Introduction
I have to admit, Prague is one of my favorite cities in the world. Not only does it have an incredible history and architecture, but you can also find some great beer and meals there (my favorite is goulash). Although Prague is a large city, with plenty of attractions for first-time tourists (and return visitors), it’s easy to get around on foot and see all the must-visit places. So what are they? Here are ten things I recommend doing when visiting Prague:
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been the residence of Czech rulers for over 1000 years, and it’s also a popular location for events and concerts.
The castle complex consists of many buildings that include churches, palaces and gardens. The most well-known building is St Vitus Cathedral which was built between 1270 and 1420 by King Wenceslas IV (Wenceslaus IV). He was buried there after his death as were other members of his family including Charles IV (King Charles IV) who had commissioned this wonderful cathedral to be built in 1344-1364 as well as Vaclav II Jagiello who ruled from 1386 until 1419 when he died suddenly while staying at Prague Castle while trying to negotiate peace terms with Sigismund von Luxembourg who wanted accession rights over Poland but was refused by Jagiello so they went into battle against each other at Grunwald which ended up being one huge massacre where many people lost their lives including Sigismund himself who died shortly after returning home due to injuries sustained during battle.”
The Old Town
Located in the heart of Prague, the Old Town is an area that’s not only beautiful but also rich with history. The Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 and has since been preserved as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns.
It’s easy to spend hours here exploring shops and restaurants, admiring architecture or simply taking photos from atop one of its many hills. In addition to being an excellent spot for shopping and dining out, it’s also home to some important museums including The National Museum (Národní Muzeum) which houses many priceless artifacts from different eras including artworks by Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt van Rijn along with gems such as Egyptian mummies or dinosaur skeletons!
National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror
The National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror is a memorial to Czechoslovak heroes who fought against Nazis during World War II. The memorial was designed by Jan Kaplicky and built in 1974, with an inscription on its base stating: “To those who fell fighting against fascism and Nazi tyranny.” It’s located on the corner of Celetna Street and U Luzanky Street in Prague’s Old Town district.
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest church in the Czech Republic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 14th century, but has undergone several major renovations since then, including one that took place during its reconstruction after being damaged by fire in 1837. The cathedral houses many famous tombs: those of Bohemian kings (including Charles IV), saints and bishops.
The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn (Kostel Panny Marie poblizeni Tyn) is another must-see attraction while you’re visiting Prague. Built between 1344 and 1364, this beautiful Gothic structure features twin spires that rise above its central nave and side aisles–and have become iconic symbols of Prague itself!
Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
The Jewish Quarter is the oldest part of Prague. It was established in 1257 and is home to many historical sites, including synagogues and cemeteries.
One of the most prominent sites in this historic district is Old Jewish Cemetery located on U Pinkasova Street. This cemetery contains over 12,000 tombstones dating back as far as 15th century; it’s also one of Europe’s largest Jewish cemeteries!
Another must-see attraction within Josefov is Klausen Synagogue (Ceskoluskuv Synagoga), which dates back to 1470 and is now used as an art gallery by Jewish Museum Prague.
Lesser Town Bridge Tower (Kladska mostecka vyhlidka)
The Lesser Town Bridge Tower (Kladska mostecka vyhlidka) is a Prague landmark that’s worth visiting. It’s a small, circular tower that stands at the end of the Charles Bridge and offers panoramic views of the city. The tower was built in 1402 by King Wenceslas IV to protect his palace, which was located nearby.
If you’re short on time, stroll along Charles Bridge and take in its impressive architecture while trying not to get trampled by tourists; if you have more time, head up inside this tower for an even better view! There are two ways up: either walk up 186 steps or take an elevator if it’s too much effort for your legs (or feet). Either way will offer breathtaking 360-degree views over Prague from atop its walls where visitors can see Strahov Monastery as well as Mucha Museum – both located within walking distance from here too!
Charles Bridge (Karluv most)
Charles Bridge (Karluv most) is one of the oldest bridges in Prague. It was built in 1357, and it spans across the Vltava River. Charles Bridge is decorated with many statues and reliefs, which depict religious scenes from the Bible. You can walk on the bridge or ride bicycles on it; however, horses are prohibited from crossing this historical landmark as they were during its construction period (they had to swim across). This pedestrian-only pathway has been damaged several times by floods over time but has always been restored to its original state after each incident. Charles Bridge is a popular tourist destination for both locals and visitors alike because of its beautiful architecture and historical significance within Prague’s Old Town district
Not only is Prague a beautiful city, it has many historic attractions that are easily accessible by foot.
This makes it a great city for first-time tourists.
Prague’s most famous attraction is the Charles Bridge, which spans the Vltava River and connects Old Town with Mala Strana (Lesser Town). Built in 1357 and named after King Charles IV of Bohemia, this stunning bridge is lined with statues depicting saints and other figures from Christianity’s history. As you walk across this UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to stop at one of its four towers: St Nicholas’ Tower on your left when entering from Old Town; Judith Tower on your right if coming from Lesser Town; Baroque Mill Tower at midpoint; or Tyn Church Tower at end point if continuing into Lesser Town afterwards!
Conclusion
Prague is a city with a rich history, but it also has many modern attractions that make it worth visiting. From the Charles Bridge to Prague Castle, there are plenty of things to do in this beautiful city. The best part is that you don’t need a car–just some comfortable shoes and an open mind!
