Old Town Square, Prague

While in Prague, you are bound to visit the Old Town Square, nestled right in the heart of the city. Its unexpectedly vast expanse gives it a grandiose presence as it unfolds from narrow alleyways. Once a thriving marketplace, this square has now transformed into a pedestrian haven bustling with shops, hotels, eateries, and bars—a perfect spot to mingle with fellow travelers, behold some of the city's most breathtaking sights, and experience its vibrant nightlife, with musicians competing for the attention of passersby.

Here, you will also encounter some of the city's most remarkable medieval structures, starting with the Old Town City Hall, erected in 1364 and renowned for its iconic Astronomical Clock. Towards the northern end of the square stands the 18th-century Saint Nicholas Church, now a venue for classical music concerts, adorned with a radiant white façade that glistens in the sunlight.

Dominating the square's skyline is the 14th-century Týn Church, arguably the most photographed religious site in the city, adorned with Gothic spires (access to the interior is through the Týn School, another remarkable Gothic edifice with numerous arcades). Nearby, you can explore the Stone Bell House, home to a prominent art gallery displaying contemporary and modern artworks; adjacent stands the charming Kinsky Palace, now a part of the National Gallery Art Museum, boasting a Rococo façade.

On the southern side, you'll encounter splendid Baroque and Renaissance buildings, distinguished by their house signs: At the Golden Unicorn, At the Blue Star, At the Red Fox... In Prague's past, buildings were not numbered but identified by their unique names.

At the heart of the square stands the monumental Jan Hus Memorial, erected to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the religious reformer's death. Revered as a martyr by the Czechs, Hus was branded a heretic and met his fate at the stake on July 6, 1415.

Tip:
Ascend or take an elevator to the top of the clock tower for a panoramic 360-degree view of the city.