Visiting Prague for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Known for historic architecture and world-class beer, Prague offers ample opportunities to experience Czech culture. From the city’s hilltop castle and winding river to local eateries and UNESCO World Heritage sites, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your first time in Prague.
Go sightseeing
Take in the top attractions.
Get your bearings on a guided tour of the city. Hop-on hop-off bus tours are a flexible way to explore, if you have limited time. Or, enjoy the fresh air on a bike, scooter, or e-bike tour.
Visit Prague Castle
For both history and views.
No first-time visitor to Prague should miss the city views from Prague Castle, a complex featuring baroque and Gothic architecture. To maximize your time, prebook admission to the castle grounds and St. Vitus Cathedral, then check out the Lobkowicz Palace Museum to get your fill of fine art and royal portraits.
Indulge in the local cuisine
Get your fill of beer and more.
Savor the hearty local fare, then wash it down with a refreshing Czech pilsner. Join a food walking tour or a beer tasting, and don’t miss specialties such as pickled sausage and Chlebicky open-faced sandwiches.
Cruise the Vltava River
See the city from a new perspective.
A centerpiece of Prague’s geography, the winding Vltava is best experienced on a river cruise. Romantics can book a dinner cruise to take in the evening skyline views. Alternatively, opt for a canal cruise to see landmarks such as Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
Explore the Bohemian countryside
Take a trip.
Escape the city and head to some of the Czech Republic’s historic towns, including Kutná Hora and the UNESCO-listed Cesky Krumlov. Numerous tours leave from Prague, stopping by churches, medieval towns, and an ancient castle complex.
More things to do in Prague
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Peter Neely is a Brooklyn-based writer and poet who's been bounding between cities for a decade, with stops in San Francisco, Budapest, Montreal, and Lyon. Changing NYC apartments like socks, Peter has lived in Harlem, Greenpoint, Sunnyside, and Crown Heights, though Coney Island is his spiritual homeland. Spot him reading on the subway, or complaining about the slice at your favorite pizzeria.