When is the best time to visit Prague, and what to do?
Photo by Dmitry Goykolov
Exploring new cities and meeting new people is a great way to appreciate all that the world has to offer. If you are thinking about where you want to vacation next, Prague is an ideal destination. The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is home to a great many attractions and things to do wherever you look. If you are thinking about taking an international vacation and spending some time in Prague, you'll want to be there at the best time. Below, we have listed the best times of year to go visit Prague and what to do with your time there.
Best Times to Go to Prague
Given the milder weather, it is no wonder that summer is when you'll find the largest crowds sightseeing. Temperatures rarely rise above 24 C or 72 F. At the same time, this is when you'll find most people traveling here. Crowds of people can be seen almost everywhere. This can make it really hard for people to see what they want to see.
In general, Prague, located along the banks of the Vltava River, has a relatively cool climate.A visit to this area in January means freezing cold weather. Light snow is common from the middle of November until the end of March. Summer comes to Prague slowly and carefully. The weather gradually heats up and the city begins to emerge from the cover of long nights.
Spring and fall make the best time to see Prague for so many reasons. This is when the city has shaken off the deep fog and emerged to bathe in the warm light of the new season. This is also when you'll find far fewer crowds and you'll find this time when hotels rates are lower. Many people love coming here when the weather is about 15 C or 60 F.
Spring and fall in Prague, with fewer crowds, perfect weather, and lower rates, are the best time to go, but you’ll want to know where to go and what to do with your time there. That’s why we have created a list of the best things to do while visiting the Golden City.
Photo by James Barr
Visit Old Town Square
Many places have an old town square, but few are as much of a must do as the one in the Czech Republic.
Old Town Square is a parade of glorious Gothic buildings that unfold right before your very eyes. Today, it is one of those attractions you'll have to see if Prague is on your bucket list. This is the heart of Prague and a place to see how the city evolved.
Walk up186 steps up to the Powder Tower. Snap a picture at the Jan Hus Monument. Admire the Church of Our Lady Before Týn.
If the Church of Our Lady Before Týn looks familiar there’s a reason. It was the inspiration for the famous Disneyland castle. It's particularly spectacular at night when the gilded edges of the interior make the whole building look as though it is glowing.
When you want a break, hit the Havel Market for wonderfully fragrant spices, produce, and baked goods. There are so many things you can pack into your visit at Old Town Square you definitely won’t run out of things to do.
Walk Across Charles Bridge
A prime space for a walk to take in the grand city of Prague is the Charles Bridge. This historic bridge crosses the Vltava making it an easy way to get around the city as it connects the Mala Strana with the Old Prague Center.
Dating back nearly a thousand years ago, Charles Bridge is 516 metres or 1,693 ft in length and has three impressive towers which loom over it. It's also about thirty-three feet wide, so you'll have plenty of room to roam. Look for the over two dozen statues that dot the bridge at every turn, making it easy to get in that perfect selfie.
Photo by Jack Hunter
Observe the Astronomical Clock
Prague has long been a place of innovation as scientists have been making this place their home for over five hundred years. The astronomical clock was installed in 1410 and it still functions today. You can see the astronomical clock in the Old Town Hall. Join the crowds as they watch the figures come alive every hour on the hour. Tour guides can explain the history behind it and what to marvel at with this mechanical delight.
Marvel at Prague Castle
The Prague Castle is the office of the President of the Czech Republic. It dates back to the year 870 AD, and is a place of enduring beauty. In addition to the beautiful castle architecture and history, St. Vitus Cathedral was built entirely within the castle complex.
The views across the Vltava River from Prague Castle are stunning. Come here early in the morning and watch as the mist falls away from the towers. When nightfall sets, this is the place to be to see the entire city as the lights come out one by one. The lights that surround it show off the structure's many details and illuminate why it has enchanted visitors both near and far.
Take in PetÅín Lookout Tower
Prague earned the title “The City of 100 Towers” and it’s filled with fantastic towers, but the PetÅín Lookout Tower is a must-visit destination. The tower was built over a hundred years ago at the same time as the Eiffel Tower.
If you’re looking to expel some energy, the walk up to the tower takes about 30 minutes and there are two trails to take; one easier and one a bit harder.
Once you get to the tower, there is an elevator that will take you straight to the top. Once you're at the top, you’ll be witnessing some of the most breathtaking sights of not only Prague, but far past the glorious city. .
Visit the PetÅín Lookout Tower at night when the entire structure is lit up like a Christmas tree. You'll be treated to an endless array of changing colors that cross over the iron girders that will stun you with views both inside and outside the tower.
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