Prague: Neighborhoods

Stare Mesto Old Town, the traditional tourist stop, dates to 1234. Loaded with Baroque and Renaissance architecture, cafes, and shops, it has an antiquated feel. The Jewish ghetto is here too.

Nove Mesto “New Town,” home to Wenceslas Square (Prague’s main drag), the National Theater, and hopping nightlife, is an architectural mishmash (Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, art Nouveau). A retro, trendy vibe reigns.

Mala Strana Baroque churches and palaces, burgher houses, and winding side alleyways comprise what is possibly Prague’s most picturesque (and most heavily visited) neighborhood. Nighttime is extremely quiet here.

Holesovice Across the river from Nove Mesto, this slightly gritty neighborhood feels more authentically Czech, with pubs filled with locals and tree-lined streets. Also here: the National Gallery of Modern Art.

Vinohrady Hipsters, gays and artists favor this quietly chic residential neighborhood. Explore and discover what’s up-and-coming as old buildings are restored and new restaurants and boutiques enter the scene.

Hradcany Bordering Mala Strana outside the 9th century Prague castle, this ancient, residential, central-square-dominated neighborhood is virtually unknown to tourists. It’s also the site of Prague’s largest church: St. Vitus Cathedral.