17 Things Prague is Famous For (2025 Visitor’s Guide)

I knew I liked Prague — I just forgot how much.

I went last month on a girls’ trip and ended up in charge of the itinerary.

Luckily, Prague makes it easy. It’s beautiful, super walkable, and packed with history, beer, and unique things to see around every corner.

What really stood out, though, was how much you can see and do without spending a fortune. A lot of the things Prague is famous for — like the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and that ridiculously photogenic astronomical clock — won’t cost you a thing. That’s what makes it such a great pick if you’re trying to stretch your budget without missing out.

So if you’re wondering what makes this city so special, here’s a super practical guide to 17 things Prague is famous for — with honest tips to help you make the most of it.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting First Step: Europe.

What Is Prague Famous For? 

Prague is famous for its fairy-tale streets, iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, local beer, classical music, and quirky traditions like marionette shows and name days.

17 Things Prague is Famous For

Here’s what Prague is known for — the big names, the little quirks, and everything in between.

1. Charles Bridge

You’ll cross it. You’ll photograph it. You’ll cross it again, you’ll photograph it again.

Charles Bridge is one of the most famous things in Prague — a 14th-century stone walkway lined with statues, street performers, and more tourists than you can shake a selfie stick at.

The views over the Vltava are genuinely gorgeous, and somehow never get old, no matter how many times you pass over.

💡Tip: Go early if you want to see it without the crowds. By midday, it’s packed.

2. Prague Castle

Prague Castle isn’t just one building — it’s a massive complex with gothic cathedrals, royal palaces, and little storybook alleyways like Golden Lane.
It’s technically the largest ancient castle complex in the world, and though this hill up to it is definitely manageable, it isn’t that accessible due to the cobbles.

💡Tip: We started at the John Lennon Wall and wandered up from there — way easier than the direct route, and honestly didn’t feel like much of a hill at all. Once you’re done, head down the castle steps for a much gentler (and more scenic) exit.

3. Astronomical Clock

You can’t miss the Astronomical Clock on Old Town Hall — partly because it’s beautiful, and partly because there’s a crowd gathered in front of it every hour waiting for the little mechanical show.

Our tour guide hyped it up, but truthfully? It lasts about 45 seconds, everyone claps, and then it’s over.

What was actually cool (and weirdly not mentioned on the tour) is the golden ring just below the clock.
It’s got 365 names on it — one for each Czech “name day,” which is kind of like a second birthday. Locals still celebrate them!

💡Tip: Get up close to check out the details, morning is the best time for this— and don’t stress if you miss the hourly show. You’re really not missing anything life-changing.

4. Old Town Square

Old Town Square is classic Prague — pastel buildings, striking churches, and plenty of space to take it all in. It’s one of the city’s main gathering spots, so you’ll almost always find something happening, especially during holidays or big events. 

💡Tip: The only thing we don’t recommend? Sitting down to eat here. The restaurants around the square are mostly tourist traps — better food (and prices) are just a short walk away.

5. Beer

It’s official: Czechia drinks more beer per person than anywhere else in the world. And when you realise a pint often costs less than bottled water, it all starts to make sense.

You’ll see Pilsner Urquell pretty much everywhere, but there are also loads of smaller breweries doing their own thing.

We even tried a chocolate beer that was way better than expected – though I’ve since learned that this is a common “tourist trap” in Prague.

💡Tip: Drinking on the streets of Prague isn’t acceptable, and strolling through town with an open beer isn’t really the done thing. Keep it casual, not chaotic.

6. Czech Cuisine

Czech food is one of the things Prague is famous for — and for good reason.

I loved the beef goulash and svíčková — beef in a creamy veggie sauce that sounds odd but… just works?

One thing to know: chimney cake (trdelník) might look traditional, but it’s a tourist invention. Locals don’t eat them — and you can spend your sugar quota elsewhere.

💡Tip: Our guide recommended U Pivrnce and Česká Kuchyně for proper Czech food at local prices — both were excellent, and supposedly where the locals go to eat. 

7. Gothic and Baroque Architecture

One of my favourite things about Prague is how consistently pretty it is. You’ll honestly spend half your trip looking up — between the gothic spires, pastel baroque houses, and little architectural surprises, every street feels photo-worthy (and then some).

💡Tip: The Church of Our Lady before Týn is a standout — you’ll spot it easily in Old Town Square, and it’s just as impressive up close.

8. John Lennon Wall

Since the 1980s, this ever-changing wall has been a symbol of peace, freedom, and protest — and people still add new layers of graffiti all the time. It’s colourful, messy, and somehow really moving, even with the crowds.

If it’s packed when you arrive, give it a few minutes. Tour groups come and go quickly, so you’ll get a much better photo if you hang back.

💡Tip: Bring a Sharpie if you want to leave your own message. And if you’re heading up to Prague Castle afterwards, start here — the uphill walk from this side is way easier.

9. Franz Kafka – Museum & Moving Head

You’ll see Kafka’s name all over Prague — he was born here, studied here, and wrote some of his most surreal work right in the heart of the city.

There’s a whole Franz Kafka Museum near the river that dives into his life and writing.  We didn’t manage to go inside this time, but our guide said loads of people call it the best museum they’ve ever been to — so it’s definitely on my list for next time.

Over near Národní Třída, there’s the giant rotating Kafka head sculpture — 42 shiny layers of stainless steel that slowly twist into place. It’s hypnotic, bizarre, and somehow very on-brand for Kafka.

💡Tip: Around the corner is Spitfire Butterflies, Černý’s tribute to Czech RAF pilots. There’s random art like this all over Prague — so remember to look up as you explore.

10. Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square isn’t really a square — it’s more like a long boulevard where history, shopping, and nightlife all meet up.
You’ve got the National Museum at one end, high street stores all the way down, and… a few bars you probably don’t want to find yourself in after dark.

💡Tip: It’s busy and lively during the day, but I wouldn’t hang around too late at night. And if someone random comes up to chat, just keep walking — it’s not usually a friendly local welcome.

11. Beautiful Christmas Markets

If you’re visiting in late November or December, Prague’s Christmas markets are some of the most visited in Europe, especially the ones in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.

When we went in April, the Easter markets were on instead — so even outside of December, there’s a good chance you’ll still stumble across something seasonal.

If you are planning a festive trip, Prague is honestly one of the best European winter city breaks.

💡Tip: Bring some cash — a lot of the smaller stalls don’t take cards. And svařák (Czech mulled wine) is very much worth a try while you browse.

12. Jewish Quarter

Josefov is small, but it really stays with you — it’s also one of the most historically significant places Prague is famous for.

The Old Jewish Cemetery is unlike anything I’ve seen — thousands of gravestones packed into a tiny space, layered up over centuries because there was nowhere else to bury people. Some spots have 12 layers of graves. It’s hard to wrap your head around.

The synagogues and the Pinkas Memorial are just as powerful — every part of this area tells a story. It’s heavy, but it’s important.

💡Tip: Give yourself a few quiet minutes afterward. If you’ve got time, visiting the Terezín Memorial as a day trip adds a lot of context.

13. Petrin Hill and the Mini Eiffel Tower

For some of the best views in Prague — minus the crowds — Petřín Hill is a solid pick. You can walk up through the park or take the funicular if you’d rather save your energy.

At the top, there’s the Petřín Lookout Tower, which looks a bit like a mini Eiffel Tower and gives you a great panoramic view of the city.

💡Tip: It’s a proper uphill climb if you’re walking, so wear comfy shoes either way — even if you’re just wandering around the top.

14. Traditional Marionettes and Puppetry

Puppetry might seem like a tourist thing, but in Czechia it’s the real deal — a proper tradition with hand-carved marionettes and full-on puppet performances of operas and plays. It’s weird, brilliant, oddly captivating, and one of the more unique things Prague is famous for.

💡Tip: The National Marionette Theatre was the place to catch a classic performance, but as of our last check, it’s currently closed (unsure if temporarily or permanently).
You can still browse the marionette shops near Charles Bridge to see the craftsmanship up close.

15. Vltava River Cruises

If your feet need a break, a river cruise is such a nice way to see the city. You’ll float past Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and all the colourful riverside buildings without lifting a finger.

There are a few different options too — from simple sightseeing boats to dinner cruises and even a live jazz one if that’s your thing.

💡Tip: Sunset is the best time to go — everything lights up and it’s just a bit magical. They do book up fast in peak season, so it’s worth reserving ahead.
GetYourGuide usually has some good deals.

16. Medieval History and Legends

Prague’s history is full of wild stories — kings, uprisings, alchemists, and more than one defenestration (yep, throwing people out of windows was kind of a thing).

You don’t need to dig far to feel it — the city’s full of strange little details and dark corners that hint at its past.

💡Tip: They do a Ghost and Legends free walking tour in the evenings if you’re up for something a bit different — but the regular walking tours also cover loads of fascinating history, especially around the Old Town. We’ve listed the best free walking tours in Prague here! 

17. Vibrant Music Scene

Music’s a big deal in Prague — whether it’s classical in a grand concert hall, jazz in a smoky little bar, or someone busking under Charles Bridge.
It’s not all Mozart and Vivaldi either — there’s a solid modern live music scene if you know where to look.

💡Tip: Skip the touristy jazz spots in Old Town and head a little further out — drinks are cheaper and the atmosphere’s way better.

FAQs

Is Prague expensive to visit?

Compared to places like Paris, Rome, or London, Prague feels like an absolute steal.

Accommodation is much more affordable, public transport is super cheap (and reliable), and eating out won’t wreck your budget — even close to the city centre.

If you’re watching your spending, supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Žabka are perfect for quick snacks, drinks, or a budget picnic by the river.

And if you’re really trying to stretch your budget, I’ve put together a full Prague Dos and Don’ts guide with extra tips on how to save without missing out.

What’s the best time to visit Prague?

May to early June and September are usually the sweet spots — the weather’s mild, the flowers are out, and the crowds aren’t too full-on.

We went in April and while it was sunny, the wind was bitterly cold. It was still fairly busy at the big sights too, so honestly? You’re better off holding out for May.

It won’t be dramatically quieter, but the weather will be much more enjoyable for wandering around.

December’s also lovely if you’re after festive vibes — just pack warm and don’t rely on the markets for a good meal.

💡 Got an extra day? Český Krumlov is an easy day trip and really does look like a real-life fairy-tale town.

Do people speak English in Prague?

Yes — especially in hotels, restaurants, and anywhere touristy. Most younger locals speak at least some English, and menus are often bilingual too. Out in the suburbs or smaller shops, it’s more hit-or-miss, but you’ll still manage just fine.

That said, knowing a couple of Czech words goes a long way. Try “Dobrý den” (hello) and “Děkuji” (thank you) — people really appreciate the effort, and it comes in handy on public transport or if you’re figuring out how to get from Prague Airport to the city centre.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Prague.

Conclusion

Prague’s one of those cities where something interesting always seems to be around the corner — crossing Charles Bridge at sunrise, stumbling into a hidden jazz bar, or eating way more goulash than planned. You don’t need to tick off all 17 things to love it here, but knowing a few of the things Prague is famous for definitely makes exploring more fun.

And hey — this is just 17. I could go on, but I doubt anyone’s in the mood for 101 reasons you’ll fall in love with Prague.

Hope this helps you plan a Prague trip that’s the perfect mix of big sights and fun little surprises.