Discover the beauty of Prague through its stunning sights and historical destinations

The Baroque Library, completed in 1722 by architect Kilián Ignác Dienzenhofer, originally housed an impressive collection of 20,000 books. Over the years, the collection has expanded to include approximately six million titles. The library is adorned with several striking globes and paintings, notably featuring a breathtaking ceiling painting inspired by the Temple of  Wisdom from Greek mythology.

The 68-metre-tall Astronomical Tower has immense historical significance. It was the location of the first discovery of the exact moment when noon strikes. Meridian Hall within the tower showcases numerous astronomical and meteorological measurements that validate the significant academic research conducted there.

Visitors ascending the 172-step flight of stairs in the Astronomical Tower are met with the magnificent lead statue of Atlas carrying the globe, culminating the tour with a remarkable view from the towering peak. This vantage point offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the surrounding cityscape, providing a breathtaking and memorable experience.

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Stroll atop Charles Bridge

Constructed in 1402, Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge in Prague. It spans the picturesque Vltava River and links Prague Castle to the Old Town. This architectural gem was constructed to replace the worn-down Judith Bridge. It was initially referred to as either Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge before being officially renamed Charles Bridge in 1870, honouring the king who initiated its construction, Charles IV.

One of the most prominent features of Charles Bridge is the series of 30 intricate statues of saints that adorn the 500-metre-long walkway. These statues contribute to the bridge’s allure and historical significance. Additionally, visitors can take sightseeing boat cruises on the nearby river, offering spectacular views of this iconic structure and the surrounding area.

Live out medieval fantasies at Prague Castle

There’s no shortage of sights and adventures inside Prague Castle,  the world’s largest castle complex. Across the seven-hectare property are attractions for every kind of tourist.

Into culture and history? Check out St Vitus Cathedral and Old Royal Palace to learn more about the Czech Republic’s mediaeval roots. Inside are traces of Prague Castle through the years—its construction around the year 880, its heyday in the 14th century under Emperor Charles IV, its decay in the 16th century following a series of wars and conflicts and finally, its return to glory as the independent Czechoslovak Republic’s seat of the head of state in 1918.

Check out the Golden Lane Street

Want to refresh your IG feed? Head onto Golden Lane Street for a snapshot into the life of a 14th-century European. The iconic sight was inhabited until 1953, when the Czech government sought to preserve the street’s aesthetic.

Five gardens are scattered throughout the castle complex for those looking for some quiet time.

Hit the trams

Prague’s tram network runs throughout the city, comprising 22 daytime and nine-night lines. Some routes take you to popular destinations such as the National Theatre and Prague Castle, while others take you to different stops within the city.

The trams have been operating since 1875 and are integral to Prague’s transportation system and attractions in their own right. But other than that, hopping aboard these vintage rides may lead you to low-profile spots that other influencers or travel magazines haven’t discovered.

A taste of Bohemian and European history at the Lobkowicz Palace Museum

Also within Prague Castle, the Lobkowicz Palace Museum houses a collection of items from several critical moments in Czech history. Inside are numerous pieces from the medieval and Renaissance periods—not to mention instruments and manuscripts by Mozart and Beethoven.

The structure itself witnessed a tumultuous history of the country and of the Lobkowicz family, which have seen various changes of power both domestically and internationally. For one, the palace museum was taken by the Nazis in the Second World War and by the communists for 40 years before returning it to the family.

Every day from 1 pm to 2 pm, classical music concerts are held at the museum’s Baroque Concert Hall. Under a 17th-century frescoed ceiling, pieces by Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, Beethoven, Dvořák and Smetana are performed by a flute, violin and piano trio.

Where to dine

Sights to match the bite at Coda Restaurant

Inside the Aria Hotel Prague, Coda Restaurant features a special menu prepared by its new executive chef, Igor Chramec. Enjoy your meal surrounded by interiors inspired by the hotel’s luxury boutique music theme, or head to the rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view overlooking Prague.

(Over?)indulgence at Pork’s

Just past Charles Bridge at Mostecká Street is Pork’s. The city staple features a menu with—surprise—pork at the forefront. Indulge in their signature pork knuckles and other Czech culinary classics for a heartwarming and extensively filling dinner experience. Be sure to also try the Roasted Pork Sausages, Potato Pancakes, and the Apple Strudels for dessert.

A Czech dinner experience at U MarČanů

The unassuming, cosy, 180-seat restaurant U Marčanů serves traditional Czech meals against the backdrop of nightly festivities and local folk music. Every day for over 100 years, the restaurant has had four musicians play Bohemian, Moravian, Slovak and Gipsy folk songs using traditional folk instruments such as the hammer-dulcimer, fujara (shepherds-whistle) and bag-pipe. The performances typically start around 7:30pm and end at 10:00pm.

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Where to stay

Inside the Sugar Palace at Andaz Prague

A five-star luxury lifestyle hotel, Andaz Prague is housed inside the Sugar Palace, an iconic neoclassical building considered a cultural monument by the Czech Ministry of Culture.

The hotel contains 176 beautifully designed rooms. From a simple single-bed dwelling to a 1000-square-metre presidential suite, each thoughtfully combines Prague culture with modern sensibilities, providing a sense of old European charm deep within the city centre.

Though within walking distance of the Old Town Square and several other Prague attractions, Andaz is also home to a restaurant and a bar that will have you willingly staying in Zem Restaurant, which combines Czech produce with Japanese cuisine, and Mez Bar, which presents specially-made cocktails inspired by Bohemian mythology.

Nights on the Vltava at Four Seasons

Due to its location along the Vltava River, Four Seasons Hotel Prague offers a unique riverside experience.  Its proximity to several city attractions also adds to the breathtaking view available through your window.

Inside, each room is adorned with simplistic yet elegant furnishings. The hotel has five guest rooms, four suites, three speciality suites, and one villa.

Four Seasons also offers two dining options: CottoCrudo, an Italian restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace on the bank of the Vltava River, and Miru, where you can enjoy your favourite Japanese bites atop the hotel rooftop, surrounded not only by a zen garden but also by the nearby cityscape.

A night at a 14th-century Dominican monastery at the Hotel Mandarin Oriental Prague

Hotel Mandarin Oriental is within a former 14th-century Dominican monastery. Its 99 rooms and suites feature contemporary designs for a timeless finish and were built within the existing structure.

One suite of note is the Oriental Suite, which is under the vaulted ceilings of a former Renaissance church and has an L-shaped layout.

Why bother to step outside when your one-time abode is steeped in Czech history and culture?

18th-century opulence at The Mozart

Just three minutes from Charles Bridge, The Mozart features one of the city’s best views overlooking Prague. Each abode, from its more spartan rooms to its riverside suites, is adorned with vintage elegance and harmonious simplicity in mind. Like an arrangement with dozens of notes and melodies played in a symphony, Mozart visually honours the musical genius it was named after.

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