I’d thought to subtitle this post: where to find the crowds in Prague. Because even though I was there in mid-January, off-season for sure, and the weather was chillingly cold and rainy one day, there were crowds at these three popular spots. I can’t begin to imagine what the crowds would be like in summer!
1. Charles Bridge
The crowds were minimal enough on this rainy day to get close enough to really examine the statues along the way. Either way I traveled across the bridge, the view before me was spectacular. Such a romantic spot in the world. It’s like something out of a fairytale.
2. Astronomical Clock
The clock was first installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still working. On the hour, hundreds of cameras are aimed at the opening where four elements despised at the time of the clock’s making appear: Vanity, Greed, Death, and Pleasure. The little boys standing next to me seemed to know exactly what would happen. They gleefully watched the skeleton ringing his bell. I think they must have stopped there many hours. It’s a beautiful clock, but I only stopped to admire it once. Too many other sights to see, so little time. (Lame pun intended. 🙂 )
3. Prague Castle
I was scheduled to take a walking tour of the castle at night, but it cancelled last minute. I thought of walking up there anyway to see what I could of this UNESCO World Heritage site, believed to have been built around the year 880. But I decided instead to admire it from afar and save the tour for another trip to Prague. That way, I’m almost guaranteed to go back, right?
There was so much more to see and experience in Prague. These three things were just the basics that you can’t miss as you wander the cobblestoned streets of this gorgeous town. Do see them and take time to enjoy them, but know that there’s so much more. If you happen to be there in summer, expect massive crowds. I’ve heard that from everyone who’s been. Perhaps a cold, rainy weekend was the perfect time to be there after all.
Do you have a favorite Prague site/experience? Or is Prague still on your list of places to go?
Browsing The Atlas 
I’ve never been to Prague, but it’s been on my wish-list for years. One day…
I can’t wait to hear what you think of it when you go. 🙂
We celebrated Thanksgiving it Prague and it was not that crowded.
Good to know. I think it’s probably summer time that’s the most crowded. But it seems to be a city that could be enjoyed in any season.
We’re headed to Prague in early March and really looking forward to it – so excited to get this glimpse into the Czech Republic. Thanks for stopping by at One Road at a Time!
I have a feeling you’ll love it. 🙂 Have fun!
I haven’t been to Prague, but am always amused by the ancient clocks that trot out animals and characters for complicated performances. And each town had to have its clock, or so it seems to me. If I remember correctly the various cities competed over who might have the best clock. –Curt
I believe you’re right. I read that Prague’s clock is the 3rd oldest in some regard. It still keeps accurate time and is fun to watch, though brief. I found it interesting that it keeps what I consider ‘military time.’ So at 2:00pm, it rang 14 times. I wasn’t expecting that.
More for your money. 🙂
Prague was somehow not on my list of places to visit, but now after reading your post on Prague, its definetly included!
It is like stepping into a fairytale setting. So pretty.
I went a number of years ago as part of European student conference and it was my favorite destination of the three cities we toured. The famous Square (can’t remember the actual name but I’m sure you know which one I’m talking about) was wonderful and as we went in summer, it was nice and sunny. Not too hot but bright enough to pull out the shades and relax. I hope I can make it back there again someday.
I’m guessing you meant Old Town Square near the clock. It is beautiful there. Lots of street performers and people, even this time of year. I hope I can return, too.
Hey, I know that town! Isn’t it gorgeous? I was shocked by the fairy tale quality of the city. Besides the things you mentioned, I really enjoyed a walking pub tour to sample the amazing beer and strolling by the Bohemian crystal shops at night.
I didn’t do the pub crawl, though certainly enjoyed a few drinks. The crystal shops were very pretty, especially at night when I wandered the cobblestoned streets in circles. (It’s easy to get lost there, after a few drinks, or not.)
I’ve been to Prague only once, for work. And your post reminds me that i have to go back again. And properly. I went in winter too … and thought the Charles Bridge was utterly romantic.
Yes, the bridge is so romantic. I’d read that it’s often so crowded you can’t get close to the sculptures that line it, but that was not the case when I went. I rubbed many of them for luck and took some close-up shots. They’re spectacular.
I would love to visit Prague. I can see how the entire experience would be like living in a fairy tale. I looked at images of the city online, and most of them are gorgeous. *sigh*
I agree. Every time I turned around it was another breathtaking view. Even in the cold, gray rain.
When that first picture came up it made me catch my breath! You hit the nail on the head with saying it was like a fairy tale. And the clock! I don’t think I could pull myself away from it. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! I don’t think the pictures can really capture the beauty of it, though I certainly tried. 🙂 I probably took a hundred pictures.
I’ve only ever heard good things about Prague. Britt (above) writes a stunning scene set there in her novel ‘Everything’s Not Bigger’. But yes I’d go at a quiet time only.
Britt’s writing could make me go anywhere. 🙂
You’ve got to admit, though – the crowds have a point. Especially when it comes to that clock.
Oh, yes. I always follow the crowd. There are some sights you absolutely HAVE to see.
Definitely definitely. You don’t want to go too far with an off-the-beaten-track philosophy.
I loved Prague!
I love Prague! It is true that this city is always crowded… I have been there in September and in January and it is always full of tourists haha.
I love everything about Prague, especially the old town ❤
I liked Old Town, too. I spent a lot of time wandering there and then realized that I didn’t explore Lesser Town much. I’ll have to go back.
Yes, its very pretty! Even though I was there 2 times, there are still a few things I didnt do, so I also need to get back there again sometime 😀
Great pictures. I went once a long time ago, I would like to go again.
Me too!