Czech Republic’s capital city has a magical charm that attracts millions of tourists every year. Beautiful architecture, great beer, rich history - and did you know almost everywhere in the city is walkable?
There are so many great things to do in Prague – but we’re here to deliver some FUN facts that will help you get to know the city more.
Before we get into it, when is the best time to visit Prague? The awesome thing is that you can visit all year round. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, then we recommend the cooler seasons like spring or autumn. If you want to make the most of longer days and relaxed alfresco lunches in the sun, then June, July and August are the months to visit (but expect it to be busier).
Is it safe to visit Prague? Definitely! The ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ is generally considered very safe for tourists.
Ready to get to know Prague even more? From unusual activities to mind-boggling legends, we hope these weird and wonderful facts will make you fall even more in love with the beautiful city…
1. You can go to a beer spa
Prague is known for having some of the best beer in the world. But did you know you can even bathe in it? That’s right, you can SOAK IN BEER and drink copious amounts while you’re at it (from a separate barrel of course, not your tub…). Apparently the high hop oil content in this Czech beer helps to open your pores and give a more glowing appearance. It also supposedly helps improve immunity, stimulate metabolism and ease stress - who would’ve known a beer bath could be so revitalising!
However, this isn’t where your experience ends. You’ll get to relax on a straw bed by a fireplace, eat beer bread and sweat it all out in a barrel-shaped sauna. Ahhhh, bliss…
Fancy it? Find out more
2. The bizarre legend behind Prague's Astronomical Clock Tower
According to legend, the brains behind the creation of Prague’s Astronomical Clock Tower, Hanus Carolinum, was blinded by the Old Town councillors with a hot poker. They did this out of fear that Hanus would recreate the clock in another city and make this one less famous and unique. Brutal.
Top tip: Every hour from 9am – 11pm, catch the procession of the twelve apostles appear on the clock, located on Old Town Square.
3. And yet it's been replicated exactly!
…However an exact replica of the Astronomical Clock can be seen in the Hongdae district of Seoul in South Korea!
But Prague's will always be the original...
4. Pork knuckle is actually delicious
This Czech delicacy might sound odd to some. However, don’t knock it ‘til you try it as there’s a reason the people of Prague are so obsessed. If you like ham hock, definitely give this traditional dish a try (best paired with a golden beer to wash it down). Yum!
Some of the best places to try pork knuckle in the city? Try U Pivrnce, Ribs of Prague, Mlejnice or Pork’s.
5. The tallest building in Prague!
The Zizkov TV Tower stands high above Prague and differs from the rest of the city’s quaint medieval skyline. This very tall, grey structure (that looks like it’s about to take off) is the highest building in Prague. Head up to the top as you can get some pretty cool panoramic views of the whole city.
6. It's also home to central Europe's biggest club...
Most of us backpackers love a party, and Prague is one of the best cities in Europe to get your fill. Karlovy Lázně right in the city centre is central Europe’s largest club.
There are a whopping 5 stories of bars, dancefloors, different themes (including an ice bar) and music to suit anyone’s taste so you’re sure to have the night of your life.
7. And the largest castle in the world
Did you know that Prague Castle is the largest in the world? The 30-metre-wide medieval castle and its 70,000 square metres of land attract almost 2 million visitors every year. It even landed a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the oldest ancient castle still in use. It’s simply beautiful, too. This is a Czech attraction you can’t miss out on during a trip to Prague.
8. The city's best views are from Petrin Tower
Quite the resemblance to a certain famous Parisian landmark but only 60 metres tall, Petrin Tower is a must-see sight in Prague.
The Petrin Tower stands on top of Petrin Hill - making it look way taller than it actually is. With 299 steps to the top, it does actually reach the same altitude as the Eiffel Tower. Climb to the top to be rewarded with insane views of Prague.
9. Prague locals consume the most beer per capita in the world
You thought you loved beer, but Czech people apparently love it more than anyone else in the world! You’re in for a party with the locals!
Want to know where to get the best beers in Prague? We have you covered with the ultimate guide.
10. The famous Charles Bridge is actually haunted by ghosts, and lots of them
The most famous bridge in Prague is Charles Bridge, connecting the city’s Old Town to the Mala Strana over the Vltava River. Supposedly the bridge, which was built all the way back in the 1300s, is haunted by ghosts whose heads ended up on nearby spikes.
People claim that they have seen them wandering up and down Charles Bridge, going about their business as they please.
11. The narrowest street in Prague is barely 50cm wide
The narrowest street in Prague is barely 50 cm wide (super tiny), yet because it's so narrow it has its own traffic light. The traffic light prevents pedestrians from meeting in the middle and then wondering how to walk past each other.
12. The man hanging out is just a sculpture
Prague is known for its unusual sculptures - but this one has been mistaken for a real man many times. The sculpture of the hanging man depicts the Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud and can be found in the Prague Old Town. Freud suffered from a number of phobias including the fear of his own death.
13. There's an urban woodland just a short journey out of the city
Not many people are aware that although Prague is home to some beautiful parks, just a short tram journey out of the city you'll find a beautiful urban woodland called Divoká Šárka. The area is a true escape from city life, offering a gorgeous valley that lends itself perfectly for a day out of hiking, swimming, and even golfing.
If you have a couple extra days in Prague, we recommend checking it out for some relaxation and quality time with nature.
14. The centre of Prague is a World Heritage Site
Much of the city has remained unchanged since medieval times, with stunning examples of Baroque, Gothic and Modernist architecture throughout the area. In fact, Prague’s historic centre was named a UNESCO Heritage site in 1992 to keep the area protected. There’s so much history in the streets and walls, so are you ready to discover what this beautiful destination has to offer?
Enjoy these fun facts? Make sure to check out more of our guides for cities around Europe for budget tips and local advice...