Karlova Street
Street in Prague
As the most direct link between Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, Karlova Street hums with life from morning until night. A constant flow of visitors follows its winding route, browsing through rows of souvenir shops and historic buildings as they make their way toward the river. Once part of the ceremonial Royal Route, Karlova retains a rich blend of styles—its Baroque façades conceal Gothic and Romanesque cellars and vaults that speak to the street’s medieval origins.
Karlova is best appreciated not just by walking, but by pausing to notice the ornate house signs that mark its buildings—each telling a story of its own. Look out for “At the Blue Pike,” once frequented by King Wenceslas IV and his court magician, Zito. Nearby, “At the French Crown” marks the former home of famed astronomer Johannes Kepler, adding a scholarly touch to the street’s legacy. Farther along, “At the Golden Crown” and “At the White Horse” stand as beautifully preserved Gothic homes, their 16th-century bones still visible beneath their later facades.
For a quiet escape from the crowds, slip into the peaceful courtyards of the Klementinum on the north side of the street. If time allows, climb the Astronomical Tower at its heart for a sweeping view over Prague’s rooftops.
The Karlova Street appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Karlova Street
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in Prague
