TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN PRAGUE FOR FREE

Prague doesn’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable. We’ve put together our own hostel pick of the 10 best things to see in Prague for free — places we love, recommend to our guests, and would show our friends visiting for the first time. And if you’re craving something more raw and local, don’t worry, we’ve also prepared a second article where we take you underground and share our Top 10 things to do in Prague off the tourist path. Because Prague has way more to offer than just Prague Castle and Charles bridge.

1. VISIT OLD TOWN SQUARE - see the hourly show at the Astronomical Clock

Dating from the 15th century, this beautiful and intricate clock lies in the side of the Old Town Hall Tower and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Every hour, on the hour you will see crowds gathering in front of the clock to watch the ‘Procession of the Twelve Apostles’.
There are also 12 medallions below the clock, each of which represents the signs of the zodiac, which were added after the clock in the 19th century.

Local tip: Want the best view in Prague for less? Head up the Old Town Hall Tower in the first hour after opening and get 50% off the ticket.

2. STROLL ACCROSS CHARLES BRIDGE

Once the only means of crossing Prague’s River Vlatvain in the region, Charles bridge is just as important as a pedestrian connection to the Old Town, as well as a popular sightseeing attraction. This beautiful bridge is always full of people using it as a means of crossing the river as well as taking in the spectacular views that it boasts. All along the bridge you’ll find street artists, musicians, dancers and other entertainers. 

Local tip: Get there early in the morning or late at night if you’re keen to see it without the crowds.

3.EXPLORE THE GROUNDS OF PRAGUE CASTLE

Dating from 870 AD, Prague Castle is a popular tourist attraction that dominates the city skyline and was once the seat of the ancient Czech Kings. Also it is known as the biggest castle complex in the world. You can explore the castle gardens and much of the grounds for free, and you’ll often find lots of events and concerts taking place around the grounds. There’s also the ‘Changing of the Guards’ which you can see every hour on the hours from 6am – 11pm.

Local tip: Head to the castle after 6 pm for a crowd-free walk through spots like the picturesque Golden Lane — and yes, in the evening it’s free.

4. VISIT JOHN LENNON WALL 

The Lennon Wall, or John Lennon Wall, started off as just any old wall, but since the 1980s it has become a tribute to the famous band member. After Lennon’s murder in 1980, his image was painted on this wall opposite the French Embassy along with song lyrics and political graffiti. Despite numerous coats of white wash from the secret police in the early years, along with the property owners in recent years, the graffiti was always reposted and they have bowed down to the posting of it in recent years.

Local tip: Chill in Kampa Park and grab a coffee at Mlýnská kavárna, a place loved by famous Czech artists.

5. SEE THE VIEWS FROM PETŘÍN HILL

If the Petrin Observation Tower looks vaguely familiar it’s because it’s actually a small version of Paris’ Eiffel Tower! While the tower itself doesn’t exactly reach great heights at just 60m tall, it affords unforgettable views thanks to its location on top of Petrin Hill. It’s a 299-step climb up to the top, but you’ll be rewarded on a clear day with a view that extends to the highest peak in the Czech Republic.

Local tip: Head to Petřín in the early evening and watch the sunset over Prague from one of the smaller viewpoints — fewer people, better atmosphere.

6. NÁPLAVKA RIVER BANK

Rašínovo nábřeží embankment is currently the most attractive and liveliest society venue on the banks of the river in downtown Prague. Those who come here get a beautiful view of the Hradčany Castle panorama, making it a place much sought after by tourists. The Rašínovo embankment space offers a whole gamut of activities throughout the year, ranging from the regular farmers’ markets to sports, cultural and gastronomy events. Vaults in the wall of the river embankment that were originally used for ice storage have been renovated and now house shops, cafés, and bars.

Local tip: Take the ferry from Náplavka to the other side of the river — your public transport ticket is enough, and the views from the river are totally worth it.

7. WALLENSTEIN GARDEN

When walking around the streets of Lesser Town, the most picturesque quarter of Prague, you should not miss the chance to see Wallenstein Palace and its garden. The complex is one of the most prominent buildings of the Czech Early Baroque period. Today, Wallenstein Palace is the seat of the Senate of the Czech Republic. Situated in the east you can see Sala terrena with three arcades. The walls of Sala terrena are decorated by frescoes and stuccoes representing Trojan wars. Many statues and fountains that you can see in Wallenstein Garden are copies of the original ones made by famous Dutch artist Adrian de Vries. Wallenstein Garden is 1,7 ha large and there is enough space for a pond where you can feed ducks. The pond was used for small boats in the past. The garden has become a pleasant place for relaxation for locals.

Local tip: Visiting in winter? When the garden is closed, Vojanovy sady is a great alternative — and yes, there are peacocks.

8. VYŠEHRAD - MEDIAVAL FORTRESS WITH ROYAL HISTORY

Vysehrad or the “Castle on the heights” is a beautiful place to visit any time of day or season. To get into the essence of the place you need to take a walk through the huge, beautiful park that covers the area. Maybe more impressing than the beautiful park and historic buildings will be astonishing views over Prague, the bridges over Vltava and the Prague Castle.The best viewing points are from Gothic ruins of Libuses’s Baths. Walks at sunset and by night will have a guaranteed effect, so be sure not to miss out on them!

Local tip: Take a walk through Vyšehrad Cemetery — a peaceful place filled with stunning tombs and the graves of Czech legends like Dvořák, Smetana, and Alfons Mucha.

9. DISCOVER NOVÝ SVĚT, A SECRET PRAGUE NEIGHBORHOOD

Nový Svět (which loosely translates as “The New World”) is a fantastic, picturesque part of the Castle district that is severely neglected by virtually all the tourists but secretly loved by all the locals. Dating back to the 14th Century, it is a small area consisting of just a few streets that have retained the atmosphere of a small village. If you want quiet far from the madding crowds (actually, it’s just two streets away from the main route between the Castle and the Strahov Monastery), this is where you’ll find it.

Local tip: Enter Jelení příkop via the western gate for a peaceful, green escape — and enjoy a different perspective of Prague Castle.

10. VISIT FREE ŽIŽKOV MUSEUMS AND ADMIRE BREATHTAKING VIEWS

Explore Žižkov’s free museums! Start with the Army Museum — it might not sound super fun at first, but you’ll discover some fascinating quirks and misconceptions of Czech history, especially from the 20th century. From old military gear to unexpected stories, it’s surprisingly interesting once you dive in. Then, head over to the National Monument at Vítkov, where there’s a cozy café to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The monument itself offers amazing views of Prague from the hill. Both spots are just a short walk from Hostel Elf, making it the perfect afternoon outing for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Local tip: While at Vítkov, ask the staff about the small staircase to the roof — it’s a hidden path that gives you a 360° view over Prague. Totally worth it!