Written by Slavoljub on 05/07/2024

Best Photo Spots in Prague: Instagram-Worthy Locations

Destinations

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a stunning blend of gothic, baroque, and medieval architecture. The city’s history stretches back more than a millennium, offering an enchanting mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

During my recent trip to this picturesque city, I explored six iconic attractions that epitomize Prague’s cultural and historical richness. In this blog post, I will share my experiences, including detailed descriptions of each site, how to get there, ticket prices, and personal recommendations.

1. Charles Bridge: A Walk Through History

Location: Karlův most, Prague 1, 110 00

Getting There: Charles Bridge is centrally located and easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the metro to Staroměstská station (Line A) and walk for about 10 minutes, or hop on trams 17, 18, or 53 to the Karlovy lázně stop, which is right by the bridge.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: The bridge itself is free to access, but there are nearby attractions such as the Old Town Bridge Tower, which charges a small entrance fee of around 100 CZK (approximately $4.50 USD) for adults. Students and seniors can get discounted tickets for about 70 CZK (around $3 USD).

My Experience: Walking across Charles Bridge was like stepping back in time. Lined with 30 baroque statues of saints, this pedestrian bridge offers breathtaking views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River. The statues, although replicas, still impart a sense of history and artistry. Street musicians and artists add to the lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls both day and night. I particularly enjoyed the sunrise over the bridge, with the early morning light casting a golden hue over the statues and the cobblestone path.

Nearby Attractions: The Old Town Square, Lesser Town (Malá Strana), and the Church of St. Nicholas are all within walking distance.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Booking Platform: No booking required

2. Prague Castle: The Jewel of the City

Location: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1

Getting There: The castle is accessible via metro, tram, and even a short uphill walk. Take metro Line A to Malostranská station and either walk up the hill or take tram 22 to Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) stop.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: A full entry ticket, which includes access to St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the Golden Lane, costs about 350 CZK (approximately $16 USD) for adults. Reduced tickets for students and seniors are available for 175 CZK (around $8 USD).

My Experience: Prague Castle is a sprawling complex that demands at least half a day to explore thoroughly. I began my visit at the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral, where the gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows left me in awe. The Old Royal Palace and St. George’s Basilica offered deep dives into the history of Czech royalty and medieval religious practices. Walking through the Golden Lane, with its quaint, colorful houses, was like stepping into a fairy tale. Each house had its own unique display, from historical armor to alchemy.

Nearby Attractions: The Royal Gardens, Loreta, and the Strahov Monastery are all nearby and worth visiting.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Booking Platform: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the official Prague Castle website.

3. Old Town Square: The Heartbeat of Prague

Location: Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Prague 1

Getting There: Old Town Square is easily reachable by metro and tram. Take metro Line A to Staroměstská station, or trams 17 and 18 to the Staroměstská stop.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: The square itself is free to visit. However, specific attractions within the square, such as the Astronomical Clock Tower, require tickets. Entry to the tower costs around 250 CZK (approximately $11.50 USD) for adults and 150 CZK (around $7 USD) for students and seniors.

My Experience: Old Town Square is the bustling heart of Prague, teeming with history and energy. Dominated by the gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn and the baroque St. Nicholas Church, the square offers stunning architecture at every turn. The highlight was undoubtedly the Astronomical Clock. I joined the crowd to watch the hourly show, where statues of the Apostles appear and the skeleton of Death tolls the bell. Climbing the clock tower provided panoramic views of the city’s red rooftops and narrow streets. The square was also filled with street performers, food stalls, and souvenir shops, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions: The Jewish Quarter, Klementinum, and the Powder Tower are all within walking distance.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Booking Platform: Tickets for the Astronomical Clock Tower can be purchased on-site or online through the Prague City Tourism website.

4. Lennon Wall: A Canvas of Peace and Expression

Location: Velkopřevorské náměstí, 100 00 Prague 1

Getting There: The Lennon Wall is situated in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) area. You can reach it by taking trams 12, 20, or 22 to Malostranské náměstí stop and walking for about five minutes.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: The Lennon Wall is free to visit.

My Experience: Visiting the Lennon Wall was a unique and moving experience. Originally a simple wall, it became a spontaneous tribute to John Lennon and the ideals of peace and love during the communist era. Today, it is a constantly changing canvas of graffiti and messages from people around the world. I spent a good amount of time reading the colorful and diverse expressions of hope, peace, and freedom. The wall is a testament to the enduring power of art and expression in the face of oppression. Nearby, a busker was playing Beatles tunes, adding to the nostalgic and reflective atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions: Charles Bridge, Kampa Island, and the Church of St. Nicholas.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Booking Platform: No booking required

5. Petřín Hill: Nature and Views in the City

Location: Petřínské sady, 118 00 Prague 1

Getting There: You can take the funicular from Újezd station (accessible by trams 9, 12, 15, 20) up to Petřín Hill. Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic walk up the hill if you’re up for some exercise.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entry to Petřín Hill and its gardens is free. However, the Petřín Lookout Tower charges an entrance fee of 150 CZK (approximately $7 USD) for adults and 80 CZK (around $3.50 USD) for children and seniors. The funicular ride costs 60 CZK (approximately $2.70 USD) for a one-way trip.

My Experience: Petřín Hill is a lush oasis in the middle of Prague, offering stunning views of the city. I took the funicular up, which was a fun experience in itself, and started my exploration at the Petřín Lookout Tower, often referred to as Prague’s Eiffel Tower. Climbing the tower’s 299 steps was well worth the effort, as I was rewarded with panoramic views of Prague’s skyline. I then wandered through the beautiful rose gardens and enjoyed a peaceful stroll through the wooded paths. The mirror maze was a fun and quirky addition to my visit. Petřín Hill is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a blend of nature and spectacular views.

Nearby Attractions: Strahov Monastery, Hunger Wall, and the Church of Our Lady Victorious.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Booking Platform: Funicular tickets can be purchased on-site or via the Prague Public Transit Company website.

6. Vyšehrad: A Fortress of Legends and Lore

Location: V Pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00 Prague 2

Getting There: Vyšehrad is accessible by metro, tram, and bus. Take metro Line C to Vyšehrad station, or trams 3, 7, 17, or 52 to Výtoň stop, followed by a short walk.

Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entrance to the Vyšehrad grounds is free. However, some specific attractions within the complex, such as the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, may charge a small fee. Expect to pay around 70 CZK (approximately $3 USD) for adults and 40 CZK (about $1.80 USD) for students and seniors.

My Experience: Vyšehrad is an ancient fortress offering a deep dive into Prague’s rich history. Walking through the gates, I felt like I had entered a different era. The basilica’s twin spires dominated the skyline, and the interior was equally impressive with its vibrant frescoes and intricate decorations. The adjacent Vyšehrad Cemetery is the final resting place of many Czech luminaries, including composer Antonín Dvořák and writer Karel Čapek. The peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery, combined with the stunning views of the Vltava River from the fortress walls, made for a reflective and inspiring visit. Vyšehrad’s legends and historical significance added a mystical layer to my exploration.

Nearby Attractions: Vyšehrad Gardens, Rotunda of St. Martin, and the Brick Gate.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Booking Platform: No booking required

Prague’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a city like no other. From the timeless charm of Charles Bridge to the peaceful heights of Petřín Hill, each landmark offers a unique glimpse into the soul of this enchanting city.

My journey through Prague was filled with unforgettable moments, and I hope my detailed accounts inspire you to explore these magical places for yourself. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, Prague has something special to offer everyone.