46 Best FREE (and Cheap!) Things to Do in Prague

A Low Down on all the Cheap and Free Things to Do in Prague, Czech Republic

Oh, Prague!

An amble through the streets of this beautiful city is enough to make you fall in love.

As you find your way tiptoeing on cobbled lanes, walking across stunning bridges, marveling at golden-rimmed blue church domes, and admiring whimsical art pieces, Prague works its magic on you. Slowly at first, then all at once.

What sets Prague apart from its neighbors, is that, while it doesn’t lack in the conventional European charm and old-worldliness, it also juxtaposes that with some exceptional art.

Here are some of the best things to do in Prague, and, even better – They’re all FREE! * cue drumroll *

IS PRAGUE A CHEAP PLACE TO VISIT?

Over the years, the city has witnessed a deluge of footfall and it’s easy to see why. Prague offers experiences not only for budget travelers and backpackers, but also for couples looking for a romantic getaway, or history buffs wanting to learn about 20th century Eastern Europe.

Prague checks all the boxes for all kinds of travelers.

Once an extremely inexpensive destination, Prague is no longer as affordable as it used to be. However, compared to most cities in Western Europe, Prague is cheaper, rather significantly cheaper. The best part is there are quite a few free things you can do in Prague, and if you sidestep the touristy areas and venture into the bylanes instead, you can find very cheap food, drinks, and accommodation.

Free Things to do in Prague Old Town (Staré Město)

1. Explore Prague’s Old town Square

The historic Old Town Square in the heart of Prague is decked with beautiful building facades in whimsical colors.

Located in close proximity to Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square is full of the happy clamor of tourists, tons of street musicians and artists, and wonderful architecture.

You can spend hours admiring the Gothic buildings, enjoying free street performances and people-watching. The Old Town Square is a must-visit in your list of free things to do in Prague.

Prague Old Town things to do

2. See the Astronomical Clock Strike an Hour

Within the Old Town Square, you’ll find the ancient clock built in the fifteenth century.

The Astronomical Clock is regarded as the best-preserved medieval mechanical clock in the world.  It is perhaps one of the most popular free attractions in Prague, but it’s not to be missed!

 

Prague Astronomical Clock
Too many people here at all times – yet it’s every bit worth the effort and hype!

Protip: Make sure you time your visit to the Old Town Square in a way that you’re there at the turn of the hour. The Astronomical Clock rings every hour and you can watch various dials and gears working together to put up an amazing show.

3. Take a Walk Across Charles Bridge

Think beautifully carved baroque statues, each of them telling a story.

The entire length of the arch bridge connecting the Old Town Square to the Malá Strana (Lesser Quarter, Prague) is dotted with 30 such statues of venerated saints from the medieval period. Spend some time admiring the statues and trying to decipher what they mean.

Charles Bridge Selfie
Mandatory Charles Bridge selfie with the Fathership!

It’s no wonder that Prague’s Charles Bridge is among the biggest landmarks in Europe and draws hordes of visitors every year.

While it has enormous footfall throughout the day, I 100% recommend visiting at night. Charles Bridge looks exceptionally stunning during the night.

The crowds are still there but way less crazy, and the lights really get you in a mood. Don’t miss this view!

Charles Bridge Prague things to do for free

4. Visit the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish community of Prague has faced discrimination and harassment since much longer than our understanding of modern history describes.
Over the centuries, the Jews have been driven out of their homes and in course of time, they came to settle within a wallet ghetto called Josefov or the Jewish Quarter.

The entry ticket allows you access to Europe’s oldest surviving Jewish cemetery, six synagogues, and the Old Jewish Town Hall, and Franz Kafka’s birthplace in the quarter.

If you are looking for free things to do in Prague, you can walk through the ghetto to get a sense of life as it was, although a big part of the a big part of the quarter has changed over the years due to overbuilding during the 20th century.

But a visit to the Jewish Quarter is sure to inspire awe and empathy for a community indubitably wronged in the past.

Free Things to Do in Prague: Jewish Cemetry
Cemetery at the Jewish Quarter in Prague

5. Visit the Municipal House

GRAND is the word that first comes to mind as you witness this testament of meticulous Art Neaveau work.

The Royal Palace of the Bohemian king was located at the Municipal House between the 14th and 15th century. Now, it is a popular site for concerts and ballroom events, especially in its Smetana Hall. There are also a few restaurants, one of the oldest bars in Prague, and beautiful exhibits on display.

As you enter, you will notice a fresco above the entrance. Called Homage to Prague, it depicts the resilience of the Czech people, weaving through illustrations their journey from oppression to reincarnation.

Although visitors need to buy tickets to take a private tour, some parts of the Municipal House are free to walk through and explore at your own pace.

Municipal House Prague
Notice the Homage to Prague Fresco

Free Things to do in Prague Malá Strana

6. Explore Prague’s Prettiest Neighborhood – Malá Strana

Located at the foothill of Prague Castle and hugging the Vltava river on the other side, Malá Strana (or Lesser Quarter) is the daintiest and most charming part of the city.

Replete with cobbled streets, pretty gardens, busy squares and splendid architecture, Malá Strana guides you along its quaint alleyways from the New Town to the Old Town.

The streets are lined with cute cafes to get those flawless Instagram pictures, there are restaurants and pubs in buildings dating back centuries.

Enjoy long strolls in the neighborhood. Get photos, observe the people, and marvel at Malá Strana – one of the best things to do in Prague for free.

Prague Mala strana: Places to Visit in Prague for free

7. Take a Picture with the Swans on Vltava River

After you’re done gallivanting on Charles Bridge and enjoying free live concerts by street artists, hop over to the west side of the bridge to see swans gathered on the bank of the river in hordes.

I’ve never seen so many swans at one place. There are also pigeons, gulls and ducks.

These birds have become dependent on human beings for food, and seem comfortable with proximity to people. But be careful as swans bite and they bite hard!

You can feed the birds and take pictures from a reasonable distance. This is also a great place to relax and catch a sunset at the makeshift beach next to the river bank.

Location of the swans on Vltava River: https://goo.gl/maps/Gkmwg6UGqupLJsXB9

Swans Vltava River Prague

8. Leave a Note on the Lennon Wall

I love me some good street art. The Lennon Wall in Malá Strana is smeared with the most epic graffiti and art, but the story of how it came to be the city’s favorite canvas is just as epic, too.

John Lennon, founder of the British band, The Beatles, and a renowned pacifist, had his following around the world. After he was shot in 1980, an anonymous artist drew up a picture of him with some lyrics, on an obscure wall miles away from the UK, in a little corner in Prague. The trend caught on, and despite having been painted over several times by the authorities, the wall kept drawing the attention (and scribbles) of both, professional artists and laypeople. It became symbolic of freedom and agency for many who were deprived of them in a communist state.

Now, the Lennon Wall is a massive Prague tourist attraction and witnesses hoards of visitors from across the globe.

Take a moment to admire the cool graffiti. Make sure you grab a marker and leave a note of your own on there!

Lennon Wall: What to do in Prague for free

9. Take a Self-Guided Tour in Wallenstein Palace

It isn’t common to find full fledged palaces offering free entry to visitors, but Wallenstein Palace challenges that norm.

Built in 1630, this was meant to be the residence of Albrecht von Wallenstein, a renowned military leader of the Habsburg armies. Incidentally, the palace was built to compete with Prague Castle.

At present, Wallenstein Palace houses the Czech senate.

As you enter from the courtyard, the layout of the palace takes you through marvellous ceiling frescos and bold Baroque designs.

Wallenstein Palace is located in Malá Strana. Entry to the palace is free.

Wallenstein Palace Prague

10. Make a Trip to Kampa Island

Easily the best kept secret of Prague, Kampa Island is an oasis of calm right under perhaps the busiest part of the city – Charles Bridge.

Located on the left bank of Vltava River, Kampa can be reached simply by taking the stairs down from Charles Bridge.

From here, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Old Town across the river. Walk around the island and maybe stop at a cute riverside cafe to rest your feet. Appreciate the greenery, winding lanes, neutral-toned building exteriors with Prague’s quintessential red rooftops.

Spend an afternoon in this hidden, character-loaded gem of the city. You can also visit Kampa Park, which houses the crawling baby sculptures mentioned above.

Free Things to do Prague New Town ( Nové Město)

11. Witness a Dancing House

When you visit Prague, it’s easy to notice that the architecture is quite interesting and unconventional.

What takes that up a significant notch is the Prague Dancing House, colloquially known as Fred and Ginger (inspired by the iconic dancing duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers).

The building is an office complex, and it also has a terrace at the top offering panoramic views of the city across the river.

This picture kinda says it all.

Dancing House Prague free attractions

12. Make a Stop at Wenceslas Square

Perhaps not as picturesque as Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square has way more significance if we flip through the pages of history.
The square has witnessed several stragetic events, from Nazi demonstrations in the 1930s to uprisings and protests against communist rule in 1980s.

Wenceslas Square holds court and connects Prague’s Old Town to New Town, and it houses the unmissable National Museum. There are also many restaurants, cafes and brand showrooms, good nightlife spots, and – if you’re looking for things to do in Prague for free – fine Art Neauveu architecture.

Wencheslas Square Prague Free Things to Do

Free Museums Prague

13. Take a Peek into the National Museum

The National Museum in Prague houses centuries worth of artifacts from a range of areas of science, history, arts, and music.

The main building of the National Museum is perched on one side of the Wenceslas Square, and it is an architectural delight to admire. It is a beautiful piece of Neo-Rennaisance work and is hard to miss, as you arrive at Wenceslas Square.

Good news: Visitors can enjoy free entry to the main building of the National Museum on the first Monday of every month!

National museum Prague

14. Visit the National Gallery Prague

Prague’s finest artwork is exhibited at the National Gallery. It contains the largest collection of art pieces in not only Prague, but all of Czech Republic.

The exhibits are presented across various locations in the city. All these locations collectively make the National Gallery in Prague one of the oldest and largest museums in Europe.

While there is a virtual tour available to enjoy from the comfort of your couch, travelers in Prague can visit the National Gallery for free on the first Wednesday of every month from 3 pm to 8 pm.

Even better: If you are under 26, entry to all permanent exhibits is free. * mic drop *

15. Tune in at the Czech Museum of Music

Pretty much absent from most Prague travel guides online, the Czech Museum of Music is a brilliant off-the-tourist-trail gem in Prague.

Located in St. Mary Magdalena, a beautiful Baroque church in Malá Strana, the museum has archives of the most notable music from Prague, the Czech Republic, and from around the world.

A visit to the Czech Museum of Music in Prague is an especially important experience for music lovers.

Entry to the museum is free on the first Thursday of every month.

16. Make a Trip to the City of Prague Museum

Another one of Prague’s closely guarded secrets, the City of Prague Museum deserves a top spot in the list of free things to do in Prague.

The highlight of the museum is Langweil’s model of Prague, a 3D model of the city from the 1800s.

The model captured the minutest details, from frescos and facades to crumbling walls. It is truly a masterpiece and totally worth a visit.

Travelers can visit the City of Prague Museum on the first Thursday of every month.

Free Street Art in Prague

17. Spot the Man Hanging Out

As you’re ambling through the cobbled streets in Prague Old Town, keep an eye out for the skies because you might stumble upon what seems like a man hanging from a pole at the edge of the building, about to fall to his death.

This is actually a sculpture of Sigmund Freud, created by the Czech artist David Černý. It depicts his contemplation of the transitoriness of life (whether to keep holding on or to let go). This is only one of the many quirky architectural marvels sculpted by David, and all the others are as amazing, if not more.

Hanging Man Prague Sculpture

Where: You can spot the ‘Man Hanging Out’ in the Husova street in Old Town Prague.

18. Admire the Head of Kafka

Prague Kafka Head

Now that we’re on the subject of David Černý, we might as well take note of one of the most recent additions to the list of things to do in Prague,  only this one is an amalgamation of art and mechanical dexterity.

A tribute to the legendary Prague writer, Franz Kafka, the sculpture is made of rotating panels to constantly change the direction of the head. It’s pretty phenomenal!

19. Gape at the Piss Sculpture

Another David Černý masterpiece, and this one makes quite a statement.

Right outside the Franz Kafka Museum (which is every bit worth a visit too) is a art sculpture of two men facing each other and taking a piss. You can see water jutting out of their penises collecting in the basin they’re standing in – which is shaped like the map of Czech Republic!

I’m not sure what underlying message the artist has tried to convey, but it really makes you part smirk and part roll your eyes just a tad.

By the way, you can send a text on a number available on the sculpture, and then one of the men will spell out your message with their piss.

Not exactly somewhere you’d take your date to, but nevertheless a must-see in the list of free things to do in Prague.

Prague free things to do: Piss sculpture

20. Say Hello to Faceless Babies in Prague

… You read that right.

For all its ancient and glorious architecture, Prague has quite a bit of eccentric modern art that deserves more than a onceover.

The faceless babies are a part of a series sculpted by David Černý in different parts of the city.

The babies aren’t technically faceless – they have visible barcode stamps carved on their faces.

These giant crawling babies are located in Kampa Park, one of the perfect places to visit in Prague for free where you can enjoy the greenery and reboot.

David Cerny art: Modern art in Prague - Crawling babies

21. Spot an Upside Down Horse

After seeing the statue of St. Wenceslas on a horse in the Wenceslas Square, it will be interesting for travelers to find nearly the same statue nearby – albeit with the horse flipped on its head.

Right in the middle of the Lucerna Palace palazzo is yet another outdoor art piece by David Černý, which is meant to complement the original statue of St. Wenceslas riding a horse.

The horse in the sculpture by Černý is visibly dead, with its tongue sticking out.

While the symbolism is hard to decipher, witnessing this modern art rendition deserves an unquestionable mention in the list of free things to do in Prague.

David Cerny Prague art

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Free Farmer’s Markets in Prague

22. Shop like a Local at the Farmer’s Market Náplavka

Right next to Vltava river is the Náplavka farmer’s market. Set up on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm, it is a great place to hang out on a weekend in Prague, with the perfect river setting and the smell of freshly baked breads and cookies wafting through the air.

The best thing about visiting Náplavka market is not just all the fresh produce you can buy, but the liveliness and energy there is. Locals and tourists alike visit the market, and it offers an excellent way to spend a Saturday in Prague like a local.

Náplavka farmers market Prague things to do for free

23. Grab Lunch at Holešovice Market

One of the biggest and most sought-after outdoor markets in the city, Holešovice is quite often called “Prague Market” due to its popularity among locals and travelers alike.

The market is open on all weekdays until 5 pm and on Saturdays until 2 pm.

Visitors can buy second hand clothing, souvenirs, cheap knock-offs of electronics and merchandise. There are many stalls selling fast food and Czech beer to go.

Holešovice Market is fun to walk around, and maybe get a quick bite before heading off for some sight seeing.

24. Enjoy Local Produce at Kulaťák Market

Though relatively smaller than Holešovice and Náplavka, the farmer’s market at Kulaťák has a friendlier and cosier vibe. There are plenty of options to shop for clothes, food and local produce.

The ideal to time to visit Kulaťák market is in the morning on Saturdays, perhaps to get breakfast, as it closes by 2 pm.

If you love the food, which I know you will, don’t forget to buy a few jars of fresh, yummy jam from here. MUCH recommended!

Kulatak Farmers Market Prague

25. Find a Little Bit of Hanoi at Sapa Prague

Who’d have thought that there is a tiny Vietnamese corner in an extremely European city like Prague?

While Vietnamese food is generally ubiquitous in Europe, Sapa hosts a full-blown Vietnamese district in the outskirts of Prague. A thriving Vietnamese-Czech community that lives here.

Sapa market is open everyday from 8 am until 6 pm, and it offers lots of Vietnamese food options from restaurants or makeshift stalls, incredible Asian cuisine, not to mention convenience stores, hairdressers and casinos. Ya never know what ya need! 😉

26. Walk around Jiřák Farmer’s Market

Although the market on this list of free things to do in Prague, travelers should by no means miss Jiřák.

The cute little market is open from Wednesdays to Saturdays and sells all sorts of Czech food staples.

You can find local produce like fresh fruit, jams and pastas, as well as hot items to get lunch on the go. You might also find a gluten-free/organic food stall on ocassion.

One thing that especially caught my eye was that there were many vendors selling blooming fresh flowers.

There is also the unique Josip Plecnik Church towering over the market from a distance, and some benches so you can sit and admire the whole setting.

Free Churches in Prague

27. Visit St. Nicholas Church in Staré Město

Bang in the Old Town square, St. Nicholas Church is a stunning rendering of Baroque finesse.

While the outer facade is lined with statues, the inside has sprawling frescos on the ceiling in dramatic Baroque style.

The blue gold-rimmed church steeples can be spotted along Prague’s skyline from any part of the city.

Ensure you keep some time up your sleeve to stop by at St. Nicholas Church and admire its visual wealth.

St. Nicholas Church Prague

28. Meet the Infant Jesus of Prague

The Church of Our Lady Victorious in Malá Strana is gorgeous by itself.

However, what draws in visitors in hoards is a 16th century waxed statue of baby Jesus holding a globus cruciger, in a beautiful golden shrine. It is said that the statue has special healing powers, which isn’t surprising considering it draws believers in heaps from around the globe.

Many such copies of infant Jesus have been made and are venerated in other parts of Europe and the world.

Also, the ambiance in the church is extremely quieting and relaxing. A great place to spend some time and collect your thoughts.

Infant Jesus of Prague: Free Attractions

29. Look Out for a Mummified Arm in the Church of St. James

Fairly underwhelming on the outside, the Church of St. James has a Gothic-Baroque interior complete with ceiling mosaics leading up to the altar, golden stuccos and ornate galleries.

Keep an eye out, though, for a mummified arm hanging from a hook on the church’s right wall, up near the ceiling.

Legend goes that a thief tried to steal the jewels off of Virgin Mary’s statue at the high altar. The statue instantly grabbed the thief’s arm and wouldn’t let go, until when the parishioners of the church had to amputate it. The arm was hung up in the church as a reminder and warning against stealing, and it has been there ever since.

30. Stop by at the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn

The church of Virgin Mary is easily noticeable as you arrive at the Old Town square.

Its two striking Gothic spires dominate Prague’s skyline. You can catch a glimpse of the church spirals from as far as Charles bridge.

The interior of the 14th century church is decorated with beautiful Gothic and Baroque furnishing.

Prague Old Town Square Church of Our Lady Before Tyn

Outdoor Things to do in Prague for Free

31. Get Close to Nature in the Prague Royal Garden

Right outside Prague Castle, there is a sprawling public garden, just at the entrance.

It has over fifty plant varieties and beautiful flower beds. You can spend hours watching the shrubbery and soaking in the sun.

It is easy to spot elements of Baroque and Rennaisance influences throughout the Royal Garden. Access is free.

Castle Garden Prague things to do

32. Stroll through Wallenstein Gardens

The grand Wallenstein Palace also has large Baroque gardens, which offer peace and quiet right in the middle of the city.

There are the unmissable bronze sculptures, pools and fountains and an aviary. They also have a grotto with artifical stalctites that contain concealed depictions of animals – you might catch a glimpse of these hidden carvings if you watch carefully.

A visit to Wallenstein Gardens is not just one of the free things to do in Prague, but unarguably one of the best.

33. Hike up Petrin Hill

A trip to the summit of Petrin Hill is one of the best things to do in Prague for free.

The hill is almost completely covered with parks, so pack some snacks bought at a local supermarket and head there to spend a Sunday afternoon like a local in Prague.

While the hike upto the hill top is free, you can also take the funicular which is quite affordable, too.

At the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of Prague. If you decide to walk it, bear in mind that the hike is pretty steep. But along the way you’ll chance upon many statues, the most notable one being that of Karel Hynek Macha, a renowned Czech poet.

Petrin hill Prague
View from the top – Petrin Hill Prague

34. Appreciate Nature at Divoká Šárka

Divoká Šárka is a nature reserve tucked away in suburban Prague.

It’s easily one of the best free things to do in Prague AND something that locals do. Tourists generally don’t venture this far out of the city.

Beautiful flora and fauna, stunning hiking trails, a lake to jump in for a quick swim, and swathes of nature – Divoká Šárka is as close to finding wilderness in the city as it gets.

35. Picnic at Letná Park

Letná Park is situated on a plateau above the embankments of Vltava river, which is why you can catch beautiful views of Old Town Prague from a vantage point.

The park used to have a statue of Joseph Stalin, which was later replaced by a 75-feet tall metronome that still stands.

It is popular spot amongst locals and a great way to escape the hubbub of the city. You can also find lots of hiking paths, green spaces, picnic spots and even a beer garden at Letná Park.

Letna Park Prague
View of Prague Old Town from Letna Park

More Things to do in Prague for Free

36. Sign up for a Free Walking Tour

I always make it a point to join a walking tour everywhere I travel in Europe. It is definitely one of the best free things to do in Prague, and there are many companies that offer walking tours for free.

The guide is most likely to be a local, so it’s a double win – You can learn about Prague’s history and culture, besides you’ll also get insider travel tips and all the dope on things to do in Prague from a local, first hand.

At the end of the tour, you can tip your guide as you see fit. There’s no lower or higher limit. If you didn’t enjoy the tour, you are not obligated to pay.

My favorite free walking tour company is Free Tour, but you can simply google something on the lines of “Free walking tour in Prague” and you will find a whole set of results to choose from.

37. Visit Prague’s Alternative District – Žižkov

A trip to Prague is incomplete without visiting its edgy alternative district of Žižkov.

There are a lot of uptown bars and trendy cafes here, thus attracting the student population and younger crowds, but Žižkov also has pretty streets and buildings to wander on and get a picturesque slice of Prague.

BONUS: Žižkov constitutes many of the things you can do in Prague for free –

  • A fun and free walking tour through the Žižkov district
  • Army Museum – entry is FREE
  • Vitkov Hill
  • Church of St. Prokop: A beautiful three-aisled church you shouldn’t miss

38. Witness a Book Tower at the Municipal Library Prague

For anyone looking to find books by Prague authors, there is a great collection at the Prague Municipal Library.

What the library is really known for, though, is a tall book tower that you can walk into. It makes for a great photo-op, not to mention the library by itself is pretty too and worth a visit.

Entry to the Municipal Library in Prague is free.

Municipal Library Prague

39. Watch the Change of Guard at Prague Castle

Prague Castle served as the residence of Czech rulers in the past, and now the President sits here.

Literally everyone who visits Prague goes to see the castle.

While there is a ~EUR 15 ticket to access most parts of the castle, the entry to the Prague Castle courtyard is free. This is where the change of guard happens everyday at 12 noon.

This may not be a life-changing experience but for someone who is curious about military rituals, especially those centered around Europe, the change of guard at the Prague Castle will be interesting to watch.

Protip: Make sure to get to the castle and grab a spot in the courtyard by 11:55 am. Crowds start gathering pretty quickly so you want to get the best view, now, dontcha? 😉

Prague Castle

40. Find Free Festivals and Events in Prague

Like most European cities, Prague has a lot of festivals, markets and events through the year, and especially in the summer. Most of these are free to enter – which means you can walk in with your own food and drinks if you like, and enjoy the music and free entertainment!

Head to the Tourist Information Center in Old Town Prague to find out all about the free events happening in the city during your stay.

This is a very underrated travel tip that most bloggers don’t talk about. Don’t miss it if you’re looking for fun free things to do in Prague!

BONUS: Cheap Things to do in Prague

While Prague has a vast assortment of things to do for free, you can also find a lot of things to do in Prague on a budget.

Here are some of the cheap things to do in Prague:

41. Have a Pint o’ Czech Beer

Okay, technically this isn’t free, but you can’t visit Prague and not have a beer. That’s blasphemous.

Did you know that Czech Republic has the largest beer-drinking population in the world?

Besides, if you move away from the tourist-heavy streets, you can find local places in Prague selling beer for as low as EUR 1.50.

Czech Republic is the home of the famous Pilsner Urquell. Originally brewed in the Czech town of Pilzen, the beer has since made its way across the globe in various forms of ‘Pils’.

The most authentic way of drinking beer in Prague is to head to a beer hall, where freshly brewed Pilsner is served with local Czech cuisine.

The beer halls are filled with the cheery babel of local visitors and infectious energy sure to get you into the groove!

U Vejvodu and Konvikt are two of the best beer halls in Prague. We loved them both so you take your pick!

Of course, if you’re feeling extravagant, there’s always this beer spa you can head to! * basic *

Pilsner beer Prague

How do you order beer in Prague

The Czech word for beer is : Pivo.

So if you want to order a beer, just say, “Pivo, prosim”, which literally translates to “Beer, please”.

That being said, English is widely spoken in Prague and travelers usually don’t face communication barriers.

Did you know:

Czech Republic has the largest beer drinking population in the world. The average beer consumption is at 160 liters of beer per person per year!

It’s no surprise that beer is cheaper than water in most bars and beer halls. No one’s complaining though! 😉

42. Try Prague Chimney Cake or Trdelník

Chimney cake is a Hungarian pastry which is wrapped around a wooden spool, glazed with sugar and slowly cooked and caramelized over an open fire.

It’s also hugely popular as street food in Czech Republic where it’s called Trdelník.

Good to know: While It is often misunderstood as traditional Czech food, the chimnkey cake finds no origin in the Bohemian cuisine.

That shouldn’t stop you from trying it, though. With its soft, gooey dough laced with sugar, chocolate and a bunch of fillings to choose from, the taste of the Tredlník will time and again keep taking you back to the streets of Prague long after your visit. I’m salivating just thinking of it!

Where to Eat Chimney Cake in Prague

Good Food, Coffee and Bakery is situated right next to Charles bridge and is easily recognizable from the long queues of people inside and outside. The staff is friendly despite it being so popular and busy. They have lots of Trdelník flavours and fillings to select from.

If you’re vegan and/or lactose intolerent, there’s Waffle Point U Kajetanathey have vegan Trdelník with yummy vegan chocolate. There is another bakery called Sweet Dreams, which is a stone’s throw away from Charles Bridge and they whip up delicious vegan Trdelník that will leave you dreaming.

Tredlnik Prague

43. Indulge in Prague’s Local Cuisine

While Czech food is largely quite meat-heavy, the vegan and vegetarian market is HUGE and growing rapidly in Prague.

Listed amongst the 15 most vegan friendly cities in the world, Prague has more than 50 vegan eateries and a dozen more places with plant-based dishes on their menu.

Try a meatless goulash or Česnečka, a delicious garlicky soup and a local favourite.

Thanks to HappyCow, there’s a full list of vegan restaurants in Prague you can visit.

44. Take a Boat Ride on Vltava River

Get an alternative view of Prague by rowing a boat down the Vltava river.

The river bank is lined with rental companies where you can rent a boat for 350-400 CZK (EUR 12) tops for an hour. One boat seats up to four people.

Make a picnic out of it: Pick up some Pilsners and knick-knacks at a local supermarket before you go. Enjoy an hour-long boat ride catching views of the city from an entirely different angle.

You can also sign up for cruises which are a bit costlier but offer a full experience with lunch buffets included.

Prague river boat ride

45. Explore Prague Castle

The largest castle complex in the world, the Prague castle spreads over a sprawling 70,000 meter square.

It has served as the seat of various Czech rulers in the past, and currently hosts the country’s president.

Entry to the castle comes at a rather steep  EUR 15 fee but you get a solid ROI here.

The ticket includes a visit to all the churches inside, like St. Vitus Cathedral and Basilica of St. George. There are also various museums inside, including a part of the National Gallery.

St. Vitus Cathedral Prague
Inside St. Vitus Cathedral Prague

46. Make a Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is a small Czech town 170 km from Prague, and easily reachable by train or bus at a small price of EUR 30-40.

It’s historic city center is a UNESCO world heritage site.

With its enchanting setting, quaint streets and medieval architecture , the town transports you to 15th century Rennaisance Europe.

Things to do in Cesky Krumlov

Head to Cesky Krumlov Castle: The castle is quite huge for a town the size of Cesky Krumlov, and that by itself talks about its significance in the city’s history.

Cesky Krumlov Castle has a beautiful baroque theater that is a must visit. You can climb the theater’s bell tower to get a blanket view of the city.

The castle interior displays many paintings and artifacts dating back to various periods pf Bohemian history.

Outside, ther is a large rocoo garden in the castle grounds with a revolving auditorium.

Visit the Church of St. Vitus: The most important church in Cesky Krumlov, the tall spire of St. Vitus dominates the city sillouhete.

Built in 13th century, the church is also the burial place for some of the most notable families of Bohemia, like the Schwarzenbergs and the Rosenbergs.

Multiple times in the year, St. Vitus offers classical concerts that are open to the public.

Notice the Intricate Frescoed Artwork: The best thing to do in Cesky Krumlov is to stroll through its narrow streets and admire the motley artwork everywhere. Building facades house fine murals that go back centuries in time.

Enjoy the colorful medley of glorious art in every part of the medieval city.

Cesky Krumlov Prague

Where to Stay in Prague

Prague is divided into districts across the city.

Most of the Prague attractions (listed here and otherwise) lie in Praha 1, which is why the accomodation here tends to be pricier.

If you are looking for budget options in Prague, check out Praha 2 which is affordable, yet keeps you closer to all the action.

Below are some of my recommendations you can look at:

Budget Hostels in Prague

  • Hostel One Home: Close to the train station and just a 10-minute walk from Old Town square. Free dinners included and they also have a Playstation 😉
  • Old Prague Hostel: Excellent location, free breakfast, and an onsite bar… what’s not to like?

 

Anything I missed on here? Do you know any other free things to do in Prague that you’d like to recommend for other readers? Drop them in the comments below!

Visiting Europe soon? Check out these articles:

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14 Comments. Leave new

  • […] [You Might Like: 10 Free and Awesome Things to Do in Prague] […]

    Reply
  • After our Rhine river Cruise, we went to Prague for the end of our honeymoon this past January and absolutely loved it. There is so much to see and we loved all the free things you found there to do. Personally, I loved exploring all of the statues and hidden art everywhere but we also loved seeing the Baby Jesus too! We were lucky to catch the end of their Christmas Markets too which was amazing as well!

    Reply
  • Aradhana Bakshi
    September 22, 2020 6:50 pm

    I love Prague; its quaint streets, rosy castles and the Charles Bridge, the city vibes, the Old Town Square, the chimney cakes, its a joyride! Everything else I did was paid for, so hurray for covering all the freebies that Prague has to offer!

    Reply
  • Prague looks sooo fun! I love the mix of gorgeous architecture and public art!

    Although, that photo with all the people is a bit mad now we’ve had half a year staying close to home and avoiding crowds. It must be sooo different if people visit in 2020! I wonder if we’ll ever look at crowded streets in the same way again!?

    Reply
    • You read my mind! I honestly flip out everytime I see more than five people in one place these days! It’ll be a while before we start acclimating to the idea of crowds again.

      Reply
  • Prague is one of my favorite European cities – so very pretty, and so immensely walkable! And most of the best things to do are free. What more can you ask for!

    Reply
  • Prague is still on our list, but it will take a few years until we finally come.
    Recently, I have seen that there are quite a few attractions within some short drives outside the city. I can hardly wait!

    Reply
  • The Top Ten Traveler
    September 21, 2020 7:04 pm

    Last time I visited Prague was 17 years ago, and I still remember it as one of the most beautiful cities I have been to. And as you wrote here, so many of its beautiful famous landmarks are free to see, isn’t that great?

    Reply
  • One of my favorite cities in Europe, Prague is an absolute delight. And like your post says, there are so many free things to do, it makes for a far better destination for budget tourists than some of the other popular cities in Western Europe.

    Reply
  • This looks like an amazing itinerary, every time I travel to a city I try to find free things to do, so lists like this are so helpful!

    Reply

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