Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in Czech Republic
ShowingFilter 81-99 of 99 listings.
Hard Rock Cafe Prague
Prague's outpost of the worldwide Hard Rock brand is one of the most popular hangouts in the city. Tucked away behind the fresco-covered façade of the 19th-century VJ Rott House, it is just a five-minute walk from the focus of the night-time action in Old Town Square. As one of the largest branches of Hard Rock in Europe, it has two sleek bars in which to sample Czech pilsner beers or a couple of cocktails, plus three floors of restaurant selling the world-famous menu of steaks, salads and legendary burgers.
The ornate Art Nouveau interior of the restaurant contrasts neatly with Hard Rock's grungy displays of rock "˜n' memorabilia"”from Johnny Cash's embroidered Western-style shirt, a pair of Elvis's trousers and a tails coat worn on tour by Madonna, but these are all totally overshadowed by the huge, guitar-shaped chandelier hanging over the atrium. Prague's Hard Rock also offers live music on Thursday and Friday nights; a souvenir store selling logo-ed T-shirts, fluffy toys and biker jackets; and an outdoor terrace for enjoying summer-time evenings.
Practical Info
Prague's Hard Rock Cafe is at Male námā›stí 142/3. Visitors can walk to it from Old Town Square. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., and until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Address: Male námā›stí 142/3, Prague 110 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Sun-Thur 11:30am-1am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-2pm
From ¥ 148
Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske namesti)
Prague's central boulevard and largest public square, Wenceslas Square (Vaclavske namesti) has been the social and political heart of the city for hundreds of years and is home to some of the city’s finest works of architecture. Originally laid out in the 14th century as the centerpiece of King Charles's Nové Město (New Town), the square was used as a horse market until being renamed after the patron saint of Bohemia, Saint Wenceslas, in the 19th century.
Today Wenceslas Square is the commercial center of the city, dominated by grand monumental buildings and making the perfect starting point for walking tours of the city’s attractions. At the top of the square looms the striking neo-renaissance façade of the Prague National Museum, with its iconic dome marking an important strategic landmark. Other notable structures include the famous Art Nouveau style Grand Hotel Evropa, the early 20th-century Palác Lucerna and the neo-Renaissance Wiehlův dům (Wiehl House), along with the iconic St Wenceslas Monument and the poignant Memorial to Jan Palach and Jan Zajíc, legendary victims of the Soviet occupation. Many of Prague’s hotels, shops and restaurants are also concentrated on or around the boulevard, along with a central strip of greenery that makes Wenceslas Square the ideal place to meet for coffee or take a break after a long morning’s sightseeing.
The historic square has also played a key role in shaping the history of Prague – this was the location where the First Republic was declared in 1918, where the notorious 1969 protests took place against the Soviet occupation and where the 1989 protest marches kick-started the Velvet Revolution and ultimately the end of the Communist era.
Today Wenceslas Square is the commercial center of the city, dominated by grand monumental buildings and making the perfect starting point for walking tours of the city’s attractions. At the top of the square looms the striking neo-renaissance façade of the Prague National Museum, with its iconic dome marking an important strategic landmark. Other notable structures include the famous Art Nouveau style Grand Hotel Evropa, the early 20th-century Palác Lucerna and the neo-Renaissance Wiehlův dům (Wiehl House), along with the iconic St Wenceslas Monument and the poignant Memorial to Jan Palach and Jan Zajíc, legendary victims of the Soviet occupation. Many of Prague’s hotels, shops and restaurants are also concentrated on or around the boulevard, along with a central strip of greenery that makes Wenceslas Square the ideal place to meet for coffee or take a break after a long morning’s sightseeing.
The historic square has also played a key role in shaping the history of Prague – this was the location where the First Republic was declared in 1918, where the notorious 1969 protests took place against the Soviet occupation and where the 1989 protest marches kick-started the Velvet Revolution and ultimately the end of the Communist era.
Practical Info:
Within walking distance of Metro: Mustek (Line A)
Address: Prague, Czech Republic
From ¥ 55
St Vitus Cathedral (Katedrala svateho Vita)
St. Vitus (or Katedrála svatého Víta) is the biggest and most important church in Prague, the pinnacle of the Castle complex, and one of the most knockout cathedrals in Europe. It's broodingly Gothic, with a forest of spires and a rose window to rival that of Notre Dame.
Enter by the Golden Portal to take a look at the stunning Last Judgement mosaic. Inside you'll find the final resting places of both Charles IV (who gave his name to Charles Bridge) and Saint Wenceslas. The chapel containing Wenceslas' remains is a stunner, encrusted with semi-precious stones.
The cathedral also contains the crown jewels of the Bohemian kings and an Art Nouveau window by Mucha. Climb the tower for a stunning view of the Castle District.
Practical Info
St. Vitus crowns Castle Hill. If the climb looks too daunting, take a tram to stop 22.
Address: Prague, Czech Republic
Hours: Mar - Nov: 9am - 6pm, Nov - Feb: 9am - 4pm. Opens at 12pm every Sunday
Admission: Free
From ¥ 82
Church of Our Lady of the Snows (Kostel Panny Marie Sněžné)
Founded by King Charles IV in 1347, the Church of Our Lady of the Snows was designed to rival St Vitus Cathedral in terms of size and grandeur, but these plans were never completed and what remains today was originally merely to be the presbytery. Nevertheless it is still an imposing sight for the height of its Gothic vaults, which loom up to the height of 111.5 ft (34 m). These original vaults have survived, despite the fact that the church was left to decay for over a century following the Hussite Wars of the mid-15th century. It wasn't until 150 years later that Franciscan monks took over the abandoned church and built the surrounding monastery, cloister and library in Baroque style.
The church now has a highly ornate Baroque interior, of which the main attraction is the dramatic high altar, designed by Jan Arnošt Heidelberger in 1651 at the behest of Jan the Elder of Talmberk. Studded with gold, gilt and dark marble, it is topped with a massive Crucifix and has the distinction of being the tallest altar in Prague, reaching up to 95 ft (29 m).
The Franciscan Gardens are right next to the complex, a calm respite providing an excellent view of the church's Gothic vaulting. The church is also steps away from Wenceslas Square in one of the modern city's busiest districts; it can be seen as part of private walking tours of Prague New Town.
Practical Info
The church is open daily 9am"“6pm, but closed during Mass. Admission is CZK 26.50 or free with the Prague Welcome Card. If using public transportation, take Metro Line B to Mustek.
Address: Jungmannovo námā›stí 18, Prague 1, Central Bohemia, Czech Republic
Hours: Daily 9am"“6pm (closed during Mass)
Admission: CZK 26.50. Free with Prague Welcome Card
From ¥ 274
St Nicholas Cathedral
St Nicholas Cathedral is the most famous Baroque church in Prague. Along with the former Jesuit college, it is situated in the center of the city’s Lesser Town Square. A 13th century Gothic parish church stood at the site until the current cathedral took its place in the mid-18th century.
St Nicholas Cathedral is a superb example of High Baroque architecture and is as impressive from the inside as it is from the outside. The interior was said to have been inspired by the chapel of St. Louis-des-Invalides in Paris, with its intricate frescos, grand sculptures, and elegant stucco designs making it a striking place to visit.
The cathedral’s main Baroque organ is up to six meters in length and features more than 4000 pipes. In 1787, during his stay in Prague as a guest of the Dušeks, Mozart himself played this very organ. Elsewhere, the church’s 79-meter belfry is directly connected with the building’s huge dome and provides panoramic views across the city from its gallery.
In addition to visiting during the day, guests can attend classical concerts at the cathedral, which are held regularly throughout the year.
Practical Info
St Nicholas Cathedral is located in the Lesser Quarter of Prague. To reach it on foot, follow the route to Prague Castle from the Charles Bridge. Alternatively, take tram number 12, 20, or 22 to the Malostranske náměstí stop. There is a church service every Sunday at 10am.
Address: Malostranske náměstí, Prague 118 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Open daily Mar-Oct: 9am-5pm and Nov-Feb: 9am-4pm
Admission: Adults: 60CZK; Students: 30CZK; Children: Free
From ¥ 86
Marianske Lazne
The spa town of Mariánske Láznā• (also known as Marienbad) is one of the Czech Republic's favorite getaways and easily accessible from Prague. With a balmy climate, panoramic mountain views, elegant architecture, and lush gardens, Mariánske Láznā• is the perfect place for a day trip or relaxing weekend away from the big city.
The Basics
Though spas are Mariánske Láznā•'s main draw, there are plenty more reasons to visit. Visitors can explore the Fryderyk Chopin Memorial Museum or wander quaint roads lined by coffee houses and turn-of-the-century apartments.
Full-day tours from Prague allow you to see the top sights of Mariánske Láznā•, as well as Karlovy Vary (or Carlsbad), another famous spa town around 30 miles (48 kilometers) away. Tours typically include lunch and allow time to explore the towns and sample their mineral waters.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mariánske Láznā• is a must-visit for architecture and history fans.
- The town is ringed by forest, offering excellent walking trails.
- If you are visiting specifically for a spa treatment, it is advisable to book in advance.
How to Get There
Mariánske Láznā• is around 100 miles (161 kilometers) west of Prague, off Highway 21. If driving, take exit 128 toward Planá (and expect to pay tolls). The town is also accessible via express train from Prague. It takes around three hours, including making a transfer in Pilsen (Plzeň). Alternatively, skip the hassle by booking a day tour from Prague that includes round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Summer brings warm weather and an annual festival dedicated to the Polish composer Chopin, but, as it is Mariánske Láznā•'s busiest tourist season, it also brings large crowds. Avoid the biggest crowds while still enjoying good weather in May or September.
The Singing Fountain
From the end of April through the end of October, the Singing Fountain (Zpívající fontána) puts on shows for visitors. Every two hours, on the odd hour from 7am to 10pm, the circular fountain dances to colored lights and recorded classical music.
Address: Marianske Lazne, Czech Republic
From ¥ 685
National Museum
The magnificent headpiece of Prague's historic Wenceslas square, the Prague National Museum (Národní Muzeum) is the largest museum complex in the Czech Republic, encompassing five specialized departments. The History and Natural History museums are the most sizable, housing an enormous permanent collection of prehistoric remains, archeological artifacts, rock specimens and other items from all over the world. The National Museum Library, Czech Music Museum and the National Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures, are also part of the complex.
It's not only the exhibitions that warrant attention "“ the museum itself is a glorious homage to the Czech National Revival, adorned with the busts of Czech historical figures and fronted by a commandeering statue of St Wenceslas on horseback. The inescapable domed structure is an elaborate feat of neo-Renaissance architecture, featuring over 10 adjourned buildings designed by famous Czech architect Josef Schulz and dominating the Prague skyline since it opened its doors in the 1880s.
It's not only the exhibitions that warrant attention "“ the museum itself is a glorious homage to the Czech National Revival, adorned with the busts of Czech historical figures and fronted by a commandeering statue of St Wenceslas on horseback. The inescapable domed structure is an elaborate feat of neo-Renaissance architecture, featuring over 10 adjourned buildings designed by famous Czech architect Josef Schulz and dominating the Prague skyline since it opened its doors in the 1880s.
Practical Info:
The museum is currently undergoing major redevelopments and much of the old buildings is set to remain closed until 2015. Despite the significant closure, visiting the museum is still possible with the Museum's newest building, erected in 2009, showcasing a small selection of the vast permanent collection and the grounds remaining open for visitors to admire the spectacular architecture.
Metro: Muzeum (lines A & C), Tram: Muzeum (11), Bus: (504, 505, 511)
Metro: Muzeum (lines A & C), Tram: Muzeum (11), Bus: (504, 505, 511)
Address: Vaclavske namesti 68, 115 79, Praha 1, Czech Republic
Hours: Closed until 2015. New Building currently open: Thu-Tue 10am - 6pm; Wed 10am - 8pm.
Admission: Adult: 100 CZK, Child/Student/Senior: 70 CZK
From ¥ 94
Troja Chateau
The lovely late Baroque Troja Chateau was designed by Italian architect Jean Baptiste Mathey for Count Václav Vojtěch Šternberk and was completed in 1689; it was used by the count as his summer residence. The striking russet-red and white palace is entered via a spectacular flight of steps flanked by figures taken from Greek mythology and has an impressively elaborate interior swathed in frescoes; the best are found in the ornate Grand Emperor’s Hall — named for Emperor Leopold I, who came visiting in 1702 — and are by the Dutch artists Abraham and Isaac Godyn; the project took five years to complete. The opulent rooms are filled with sculptures and artwork and the chateau forms part of Prague City Gallery.
Troja is surrounded by formal gardens divided into terraces and parterres and decorated with fountains, statuary and ornamental trees. An imposing stable block stands in the courtyard, with vaulted ceilings decorated by Abraham Godyn with more scenes from Greek mythology.
Northwest of the city center near Prague Zoo and the botanical gardens, the chateau can be reached along the new bike path following the banks of the River Vltava. It is a popular venue for public functions and is only open to the public at weekends, although the grounds are open daily.
Practical Info
U Trojského zámku 4/1, Prague 7. Open May–Oct Sat–Sun 10am–5pm. Admission adult 100 CZK; senior 300 CZK, students & children 60 CZK; family 250 CZK. Entrance to the grounds is free. Bus 112 to Zoologicka zahrada or trams 5, 17 or 25 to Trojska.
Address: U Trojského zámku 4/1, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 171 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Open Sat–Sun 10am–5pm
Admission: Adults: 100 CZK; Seniors, Students & Children 50 CZK; Families: 200 CZK
From ¥ 235
Vltava River
The Czech Republic’s longest river, the Vltava begins in southern Bohemia before meandering 270 miles (430 kilometers) northward toward Prague. The river has shaped the Czech capital over millennia, splitting Malá Strana (Lower Town) in the west from Staré Mĕsto (Old Town) and the modern city to the east.
The Basics
As it runs through Prague, the Vltava River’s most famous sight is the 14th-century Charles Bridge, lined with looming statues, buskers, and souvenir sellers. Many city tours include river cruises, which afford the perfect vantage point for views of hilltop Prague Castle, the church spires in Malá Strana, and the towers of the Staré Mĕsto. Most cruises start from beneath the Charles Bridge.
Turning north through the heart of the city, cruisers pass the Rudolfinum and National Theater, the Strahov Monastery (Strahovský klášter), and the giant metronome in Letná Park (Letenské sady). Small open-topped wooden barges also venture into the Devil’s Canal (Čertovka), once a millrace around Kampa Island and now a sleepy backwater lined with baroque townhouses. Even if you don’t take a cruise on the Vltava, a stroll along the riverbank affords some excellent city views.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many Vltava River cruises include lunch or dinner, sometimes with live musical accompaniment.
- A cruise along the Vltava offers excellent views of Prague’s skyline.
- River cruises are sometimes included as an add-on to a city tour.
- A total of 107 bridges span the river, and 17 of these are within Prague.
How to Get There
Cruises typically start close to the Charles Bridge, a 10-minute walk from the heart of Old Town. Staromĕtská metro station is a five-minute walk away. Some tours pick guests up from the center of Prague or directly from their hotels.
When to Get There
Evening cruises typically include dinner and offer views of Prague at its most atmospheric, as the castle is lit up by floodlights. Summer is the city’s busiest tourist season. If you want to skip the crowds but avoid the cold of winter, visit in spring or fall.
The Musical River
Vltava (The Moldau), the symphonic poem by Bedřich Smetana, is a musical interpretation of the river’s course through Bohemia and one of the best-known classical works by a Czech composer. It is part of a set of six symphonic poems called Má vlast (My Country).
Address: Vltava, Czech Republic
From ¥ 82
Tocnik Castle
Tocnik Castle is a castle with both renaissance and baroque styles from the late 14th century that was once a royal chateau for Wenceslas IV. The site was abandoned in the 17th century after the Thirty Years War, though many of the architectural aspects have been well preserved over the years. Today the castle is owned by the state and has been turned into a museum.
Visitors can explore the royal palace and castle museum, the dungeon, and the sgraffito-decorated great palace. The western entrance gate is adorned with heraldic decorations, while the eastern gate has a large bridge that crosses the moat. Visitors can climb the castle's hexagonal tower to the lookout point for views of the countryside. You can also see the nearby Zebrak Castle, which was built before Tocnik Castle. The castle museum shows visitors a glimpse of what life was like for Bohemian nobility during this time.
Practical Info
Tocnik Castle is located just outside the town of Zebrak about 32 miles southwest of Prague. The castle is closed October through March. Opening hours are 10am to 4pm Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in April, 10am to 5pm Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in May and September, 10am to 6pm Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in June, and 9am to 6pm daily except Mondays in July and August. The castle is closed from 1pm to 2pm. Admission is 30 CZK.
Address: Točník 51, 267 51 Točník, Czech Republic
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm; closed 1pm-2pm
Admission: 30 Kč
From ¥ 689
Strahov Monastery
The Strahov Monastery in Prague was established in 1143. It has survived fires, wars, revolutions, and communist regimes, though it has occasionally been rebuilt. Even when the monks were unable to remain in the monastery, they waited in a safe place until they could return. Today it is still a place of learning, meditation, and tranquility, and approximately 70 monks live there. The impressive spires of the basilica are a famous part of Prague's skyline, but the library is the monastery's most important feature. The library contains thousands of volumes, including 3,000 original manuscripts. The Theological Hall contains mostly literature of a theological nature and thousands of editions of the Bible.
The monastery's location on Petrin Hill near the Prague castle is a good place for views of the city due to the higher elevation. The monastery has also been the backdrop for several major films, such as the horror film “From Hell” starring Johnny Depp and in the Bond film “Casino Royale” starring Daniel Craig.
Practical Info
The Strahov Monastery is located at Strahovske nadvori 1.
Address: Strahovske nadvori 1, Prague 118 00, Czech Republic
From ¥ 94
Villa Bilek
Villa Bílek was designed in 1911 by sculptor, master craftsman and architect František Bílek; it is in a mixture of Art Nouveau and Symbolist styles, of which he was one of the leading Czech exponents. Constructed of red brick and carved stone columns and reminiscent of an Ancient Egyptian temple, it is crescent shaped and was designed as a family home and studio.
Bílek lived between 1872-1941 and it was his heartfelt wish for his ornately decorated house to become a museum of his work. In 1963 his hopes were realized and today the villa is under patronage of Prague City Gallery; its exhibits include the artist’s studio, where some of his most famous works are displayed; a museum of his religious sculptures; displays of his hand-crafted Art Nouveau furniture; and a series of temporary exhibitions. Recent shows have included drawings and sketches from Bílek and his Art Nouveau compatriot Alphonse Mucha.
The house where Bílek was born in Chýnov is also under the stewardship of the Prague City Gallery, along with five other historic properties including the House of Photography in Prague Old Town and the fabulously Baroque Troja Château in Prague 7. Villa Bílek is an easy walk from the treasures of Prague Castle in Hradčany, where the sculptor’s ethereal wooden Crucifixion is on display in St Vitus Cathedral.
Practical Info
The museum is open Tue–Sun 10am–6pm. Admission for adults is CZK 120; seniors are CZK 30; students & children are CZK 60. Admission is free with the Prague Welcome Card. For access via public transportation, take Metro Line A to Hradčanská.
Address: Mickiewiczova 233/1, Prague 6, Central Bohemia, Czech Republic
Hours: Tue–Sun 10am–6pm
Admission: Adults CZK 120; Seniors CZK 30; Students & children CZK 60
From ¥ 235
Zizkov Television Tower
Prague’s bizarre Television Tower is a futuristic landmark on a skyline of Baroque roofs and church spires, located in the eastern suburb of Zizkov. Rising 709 ft (216 m) above the city, the tower was constructed between 1985 and 1992 to block ‘decadent’ Western TV transmissions; ironically the Soviet Union had collapsed by the time it was completed.
Awarded the strange accolade of being the ‘second-ugliest’ building in the world and also called the Tower Park Prague since its extensive refurbishment in 2012, the tower is famous for the ten giant baby sculptures crawling up its metal lower reaches; they were designed by controversial Czech pop artist David Cerny, whose work can be found throughout the city, including three more babies in Kampa Park.
A 305-ft (93-m) ride up the internal elevator leads to the Observation Tower, with multi-media displays and movies about Prague plus panoramic views over the Staré Město (Old Town) and right out to the concrete apartment blocks constructed during Soviet occupation — visit after dark to see the city sparkling below. Also inside the rocket-like tower are two classy restaurants, a bar and the aptly named One Room Hotel, which has just one stylish suite with a glass-walled bathroom 230 ft (70 m) above the city. Underground parking is found at the foot of Zizkov TV Tower, along with more restaurants, a mini-golf course and a petanque court.
Practical Info
Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague 3. Opening hours daily 8am–12 midnight. Admission adult 200 CZK; senior 150 CZK; students 140 CZK; children younger than 15 120 CZK; family 490 CZK. Metro Line A to Jiriho z Podebrad.
Address: Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague, Central Bohemian Region 130 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Open daily 8am–12 midnight
Admission: Adults: 200 CZK; Seniors: 150 CZK; Students: 140 CZK; Children: 120 CZK; Families: 490 CZK
From ¥ 219
Antonín Dvořák Museum
Tucked away behind the grand façade of the Baroque Villa Amerika, which was designed by Czech architect Kilián Ignác Dietzenhofer and completed in the early 18th century, the Antonín Dvořák Museum is dedicated to the life and times of the revered Czech composer, whose most famous works include his ‘New World’ Symphony and Slavonic Dances. Run under the auspices of Prague’s National Museum (Národní muzeum), the tribute to Dvořák (1841–1904) first opened at Villa Amerika in 1932.
Surrounded by neat gardens filled with statuary, the museum holds a collection of the composer’s scores, correspondence and annotated manuscripts as well as posters, photos and several of his instruments, including a viola and piano. Between May and October a regular schedule of concerts and lectures are held in its ornate Great Hall, which has walls and ceilings smothered with 18th-century frescoes of classical scenes by Jan Ferdinand Schor.
Practical Info
The museum is open Tue–Sun 10am–1:30pm, 2pm–5pm. Admission for adults is CZK 50; seniors, students & children are CZK 30 and family tickets are CZK 90. Admission is also free with the Prague Welcome Card. To visit via public transportation, take Metro Line C to IP Pavlova, or tram 4, 6, 10, 22 or 23, stop IP Pavlova or Štěpánská.
Address: Ke Karlovu 462/20, Nové Město, Prague 2, Central Bohemia, Czech Republic
Hours: Tue–Sun 10am–1:30pm, 2pm–5pm
Admission: adults CZK 50; seniors, students & children CZK 30; family tickets CZK 90
From ¥ 235
Terezín Memorial (Theresienstadt)
A harrowing reminder of Europe’s dark history, the Terezin Concentration Camp was set up in the Czech Republic by the Nazi regime in 1941 and used as a holding camp for prisoners awaiting transfer to Auschwitz and Treblinka concentration camps. Today, the World War II site is preserved as a museum and memorial, telling the horrifying truths of the Holocaust, as well as the stories of some of the 150,000-plus prisoners held at the camp and the tens of thousands who lost their lives.
The Basics
Single entrance tickets offer access to the Ghetto Museum or Small Fortress, while combined entrance tickets allow access to both of those sites in addition to the Magdeburg Barracks. Most visitors arrive on a day trip from Prague and explore the camp on a guided walking tour, taking in sites such as the Schutzstaffel headquarters, the Gestapo prison cells, the Ghetto Museum, and the Magdeburg Barracks. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group visit or a private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The camp is spread out over a large area, so wear comfortable shoes and suitable outdoor clothing.
- Be mindful of the site’s somber history and observe the rules of visiting, which include acting and dressing with appropriate respect.
- Most of the buildings at the Terezin Concentration Camp are wheelchair accessible, and admission is free for disability cardholders.
- Guided tours of the Small Fortress and Ghetto Museum are offered in English, Czech, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian.
How to Get There
Terezin Concentration Camp is located in the fortress town of Terezín in North Bohemia, 30 miles (48 kilometers) northwest of Prague. Public buses run from Florenc station in central Prague and take about an hour.
When to Get There
Terezin is open year-round, but it’s busiest during the summer months. Aim to visit early in the day to avoid the main crowds. Although opening hours vary by site and season, the memorial typically opens between 8 and 10am and closes between 4 and 6pm.
Address: Principova alej 304, Terezín CZ -41155, Czech Republic
Admission: Adults: CZK 160, Children (6-18yrs): CZK 130
From ¥ 281
Villa Tugendhat
The Villa Tugendhat in Brno is the only example of Modern architecture in the Czech Republic. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was designed by famed architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in the early 20th century. The villa was confiscated by the Gestapo in 1939, suffered serious damage at the end of World War II, when it served as quarters and stables for the Soviet military. The original owner, Greta Tugendhat, returned to the villa in 1967 and a group of Czech architects began work to return it to its original state. After another renewal and restoration in 2010-12, the villa now appears much as it did in 1930.
Since 1994, the villa has been open to the public as a museum. The interior features exact replicas of the original furnishings and an exhibition tells the story of van der Rohe, the Tugendhat family and the era during which is was built. Guided tours take visitors through the main living space, kitchen, bedrooms, garden and, on extended tours, the technical floor where the boiler room, engine room and laundry room can be found.
Practical Info
The Villa Tugendhat is located in Brno’s Cerna Pole neighborhood. It can be seen only by booking a guided tour and it is recommended to book at least two months in advance. A maximum of 15 people are allowed in a single group and tickets can be purchased online. Several types of tours are available: the basic tour includes the residential areas of the villa and the garden, while the extended tour also includes the technical floor. High heeled shoes may not be worn in the villa. A separate garden tour is unguided.
The villa is accessible by public transport but requires a walk of 15-20 minutes from the nearest bus and tram stops. Take tram no. 9 to Tomanova, bus no. 67 to Schodova or tram no. 3 or 5 to Detska Nemocnice.
Address: Černopolní 45, Brno, Czech Republic
Hours: Jan-Feb: Wed-Sun 9am-5pm; Mar-Dec: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm. Visits are by tour only.
Admission: Tour prices range from 50 to 350 Czech koruna
From ¥ 235
Wallenstein Palace Gardens
Located in Mala Straná (Lower Town) on the left bank of the River Vltava, the 17th-century, Baroque Wallenstein Palace was built by military commander Albrecht von Wallenstein, who achieved great success during the Thirty Years War of 1618–48. He used his wealth to create an extraordinary garden around the palace, filled with fountains and Mannerist bronzes of heroes from Greek mythology created by the Dutch sculptor Adrian de Vries. Von Wallenstein’s fantastical parklands were completed in 1630 but he was murdered four years later at the command of Emperor Ferdinand II, who felt threatened by his power.
Today Wallenstein Palace is home to the Czech Senate and only open occasionally for guided tours; in summer there are concerts in the palace’s frescoed loggia. The Wallenstein Gardens (Valdstejnska zahrada), however, are free to visit; they are a spectacle of bizarre grottoes and follies, neat ornamental topiary, and pathways lines with bronze statues (copies of the originals, which were stolen). A vast statue of Hercules stands over a pond full of ornamental fish, peacocks roam freely and there’s a refuge for owls. Wallenstein is a tranquil spot to linger after visiting Prague Castle and the gardens can also be enjoyed as part of walking tours of Mala Straná.
Practical Info
Valdštejnské náměstí 4, Prague 1. Opening hours daily Apr–Oct 9am–7pm. Admission free. Metro Line A to Malostranská.
Address: Valdštejnské náměstí 4, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 118 01, Czech Republic
Hours: Open daily Apr–Oct 9am–7pm
From ¥ 235
Vyšehrad National Cultural Monument
This medieval complex of buildings atop Vysehrad Hill, just south of Mala Strana (Old Town), has played an important part in Prague's history, having served at various points as a royal residence, religious center, and military fortress. It's one of the most significant of the Czech Republic's National Cultural Monuments, and it offers excellent views across the city.
The Basics
The site dates back to the 10th century"”that's when a church and fortified trading post were built; by 1085, the first king of Bohemia had also built a castle here. Although only fragments of the castle remain, including the underground casemates and the twin spires of the castle's church, the monument underwent a major neo-Gothic facelift in 1895, giving it an impressive, lofty interior. Some of Prague's most prominent citizens are buried in the ornate neighboring cemetery, including composers Bedrich Smetana and Antonín Dvorák, the patriotic author and poet Jan Neruda, and Art Nouveau maestro Alphonse Mucha.
Some Prague sightseeing tours, especially those focused on off-the-beaten path sites, include a visit to Vysehrad, which is sometimes referred to as the city's "other" castle. For a more in-depth explanation of the complex's history, take a private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Vysehrad National Cultural Monument is a must-visit for history lovers.
- Surrounded by peaceful gardens, a Romanesque rotunda, riverside walks, and open-air cafes, Vysehrad is a great place to escape the crowds.
- There's no entrance fee, but you do need to pay to see exhibitions.
How to Get There
The Vysehrad metro station and Albertov tram stations are both a 15-minute walk away. From Vyton tram station it's a 10-minute walk.
When to Get There
The site is open to the public every day of the week, from morning through early evening. Winter opening hours are slightly shorter. Prague is pleasant year round, but winter does bring heavy snow and frost.
Legends of Vysehrad
Vysehrad is a subject of local folklore. Legend has it that Libuse, the founder of Prague, stated her prophecy about the future glory of the city from her seat in Vysehrad. The site also appears in the traditional Bohemian tale, The Maiden's War, about an uprising of women against men. The leader of the band of women attacks the men at Vysehrad; alas, she"”and all the women"”are defeated.
Address: V Pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 82
Zizkov District
Prague’s gritty suburb of Zizkov lies to the east of the city center and is best-known as being home to the bizarre Television Tower (Tower Park Prague), much hated when it was completed in 1992 but now regarded with affection by local residents.
Hilly Zizkov itself had its origins as a blue-collar area of the city, built in the 19th century for the workers who stoked Prague’s industrial boom. Under Soviet rule, the district became a Communist stronghold nicknamed ‘Red Zizkov’, and today it is a Bohemian district with a reputation for underground drinking dens, grungy pubs and a subversive nightlife along Borivojova, the perfect spot for pub crawls.
Thanks to its reasonable property rentals, a young and innovative workforce has started to move into Zizkov, bringing with it new hi-tech industries and a burgeoning bar and multicultural restaurant scene. There’s a farmers’ market at Jiriho z Podebrad from Wednesday through Friday, and funky art galleries are springing up in the laid-back, cobbled streets. As well as Olšanské cemetery — the biggest in Prague — the New Jewish Cemetery, the burial place of author Franz Kafka, is also found in Zizkov, along with the National Monument and the Czech Army Museum.
Practical Info
Prague 3. Metro Line A to Jiriho z Podebrad.
Address: Zizkov, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 130 00, Czech Republic
From ¥ 156