Prague enjoys a bravado only cities with ancient pedigree and wisdom can account for; rightly so, as the capital of the Czech Republic’s history dates back centuries, leaving behind remnants of its Gothic, Renaissance, and Roman days for visitors to admire. The city is a symbol of bygone times, but simultaneously a testament to the rise of global and livable cities. Thus, it is little surprise that Prague is one of the most visited places in not only Eastern Europe, but the whole continent.
Home to beautiful architecture, rich history, and lovely people, a trip to the well-preserved Prague will astound you beyond your imagination. Here are five of our favorite attractions to visit when on an adventure through Prague, all of which can be visited safely alongside one of our local guides with both preset and customizable private tours.
Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock
The heart of Prague is the meeting place of old and new. Despite all the invasions and wars experienced by the city since its genesis in the 9th century, the Old Town (Staré Mesto) remains a beautifully kept relic undisturbed by the violence of vanished years. Merely starting out as a market, the Bohemian kings slowly developed the area by adding a town hall, attracting settlers and creating a city none finer nor more lively.
It is here where you will find the iconic Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí), famous especially for its Easter and Christmas markets, and arguably one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe year-round. No matter which season you find yourself visiting, the square will always be teeming with activity and excitement, with markets, al fresco cafés, musicians, and outdoor performers entertaining you throughout the day.
As you tour through the Old Town of Prague, you may notice that on the south wall of the Old Town Hall, a mechanical clock with blue and yellow detailing glistens in the sun. The medieval Astronomical Clock is a force to be reckoned with, as it steals the show at the top of each hour with a performance depicting the twelve apostles walking by. The Old Town is a place of endless history, and so we suggest having a professional guide take you to the most exciting and amazing landmarks to make the most of your trip.
Jewish Quarter of Prague
Officially Josefov, the Jewish Quarter sits between the Vltava River and the Old Town Square. With six synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Ceremonial Hall still preserved, the Jewish Quarter serves as a monument to the long and painful history of the Jewish people of Prague, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The synagogues in the Jewish Quarter were important not only as sacred places, but also as gathering points for teachers to meet their students and as a public hall. Some of the most amazing of these are the Spanish Synagogue, the Maisel Synagogue, and the Old-New Synagogue, each of which has its own unique design, whether Gothic or Moorish, as well as its own purpose. The Old-New Synagogue, or Altneuschul, is the oldest active synagogue in Europe.
After strolling past the synagogues, another landmark to look out for is the Old Jewish Cemetery. In use from the 15th to the 18th century, this cemetery houses some important Jewish people, including Rabbi Loew, who was said to be the creator of the Golem of Prague. Some 12,000 tombstones can be seen crammed into the cemetery.
To round up your trip to the Jewish Quarter, a meander through the Prague Jewish Museum is the best way to put everything into perspective. Not only will you learn about the history that took place in the Jewish Quarter, but there are also cultural events held throughout the year.
Charles Bridge
You’ve only seen the Vltava River from afar, and so it is high time you have the opportunity to cross it. Entwined in an inexplicable beauty, crossing the Vltava River on Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) might well be the highlight of your trip. The 14th century pedestrian bridge was commissioned by Charles IV in 1357 to replace an already broken one.
Charles Bridge is host to various superstitions. Legend has it that the first stone was laid at exactly the 9th of July at 5:31, representing the numbers believed by royal astronomers to give the bridge strength - the palindrome 135797531. In the 17th century, the bridge was given the beautiful statues and sculptures famous to this day, making Charles Bridge a celebrated piece of history applauded by the world.
By day, the bridge gleams in the sunrise. Our guides suggest booking your accommodation near the bridge to get the best uncrowded experience of it. Throughout the day, tourists flock to and fro from Old Town and Mala Strana by the thousands. Finally, as the sun sets, Charles Bridge extends a one-of-a-kind view of the Old Town and of Prague Castle illuminated on the hillside.
Prague Castle
After crossing the Vltava River on Charles Bridge, you will enter Mala Strana, or Lesser Town. It is here where you will find what once was home to the kings of Bohemia and is now the residence of the president - Prague Castle. Founded in 880 by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty, Prague Castle looms over the city as it stands on its hillside. The majestic complex is the largest in the world, spanning around 754,000 ft (70,000 square meters).
The name can be misleading. Prague Castle is actually a conglomeration of churches, palaces, offices, museums, and even apartments. As you saunter through the grounds for free, you might want to enter one of the irresistibly alluring landmarks in the shape of St. Vitus Cathedral and St. George's Basilica. If you were indeed charmed by one of these establishments, our local guides suggest that you book a combined ticket entry in advance to skip the long lines.
St. Vitus Cathedral can be seen all throughout Prague, with its 315 foot (96m) high tower making up 287 steps to reach the cathedral spire. It is here where kings and queens were crowned, where art nouveau stained-glass windows depict the Holy Trinity in bursting colors, and where saints and noblemen were buried. St. George’s Basilica, on the other hand, is another sight to behold, chiefly for being the oldest surviving church building in Prague Castle, its Romanesque design dating back to 1142. With white stone steeples rising 135 ft (41m), it is no wonder the basilica is no stranger to the even tread of seasoned travelers.
Klementinum
Possessing some of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the Klementinum comprises a complex of stunning and historic buildings. The complex not only contains innumerable volumes of literature, but is celebrated in various novels, such as Jorge Luis Borges’ The Secret Miracle.
The Klementinum’s humble beginnings as a chapel dedicated to its namesake dates back to the 11th century. Later on, it was transformed into a Jesuit college, the largest in its time. It was during the time of the Jesuits when the college was combined with Charles University, therefore moving the university’s library there. The National Library was then founded in 1781, and to this day, holds astounding pieces of Czech and world literature.
Walk through the very same halls as the philosophers, scientists, and astronomers of old. Be amazed at every turn, as each room’s architecture represents different stages of the Klementinum’s history. Enter the Baroque Library, refuge to some 20,000 pre-17th century books. Admire the baroque finishings affixed to the walls and the unique fresco on the ceilings designed by Czech artist Jan Hiebel. In the center of the room, you will notice a line of globes, all of different sizes, and all with different inscriptions. Here is a perfect example of how the world and our skies were seen throughout the centuries.
Conclusion
With its architectural wonders and real-life chronicles of ancient times, Prague is a playground for history buffs and adventure-seekers alike. Indeed, there is so much to see and do in the capital of the Czech Republic, as the city simply bursts with infectious energy. Make sure you do not miss out on the most amazing historical landmarks by contacting our seasoned local guides to afford you the most spectacular private and customizable tours of this museum of a city.