The Royal Route: A Historic Overview

The Royal Route was once the path for coronation processions. Czech monarchs traveled this road to reach St. Vitus Cathedral. It begins at the Powder Tower in the Old Town. It then winds through the city’s most historic neighborhoods. In 2026, the route remains a top attraction for visitors. It showcases centuries of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

This path is more than just a tourist trail. It represents the power and heritage of the Bohemian Kingdom. Walking this route allows you to see the city's evolution. You will pass through narrow alleys and wide marketplaces. Each stone on this path has a story to tell. Many of these sites are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.

At a glance:

• Day 1: Powder Tower, Old Town Square, and Charles Bridge.
• Day 2: Malá Strana and the climb to Prague Castle.
• Day 3: Petřín Hill and the historic Vyšehrad Fortress.

Day 1: Old Town Square and the Royal Start

Your journey begins at the majestic Powder Tower. This dark Gothic gate once marked the city entrance. From here, walk down Celetná Street toward the center. This street is lined with beautiful facades and small shops. It is the perfect introduction to our Old Town Prague walking itinerary. Take your time to admire the intricate details on the buildings.

Morning (09:00 - 12:00): Start at the Powder Tower. Walk Celetná Street to reach Old Town Square. Watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour. This clock is a masterpiece of medieval engineering. Visit the Church of Our Lady before Týn nearby. Its twin spires dominate the city skyline.

Afternoon (13:00 - 17:00): Explore the Jewish Quarter just north of the square. Then, return to the Royal Route toward Karlova Street. This narrow, winding lane leads you to the river. It is often crowded, so move slowly. Look for the Clementinum, a large complex of historic buildings.

Evening (18:00+): End your day at the Charles Bridge. The sunset views here are truly world-class. Walk across the bridge to see the 30 statues of saints. For a quiet experience, visit after 9:00 PM. Logistics tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven cobblestones.

Day 2: Lesser Town and the Royal Ascent

Cross the river to enter Malá Strana, or Lesser Town. This area feels like a movie set from another era. It is home to many embassies and hidden gardens. Our Mala Strana walking route covers this charming district. The Royal Route continues up the hill from here. You will face a steep climb, but the views are worth it.

Morning (09:00 - 13:00): Start at Malostranské náměstí. Visit the Church of St. Nicholas to see its dome. Then, begin the walk up Nerudova Street. This street is famous for its ancient house signs. These signs served as addresses before numbers were used. Look for the Three Fiddles and the Golden Cup.

Afternoon (14:00 - 17:00): Reach the gates of the castle complex. Follow our Prague Castle grounds walking map to see everything. Visit St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. Do not miss Golden Lane with its tiny colorful houses. Check the official castle site for ticket prices.

Evening (18:00+): Walk down the Old Castle Stairs for a panoramic view. Have dinner in a traditional Czech tavern in Malá Strana. Try local dishes like goulash or roast duck. Logistics tip: The castle grounds are free to enter, but buildings require a ticket.

Day 3: Beyond the Route to Vyšehrad and Petřín

Today, we step off the main Royal Route path. You will explore the green lungs of the city. Start with a trip to Petrin Hill for scenic walks and great views. You can take the funicular or walk through the orchards. This area is much quieter than the Old Town. It offers a peaceful break from the crowds.

Morning (09:00 - 12:00): Climb the Petřín Lookout Tower. It looks like a small Eiffel Tower. Walk through the Rose Garden at the top. Head toward the Strahov Monastery afterward. The library there is one of the most beautiful in the world.

Afternoon (13:00 - 16:00): Travel south to the Vyšehrad district. Use our Vyšehrad fortress walking guide to explore the ruins. This site is the mythical birthplace of the city. It features a stunning cemetery where famous Czechs are buried. The park offers amazing views of the Vltava River.

Evening (17:00+): Walk back toward the center along the riverbank. This area is lively in the summer months. You can find floating bars and local markets. Logistics tip: Use a 24-hour transit pass to move between these distant sites easily.

Practical Logistics for Your Walking Tour

Walking in Prague requires some preparation. The city is very pedestrian-friendly but has many hills. Always check our Prague walking accessibility guide if you have mobility concerns. Cobblestones can be slippery when wet. Wear shoes with good grip and cushioning. In 2026, many sites may require advanced online booking.

Public transport is excellent and very affordable. You can use trams to skip the steepest hills. Most major signs are in Czech and English. Carrying a small amount of local currency is helpful. Many small shops still prefer Czech koruna over cards. Always keep a digital map on your phone for navigation.

Optional Swaps:

• Rainy Day: Spend more time inside the National Museum or National Gallery.
• Low Budget: Skip the paid castle interiors and enjoy the free gardens.
• Kid-Friendly: Visit the Mirror Maze on Petřín Hill for a fun detour.