5 things you absolutely have to do in Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of those cities, the kind that people dream of going to. It’s also an addictive place. As soon as you’re on your plane or train away from the city once your trip is over, you’re already planning your next visit. It just gets into your brain and heart, and never leaves.

There’s good reason for that. Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, and is one most unique cities in Europe. It effortlessly blends its vast history with continually evolving arts, culture and food scenes. And you are going to love it.

Wander Prague’s Old Town Square

Finding history in Prague is like shooting metaphorical fish in figurative barrel. If you’re shooting real fish in a real barrel, get help. The Old Town Square is the perfect place to absorb as much of that history as possible in one special place.

Key spots like the St. Nicholas Church, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, a medieval astronomical clock called Prague Orloj, and the Czech National Gallery in Kinský Palace are all here. Plus, the Christmas and Easter markets are reputedly legendary.

Cruise on the Vltava

The Vltava is the longest river in the Czech Republic, and it quite naturally runs right through Prague. There are numerous stunning bridges running across the Vltava at various points in the city, and any one of them offers picturesque views.

Taking the time to enjoy Prague from the river can offer some interesting perspectives you might not otherwise get. Specifically, Old Town and New Town each claim a bank of the river, and the view of Prague Castle or Charles Bridge from a cruise are incomparable.

Take in Prague’s many sights

A big part of what make’s Prague such an incredible place to spend time is how much there is to do. The aforementioned Old Town Square is an important spot, and cruising the Vltava offers some great photo ops. But there is so much more.

Places like the Jewish Quarter, St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane and the Lennon Wall draw in thousands of visitors a year for good reason. But there’s also so much to see by simply wandering the streets and taking the city in.

Shop and eat in Malá Strana

Malá Strana, aka Lesser Town or Little Town, is considered to be Prague’s most historic neighborhood. It dates back to the Middle Ages, with a surprising percentage of the layout and architecture is still evocative of that era.

Naturally, Malá Strana has its own landmarks to check out, like Petrin Tower and Wallenstein Garden. But a big reason to head to this area of the city is to shop, eat and drink in the many wonderful establishments that makes it so unique.

Hit up their amazing farmers’ markets

While this might not be something you think about when heading to Prague,this region is home to a variety of exceptional local producers. A great way to experience this side of the Czech Republic is by hitting up one of the many local farmers’ markets.

A key market that both locals and tourists seem to enjoy is the Farmers’ Market at Náplavka. Being right on the banks of the Vltava certainly doesn’t hurt the situation. It happens every Saturday, and features a stunning range of seasonal vegetables, cheeses and more.