Overview
Prague is undeniably one of the most picturesque cities in the world, distinguished by its enchanting Baroque architecture and distinctive red roofs. Fortunately, the city offers numerous vantage points that provide a bird’s-eye view of the skyline, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its unique charm. This blog serves as the ultimate guide for those seeking the best viewpoints in Prague.
1. Klementinum
Klementinum, a historic architectural marvel in Prague, is now the National Library and stands as one of the city’s most impressive landmarks, in my opinion. Housing one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, it offers an aesthetic feast for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Beyond its literary treasures, the rooftop of Klementinum boasts a panoramic 360-degree view of the city skyline, making it an ideal first stop on your Prague visit.
You can only explore the building by guided tour, however, and there is limited space for the English language tour. So, I suggest booking the tour early in the morning to make sure not miss out on this extraordinary experience.
2. Old Town Bridge Tower
The Old Town Bridge Tower is one of the most beautiful Gothic gateways in the world. This historical structure provides an elevated perspective of the Charles Bridge that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. What sets this vantage point apart is the remarkable contrast: while the Charles Bridge teems with thousands of visitors, the Old Town Bridge Tower remains a hidden gem with comparatively few tourists. This unique characteristic ensures an intimate and uninterrupted encounter with one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a quieter but equally enchanting view of the city.
The entrance of the tower is somewhat hidden and easy to overlook. Look for a small door adorned with signs saying “Old Town Bridge Tower” on the left side as you approach the entrance of the bridge from old town.
3. Prague Castle
Prague Castle sits atop a hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Ascending from the west side, you’ll encounter a Starbucks with a rooftop terrace right at the castle’s entrance, providing an unparalleled vista of the city. It’s a delightful spot to savor a cup of coffee while immersing yourself in the charming skyline, marked by unique red roofs. Continuing beyond the cathedral and reaching the castle walls, a paradisiacal panorama of the city unfolds before you.
4. Gardens Below Prague Castle
Nestled on a sloped hillside just below the Castle, this garden is a masterpiece of terraced design, and it’s one of my favorite spots in Prague. The views of the city from the property are unparalleled. The best part? It’s blissfully serene, with very few tourists in sight. I highly recommend a visit, just be prepared to pay an entrance fee (~6 euro) and remember they only accept card payments, no cash. If you are interested in beautiful gardens in Prague, you may also want to read my other blog.
5. Lesser Town Bridge Tower
The Lesser Town Bridge Towers are two stylistically different Prague towers. Each tower has a different height and they are connected by a gate. Together it forms the entrance from Charles Bridge to Lesser Town and Mostecka Street.
You can climb up the Late Gothic tower where you’re treated to an elevated perspective of Charles Bridge from its western side. This unique viewpoint also offers an astounding view of the Vltava River, seamlessly blending with the historical charm of Lesser Town.
There is an entrance fee of about 8 euro to climb the tower.
6. St Nicholas Bell Tower
Standing alongside the Church of St. Nicholas, this Baroque bell tower also served as a fire watch tower.
Soaring to a height of 65 meters, it provides a somewhat similar yet uniquely elevated view compared to the Lesser Town Bridge Tower.
In the tower, you can also get acquainted with the demanding life of the towermen. Then, after conquering 215 steps, you are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Lesser Town and the bustling square below.
7. Swan Feeding Spot by Vltava River
As you cross the Charles Bridge from Old Town, veer to the right, and a hidden gem awaits: the captivating swan feeding spot. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Charles Bridge, the historic Old Town skyline, and the gentle flow of the Vltava River, this spot transforms into the epitome of romance. The graceful swans gracefully glide across the water, adding an extra touch of charm to an already picturesque scene. It’s not just a feeding spot; it’s a moment suspended in time, where the beauty of Prague converges into a perfect blend of history, nature, and romance.
