Prague

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and offers its visitors a wealth of cultural and historical highlights. Numerous sights shape the cityscape and invite you to discover them. Let yourself be captivated by the special atmosphere of this unique metropolis and enjoy an unforgettable stay in Czechia.

Prague: A Look into History

Various legends surround the founding of the Czech capital. According to one tale, Princess Libuše and her husband Přemysl, considered the ancestors of the Bohemian ruling dynasty of the Přemyslids, are said to have founded Prague. However, this account is not historically verified.

The year 870 is regarded as the official founding year of the city, as this is when the foundation stone for Prague Castle was laid. It served as the residence of the Bohemian rulers and is still considered the largest enclosed castle complex in the world.

In the 14th century, Prague gained considerable importance when Emperor Charles IV declared the city the capital of the empire and his representative imperial seat. Prague is also often referred to as the "Golden City". This name is attributed, among other things, to the fact that Charles IV had the towers of Prague Castle gilded. The eventful history of Prague is still reflected today in its impressive buildings.

Sights in Prague

The Czech capital boasts a great variety of sights. Walking through the city, you will encounter historic buildings such as the Powder Tower or the famous Charles Bridge.

The Powder Tower

This historic landmark of the former city fortifications dates back to the 15th century. Originally built as a city gate to the Old Town, the tower was later used as a storage site for gunpowder. With its Gothic architecture, it still impresses visitors today and offers a sweeping view over the city from its viewing platform.

Prague Old Town

The center of the Prague Old Town is the Old Town Square with its historic marketplace. Here you will find, among other things, the impressive Church of Our Lady before Týn as well as numerous cafés and restaurants. Also well worth seeing is the Old Town Hall with its world-famous astronomical clock. The square invites you to linger and offers a vivid impression of the city's cultural life.

Old Town Hall

The tower of the Gothic-style town hall rises 42 meters above the Old Town Square and is considered its architectural centerpiece. Visitors have the opportunity to view the building as part of a guided tour or on their own.

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town and is one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe. With a length of over 500 meters, it offers an impressive view of the Vltava River and the historic backdrop of Prague. It is one of the city's most famous landmarks.

Clementinum

The Clementinum was founded at the end of the 16th century and originally served as a Jesuit college. Today it is considered one of the largest historical building complexes in Europe and is the second-largest building complex in the city after Prague Castle. Particularly worth seeing are the observatory, the Mirror Chapel, and the Baroque library hall.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the country's most significant sights. Covering an area of around 45 hectares, it is considered the largest enclosed castle complex in the world. Due to its location on Hradčany, it offers an impressive panoramic view over Prague. It also remains the official seat of the Czech president to this day.

St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is part of Prague Castle and one of the country's most important cathedrals. Numerous coronation ceremonies of Bohemian rulers took place here. Visitors can tour the cathedral or attend a church service.

Golden Lane

Golden Lane is a historic street within Prague Castle. It owes its name to the goldsmiths who settled here in the late Middle Ages. The writer Franz Kafka also lived for a time at house number 22. Today, the lane is a popular sight.

Tip for architecture lovers: The Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik played a significant role in the redesign of Prague Castle. Further works by Plečnik can be seen, among other places, in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia.

Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square is located close to the Old Town and is a central meeting point in the city. At the upper end of the square is the National Museum.

The Jewish Quarter Josefov

The Jewish Quarter Josefov documents the history of Jewish life in Prague, which dates back to the 10th century. In the 13th century, the Jewish population was resettled into a ghetto in the north of the Old Town. This area is now known as Josefov.

Today, the Old Jewish Cemetery and several synagogues serve as reminders of this eventful past. Particularly worth seeing are:

• Old-New Synagogue

• Pinkas Synagogue

• Maisel Synagogue

• Spanish Synagogue

• Franz Kafka Monument

Vyšehrad

The stronghold of Vyšehrad is considered the oldest princely residence in Czechia and is picturesquely situated on the Vltava River. From here, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Old Town and Prague Castle. Among the sights are the Church of Saints Peter and Paul and the Rotunda of St. Martin, the oldest surviving building in Prague.

Our tip: The John Lennon Wall

The John Lennon Wall was created as an improvised memorial after the musician's death. Today, it is a symbol of freedom and free expression. Visitors are allowed to leave their mark with pens or chalk in designated areas. However, spray-painting is prohibited.

Best Time to Travel

Prague is an attractive destination all year round. The months of April to September are especially popular, as pleasant temperatures make for extensive city exploration. Those wishing to avoid larger crowds should consider the months of April to June as well as September.

Winter Highlight: Christmas Markets in Prague

Prague's Christmas markets offer a special winter experience. The first markets open their stalls as early as late November, many of them remaining open until early January. Among the most famous is the Christmas market at Old Town Square, which offers traditional food and handicrafts.

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey

We wish you a pleasant journey to Czechia and an exciting tour of discovery through Prague. Please make sure to inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. Feel free to also use our route planner to plan your trip optimally and display suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we are of course happy to help. Contact us at any time by email.