Last year, I was lucky enough to spend a couple days in Prague, and it was one of the coolest places I’ve ever been. This list barely scratches the surface of all the magical things the town has to offer, but here are just a few of the many.
- Visit Prague Castle
-
During my weeks of backpacking, Prague Castle was definitely one of my favorite castles I visited… and I saw a lot of castles. The views are gorgeous and there are so many things to learn about the history!
- Check out the Golden Lane
-
The Golden Lane is inside of Prague Castle, but you have to get specific tickets to check out this section. It’s worth the extra cash. This area was built during the 16th century and is now saved for visitors. Many of the lower houses are now gift shops and the upper area is filled with old armor and weapons the knights used and wore. It’s an adorable hidden gem in the city.
- Tour the Speculum Alchemiae Museum
-
Of all the tours I did in Europe, this was at the top of my list. This building is most likely the second oldest building in all of Prague. It was an herbal pharmacy and alchemy elixir shop. There were actual tunnels from this building to the Prague Castle because an Emperor, Rudolf II, created a secret alchemy laboratory in the building. Recently the laboratory was found underground and has been cleaned out to show the public real alchemist tools used back in the 15th and 16th centuries! And when the tour is over you can buy real potions from recipes created by real alchemists!
- See the Astronomical Clock
-
Every hour this medieval clock strikes showing a mechanical marvel from the year 1401. It’s a pretty touristy site, but worth the stop!
- Buy Prague garnet
-
Being a January baby, I’m partial to my birthstone, but the garnet in Prague is known throughout the world. Be careful that you buy your garnets from a reputable dealer though! There are many stories of tourists being sold fake garnets because they don’t know the difference, do your research if you’re going to splurge on this gem.
- See the Charles Bridge
-
The Charles Bridge is a major landmark for the city, it just isn’t right to visit without stopping by!
- Drink some beer
-
The Czech Republic consumes more beer per capita than any other country in the world, so it’s only fair that you partake in the pastime as well! Just ask any waiter or bartender for their recommended local beer, you won’t be disappointed!
-
Try fried cheese
-
A local favorite snack is fried cheese. Yes, it’s as unhealthy and delicious as it sounds. We had some as a “snack” and were full until the next day! It’s definitely filling, but you can’t visit Prague without divulging in the local foods!
- Walk along the river
-
During the sunset there really isn’t a more beautiful place to go for a stroll. We spent the evening hours of our trip walking along the Vltava River taking in the beautiful colors of the sun bouncing off the water.
- Check out New Town Square in Prague
-
If you want to get some shopping in, there’s no better place than New Town Square. And if nothing else, you can say ‘hey’ to Saint Wenceslas. You might remember him from the famous Christmas Carol.
Prague is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever seen. The people are wonderful, the food is a delight and the sights are gorgeous. If you ever get the chance to see Prague, take it.