Top Old Town Square Sights to See in 2026

The Old Town Square is the most famous space in the Czech Republic. It features a mix of architectural styles. You can see Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings side by side. The square has hosted markets, executions, and celebrations for centuries. Today, it remains the primary gathering spot for tourists. Here are the most essential sights to check off your list.

• Best overall: Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock
• Best for history: Jan Hus Memorial
• Best for art: Kinský Palace
• Best free sight: Church of Our Lady before Týn

1. Name: Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: This is the most iconic landmark in Prague. Every hour, the 15th-century clock performs a mechanical show. Figures of the Apostles move past the windows. You can also climb the tower for the best views of the square. Best for: Everyone and first-time visitors. Where: Western side of the square. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free to watch; fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Arrive 15 minutes before the hour to get a good spot.
2. Name: Church of Our Lady before Týn Type: Sight Why go: Its twin Gothic spires dominate the skyline. The interior is a stunning mix of Gothic and Baroque art. It is one of the most photographed old town square sights. The entrance is hidden behind the front row of houses. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Eastern side of the square. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Voluntary donation suggested. Getting there: Located directly on the square. Tip: Check the opening hours as they are limited for tourists.
3. Name: St. Nicholas Church (Old Town) Type: Sight Why go: This is a masterpiece of High Baroque architecture. The interior features a massive crystal chandelier. It often hosts classical music concerts in the evenings. The white facade stands out against the colorful houses. Best for: Music fans and Baroque enthusiasts. Where: Northwest corner of the square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free for prayer; fee for concerts. Getting there: Walkable from any part of the center. Tip: Visit during the day to see the sunlight hit the frescoes.
4. Name: Jan Hus Memorial Type: Sight Why go: This massive bronze monument honors a Czech national hero. It was unveiled in 1915 to mark 500 years since his death. It represents the strength of the Czech people. It is a popular meeting point for locals. Best for: History buffs. Where: Center of the square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is impossible to miss in the center. Tip: Sit on the base of the monument to people-watch.
5. Name: Kinský Palace Type: Museum Why go: This Rococo palace is part of the National Gallery Prague. It has a beautiful pink and white facade. Inside, you can find rotating art exhibitions. It was also where Franz Kafka attended secondary school. Best for: Art and literature lovers. Where: Next to Týn Church. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Paid entry for exhibitions. Getting there: Located on the eastern edge. Tip: Visit the museum shop for unique art books.
6. Name: Stone Bell House Type: Museum/Sight Why go: This is one of the oldest buildings in the square. It dates back to the 14th century. It was once a royal residence for the Luxembourg dynasty. Today, it hosts modern art exhibitions. Best for: Medieval history fans. Where: Right next to Kinský Palace. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid entry for exhibitions. Getting there: Walk across the square. Tip: Look for the stone bell on the corner of the building.
7. Name: The Marian Column Type: Sight Why go: This is a modern replica of a 17th-century monument. The original was torn down in 1918. It was re-erected in 2020 after years of debate. It adds a traditional focal point back to the square. Best for: Photography. Where: Near the Jan Hus Memorial. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central square location. Tip: Look at the shadow it casts to find the old Prague Meridian.
8. Name: House at the Minute Type: Sight Why go: This building features incredible sgraffito decorations. The black and white drawings show biblical and mythological scenes. Franz Kafka lived here as a child. It is a perfect example of Renaissance decoration. Best for: Art and history fans. Where: Near the Old Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Next to the Clock tower. Tip: Look closely at the corners to see the detailed figures.
9. Name: Old Town Square Markets Type: Experience Why go: The square hosts the best Christmas and Easter markets in Europe. You can try local food like Trdelník. The atmosphere is festive with lights and music. It is a tradition that dates back centuries. Best for: Families and foodies. Where: Spread across the entire square. Time: 1–3 hours. Cost: Free entry; pay for food/gifts. Getting there: Walk from any central point. Tip: Visit after dark to see the holiday lights.

Must-See Attractions Near the Square

While the square itself is amazing, the surrounding streets hold more treasures. You only need to walk a few minutes to find world-class museums. These spots are often included in lists of top attractions in Prague. Exploring these adds depth to your visit. They help you understand the complex history of the city.

1. Name: Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Type: Sight Why go: This area is just a few steps from the square. It contains the oldest active synagogue in Europe. You can see the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery. It is a vital part of Jewish Quarter Prague attractions. Best for: History and culture seekers. Where: 5 minutes north of the square. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Paid entry for the museum circuit. Getting there: Walk down Pařížská street. Tip: Buy a combined ticket to see all the synagogues.
2. Name: The Clementinum Type: Sight Why go: This massive complex was once a Jesuit college. It houses one of the most beautiful baroque libraries in the world. You can also visit the Astronomical Tower for panoramic views. It is a quiet escape from the square's noise. Best for: Book lovers and photographers. Where: Near the entrance to Charles Bridge. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid guided tours only. Getting there: 5-minute walk west from the square. Tip: Tours sell out, so book online in advance.
3. Name: Charles Bridge Type: Sight Why go: This is the most famous bridge in the city. It connects the Old Town to the Lesser Town. You can walk past 30 historic statues. It is one of the essential Charles Bridge statues and towers to see. Best for: Everyone. Where: 10-minute walk from the square. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow Karlova street from the square. Tip: Go at sunrise to avoid the massive crowds.

Planning Your Visit to the Historic Center

Visiting the old town square sights requires some planning. The area gets very crowded between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. If you want quiet photos, arrive at dawn. The light hitting the Týn Church at sunrise is spectacular. Most sights are within walking distance of each other.

Be aware of your surroundings in the square. It is a safe area, but pickpockets operate in large crowds. Use official exchange offices or ATMs at banks. Avoid the exchange booths directly on the square as they have poor rates. You can find more advice on the official Prague tourism portal.

Public transport is excellent in Prague. The Staroměstská metro station (Line A) is the closest stop. You can also take tram 17 or 18 to the nearby riverbank. Walking is still the best way to see the hidden details. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven.

If you have more time, consider exploring other areas. You can visit the Wenceslas Square and National Museum area. It is only a ten-minute walk away. This will give you a view of Prague's more modern history. Always keep a map or a digital guide handy.