5 ideas for guided tours in Prague

• Strahov Monastery Library

  Book lovers will find their paradise at the Strahov Monastery, located in the Hradčany district. It houses one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe.

  This library holds at least 200,000 books, manuscripts, encyclopedias, and Bibles, carefully arranged in two distinct halls:

  • The Theological Hall, built in 1674 and decorated with frescoes inspired by the Bible, painted by Siard Nosecky.

  • The Philosophical Hall, a neoclassical-style hall built in 1794. It consists of two floors, with its beauty enhanced by the magnificent work of Viennese painter Anton Maulbertsch, symbolizing the spiritual evolution of humanity.

  From the top of Petrin Hill and the castle, the Strahov Monastery also offers a panoramic view of the entire area. In addition to the stunning frescoes and priceless manuscripts, the library boasts an impressive collection of terrestrial and celestial globes, adding an even more fascinating dimension to the exploration of this remarkable site.

  A guided tour is recommended to better understand the richness of this heritage. The exterior of the monastery is just as impressive, featuring peaceful gardens perfect for meditation or a relaxing stroll after visiting this incredible library.

• The Spanish Synagogue

  Built in 1868, it replaced the first Jewish place of worship, which was erected in the 12th century. Located in the Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov, it stands out for its unique architectural style and neo-Moorish design, similar to that of the Alhambra in Andalusia.

  Arabesque decorations adorn the doors and walls of the building. The center of the synagogue is remarkable for its imposing golden dome and colorful stained-glass windows. The upper level of the synagogue houses a museum that delves into the history of Jews in Bohemia and Moravia.

  The Spanish Synagogue is also famous for its lavish ornaments, where golden motifs and geometric patterns create an enchanting atmosphere. The intricate interior details, with its columns and arches reminiscent of the Moorish style, invite visitors to marvel.

  On the upper floor, the museum presents a permanent exhibition dedicated to Jewish sacred artifacts and traces the history of the Jewish community in the city over the centuries. Visitors can discover ancient objects, including precious manuscripts, religious items, and important historical documents.

• Charles Bridge

  This is the symbol of the capital of the Czech Republic and also the most photographed landmark. Built in Gothic style at the initiative of Charles IV in the 14th century, it has withstood numerous floods and serves as a crossing over the Vltava River between Malá Strana and the historic city.

  Construction of the bridge began in 1357 under the orders of Charles IV, on the remnants of an older bridge destroyed by floods. Its construction lasted several decades, using innovative techniques for the time, making it an important testimony to medieval architecture.

  A pedestrian walkway since 1974, Charles Bridge is always bustling with musicians, tourists, artists, and street vendors throughout the day. Thirty magnificent statues stand facing each other along the 500-meter span of the bridge, leading to the Old Town’s medieval tower—a must-see historical monument! Charles Bridge is also a place of legends.

  One of the most famous tales suggests that the bridge’s stones were reinforced with eggs to make it more solid. At sunrise or sunset, the bridge offers spectacular views of medieval towers and red rooftops. Over the centuries, it has served as the setting for major historical events, including battles and royal processions.

  It is also a place of contemplation, where visitors can admire street artists and painters capturing the essence of the city. Don’t miss the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, which, according to legend, brings good luck if you touch its brass plaque.

• The Astronomical Clock

  Located on the Old Town Hall, the Astronomical Clock remains one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. The parade of moving figures amazes thousands of visitors every hour.

  It was clockmaker Nicolas of Kadau who, at the beginning of the 16th century, designed its complex mechanism. The clock consists of three main elements: the astronomical dial, which indicates the time and the position of the sun and moon; the mechanism at the heart of the clock, which triggers a spectacular hourly cycle from 9 AM to 9 PM; and the chiming carillon with the procession of apostles.

  Finally, a rooster concludes the performance! The medallion dial is the most recent addition, installed in 1866 to display each month of the year.

  The Astronomical Clock is not just a timekeeping instrument; it is also a work of art that tells the story of medieval heritage. Each detail of its mechanism symbolizes an aspect of the universe: zodiac signs, moon phases, and equinoxes are all depicted.

  In addition to the apostles, the four allegorical figures flanking the clock represent the concerns of Prague’s inhabitants at the time: vanity, greed, death, and lust. Watching the apostles’ procession is a true ritual for visitors. It is a captivating spectacle where medieval architecture and precision mechanics come together to offer a unique performance.

• Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)

  Old Town Square is at the heart of the Bohemian gem. It is the ultimate historical center, separating Wenceslas Square from Charles Bridge. At its center stands the Church of Our Lady before Týn and the Old Town Hall, where the Astronomical Clock shines.

  The square was built in the 17th century, and it was here that 27 Bohemian lords were executed in 1621. The historic buildings surrounding the square are beautifully adorned with Renaissance-style decorations.

  Old Town Square is constantly filled with visitors and passersby who enjoy the many bars and restaurants throughout the year, savoring beer and local delicacies late into the night!

  The square is also a venue for celebrations and historic events, hosting numerous markets and festivals year-round, including Prague’s famous Christmas market.

  At its center stands the statue of Jan Hus, a key figure in Czech Protestantism, commemorating an important chapter in the country’s religious and political history. The square is surrounded by buildings showcasing a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural styles, making it a true open-air museum.

  Visitors can also admire the House at the Minute, famous for its sgraffito frescoes, or the magnificent St. Nicholas Church, a Baroque masterpiece.