As the sole remaining marketplace in the Old Town, Havelská has a rich history dating back to 1232, serving as a vestige of the once expansive medieval market that once sprawled across the area now occupied by Ovocný Trh ("Fruit Market"). Originally bustling with furriers, drapers, and various craftsmen's shops, the market stretched all the way to Rytířská Street, parallel to the current Havelská Street.

Stretching about 250 meters, Havelská Street emerged in the 13th century alongside Saint Gall's (Havel's) Quarter, a significant sector of the Old Town. While most of the arcaded houses that once lined the quarter's northern flank have undergone reconstruction, some, particularly those located between Melantrichova Street and Uhelný trh, still retain their original architectural character.

Today, Havelské Market occupies a prime position on the pedestrian route connecting Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, just a brief stroll from either destination. Operating daily, it is rightfully acclaimed as one of Prague's most picturesque spots. The market offers a diverse array of fresh produce, while weekends see the addition of various tourist-oriented goods. Visitors will also find a selection of flowers, arts and crafts, leather items, wooden toys, ceramics, and other authentic mementos. While the surrounding shops may offer typical souvenirs, the market stalls offer a treasure trove of unique gifts, ranging from fresh honey to delectable sweets.

Originally constructed as a late-Gothic building in the 15th century, the House at the Minute underwent a transformation in 1564 when it was rebuilt in the high Renaissance style. Its distinctive appearance is owed to the addition of numerous black-and-white 'sgraffito' decorations on the facade in 1610. These intricate designs, whitewashed and later revealed in 1919, feature depictions of notable Habsburg rulers such as Philip II of Spain, Rudolph II, and Maxmilian II, alongside scenes from Greek mythology, references to biblical and Renaissance themes (including the allegorical representation of the three sons vying for their father's inheritance), and various alchemical symbols. Well worth a photo or two!

Over its long history, the house has served various purposes and been known by different names. Once functioning as a pharmacy, it was referred to as the "House at the White Lion", a nod to the lion sculpture still adorning its corner. However, the current moniker is believed to stem from its time as a tobacconist shop that specialized in selling small (or 'minute') pieces of tobacco.

Despite facing the threat of demolition in the early 1900s, along with neighboring structures, the house was spared and is now integrated into the complex of buildings that comprise the Old Town Hall. Situated adjacent to both the Pecoldovsky and the Cockerel, it holds historical significance as the former residence of the Kafka family; from 1889 to 1896, Franz Kafka spent his childhood years on the second floor. Today, the ground floor is occupied by an Italian restaurant, adding to the eclectic mix of uses that have shaped the house's storied past.

Despite writing in German and experiencing minimal publication during his lifetime, Franz Kafka embodies the essence of Prague. Many of his unsettling novels appear to anticipate the Communist era, and his profound influence extends to other artists in the city.

Keep an eye out for the colossal Kafka head located outside the Quadrio shopping center, crafted by David Černý. This kinetic sculpture, standing at 11 meters tall and composed of 42 rotating panels, rotates for 15 minutes at the top of each hour. Each layer operates independently, rendering it one of the most futuristic art installations across Europe.

Tip:
Arrive 10 minutes early to secure a prime spot for photography or filming!

One of Prague's most renowned modern landmarks, the Dancing House is the nickname given to the Nationale-Nederlanden building in downtown. Designed collaboratively by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry (known for his work on the Guggenheim Bilbao) and his Croatian-Czech partner Vlado Milunić, the building occupies a vacant riverfront plot that was once the site of a structure destroyed during the Bombing of Prague in 1945. Completed in 1996, its unconventional design sparked controversy upon unveiling.

Supported by Czech President Václav Havel, who had resided nearby for many years, the building was envisioned as a hub of cultural activity. Originally dubbed "Fred and Ginger" after the iconic dance duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, due to its resemblance to a pair of dancers, the structure stands in stark contrast to Prague's predominant Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau architecture. Yet, the intertwined glass and stone towers flanking the Vltava River symbolize the city's delicate balance between its rich historical heritage and its evolving modern identity.

Playfully nicknamed the "Drunk House" by locals, it now houses a hotel and a top-floor restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Even if you don’t plan to stay or dine there, admiring the building itself, whether from the near or far side of the river, is well worth it.

Tip:
Take the elevator to the Glass Bar on the top floor and enjoy any beverage to gain access to the 360-degree viewing platform.

Following the grand unveiling of the Eiffel Tower in Paris in 1889, the Czech Tourist Club felt a void in the Prague skyline. In a remarkable feat of construction, the Petřín Lookout Tower was erected for the General Land Centennial Exhibition in 1891 in just four months, serving as a homage to its French counterpart. Although standing at a modest 60 meters in height, the tower is situated on a hilltop, surpassing the Eiffel Tower in elevation. Notably, it deviates from the French original with its octagonal, rather than square, cross-section.

Initially equipped with a lift for six, powered first by gas and later electricity, the tower underwent alterations in 1953 to accommodate a television broadcasting antenna, leading to the removal of the lift. Subsequent renovations from 1999 to 2002 saw the installation of a new lift designed for elderly and disabled visitors. For others, ascending the 299 steps to the observation deck offers one of the city's most spectacular viewpoints, with separate staircases designated for ascending and descending.

Why You Should Visit:
Excellent opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque parklands and to marvel at the panoramas of Prague's skyline.

Tip:
The most convenient way to reach the tower is via an uphill funicular ride from the Petřín station nestled within the park, adjacent to the Újezd tram stop. Ensure compliance with the standard regulations for Prague's public transport—validating your ticket before boarding. Alternatively, a leisurely walk through the park from the hilltop offers a cost-effective alternative.

Despite its unassuming name, the National Technical Museum, recently refurbished and designed with children in mind, proves unexpectedly captivating. Its expansive main hall resembles a hangar, showcasing an impressive array of Czech and international motorcycles alongside a delightful assortment of vintage planes, trains, and automobiles from Czechoslovakia's industrial zenith between the wars—a time when Škoda cars and Tatra soft-top stretch limos were the epitome of prestige.

In addition to this automotive extravaganza, visitors can explore exhibits tracing the evolution of early photography and marvel at a comprehensive display highlighting Czech architectural marvels from the late 19th century to the present day. An eclectic collection of astronomical instruments once used by Johannes Kepler and Tycho Brahe adds a touch of celestial intrigue. The museum also hosts a dynamic program of rotating temporary exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to discover.

Tip:
Don't forget to peruse the well-curated gift shop for souvenirs before treating yourself to a well-deserved cup of tea at the museum café.

Resembling a bizarre, futuristic spacecraft poised for liftoff, the Žižkov TV Tower stands tall at 216 meters, claiming the title of Prague's tallest structure. Its distinctive silhouette, often landing it on various lists of the world's ugliest buildings, looms over the cityscape, easily catching the eye from afar. Originating in the 1970s as a hurried response to disrupt West German television broadcasts, the tower didn't become fully operational until the 1990s.

Ascending to the upper-floor observatory platform via a rapid elevator ride, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramic views of Prague's labyrinthine network of courtyards and residential blocks. Open until midnight, the platform also hosts informative exhibits detailing the tower's history and architectural significance. Following extensive renovations, amenities now include a bar, restaurant, café, and even a plush one-room hotel.

Upon returning to ground level, cast your gaze upward at the tower's imposing 709-foot steel legs adorned with bronze sculptures of crawling babies, a whimsical touch courtesy of local artist David Černý, known for his provocative creations.