Famously the most scenic district of the capital, the Old Town (or Staré Mesto in Czech) provides an atmospheric historical backdrop for a wander through Prague.
Equally, with so many sights to explore, it may be worth assigning a full day to appreciate the city’s oldest district. People have continually gathered here over the past 1,000 years for the most significant moments in Prague’s history, from demonstrations to executions, marriages to government meetings, and now, as its most popular tourist destination.
Originating as Prague’s main marketplace in the 10th century, the historic square lies at the Old Town’s nexus, and is lined by popular pastel-hued buildings and monuments that appear straight out of a Disney fairytale, such as the Kinsky Palace museum, the twin towers of the Our Lady Before Týn church, the Baroque church of St. Nicolas, and the iconic Old Town Hall. The latter gathers crowds every hour to observe the Astronomical Clock – the world’s oldest, still-functioning timepiece of its kind – and its elaborate centrepiece that features the 12 apostles rotating with the passing of each hour. Although no longer used for government purposes, this is the most popular location in Prague for those wishing to tie the knot, and it is worth climbing the Hall’s tower to admire views of the city of a hundred spires.
As the city’s most visited area, it is recommended to explore the Old Town in the early hours of the morning before throngs of tourists descend. When they do, lose yourself amongst the labyrinthine cobblestoned backstreets where traditional bars and restaurants await, and admire spectacularly preserved Gothic buildings before moving on to the old Jewish Quarter or across the iconic Charles Bridge.
