The Wanderlust guide to the best of Prague

Prague is the jewel of central Europe. We show how to look through the crowds to discover a city full of striking architecture, hearty cuisine and absorbing history

7 mins

With its iconic castle, centuries-old bridges and quaint back lanes, Prague is a Bohemian wonderland, alive with art, music and cultural festivities. Hearty cuisine and stylish hotels only add to the appeal of a city which has risen so triumphantly out of the shackles of communism.

Old Town is home to bustling cobbled streets and what feels like a never-ending stream of tourists searching for the perfect selfie. Despite this, after ogling Prague's iconic landmarks, it's easy to break from the tourist trail and turn back time on Prague's narrow backstreets where traditional restaurants, bars and architectural gems can be found.

Panoramic view of Prague (Shutterstock.com)

Panoramic view of Prague (Shutterstock)

Looking for inspiration?

With its wonderful array of Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau and Cubist buildings, Prague is a magnet for tourists. And for the reasonable price of its exceptional beer, it is also popular with Brits on a stag do. But the city also rewards those prepared to venture beyond the main tourist hubs with fine food, soul-soothing architecture and cultural catnip. Simon Farnsworth is on hand to help you spend your first 24 hours enjoying those rewards.

One way to avoid the crowds is to do what the Czechs do and get on a bike. Susie Maggie Thorne has the lowdown on how to make the most of Prague on two wheels.

Should you find yourself in Prague during the festive season, make sure you drop by the city's amazing Christmas markets, even if it's just to get yourself the Czech version of glühwein.

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First 24 hours in Prague – Simon Farnsworth

Europe's 9 best cities to cycle in – Susie Maggie Thorne

Top 10 Christmas markets – Lauren Williams

Old Jewish cemetery, Prague (Shutterstock.com)

Old Jewish cemetery, Prague (Shutterstock)

Prague's secrets revealed

With a city as visually stunning as Prague, it's no surprise that there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city without having to put your hand in your pocket. Lauren Williams has put together a list of her favourite 10 things to do for free in Prague, including a walk through the city's little-visited Stag Moat.

Prague is fast becoming Europe's capital of alternative art, home to pioneering photographers and politically-motivated sculptors. It can be hard to know where to start, so Polly Allen suggests 8 alternative stops on the city's art scene to get you on your way.

For something different, drop by Prague’s annual Pálení carodejnic – Witches’ Night – every April 30.  The Czechs mark the end of winter by dressing up as if it is Halloween, eating hotdogs, drinking copiously and burning effigies of old hags. Fun for the whole family!

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10 things to do for free in Prague – Lauren Williams

8 alternative stops for Prague's art scene – Polly Allen

Prague Witches' night in April – Sarah Baxter

Charles Bridge at dawn (Shutterstock.com)

Charles Bridge at dawn (Shutterstock)

Capturing it all on film

Virtually untouched by both World Wars, Prague is subsequently one of Europe's most photogenic cities. It also one of the most photographed – particularly around the iconic Charles Bridge. So how do you make something special out of the over-familiar?

Thankfully our resident photo guru, Steve Davey is on hand with tips on how to capture Prague's iconic sights in new and interesting ways.

If it's inspiration you're after, then check out the photos taken by our readers on their travels to Prague. They are breathtaking.

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Photographing travel icons – Steve Davey

Readers' photos from Czech Republic

Prague's Astronomical clock (Shutterstock.com)

Prague's Astronomical clock (Shutterstock)

Everything you need to know

Ready to start planning your trip? Our Czech Republic Travel Guide is the place to start. Make sure you drop by the Czech Republic Essential Info page as well, for more everyday (but equally vital) information. And we’ve rounded up the latest travel news from the Czech Republic too.

If you have a particular question about Prague or the Czech Republic, pop over to the myWanderlust Forum where our knowledgeable community are ready to spring into action and share all that they know. Or check out the questions that have already been asked about Prague and the Czech Republic. The answer to yours might already be there.

More information

Czech Republic Travel Guide – Wanderlust Team

Czech Replublic Essential Info – Wanderlust Team

Czech Republic travel news

Forum posts about the Czech Republic

Community content about Czech Republic

Prague Christmas Markets (Shutterstock.com)

Prague Christmas market (Shutterstock)

Ready to go?

Here’s a selection of fantastic tours offered by our partners. From Fly-Drive adventures and luxurious city breaks, to unique tours that combine classical music concerts and birding, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

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Our Trip Finder can help you find adventures in Prague and the Czech Republic

Main image: Overview of Prague at night (Shutterstock)

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