Essential Old Town Square Attractions to See

The square is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Europe. You can spend several hours just walking around the perimeter. Each building has a story that dates back centuries. Here are the top sites you cannot miss during your 2026 visit.

• Quick Picks:
• Best Overall: Astronomical Clock
• Best View: Old Town Hall Tower
• Best for Art: Kinský Palace
• Best Free Activity: Jan Hus Memorial

1. Name: Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world. Every hour, the Twelve Apostles appear in the windows. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: On the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. Time: 15–30 minutes. Cost: Free to watch from the square. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before the hour to get a good spot. Check the official tourism site for maintenance updates.
2. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the most famous 360-degree view of the city. You can see the red rooftops and the Týn Church perfectly. Best for: Panoramic photos and city views. Where: Attached to the Old Town Hall. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Approximately 300 CZK. Getting there: Located right next to the clock. Tip: This is one of the best viewpoints in Prague with an elevator.
3. Name: Church of Our Lady before Týn Type: Iconic sight Why go: Its Gothic spires dominate the city skyline. The interior is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Baroque styles. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Eastern side of the square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Voluntary donation suggested. Getting there: Access is through a small alley between the restaurants. Tip: The church is often closed to tourists during mass, so check times locally.
4. Name: Jan Hus Memorial Type: Iconic sight Why go: This massive bronze statue honors a famous Czech reformer. It is a symbol of national pride and a central meeting point. Best for: History and relaxing. Where: Center of the square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You cannot miss it in the middle of the plaza. Tip: Use the benches around the memorial for a quick rest.
5. Name: St. Nicholas Church (Old Town) Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This Baroque masterpiece features a giant crystal chandelier. It often hosts evening classical music concerts. Best for: Music fans and Baroque art lovers. Where: North-west corner of the square. Time: 20–40 minutes. Cost: Free for prayer; fee for concerts. Getting there: Near the entrance to Pařížská street. Tip: Visit during the day to see the light hit the frescoes.
6. Name: Kinský Palace Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This Rococo palace is part of the National Gallery. It houses impressive art collections and historic interiors. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Next to the Týn Church. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Check National Gallery Prague for current prices. Getting there: Eastern side of the square. Tip: This is one of the best museums in Prague for classic art.
7. Name: House at the Minute Type: Iconic sight Why go: It features incredible sgraffito decorations from the Renaissance. Franz Kafka lived here with his family as a child. Best for: Literature fans and art lovers. Where: Near the Old Town Hall. Time: 5–10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Just a few steps from the Clock. Tip: Look closely at the walls to see detailed biblical and mythological scenes.
8. Name: Stone Bell House Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It is one of the oldest and most unique Gothic houses in the city. It now serves as a gallery for contemporary art. Best for: Finding hidden gems in Prague history. Where: Next to Kinský Palace. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Varies by exhibition. Getting there: Eastern side of the square. Tip: Check the courtyard for a quiet escape from the crowds.

Top Experiences Near the Historic Center

The area surrounding the square is just as exciting. You can walk to several other major landmarks in under ten minutes. These spots provide a deeper look at the history of the Czech Republic.

9. Name: Seasonal Markets Type: Local experience Why go: The Christmas and Easter markets are world-famous. They offer traditional crafts, hot wine, and festive food. Best for: Families and foodies. Where: The entire center of the square. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free entry; pay for food and goods. Getting there: Walkable from any part of Old Town. Tip: Try the Trdelník pastry, but look for the most authentic stalls.
10. Name: Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Type: Neighborhood Why go: It is home to the Old-New Synagogue and the Old Jewish Cemetery. The history here is moving and very well preserved. Best for: History buffs. Where: North of the square. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Combined ticket for the Jewish Museum. Getting there: A five-minute walk down Pařížská street. Tip: Book a Jewish Quarter Josefov tour to understand the complex history.
11. Name: Charles Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: This 14th-century bridge is lined with 30 statues of saints. It connects the Old Town to the Lesser Town. Best for: Walking and photography. Where: End of Karlova street. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the "Royal Route" signs from the square. Tip: Read a Charles Bridge statues guide before you go to know what you are seeing.

Planning Your Visit to Old Town Square

Visiting Old Town Square attractions requires a bit of planning. The square is the most popular spot in the city. It can get very crowded during the middle of the day. Try to visit early in the morning for the best photos. Most sites are open daily, but hours can change in winter. Always watch your belongings in crowded areas. Prague is very safe, but pickpockets operate in tourist hubs. Use public transport like the metro or trams to arrive quickly.