Old Town, Prague: A Medieval Marvel

Discover Prague's enchanting Old Town: a medieval heart filled with history, stunning architecture, and captivating cultural experiences.

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Prague's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating medieval area dating back to the 9th century. It features the iconic Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, and a maze of cobblestone streets that whisper tales of Bohemia's rich history.

A brief summary to Old Town

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Local tips

Wake up early to experience the Astronomical Clock without the crowds.
Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views of Prague.
Explore the hidden courtyards and narrow streets for a unique perspective.
Attend a classical music concert in one of the Old Town's magnificent churches.
Visit the Powder Tower, once a crucial gate, for unusual city views.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Jan Hus monument

Jan Hus Monument: A Symbol of Czech Identity

Old Town Square

Old Town Square: Prague's Historic Heart

Prague Meridian

The Enchanting Prague Meridian: A Historical Landmark

Getting There

Walking

From Charles Bridge, walk east towards Old Town Square. Pass through the Old Town Bridge Tower, and continue along Karlova Street. The square will open up before you, with the Astronomical Clock visible on the Old Town Hall. This walk is approximately 10 minutes and free.
Public Transport

From Prague Main Train Station (Praha hlavní nádraží), take tram number 15 or 26 to the 'Staroměstská' stop. From there, it's a short walk to Old Town Square. A 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, and a 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK.
Taxi

A taxi from Prague Main Train Station to Old Town will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 210-260 CZK. Ride-sharing services are also available.

Discover more about Old Town

Prague's Old Town (Staré Město) is a mesmerizing journey through time, a place where history resonates from every cobblestone. Emerging from settlements along the Vltava River around the 9th century, it blossomed into a vibrant center for trade and craftsmanship. In the 13th century, King Wenceslaus I granted the area township privileges, officially forming the Town of Prague. The heart of Old Town is undoubtedly the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), which originated in the 12th century as Prague's central marketplace. Over the centuries, it has been graced by Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque buildings, erected by kings, wealthy merchants, and the Church. The square has witnessed pivotal moments in Czech history, from markets and military gatherings to executions and political rallies. Dominating the square is the Old Town Hall, with its famous Astronomical Clock. First established in 1338, the Old Town Hall boasts a magnificent tower offering panoramic views of Prague. The Astronomical Clock, dating back to the 15th century, is a marvel of medieval engineering, drawing crowds every hour to witness its animated performance. Other landmarks within Old Town include the Church of Our Lady before Týn, a striking Gothic church that has been the Old Town's main church since the 14th century, and St. Nicholas Church, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. The Jewish Quarter (Josefov), with its synagogues and Old Jewish Cemetery, offers a glimpse into Prague's Jewish heritage. The Powder Tower, marking the eastern entrance to Old Town, stands as a reminder of the city's ancient fortifications. Exploring Old Town involves wandering through its labyrinthine streets, discovering hidden courtyards, and admiring the mix of architectural styles. Visitors can climb the Old Town Hall Tower for stunning views, explore the historical halls and underground passages, and enjoy classical music concerts in the churches. Sipping a drink at a café in Old Town Square provides an opportunity to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the beauty of this historic district.