Quick Guide to Old Town Square Sights

Before diving into the full list, here are some quick picks for your visit. These highlights help you prioritize based on your interests. The square is often crowded, so knowing where to go first is helpful.

• Best Overall: Prague Astronomical Clock
• Best Viewpoint: Old Town Hall Tower
• Best Free Sight: Jan Hus Memorial
• Best for Art Lovers: Kinský Palace

If you plan to visit many locations, consider Prague city passes for attractions. These can save you money on entry fees. Most sights are within walking distance of each other. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones are uneven. Early mornings are the best time for quiet photos.

12 Essential Old Town Square Sights in Prague

The square serves as the city's main public space. It has hosted markets, executions, and celebrations for centuries. Today, it remains the most vibrant part of the capital. Here are the top 12 sights you cannot miss.

1. Name: Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world. Every hour, figures of the Apostles move in a small show. Best for: Everyone Where: South wall of the Old Town Hall Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free to watch from outside Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before the hour to get a good spot.
2. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This tower offers the most iconic panoramic view of the square. It is one of the best viewpoints in Prague. Best for: Photographers Where: South side of the square Time: 45 minutes Cost: Paid entry Getting there: Entrance is through the tourist office Tip: You can take an elevator to the top if you do not want to walk.
3. Name: Church of Our Lady before Týn Type: Iconic church Why go: Its twin Gothic spires dominate the skyline. It is one of the most beautiful churches in Prague. Best for: History buffs Where: East side of the square Time: 20 minutes Cost: Voluntary donation Getting there: Entry is through a narrow passage behind the front buildings Tip: Check the opening hours as it closes frequently for services.
4. Name: St. Nicholas Church (Old Town) Type: Church Why go: This is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The interior features a massive crystal chandelier and impressive frescoes. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Northwest corner of the square Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free (concerts require tickets) Getting there: Near the corner of Pařížská street Tip: Visit in the afternoon for the best natural light inside.
5. Name: Jan Hus Memorial Type: Monument Why go: This massive bronze statue honors a famous Czech reformer. It is a symbol of national pride and a great meeting point. Best for: History lovers Where: Center of the square Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located in the middle of the open area Tip: Read the inscriptions to understand the local history.
6. Name: Kinský Palace Type: Museum Why go: This pink and white Rococo palace is stunning. It houses art collections from the National Gallery Prague. Best for: Art enthusiasts Where: East side, next to the Týn Church Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Paid entry Getting there: Easily visible by its ornate facade Tip: The gift shop has unique art-related souvenirs.
7. Name: House at the Minute Type: Architecture Why go: This building is famous for its black and white sgraffito decorations. Franz Kafka lived here as a child. Best for: Literature fans Where: Right next to the Old Town Hall Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free (exterior) Getting there: Walk past the Astronomical Clock Tip: Look closely at the wall to see mythological scenes.
8. Name: Stone Bell House Type: Art gallery Why go: This is one of the oldest Gothic houses in the city. It often hosts high-quality temporary art exhibitions. Best for: Culture seekers Where: Next to Kinský Palace Time: 1 hour Cost: Paid (for exhibitions) Getting there: Look for the stone bell on the corner Tip: The basement often holds interesting medieval artifacts.
9. Name: Pařížská Street Type: Neighborhood/Experience Why go: This is the most expensive street in Prague. It leads directly from the square and is lined with luxury boutiques. Best for: Window shopping Where: North side of the square Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to walk Getting there: Starts between St. Nicholas Church and Kinský Palace Tip: Look up to see the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.
10. Name: Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Type: Neighborhood Why go: Just steps away from the square, this area holds deep history. It features one of the most significant Jewish Quarter Prague landmarks. Best for: History and culture Where: 2-minute walk north of the square Time: 2-4 hours Cost: Paid for synagogues/cemetery Getting there: Walk down Pařížská or Maiselova streets Tip: Buy a combined ticket for all the major Jewish sites.
11. Name: Charles Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: This historic bridge is a short walk from the square. It offers incredible views and is one of the Charles Bridge and towers experiences you must have. Best for: Everyone Where: 5-minute walk west via Karlova street Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the signs for "Karlův most" Tip: Visit at sunrise to avoid the massive crowds.
12. Name: Clementinum Type: Historic site Why go: This massive complex is home to one of the world's most beautiful libraries. It is often listed among the best museums in Prague for its history. Best for: Book lovers Where: Near the end of Karlova street Time: 1 hour Cost: Paid guided tour Getting there: Walk toward the river from the square Tip: You must join a guided tour to see the Baroque Library.

Planning Your Visit to the Historic Center

Visiting the Old Town Square requires some planning to avoid the worst crowds. Most tourists arrive between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. If you want a peaceful experience, visit before 8:00 AM. You will have the square almost to yourself. This is the perfect time for photography. You can find more details on the Prague official tourism portal.

Food and drinks in the square are very expensive. Many cafes charge high prices for the view. For a better deal, walk two or three streets away. You will find local pubs with authentic Czech food. Always check the menu prices before sitting down. Many restaurants add a service charge automatically.

The square is the perfect starting point for other walks. You can easily reach the river or the shopping districts. If you have more time, explore the best attractions in Prague beyond the center. Public transport in the city is excellent. Trams and the metro are cheap and reliable. Use the official apps to check schedules.