better than a walk through the most visited places of interest .
Old town square
The Old Town Square was the initial point of foundation of the present city of Prague . Its main buildings were built between the 11th and 14th centuries . It is currently one of the essential places to see in Prague if you want to know a little more about the history of the city. In addition, you cannot stop visiting its Christmas market if you go around those dates.
One of the must-see sites is the Church of Our Lady of Tyn , built in the Gothic style in the 14th century . The most striking are its towers, which reach 80 m. tall and are a symbol of the city.
Other emblematic buildings in the Old Town Square are the Town Hall , with its 60-meter tower, also built in the Gothic style; and the Church of San Nicolás , built in the Baroque style and which stands out for its large dome.
Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter , with its picturesque buildings in Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, is another place where you cannot stop strolling in Prague. The founding history of the neighborhood, also called Josefov , dates back to the 10th century when the first Jews began to populate the area.
During World War II , this place was used as a ghetto to confine thousands of Jews and then send them to concentration camps. Despite a history full of pain and death, the Jewish Quarter stands today as a symbol of freedom and hope .
Charles IV Bridge, an essential site to see in Prague
The Charles Bridge , named after King Charles IV , links two of the most important neighborhoods in Prague, Staré Mestro and Malá Strana . It was built on the Vltava River to facilitate transit and trade between the two banks.
The best time to visit is at night. From there you can contemplate the beauty of the city in all its splendor. Take advantage of your walk across the bridge to admire the 30 baroque statues that guard it.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest construction in the city and has been classified as the oldest largest fortress in the world . Inside it houses three main courtyards with historical and architectural treasures such as the Cathedral of San Vito .
The changing of the guard that takes place at 12 noon is one of the best shows you have to see in Prague . In addition, we advise you to visit it with time to visit each of its patios and get closer to the history of the country.
Astronomical clock
The Prague Astronomical Clock is one of the most photographed by tourists who come to the city. Located on the south wall of the town hall , the clock puts on a real show every hour.
The first part of the clock was built in the year 1410 and with the passing of time the other parts were added, such as the Apostles’ walk and its moving figures that represent greed, death, lust and vanity.
In addition to marking the time, the signs of the zodiac , sunrise and sunset , every hour on the dot the moving figures begin to dance and then you can see the parade of the 12 apostles.
Curious places to see in Prague
It is impossible to list every one of the places of interest that you have to see in Prague . Being such an old city, it houses true historical treasures in every corner. Next, we leave you a small list of the most curious places to visit.
Powder Tower
When crossing the Charles Bridge , we find the main entrance to the old city guarded by the Powder Tower . Built in the Gothic style in 1475 , the tower is a symbol of resistance because in its beginnings it served as a protection to the city .
Currently it is possible to visit its interior , where you can see an exhibition on the history of Prague . To reach the top, you will have to climb 168 steps, but the effort will have been worth it because from its viewpoint you will have one of the best panoramic views.
Municipal House
Very close to the Powder Tower is the Municipal House , one of the most striking buildings in Prague. Its construction dates from the early twentieth century and is one of the best representations of modernist architecture in the country.
The Municipal House has several concert halls inside, among which La Smetana stands out, with capacity for 1200 people. If you want to taste traditional Czech food and its famous Pilsner Urqüell beer , we advise you to visit the restaurant in this building.
Clementium, one of the most curious places to see in Prague
Clementium is another of the largest architectural complexes in Prague . Inside you cannot miss the Chapel of Mirrors , which currently serves as a chamber music concert hall.
Another of the most curious rooms of the Clementium is its library , with a collection of old books and manuscripts . In addition, you cannot stop climbing up to the Astronomical Tower , which was formerly used as a viewpoint for observations and calculations.
Malá Strana
Malá Strana is the oldest district in Prague . In the 16th century it was populated by the nobles of the time to be closer to the castle. For this reason, it is not surprising that there are many Baroque castles that we find in the tour of its streets.
There are many places of interest that you can visit in this neighborhood, but one of the most popular is the Church of Our Lady of Victory . Also, if you are a lover of literature, you cannot miss the Franz Kafka Museum .
Kampa Island
In the Malá Strana district , like a small oasis of tranquility and rest , we find the Island of Kampa , a hidden treasure of Prague.
It is a little crowded place, but without a doubt one of the essentials to see in Prague . Ideal to go as a couple and visit the famous Puente de los Paddados , one of the most romantic places in the city.
Mount Petrin
Before finishing your visit to the Malá Strana neighborhood , we recommend you make a stop at Mount Petrín , especially if you are going with children.
Among its main attractions are the Labyrinth of Mirrors and the Petrin Tower , which is shaped very similar to the Eiffel Tower in Paris . You can go up to its terrace at 51 m high to have the best views of the Vltava River.
