Prague Tourist Attractions: A Detailed Guide for First-Time Visitors

Prague is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and it is no wonder that it is a popular destination for tourists. With its stunning architecture, its rich history, and its vibrant culture, there is something to discover and explore around every corner. Prague is a city of contrasts, with modern buildings standing alongside centuries-old monuments and churches. It is a city of culture and art, with world-class museums, galleries, and musical performances. And it is a city of leisure, with plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants offering a range of international cuisines. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing holiday, Prague has something to offer for everyone.

History & Culture

Prague has a long and fascinating history that dates back over a thousand years. It was founded in the 9th century by the Bohemian princes and was the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia until the 16th century. From the 16th century until 1918, it was the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and it was here that the famous Czech writer Franz Kafka was born. After World War I, Prague became part of the newly formed Czechoslovakia and then in 1993, it became the capital of the Czech Republic after its separation from Slovakia.

Prague is also renowned for its culture and art. The city is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery, the Jewish Museum, and the Museum of Decorative Arts. It is also the birthplace of many renowned artists, such as the composer Antonin Dvorak, the sculptor Alphonse Mucha, and the writer Franz Kafka. Music and theatre are also very popular in Prague, with a wide range of concerts and performances taking place throughout the year.

Must-See Attractions

Prague has plenty of attractions to discover and explore. Here are some of the must-see attractions that no visitor should miss:

The Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1357 under King Charles IV, this 600-metre stone bridge spans across the Vltava river and connects Old Town Prague with Mala Strana. The bridge is lined with 30 Baroque statues and provides a stunning view of Prague’s skyline. The bridge is especially beautiful at night when it is lit up by thousands of lights.

The Astronomical Clock

The Astronomical Clock is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks. Located in Old Town Square, this 600-year-old clock is one of the oldest functioning clocks in the world. Every hour on the hour, tourists gather to watch as two windows open up revealing figures of the twelve apostles who revolve around before disappearing again behind closed doors. The clock also shows the current day, month, year, and position of the planets in the solar system.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of Europe’s largest castles and has been home to Czech kings and emperors since 880 AD. Situated on top of a hill overlooking the city, it is an impressive sight with its towering gates and turrets. Inside there are numerous courtyards and gardens to explore as well as some impressive churches and palaces. The castle also houses the president’s offices and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Europe.

Popular Activities

In addition to its attractions, Prague also offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular activities that tourists can do in Prague:

Explore the City on Foot

Exploring Prague on foot is one of the best ways to get to know this enchanting city. There are numerous walking tours available which will take visitors to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks as well as some hidden gems off the beaten path. Walking tours can be an excellent way to discover more about Prague’s history and culture as well as getting a glimpse into daily life in this vibrant city.

Take a Cruise on the Vltava River

A cruise on the Vltava River is another great way to explore Prague from a different perspective. Cruises run throughout the day, giving visitors the chance to admire some of Prague’s most iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point. Many cruises also include live music performances which make for an even more enjoyable experience.

Enjoy Some Local Cuisine

No visit to Prague would be complete without trying some delicious local cuisine. Prague has a wide range of restaurants offering traditional Czech dishes such as goulash and roast duck as well as international cuisine from around the world. There are also plenty of pubs and bars where visitors can sample some of the local beers or enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the view.

Popular Tours

Prague has many great tours on offer which will help visitors make the most out of their trip to this incredible city. Here are two popular tours that visitors should consider:

Viator’s Historic Tour

Viator’s Historic Tour is a great way to explore some of Prague’s most iconic landmarks while learning more about its history and culture. The tour takes visitors on a journey through Prague’s Old Town which includes stops at many historic sites such as Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, St Vitus Cathedral, and much more. Along with these sites, visitors will get an insight into daily life in medieval Prague with stories about its kings and queens as well as learning more about its Jewish heritage. This tour can be booked here.

GetYourGuide’s Beer Cruise

GetYourGuide’s Beer Cruise is a fun way to experience Prague’s nightlife while cruising along the Vltava River. The tour takes visitors on an evening cruise which includes unlimited beer tastings from some of Prague’s best breweries as well as delicious snacks such as sausage rolls and pretzels. As well as enjoying some great beer, visitors will also get to admire some of Prague’s most iconic landmarks as they are lit up creating a stunning spectacle against the night sky. This tour can be booked here.

Conclusion

Prague is an incredible city with something for everyone – from its stunning architecture to its rich culture and history. There are plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to explore and enjoy during their stay in this amazing city. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or you want to explore all that this city has to offer, you won’t be disappointed in what you find in Prague.