Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Prague's Lesser Town (2025)

Charles Bridge is the most iconic and atmospheric of Prague’s crossings over the Vltava River. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV in 1357, this Gothic stone bridge stretches over 500 meters and is lined with 30 Baroque statues of saints, making it an open-air gallery as well as a thoroughfare. Originally built to replace the Judith Bridge, which was destroyed in a flood, Charles Bridge connects the Old Town with Lesser Town and remains one of the city’s most photographed sights. Walking across it at dawn reveals a quieter, more meditative experience, with mists rising over the river and the silhouettes of spires looming in the distance. By day, it becomes a vibrant cultural corridor filled with artists, street musicians, and vendors. The statues, though weatherworn, each tell a unique story, with the statue of St. John of Nepomuk being the most famous. Touching its base is said to ensure your return to Prague. The two Gothic towers anchoring each end of the bridge—the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town Bridge Tower—offer panoramic views and insight into Prague’s fortifications. Climbing these towers is well worth the effort. The Charles Bridge isn’t just a beautiful structure; it’s a living part of Prague’s identity—rich with history, art, and the flow of daily life.

Located near the western end of Charles Bridge, the Franz Kafka Museum offers an immersive look into the life and mind of one of Prague’s most influential writers. Housed in a former brickworks, the museum is a carefully curated blend of Kafka’s biography, manuscripts, photographs, and audiovisual installations that echo the dark, surreal tone of his work. The exhibition space is divided between the thematic areas of Kafka’s Prague and Kafka’s Writings, which explore his relationships, daily routines, and literary influences. Letters, early editions, and even his school reports provide deeply personal glimpses into his world. A highlight is the unsettling basement installation featuring interpretations of Kafka’s works, including a life-sized model of the torture machine from “In the Penal Colony.” It’s a deliberately disorienting environment—part museum, part psychological maze. In the courtyard outside, David Černý’s provocative sculpture of two male figures urinating into a Czech-shaped basin adds a sharp dose of irony to this otherwise introspective site.

Built between 1623 and 1630 by the powerful military commander Albrecht von Wallenstein, this enormous Baroque complex was designed to rival Prague Castle. Today, Wallenstein Palace houses the Czech Senate, but its ornate gardens remain open to the public and offer a tranquil oasis amid the urban landscape. The palace’s Sala Terrena, an open-air hall with massive arches and vivid frescoes, overlooks a neatly manicured French-style garden. Peacocks roam freely among the fountains and hedges, adding a touch of whimsy to the historic setting. The artificial dripstone wall known as the “Grotto” is a unique feature of the gardens. Resembling a curtain of stone, it includes sculpted faces and figures hidden among the formations. It reflects the 17th-century fascination with illusion and theatrical design. Whether attending a summer concert, pausing for reflection near the koi pond, or simply enjoying the symmetry and serenity of the grounds, a visit to Wallenstein Palace offers a refreshing contrast to the busier nearby attractions.

Lesser Town Square is the vibrant heart of Malá Strana, flanked by historic palaces, cafés, and the imposing Church of St. Nicholas. It originated as a market square in the Middle Ages and became the center of political, cultural, and social life in the district. The square consists of an upper and lower portion, separated by a tram line. Here you’ll find ornate buildings in Renaissance and Baroque styles, many of which served as residences for noble families and foreign dignitaries. Look up to see coats of arms and decorative facades that speak to the area’s prestigious past. A statue of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV stands at the square’s center, while horse-drawn carriages still operate here, adding to the timeless atmosphere. Outdoor cafés make it a great place to pause and soak in the surroundings. The square also serves as a crossroads—connecting routes to the Castle, Charles Bridge, and the winding lanes of Lesser Town.

One of the grandest churches in Prague, the Church of St. Nicholas is a Baroque masterpiece that dominates Lesser Town Square. Constructed in the 18th century, the church replaced a Gothic structure on the same site and was designed by Christoph and Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, two of Bohemia’s most celebrated Baroque architects. Its opulent façade and magnificent dome are visible from across the Vltava River. Inside, visitors are met with a breathtaking interior adorned with intricate stucco, marble columns, and ceiling frescoes, including a massive depiction of the Apotheosis of St. Nicholas. The church’s impressive organ, played by Mozart in 1787, remains a central attraction, and classical concerts are still held here, drawing music lovers from around the world. The bell tower, which can be visited separately, offers panoramic views of Malá Strana and Prague Castle. Originally used by secret police during the Communist era for surveillance, it now provides a peaceful perspective over the red rooftops of the district. This church is not just a place of worship—it’s a monumental statement of power, faith, and artistic excellence that defines the architectural spirit of Baroque Prague.

Connecting Charles Bridge to the heart of Lesser Town, Mostecká (Bridge Street) is one of the most picturesque and historic thoroughfares in Prague. Its cobblestone path is lined with colorful façades, decorative house signs, and charming shops that cater to tourists and locals alike. The street’s significance dates back to the medieval era, when it formed part of the Royal Route taken by kings on their way to coronation at Prague Castle. Today, the path still carries echoes of pomp and ceremony, though the modern rhythm is driven by cafés, souvenir shops, and the steady flow of foot traffic. A notable building on this route is the former Jesuit College, now housing the city’s music school. Keep an eye out for symbolic house signs like “At the Red Lion” or “At the Golden Wheel,” reminders of a time when Prague had no house numbers. Bridge Street offers a delightful way to transition between iconic attractions while soaking up the unique ambiance of Malá Strana.

Known worldwide for the wax statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, this Carmelite church holds a special place in Catholic devotion. Originally built by the Lutherans in the early 17th century, the Church of Our Lady Victorious was handed over to the Catholic Carmelites during the Counter-Reformation. The famed statue, brought from Spain, is said to have miraculous powers. It is housed in an ornate side chapel and dressed in elaborately embroidered robes that are changed according to the liturgical calendar. A small museum within the church displays a fascinating collection of these garments. Despite its relatively plain exterior, the church’s interior dazzles with Baroque flourishes, gilded altars, and devotional artwork. The faithful flock here not only for prayer but also to experience the rich spiritual heritage it represents. This church is a deeply moving stop on any walking tour—especially for those interested in Prague’s religious history and enduring Catholic traditions.

The Mirror Maze on Petřín Hill is a whimsical, family-friendly attraction that offers both laughter and a bit of disorientation. Housed in a miniature neo-Gothic castle resembling a medieval fortress, the maze was originally built for the Jubilee Exhibition of 1891 and later moved to its current location. The experience begins with a mirrored labyrinth that challenges your sense of direction as you encounter countless reflections of yourself at every turn. Beyond the maze lies a diorama hall featuring a massive painted scene of Prague’s defense against the Swedes in 1648—a surprisingly educational twist amid the fun. The real showstopper is the Hall of Laughter, where distorted mirrors stretch, shrink, and twist your reflection into hilarious shapes. It’s particularly popular with children, but adults can’t help but laugh too. The Mirror Maze is a light-hearted detour from the more historical stops on this tour, making it perfect for groups, families, or anyone in need of a cheerful break.

Towering over Prague on Petřín Hill, the Petřín Lookout Tower is often described as the city’s own Eiffel Tower. Built in 1891 by the Czech Tourist Club, the 60-meter structure may be smaller than its Parisian cousin, but thanks to its elevated location, the views are just as breathtaking. The tower can be reached by a funicular railway or a scenic uphill walk through landscaped gardens. Once at the base, visitors can climb the 299 steps to the observation decks, where sweeping panoramic views extend across Prague’s skyline, from the Castle District to the distant Žižkov Tower. The design features an octagonal base and iron framework, giving it a light, airy profile that complements the surrounding greenery. A small exhibition inside the tower offers insight into its history and construction.

Ideal for photography and a quiet moment above the bustling city, Petřín Lookout Tower is a fitting finale to any walking tour through Lesser Town.