When in Prague, do as as the locals do! Lucky for you, we’ve gathered a list of lesser-known spots that many tourists have not heard of. Read on for our take on “must-do’s” in Prague to create your own local experience!
1. Watch the sunset at Riegrovy Sady
Riegrovy Sady is a popular park and beer garden located in the Vinohrady district of Prague 2. It’s open seasonally from April to October. For one of the best views, make your way to the Riegrovy hill at sunset. You’ll get a panoramic view of the city and Prague Castle as the sun goes down. For a truly local experience, enjoy your view with an ice cold beer from the nearby outdoor pub.
2. Climb The Observation Tower at Petrin
Make your way to Petrin Hill in Prague 1 and either climb the hill or opt to ride the funicular. From there, pay the small entrance fee to climb the 299 steps up the “mini Eiffel Tower” (Observation Tower) and witness the highest peak in the Czech Republic. It’s arguably the best panoramic view of the city, making the climb well worth it.
3. Rent a paddle boat on the Vltava River
Take a leisurely paddle boat ride on The Vltava River to get the best view of the Prague Castle. It’s a fun alternative to walking while still being able to take in the magical city views. You can rent paddle boats on the island of Zofin near the National Theater in Prague 1. They’re available until around 10:00PM, so you can even opt for a night boat ride!
4. Eat a trdelnik in Old Town Square
A trdelnik is a sweet pastry made from dough and topped with cinnamon, sugar, and nuts (sometimes even Nutella or ice cream!). The dough is wrapped around a metal or wooden rod and roasted over an open fire until browned. The pastry has become a staple in the Czech Republic during recent years. Enjoy a warm trdelnik from one of the many vendors in Old Town Square while soaking up the sights.
5. Enjoy traditional Czech cuisine at Lokal
Lokal Pub and Restaurant serves traditional Czech cuisine and Pilsner straight from the tank. With 5 locations spread around the city, it’s not hard to find this delicious Czech cuisine. Enjoy a fresh brew with your meat and dumplings for a truly Czech experience.
6. Drink a beer at Letna Beer Garden
Escape the tourists! Letna Beer Garden in Prague 7 is the perfect spot to relax outdoors while enjoying a lovely view of the city. Sit at one of the picnic tables while enjoying a beer and sausage.
7. Visit the Farmer’s Market at Jiřího z Poděbrad
The Farmer’s Market, located at Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad in Prague 3 offers an array of fresh food and drinks from various food vendors and farmers. It’s open from Wednesday-Saturday. Check out the market to taste some fresh local food while enjoying the outdoors and live music.
8. Visit The John Lennon Wall
The John Lennon Wall, located in Mala Strana, serves as a memorial to John Lennon and his ideas of peace. Lennon became a pacifist hero to young Czechs after his death in 1980. The monument is an ode to free speech and rebellion. Today, the John Lennon Wall is filled with messages of free peace and love from visitors all around the world. Feel free to make your own mark on this eclectic monument.
9. See David Cerny’s “Horse” sculpture
The Czech artist David Cerny’s works can be seen all over Prague. Cerny is often known for his provocative and controversial pieces. One of his most famous pieces, “Horse”, hangs from the ceiling of the Lucerna passageway near Wenceslas Square. The statue, featuring a dead horse hanging upside down with Patron St. Wenceslas on top, is a parody of the famous statue in Wenceslas Square.
What are some of your favorite spots in Prague? Share in the comments below!
