Top 10 Things to Do in Prague for First-Time Visitors

Welcome to Prague, the heart of the Czech Republic, where history, culture, and charm meet. If you’re visiting Prague for the first time, this top 10 things to do in Prague guide will help you navigate the must-see Prague attractions, with insider tips to make the most of your stay. From the iconic Prague Castle to the scenic Vltava River Walk, you’ll discover the city’s blend of medieval magic and modern flair.

Table of Contents

Key Insights

Prague Castle and Charles Bridge are must-visit attractions offering historical significance and stunning views of the city.
Old Town Square is a hub of activity, highlighted by the Astronomical Clock’s hourly show.
For the best panoramic views, ride the Petrin Hill funicular and explore the Petrin Tower.
Letna Park combines beautiful city views with a popular beer garden, perfect for relaxation.
Prague Zoo and Vyšehrad provide excellent family-friendly activities and lesser-known historical gems.

What are the top things to do in Prague for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors to Prague should explore Prague Castle, stroll across Charles Bridge, and admire the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square. For panoramic city views, take the Petrin Hill funicular to Petrin Tower. Don’t miss the tranquility of Letna Park and its popular beer garden, or the historic charm of Vyšehrad Fortress.

Top 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Prague

1. Explore the Majestic Prague Castle

No trip to Prague is complete without visiting Prague Castle, one of the city’s top historical attractions. As the world’s largest ancient castle complex, it offers not only incredible Gothic architecture but also a panoramic view of Prague. Be sure to explore St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and the charming royal gardens.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and get stunning photos of the castle’s courtyards and towers. And buy Prague Castle skip-the-line-ticket.
Hidden Gem: Visit the Southern Gardens for a peaceful retreat from the tourist-filled areas.

This experience is perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts looking to dive into Czech culture.

2. Marvel at the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square

At the heart of Old Town Square, you’ll find the world’s oldest functioning Astronomical Clock. Every hour, hundreds of visitors gather to watch its fascinating mechanical show, featuring 12 apostles parading and a skeleton ringing its bell.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late evenings to avoid the crowds and appreciate the details. Get skip-the-line access.
Nearby Attractions: Explore other nearby sites like the Týn Church and the colorful medieval streets around Old Town Square.

The clock is a must-see, offering a glimpse into Prague’s medieval history and its mastery of engineering.

3. Walk Across the Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in Prague, spanning the Vltava River and connecting Old Town with the Lesser Town. Lined with Baroque statues, this 14th-century bridge is perfect for a stroll at sunrise or sunset.

Tips: Early morning is best for uninterrupted views. Stop by local vendors selling art and jewelry along the bridge.
Photo Spot: Capture Prague Castle in the background from the midpoint of the bridge.

This walk offers the quintessential Prague experience, allowing you to soak in the city’s beauty from one of its most famous landmarks.

4. Ride the Funicular to Petrin Hill and Tower

For sweeping views of the city, take the Petrin Hill funicular up to Petrin Tower. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Petrin Tower offers one of the best viewpoints of Prague attractions. The funicular itself is part of the public transportation system, so it’s easy and affordable to access.

Things to Do: Visit the mirror maze and relax in the surrounding parks.
Best Views: Climb to the top of Petrin Tower for breathtaking views of Prague Castle and the cityscape below.

It’s a great spot to enjoy outdoor activities while taking in one of the most picturesque views of the city.

5. Relax in Letna Park & Beer Garden

Letna Park is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy stunning views of Prague’s bridges and the Vltava River. The park is famous for its beer garden, where you can relax with a pint of Czech beer while gazing over the city.

Perfect For: Picnics, photography, and beer lovers.
Tip: Visit during sunset for golden-hour views over the Vltava and Old Town.

This stop combines outdoor relaxation with a vibrant social atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

6. Discover Vyšehrad Fortress

Step back in time at Vyšehrad, Prague’s ancient fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city. This lesser-known gem is quieter than Prague Castle, yet just as rich in history. Explore the Basilica of Sts Peter and Paul and take a peaceful stroll through Vyšehrad Cemetery, the final resting place of notable Czech figures.

Fun Fact: Vyšehrad was the original seat of Czech royalty before Prague Castle.
Tip: Enjoy a scenic walk along the ramparts for unbeatable views of the Vltava and Prague’s skyline.

It’s the perfect escape from the tourist crowds and a great spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.

7. Wander Through Mala Strana (Lesser Town)

Located beneath Prague Castle, Mala Strana is a district full of charm, with Baroque palaces, gardens, and picturesque cobbled streets. Don’t miss a visit to St. Nicholas Church, one of Prague’s most stunning Baroque buildings.

Things to Do: Stroll through the beautiful Wallenstein Garden, visit the Franz Kafka Museum, or relax by the Vltava River.
Tip: Visit early in the morning for peaceful walks through its quiet, historic streets.

Mala Strana is a perfect mix of historical exploration and tranquil beauty.

8. Visit the Prague Zoo for a Family Adventure

Ranked as one of the best zoos in the world, Prague Zoo offers a wonderful experience for families. The zoo is home to diverse wildlife and features zones such as Elephant Valley and the Indonesian Jungle.

Unique Attraction: You can take a scenic boat ride along the Vltava River to reach the zoo.
Tip: Plan at least half a day to explore the zoo and its surroundings. And buy Prague Zoo skip-the-line-ticket.

Prague Zoo is not only fun for kids but also a beautiful setting to enjoy the city’s natural landscapes.

9. Experience History at Wenceslas Square

A major hub in New Town, Wenceslas Square has been the site of many historic events. Today, it’s a bustling area for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Must-See: The National Museum, located at the top of the square, is a great place to learn about Czech history.
Tip: Visit in the evening when the square comes alive with vibrant nightlife.

This square offers a dynamic contrast between Prague’s historical significance and its modern-day energy.

10. Savor Czech Cuisine: Beer and Traditional Food Experiences

No visit to Prague is complete without sampling authentic Czech beer and traditional dishes like svíčková or trdelník. There are countless beer halls and local restaurants where you can indulge in local food and immerse yourself in Prague’s culinary scene.

Top Picks: Visit U Fleků, one of the oldest breweries in Prague, or try a beer-tasting tour for a variety of Czech brews.
Tip: Pair your beer with classic Czech dumplings for a truly local experience.

Foodies will love the chance to experience Prague’s rich food culture while enjoying one of its best-known exports – beer.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Prague Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re marveling at the Astronomical Clock, strolling across Charles Bridge, or sipping a pint in Letna Park, Prague offers endless discoveries for first-time visitors. With a blend of historic sites, beautiful parks, and culinary delights, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable trip. Ready to explore Prague?

Explore Prague with MegaPass

Enhance your Prague experience with the MegaPass, a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions while skipping long lines. The MegaPass offers exclusive access to key Prague attractions, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their trip. With options like the Skip-the-Line Prague Castle Admission Ticket and the Skip-the-Line Astronomical Clock Tower Ticket, you’ll breeze through the busiest sights with ease.

Here are some highlights of the MegaPass:

Prague Castle Admission: Skip the line and enjoy an introductory guide to this iconic historical complex.
Jewish Quarter Walking Tour: Dive into Prague’s rich Jewish history with guided tours and admission tickets to top sites.
Prague Zoo Entry: Perfect for families, this pass includes a ticket and audio guide for one of the world’s top zoos.
Sightseeing Boat Cruise: Savor Prague’s beauty from the water with a buffet dinner included.

Whether you’re exploring the historic Jewish Quarter or taking a scenic cruise on the Vltava River, the MegaPass Prague Pass offers a hassle-free way to see the best of Prague.