Prague: Things To Do

Charles Bridge No trip to Prague is complete without strolling across this iconic statue-studded bridge spanning the Vitava. Linking the Old town with the Royal Way and the Prague Castle, it hosts street performers and artists. Stare Mesto; 011-420-257-531-088; www.charlesbridge.cz
family | architecture | live entertainment | view

Franz Kafka Museum Learn how Prague influenced one of the greatest figures of 20th century world literature. The museum brings together many of Kafka’s first edition books, letters, photographs and drawings. Mala Strana; Cihelna 2b; Praha 1; 011-420-257-535-507; www.kafkamuseum.cz
culture | history

Jewish Museum Wander the 13th-century streets, still bursting with ornate synagogues, of Prague’s former Jewish ghetto. A gloomy, evocative cemetery and the Maisel Synagogue’s Jewish Museum outline the history of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia. Stare Mesto;
family | architecture | history

Museum of Communism Get a feel for Prague’s communist years from 1948 to 1989 in this fascinating, well-organized museum. Exhibits include an Interrogation rooms, video clips and a historical schoolroom. Stare Mesto; Na Prikope 10 (above McDonald’s); 011-420-224-212-966; www.museumofcommunism.com
culture | museum | history

Old Town Square Flanked by baroque and gothic buildings, Prague’s massive (and oldest) square lights up nightly like a Christmas tree. Make time for the free, hourly spectacle at the Old Town Hall’s Astronomical Clock, when figurines march out to music. Stare Mesto;
family | architecture | history

Prague Castle The world’s largest medieval castle is so huge it feels like its own town – gothic spires, narrow lanes, palaces, statues and courtyards surround the massive St. Vitus cathedral. Spend at least half a day. Hradcany; Praha 1; 011-420-224-372-423; www.hrad.cz
family | architecture | history

Strahov Monastery Visit this monastery dating back to 1143 for its architecture – Gothic and Baroque styles surround a Romanesque basilica – and its 18th century art collection of over 1,000 paintings, sculptures and handicrafts. Hradcany; Strahovske nadvori 1; 011-420-233-107-730; www.strahovskyklaster.cz
architecture | culture | history | art

Vysehrad This panorama-filled hilltop (it’s name means “High Castle in Czech) is outside the traditional tourist loop, but well worth a visit. Bring a picnic and climb around the crumbling castles and fortifications dating as far back as the 11th century. Vysehrad;
family | architecture | history | view