During my stay in Prague, I felt like I was in a storybook. Prague is filled with history, and the gothic architecture and cobblestone streets make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

To read about the food in Prague, check out my other post here.

Now, let’s get into the activities!

1. Prague Castle

First, you’ll want to climb Zamecke Shody, the Prague Castle Stairs, for an incredible viewpoint that overlooks almost all of Prague. Be warned- it’s a lot of stairs! But trust me when I say the view is worth it.

Once you’re at the top of the stairs, you can explore the Prague Castle district, which is the largest coherent castle complex in the world. Here, you can learn the story of Prague castle and walk the Golden Lane, a charming and colorful alley of homes that once belonged to craftspeople and their families.

There is so much to see in the complex, including clothing and armor from different time periods that the castle was used.

If you get tired, there are also cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the area for you to enjoy a nice break.

2. St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is also located in the Prague Castle complex. This cathedral is the largest church in Czechia and one of the most important. It is the burial spot for several patron saints and important members of the church. The massive 14^th century building is jaw-dropping even from the outside, and it’s a very important aspect of the Prague Castle complex.

3. Wander over to Old Town Square

Old Town Square is a gorgeous area filled with historic buildings and people gathered to enjoy the sights. It was originally the central marketplace for Prague and is now home to many restaurants, shops, and spots to sit and enjoy the ambience.

I was there during Christmas, and there was a gorgeous Christmas market there as well.

4. Astronomical Clock

The Astronomical Clock is a beautiful landmark in Old Town Square with pieces dating back to 1410. Aside from telling the time, it also shows the positions of the sun and moon, and it depicts each of the zodiac signs.

Every hour on the hour, the clock performs a little show! There are 4 figures around the clock representing vanity, greed, extravagance, and death. When the clock strikes the hour, the figures start to dance while two windows open above the clock and figures of apostles become visible. At the end of the procession, a rooster crows, the bells ring, and the short performance is over.

5. Church of Our Lady Before Tyn

Also located in Old Town Square, and directly across from the Astronomical Clock, is the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn.

This massive and gorgeous church was built from the mid 14^th to the early 16^th century. Its organ is the oldest in Prague, dating from 1673!

It is open to the public during specific visiting hours each day. I actually visited on Christmas Eve and got the opportunity to experience Christmas Mass there, which was a lovely experience, although of course it was all recited in Czech (which I do not speak like… at all.) The Church’s interior glitters with gold, and the ceilings reach high into the sky. The acoustics were incredible as the choir sang songs that brought tears to my eyes. The whole experience was truly incredible, and this church now holds a special place in my heart.

6. Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is an incredible sight to see. It was built in 1402 and boasts breathtaking views of the Prague Castle over the Vltava River.

I walked down and back, and the whole time I was in complete awe. I couldn’t stop thinking about all the people who had walked that bridge before, over the courses of hundreds of years. Royals sneaking from the castle on a late-night rendezvous, peasants making a journey to search for a better life, vendors selling bread and other goods. The stories that bridge could tell! Walking across this bridge that has stood for hundreds and hundreds of years, I felt such a deep connection to the world. I am always so amazed by things that are this old. Prague is incredibly rich with history, and I loved seeing it all and immersing myself in part of it through Charles Bridge.

You’ll notice that the bridge is lined with statues. One of the statues is of St. John of Nepomuk, who was murdered and thrown into the Vltava River. It is believed that touching his statue will bring you good luck. Many people line up to touch the statue and even make a wish. Legend also has it that if you touch the statue, another visit to Prague will surely be in your future.

***One thing to note with Charles Bridge- it is very busy! You can beat the large crowds by going early in the morning.

7. Mala Strana/The “Little District”

The Mala Strana district is a great place to wander around, shop, and grab a beer. It sits in the foothills of the castle district, on the opposite side of the Vltava River from Old Town. This quaint area is known for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and is a lovely area for a stroll. There are some wonderful restaurants, gardens, shops with Czech made souvenirs, and a bustling town square decorated with colorful trams passing by.