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As with many European cities, Prague can be best explored by walking. Five districts of this city in the Czech Republic reflect its rich history. Here’s what to see in these sections while on foot.
Old Town (Staré Město)
Old Town is a great place to get lost in while wandering down its winding alleyways. As a starting point and walkway, the Old Town Powder Tower once marked the beginning of a royal procession route.
Come across Old Town Square, a central location bustling with shops, restaurants and cafes. On the top of the hour, stand in front of the 400-year-old Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall to watch rotating figurines move in a circle.
Exit from Old Town along Charles Bridge, Prague’s famous promenade along the Vltava River. Stop for picturing taking and people watching near the statues gracing this 650-year-old bridge.
Malá Strana (Lesser Town)
The other end of Charles Bridge leads to Malá Strana, a section once settled by German merchants and known for Baroque architecture. In Kampa Neighborhood, the John Lennon Wall is a permanent fixture decorated with peace-minded graffiti inspired by John Lennon.
Around 1988, the wall became a symbol of contention for the then-Communist regime. Students would paint or write out their grievances. Near here, Petrin Hill offers a birds’ eye view of Prague at the top of Petrin Tower.
Hradčany (Castle District)
Hike up this hilltop location or take Tram 22 to get to Hradčany, known as Castle District. Since the ninth century, Prague Castle has remained the seat of power, first with the Czech royal family and now its government. A changing of the guard happens at the front gates hourly.
Other top sights include St. Vitus Cathedral; the Old Royal Palace; the European masters branch of the National Gallery; Daliborka Tower; and Golden Lane, a street with 11 historic houses.
Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
This former Jewish ghetto once served as a thriving community for about five centuries until authorities cleared the area to make way for luxury buildings. The Jewish Museum symbolizes its heritage as a collection of four preserved synagogues, a ceremonial hall, and a cemetery.
The Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the world’s most crowded burial sites, literally. One block area holds many graves, with tombstones lined on top of each other.
New Town (Nové Město)
Founded by Charles IV in the 14th century, today’s New Town is a haven for hotels, restaurants and clothing stores. Wenceslas Square was the site of significant moments during the Velvet Revolution in 1989, as mass demonstrations were held here.
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