Prague in 1 Day: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Wenceslas Square, more a grand boulevard than a traditional square, lies at the heart of New Town and has been a central gathering place for over 650 years. Originally laid out by Charles IV in 1348 as a horse market, it became a symbolic and literal axis of Czech national life. Its name and defining statue—St. Wenceslas on horseback—were added in the 19th century as part of the Czech National Revival.

The square has witnessed countless pivotal events in Czech history, from the declaration of Czechoslovakia’s independence in 1918 to massive demonstrations during the Velvet Revolution of 1989. It continues to serve as a civic space for celebration, remembrance, and protest. Dominating the upper end of the square is the monumental Neo-Renaissance National Museum, its steps offering a popular vantage point for photos and gatherings. From there, the square stretches downhill toward Můstek, flanked by elegant buildings, shops, cafés, and hotels that mirror the square’s evolution across centuries.

Historic Context: The Přemyslid dynasty was the first historically documented ruling family of Bohemia, with its origins dating back to the 9th century. The dynasty’s founder, Bořivoj I, established Prague Castle around 880, making it the seat of Czech rulers. The Přemyslids expanded their territory, controlled vital trade routes, and played a significant role in the Christianization of Bohemia. Wenceslas was born around 907, he was a Duke of Bohemia  from the Přemyslid dynasty who ruled with wisdom and piety until his assassination in 935 by his younger brother, Boleslav the Cruel. Although never officially a king, Wenceslas was posthumously elevated to sainthood and royal status for his efforts to promote Christianity and peace. St. Wenceslas, known as the “Good King Wenceslas” from the beloved Christmas carol, is one of the most revered figures in Czech history. The royal branch of the Přemyslid dynasty ended in 1306 with the death of Wenceslaus III. The first (non hereditory) king in Bohemia was Vladislaus II in 1158.

Standing at 67.7 meters, St. Henry’s Tower (Jindřišská věž) is the tallest standalone bell tower in Prague. Built in the late 15th century in the Gothic style, the tower originally belonged to the Church of St. Henry and Kunhuta. Over the centuries, it survived wars, fires, and neglect, emerging as a beautifully restored historical site blending medieval grandeur with modern amenities. Today, the tower houses a museum, café, restaurant, and even a carillon—a set of ten digitally operated bronze bells that play every fifteen minutes. An elevator whisks visitors up ten floors to a panoramic viewing gallery offering sweeping views of Prague’s rooftops and landmarks. Inside, visitors can learn about Prague’s numerous towers and their place in the city’s history. Exhibits highlight the architectural evolution of Prague and the tower’s own tumultuous past, including the damage it sustained in the 1801 storm and during the Swedish siege in 1648. St. Henry’s Tower bridges the medieval and the modern, offering a unique perspective—both literally and historically—on Prague. It’s a rewarding detour for any walking tour, especially for those interested in Prague’s urban skyline.

The Powder Tower (Prašná brána) is one of Prague’s most iconic Gothic landmarks and a significant historical monument. Located at the edge of the Old Town, it marks the beginning of the Royal Route, the traditional path taken by Bohemian kings during their coronation processions to Prague Castle.​

Construction of the Powder Tower began in 1475 under King Vladislav II. Initially intended as a ceremonial entrance to the city rather than a defensive structure, it was designed by architect Matěj Rejsek, who drew inspiration from the Old Town Bridge Tower. The Powder Tower’s foundation stone was laid by the king himself, and it was modelled on the ornate Gothic style. Standing at 65 meters tall, the tower features intricate stone carvings, including statues of Bohemian kings and decorative motifs.

The tower was originally known as the New Tower but was later renamed the Powder Tower in the 17th century when it was used to store gunpowder.​ Despite suffering damage during the Battle of Prague in 1757, it was restored in the 19th century by architect Josef Mocker, who preserved its Gothic character.​

Historic Context: Following the extinction of the male line of the Luxembourg dynasty, the last Luxembourg ruler of Bohemia, Sigismund of Luxembourg, died in 1437 without a male heir.  Vladislav II, a member of the Jagiellonian dynasty, became the king of Bohemia in 1471, he later also became the King of Hungary and Croatia. Vladislav II was also responsible for building the great Vladislav Hall at Prague Castle.  Vladislav II brothers collectively governed Poland, Lithuania, Bohemia, Hungary, and Croatia, making their family one of the most powerful dynasties in Europe at the time.

Old Town Square is Prague’s historic heart and one of the city’s most enchanting public spaces. Surrounded by architectural treasures from several periods—including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque—it buzzes with energy and activity throughout the year. The square was established in the 12th century and has witnessed countless events, from coronations and uprisings to modern-day concerts and markets.

Notable landmarks include the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Old Town Hall with its Astronomical Clock, and the striking Jan Hus Memorial. At Christmas and Easter, the square transforms into a festive marketplace, complete with decorated stalls and glowing lights. Street performers, artists, and horse-drawn carriages contribute to the square’s timeless atmosphere.

The cobblestones beneath your feet have seen centuries of history, including the execution of 27 Czech leaders after the Battle of White Mountain in 1621. Their memory is honored by 27 white crosses embedded into the pavement near the Old Town Hall. From here, you can venture into Prague’s surrounding historic districts, making Old Town Square a perfect starting point.

The square also serves as a cultural crossroads—surrounded by restaurants, museums, and historical buildings. Whether visiting in the golden hour or after dark, it remains a vibrant, unforgettable introduction to Prague’s Old Town.

The Church of Our Lady before Týn dominates the eastern side of Old Town Square with its unmistakable Gothic spires. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, the church has long served as a symbol of Prague’s spiritual and artistic identity. The two towers are asymmetrical—one slightly wider than the other—which, according to legend, symbolizes the dual nature of the world: masculine and feminine.

Týn Church became a stronghold of the Hussite movement in the early 15th century, serving as a religious and political center during a time of great unrest. The tomb of astronomer Tycho Brahe, who worked at the court of Emperor Rudolf II, lies within its walls. The church’s richly decorated interior includes a Baroque altarpiece, Gothic vaulting, and beautiful medieval artwork.

One of the most striking elements of the church is its façade, partially hidden behind a row of houses. This unusual layout reflects how urban planning evolved around sacred sites. Walking into the square, the twin towers rise like sentinels above the city, often bathed in golden light at sunset.

Visitors are often captivated by the dramatic presence of the church both day and night. Whether you’re photographing the skyline or attending a concert inside, the Church of Our Lady before Týn is a quintessential experience in Prague.

The Prague Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, is one of the most famous and intricate medieval clocks in the world. Installed in 1410 on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall, it not only tells the time but also tracks astronomical and calendar cycles. Every hour, crowds gather to witness its animated procession of the Twelve Apostles.

Legends swirl around the clock’s creator, Master Hanuš, who was allegedly blinded by the city council to prevent him from replicating his masterpiece elsewhere. True or not, the story adds a layer of mystique to this technological marvel. The lower section of the clock features a calendar dial with zodiac signs, designed by Josef Mánes in the 19th century.

The moving figures include allegorical characters like Vanity, Death, and Greed, which were meant to remind viewers of the moral dangers of life. Above the dial, windows open to reveal wooden figures of the Apostles, blessing the city as the hour strikes.

Over the centuries, the clock has been damaged, restored, and lovingly maintained by generations of clockmakers. Today, it stands as a symbol of Prague’s ingenuity, artistry, and devotion to time-honored traditions.

Karlova Street is one of the most charming and historically significant streets in Prague, forming a vital part of the Royal Route that once led kings to their coronations at Prague Castle. Winding through the Old Town, Karlova connects Old Town Square with Charles Bridge, guiding visitors past centuries-old façades and quaint artisan shops.

Though often crowded, the street’s meandering layout and varied architecture invite exploration. From Baroque palaces to hidden Gothic courtyards, each step down Karlova reveals layers of Prague’s past. Street musicians and galleries add to the area’s rich cultural texture, creating an immersive urban tapestry.

Karlova Street also houses historic buildings that have been repurposed into boutique hotels, bookstores, and cafés. Watch for carved reliefs, ancient emblems, and remnants of former house signs that once identified residences before numbered addresses were introduced.

For many, walking Karlova Street is not just about moving between landmarks—it’s about savoring the continuity of history. As you near the Charles Bridge, the street narrows, echoing with the footfalls of generations who walked this very route toward the seat of Bohemian power.

The Old Town Bridge Tower is one of the most beautiful Gothic gateways in Europe, serving as the majestic entrance to Charles Bridge from the Old Town side. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV and constructed in the mid-14th century, it was designed by Peter Parler, the same architect behind St. Vitus Cathedral. Originally part of a defensive fortification, the tower was also intended to symbolize imperial grandeur and Prague’s rising prominence.

Elaborately adorned with sculptures and coats of arms, the tower displays the emblems of the Czech lands as well as statues of Charles IV and his son Wenceslaus IV, flanking a figure of St. Vitus—the patron saint of the Czech nation. These symbols reinforced Prague’s status as the capital of the Holy Roman Empire during Charles’s reign. Beneath them, a Latin inscription invokes divine protection over the city.

The tower has served various ceremonial and practical functions, including housing guards and overseeing traffic across the bridge. Visitors who climb the narrow spiral staircase to the viewing gallery are rewarded with one of the finest panoramic views of Prague—stretching from the red rooftops of the Old Town to the spires of Malá Strana and the castle beyond.

As the official beginning of the Royal Route, the tower would once have echoed with the sounds of coronation processions. Today, it remains an atmospheric and evocative gateway, transporting visitors from the medieval city core onto one of Europe’s most iconic bridges.

Spanning the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most iconic and enduring landmarks. Its construction began in 1357 under Charles IV, with the foundation stone laid at a time and date believed to be astrologically favorable: July 9th at 5:31 a.m. Built to replace the Judith Bridge destroyed by floods, Charles Bridge was completed in the early 15th century and remains a masterpiece of medieval engineering.

The bridge is flanked by 30 statues and statuaries, most added between the 17th and 18th centuries during the Baroque period. These include depictions of saints, martyrs, and Czech patrons such as St. John of Nepomuk, whose statue is said to bring good luck if touched. Originally constructed as a vital trade route linking Old Town and Prague Castle, it quickly became a cultural thoroughfare and place of pilgrimage.

Charles Bridge has witnessed some of the city’s most momentous events—from royal processions to invasions. During the Thirty Years’ War, the bridge’s towers were used for defensive purposes, and for centuries it was the only crossing over the Vltava. Despite surviving floods, wars, and occupation, it still carries a steady stream of artists, musicians, and tourists.

Its cobblestone pathway, illuminated by antique gas lamps, becomes especially magical at dawn or dusk. Whether blanketed in snow or glowing in summer light, Charles Bridge remains one of Prague’s most romantic and atmospheric spots—a place where history flows as steadily as the river beneath it.

Leading from Charles Bridge into the heart of Lesser Town (Malá Strana), Mostecká Street is an integral part of the Royal Route and a captivating blend of history and charm. Its name, derived from the Czech word for “bridge,” reflects its role as the connecting thread between the Old Town and Prague Castle.

Mostecká Street is flanked by a mixture of Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo buildings, many of which house quaint cafés, antique shops, and boutique hotels. Look up as you walk—the façades are often embellished with detailed stucco work and colorful house signs dating back to a time before streets had numbers. These signs, such as a golden key or a red lion, helped residents and visitors identify homes and businesses.

As part of the coronation route, Mostecká would once have been lined with cheering crowds as kings made their procession from the Old Town to St. Vitus Cathedral. Today, it retains a sense of festive energy, with buskers and street performers adding music and life to the narrow street. It also offers postcard-perfect views of the Lesser Town Bridge Tower behind you and the looming dome of St. Nicholas Church ahead.

Mostecká isn’t just a passageway—it’s a destination in its own right, inviting you to pause and admire its architectural elegance and historic character. For many visitors, it offers a gentle and scenic transition between the city’s bustling Old Town and the quieter, castle-crowned heights of Hradčany.

Lesser Town Square, or Malostranské náměstí, is the historical and cultural center of Malá Strana (Lesser Town). Nestled at the foot of Prague Castle, this baroque square has long served as a key crossroads on the Royal Route and remains one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Its layout dates back to medieval times, but its current grandeur is largely the result of rebuilding after a devastating fire in the 16th century.

The square is divided into upper and lower halves, each lined with beautiful facades, palaces, and merchant houses. Dominating the center is the breathtaking Church of St. Nicholas, with its immense green dome and ornate bell tower. Surrounding the church are several historic buildings, including the Liechtenstein Palace and the Smiřický Palace, both of which played significant roles in Bohemian politics and aristocratic life.

Throughout history, Malostranské náměstí has hosted bustling markets, public gatherings, and grand ceremonies. It was here that royal processions would pause before the final climb to Prague Castle, and it remains a vibrant place full of cafés, restaurants, and hidden courtyards. The square also served as a hub for artists and diplomats, drawn to its beauty and proximity to the seat of power.

Today, the square is a favorite among photographers and visitors seeking to soak in the atmosphere of baroque Prague. It’s also a great place to pause for a coffee or meal, admire the architecture, and listen to the distant chimes from the church’s carillon—reminders of the neighborhood’s rich spiritual and civic legacy.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Malá Strana is one of the finest examples of High Baroque architecture in Central Europe. Built between 1704 and 1755 by the father-son architect team Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, the church is a triumph of opulent design and grand scale. Its massive dome and slender bell tower are landmarks on the Prague skyline and signal the power of Catholic revival in Bohemia after the Battle of White Mountain.

The church’s interior is a celebration of art and faith, with gilded altars, sweeping frescoes, and dramatic use of light. The ceiling fresco in the main nave—depicting the Apotheosis of St. Nicholas—is one of the largest in Europe, painted by Johann Kracker. Marble columns, life-sized statues of saints, and rich stucco work draw visitors into a space designed to awe and inspire.

St. Nicholas Church also has strong musical connections. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played the organ here during his visits to Prague, and the church continues to host classical concerts that showcase its acoustics and grand baroque organ. Even if you don’t attend a service or performance, the church’s interior is open to the public and offers one of the most breathtaking views of Prague’s sacred art.

Outside, the church’s bell tower, which once served as a fire watchtower during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, offers panoramic views of the Lesser Town and beyond. A visit to St. Nicholas Church isn’t just about admiring architecture—it’s about stepping into a space that has echoed with music, prayer, and history for centuries.

Climbing from Lesser Town Square toward Prague Castle, Nerudova Street is one of the most famous and charming thoroughfares in the city. Named after the 19th-century Czech writer Jan Neruda, who lived at number 47 (the House of the Two Suns), the street is a living museum of Renaissance and Baroque townhouses, many of which feature unique house signs instead of numbers.

These signs—such as the Golden Key, the Red Lion, or the Green Lobster—were used to identify buildings before a standardized street-numbering system was introduced. They give the street a whimsical, almost fairy-tale quality. Today, many of these houses have been converted into embassies, boutique hotels, and galleries, yet they retain their historical façades and inner courtyards.

Nerudova was once part of the Royal Route, and the kings of Bohemia would ascend it during coronation processions to reach the castle. It remains a path of pilgrimage for travelers eager to experience the historic soul of Prague. Along the way, you’ll find hidden gardens, inviting coffee shops, and artisan workshops that showcase the creative spirit of the district.

As the incline steepens, the views become more dramatic—offering glimpses of tiled rooftops and distant spires. Whether you’re heading uphill toward the castle or descending into Malá Strana, walking Nerudova Street is to trace the footsteps of nobles, poets, and pilgrims in one of the city’s most enchanting settings.

Towering above the city on a rocky ridge, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Founded around 880 by Prince Bořivoj of the Přemyslid dynasty, it has been the seat of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, and Czech presidents for over a millennium. With its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, the castle complex is a visual timeline of Czech history.

Walking through the castle gates, visitors are greeted by grand courtyards, palaces, chapels, and manicured gardens. The castle’s layout reflects its role as both a royal residence and a seat of power—designed to impress foreign dignitaries, project authority, and inspire awe. Key landmarks include the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the imposing façade of St. Vitus Cathedral.

Throughout history, Prague Castle has witnessed defining moments: royal coronations, Habsburg ceremonies, Nazi occupation, and the Velvet Revolution. The castle’s political and symbolic importance remains central to Czech national identity. Even today, it is the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.

A stroll through Prague Castle’s courtyards offers panoramic views of the city below. Whether you’re admiring Renaissance sgraffito on the walls or pausing beside the flag atop the first courtyard, the castle offers not only architectural splendor but also a palpable sense of continuity with Prague’s legendary past.

At the spiritual heart of Prague Castle lies St. Vitus Cathedral, the most important church in the Czech Republic. Construction began in 1344 under Emperor Charles IV, but the cathedral was not completed until 1929, almost 600 years later. This protracted building process resulted in a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic elements that makes the cathedral an architectural masterpiece.

The soaring nave, ribbed vaults, and dazzling stained glass windows immediately capture the eye. Among the highlights are Alfons Mucha’s Art Nouveau window in the north nave, the richly carved Royal Mausoleum, and the Chapel of St. Wenceslas, enshrining the tomb of the Czech patron saint. The chapel’s walls are inlaid with semi-precious stones and scenes from the saint’s life.

St. Vitus Cathedral is not only a place of worship—it is the resting place of Czech kings, queens, and saints. Beneath its floors lie Charles IV, Wenceslas I, and numerous other rulers who shaped the nation’s destiny. The cathedral has also hosted countless coronations, weddings, and funerals of the Bohemian royal family.

Climbing the cathedral’s South Tower rewards visitors with some of the best panoramic views in Prague. But even from below, its spires and flying buttresses dominate the skyline, embodying the city’s Gothic soul and spiritual heart.

Situated on the eastern edge of Prague Castle, the elegant Lobkowicz Palace offers a more personal, aristocratic perspective on Czech history. This 16th-century palace has been owned for centuries by the Lobkowicz family—one of the most prominent noble dynasties in Bohemia. Confiscated twice in the 20th century (by the Nazis and later by the Communists), the palace was finally restored to the family after the Velvet Revolution.

Inside, the Lobkowicz Collections are nothing short of breathtaking. The museum displays paintings by Bruegel, Canaletto, and Velázquez; musical scores with handwritten notes by Mozart and Beethoven; and priceless arms, armor, ceramics, and decorative arts. One of the highlights is the original score of Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony, dedicated to Prince Joseph Franz Lobkowicz.

The palace’s audio tour, narrated by William Lobkowicz himself, offers a deeply personal insight into family stories, historical episodes, and the challenges of post-communist restitution. This makes the visit not only visually rewarding but also emotionally compelling.

Don’t miss the terrace café, which boasts spectacular views over Prague’s rooftops. Whether you’re an art lover, a music enthusiast, or a history buff, Lobkowicz Palace is a cultural treasure that bridges the grandeur of Prague Castle with the intimacy of family legacy.

Golden Lane is one of the most atmospheric spots within the Prague Castle complex. This narrow, colorful alleyway of tiny houses tucked against the castle’s northern wall was originally built in the late 16th century to house castle marksmen and later became home to goldsmiths—hence the name. The picturesque charm of the lane, with its low doors and candy-colored facades, makes it a favorite among photographers and visitors.

Despite its fairy-tale appearance, the lane has a layered and often somber history. The cramped houses once provided shelter to the poor, soldiers, and tradespeople. During the 20th century, Golden Lane became a refuge for artists, bohemians, and intellectuals, including Franz Kafka, who lived at No. 22 for a brief time in 1916.

Today, many of the tiny houses have been converted into museum shops and exhibits, showcasing period interiors, armor collections, and historic crafts. These displays give a glimpse into the everyday lives of Golden Lane’s diverse residents across the centuries. One house even preserves the look of a medieval alchemist’s workshop—feeding into the lore and legend that has long surrounded the street.

As you wander the cobbled lane, imagine the countless footsteps that have passed through—from guards on duty to the writer Kafka scribbling his thoughts. It’s a place where Prague’s whimsical spirit and layered history come alive in vivid detail.

The Belvedere, also known as the Queen Anne’s Summer Palace, is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Prague and stands as a romantic testament to royal love and aesthetic ambition. Commissioned in the 1530s by Emperor Ferdinand I for his wife, Queen Anne of Bohemia and Hungary, the palace was intended as a place of leisure and celebration rather than political function. Its location in the Royal Garden just north of Prague Castle gives it a peaceful, elevated vantage point with views toward the city.

Construction began in 1535 but was not completed until 1565, long after Queen Anne’s untimely death in 1547. Still, the structure reflects the Italian Renaissance ideals that had made their way north into Bohemia, with elegant arcades, richly decorated columns, and a distinctive copper roof resembling an inverted ship’s hull—earning it the nickname “Belvedere.” The interior was originally intended for court entertainments and exhibitions, and although modest in size, its proportions and architectural detailing make it a jewel of the castle grounds.

In front of the palace stands the Singing Fountain, created by master metalworker Tomáš Jaroš in 1568. Its name derives from the melodic sound produced as water cascades into its bronze bowl, which delighted courtiers and visitors alike. The garden surrounding the Belvedere is one of the most refined and serene spaces in the city, ideal for a quiet stroll after exploring the grandeur of the nearby castle complex.

Today, the Belvedere hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, allowing visitors to step inside this rare Renaissance gem. For those interested in architecture, sculpture, or the romantic ideals of Central European royalty, the Belvedere offers a gentle and graceful contrast to the heavier Gothic and Baroque forms that dominate much of Prague’s skyline.