What to do in Karlstejn

The Old Town Square (Staroměstské Náměstí) was once the thriving city center of Prague. Today it remains just as busy, and is the location of many must-see Prague attractions. The square is an excellent starting point for your Prague visit as it allows you to get a sense of the city’s rich history, purchase maps and information guides and grab a coffee at one of the square’s outdoor dining establishments.

Prague Castle (Pražský Hrad) is the city’s most iconic attraction. It’s one of the world’s largest castles and a World Heritage Site. The castle has over 1,100 years of history and architecture within its walls and was home to Bohemian kings, Roman emperors and Czechoslovakian presidents. Today the castle is still active as the seat of the Czech President.

Mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall is one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world: Pražský Orloj, the Astronomical Clock. Established in 1410, it has often stopped working and its mechanism has been repaired many times. Luckily it was spared from destruction and has even been upgraded with symbolic figures, so it is still ticking away the minutes today. Better still, it now comes to life every hour!

The historic Charles Bridge (Karlův Most), was the only proper crossing between east and west Prague for centuries. The bridge has been a busy thoroughfare since it was built. Vehicles were admitted to the bridge at the beginning of the 20th century but have since been banned. Today the Charles Bridge is a popular pedestrian bridge that offers views over the Vltava River and old city center.

In the heart of Prague’s New Town lies a 2,460 foot (750 meter) long boulevard, Wenceslas Square (Václavské Náměstí). Visit this significant spot for locals and enjoy its modern-day facilities. The square marks the start of Prague’s main shopping district while at night it is one of the city’s most lively precincts.

In a city with a rich history of architecture, there is no building more controversial than the iconic Dancing House (Tančící Dům), built between 1992 and 1996. The curved, B-shaped building, made largely of glass, stands out from the old buildings surrounding it. Visit Dancing House to see a unique feat of architecture or dine in its popular restaurant.

Walk in the footsteps of Czech kings at the fairytale-like Karlštejn Castle (Hrad Karlštejn). Glimpse inside lavishly decorated chapels, rooms and palaces. Admire displays of antique art and views from a 197-foot-tall (60-meter) tower. Karlštejn Castle commands a magnificent setting on a hilltop overlooking the Berounka River and rolling green countryside.