Much of the tourism action takes place in the center of town called Praha 1. This district encompasses Mala Strana (Lesser Town), Staré Mesto (Old Town), Hradcany Hill, Josefov (the Jewish quarter), Nove Mesto (New Town), and Wenceslas Square.

This walkable district, perfect for lovers, spans both sides of the Vltava River and is home to the lion’s share of the city’s attractions.

Charles Bridge

A magnet for lovers both night and day, the Charles Bridge connects Staré Mesto (Old Town) with Little Quarter (Mala Straana), home of Prague Castle. The pedestrian-only bridge is an attraction in itself, lined with statues as well as street vendors selling everything from inexpensive jewelry to caricatures.

At the Charles Bridge, you'll also find cruises along the Vltava River, a fairly inexpensive way to take a relaxing tour and get a good view of the bridges.

Prague Castle

The bridge leads to Prague Castle, the seat of Czech government for over a millennium. Today many buildings are open to the public; you'll need to buy an admission ticket to visit many. Don't look for fairytale spires in this castle; this is a low-lying collection of historic buildings. When you purchase your ticket, you'll have your choice of three routes depending on your budget and time allowance.

Various stops include the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, Basilica of St. George, the Powder Tower, and others. One of the most unique sites is the Golden Lane where small buildings once housed goldsmiths (and, in #22, even Franz Kafka). (See our photo gallery for photos.)

We found a small restaurant on Golden Lane; although it has only a few indoor and outdoor tables, it makes a great place to stop and take a break during your self-guided touring.

Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock

After a few hours at the castle, most travelers head back to Old Town and its historic square, lined with outdoor cafes and home to the Astronomical Clock. Crowds fill the square on the hour to watch the 15th century clock with its many celestial symbols and twelve apostles to ring in the hour.

Also in the square, the Mucha Museum is dedicated to the work of Alfons Mucha, considered the founder of the Art Nouveau movement.

Lennon Wall

Located on Kampa Island (a small island near the end of the Charles Bridge), this wall became covered with grafitti when John Lennon was murdered and, although officials tried to paint over, the grafitti continued to reappear. Today the wall is somewhat of a tourist attraction. The island itself is well worth a visit and just a stairstep walk down from the bridge. Here you'll find quiet pubs and parks, a peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the always busy pedestrian bridge.

Wenceslas Square

From Old Town, it’s a short walk to New Town, best known as the home of Wenceslas Square which, to be honest, we didn't find nearly as romantic as its Old Town equivalent.