Old Town, Prague guide

From the medieval astronomical clock to the Gothic spires of the Church of Our Lady Before Týn, the Old Town Square feels like a journey through time. Don’t miss the House at the Minute, Franz Kafka’s childhood home, decorated with intricate black-and-white wall illustrations of biblical and mythological scenes. Then walk across Charles Bridge, pausing by its 30 Baroque statues of saints.

Climb the Gothic Old Town Hall tower for sweeping views over the square and the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. See if you can spot Prague Castle on the horizon. If you’re full of dumplings, there’s a lift option for a small fee. Time your visit around sunset for especially magical light over the rooftops.

Czechs are very proud of their long brewing tradition, perfected through a perfect blend of Moravian barley, Bohemian hops, and the country’s famously soft water. That craftsmanship produced Pilsner Urquell, first poured at Prague’s U Pinkasu pub in 1843. It’s still served there today, best enjoyed with hearty fare in the pub’s leafy beer garden.

See Charles Bridge from the Vltava River by hiring a pedalo on Slav Island. Be sure to pack a picnic of ‘kolaches’, jam-filled pastries beloved by Czechs. Families can also explore Prague’s long tradition of puppetry, recognised by UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, at small independent puppet shops and performances scattered throughout the Old Town.

Among the museums in Prague’s Old Town, the Jewish Museum is especially important, with exhibitions across historic synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery. It traces the story of Prague’s Jewish community through the centuries. Note that the museum, synagogues and cemetery are closed on Saturdays. Nearby, the Mucha Museum celebrates Art Nouveau master Alphonse Mucha with his iconic posters and personal memorabilia.

Find some of the best restaurants in Prague’s Old Town by veering away from the main square. Czech food can be rich and hearty — think potato pancakes or Bohemian roast duck with dumplings. Don’t miss ‘svíčková’, a dish of sliced beef sirloin with root vegetable sauce and dumplings. In a hurry? ‘Chlebiček’ are cheap open-faced sandwiches that can be eaten on the go.

Nightlife in Prague’s Old Town starts in its legendary pubs and beer halls, where local brews are best paired with fried or pickled cheese. Later, follow the crowds to Dlouhá Street, packed with clubs and cocktail bars that go until sunrise. On your walk home, cross Charles Bridge for a rare crowd-free view with only the statues for company.

Havelský Market has been running since 1232, though today it caters mostly to visitors, with stalls selling souvenirs such as wooden marionettes. For a more upscale experience, head to Pařížská Street, home to luxury boutiques. Czech Bohemia has been famous for its glassware since the 13th century — buy from reputable makers like Moser for guaranteed quality.

The Old Town Square comes alive each July during Bohemia JazzFest, when open-air concerts fill the historic plaza. Classical music fans can catch regular performances at St Nicholas Church and other landmark venues. In October, those same spaces are transformed during the Signal Festival, where dazzling digital art installations light up Prague’s medieval heart.