Prague Old Town Travel Guide: Step Back in Time in Staré Město

🏰🕰️ Cobbled streets, Gothic spires, and centuries of stories await Prague’s Old Town is a beautifully preserved medieval quarter where history whispers from every corner. From astronomical wonders to ancient taverns, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. 1. What is Prague Old Town? Staré Město is the historic heart of Prague, first mentioned in the 9th century and officially established as a town in the 13th. It’s home to some of the city's most iconic architecture, squares, churches, and cultural landmarks. 2. Must-See Sights ✨ Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) Why go: The bustling heart of the city, surrounded by pastel Gothic and Baroque buildings Don't miss: Street musicians, horse-drawn carriages, and panoramic views from the Old Town Hall Tower 🕰️ Astronomical Clock (Orloj) Located on the Old Town Hall Every hour, statues of the Apostles appear and Death rings his bell — a medieval masterpiece from 1410 ⛪ Church of Our Lady before Týn The twin Gothic spires dominate the skyline Explore the elaborate altarpiece and Gothic interiors 🌉 Charles Bridge (Karlův most) Built in 1357, it connects the Old Town to the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) Lined with 30 statues, it's magical at sunrise or sunset 📜 Klementinum A baroque complex housing the National Library and an astonishing Mirror Chapel Climb the Astronomical Tower for stunning city views 3. Hidden Gems in the Old Town 🕍 The House at the Stone Bell A Gothic palace turned gallery with haunting medieval vibes 📚 The Old-New Synagogue & Jewish Quarter (Josefov) One of Europe’s oldest synagogues (1270) Nearby: the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery 🍺 U Zlatého Tygra A no-frills Czech pub loved by locals (and Bill Clinton!) 🖼️ Illusion Art Museum Prague Quirky, interactive art set in a historic building just off the square 4. Food & Drink in the Old Town 🍽️ Traditional Czech Cuisine Lokál Dlouhááá – Classic Czech fare in a modern beer hall Mincovna – Refined local dishes in an upscale setting by the square U Modré Kachničky – Romantic and historic with Bohemian game dishes ☕ Café Culture Café Slavia – Once a hub for Czech artists and dissidents Café Louvre – Elegant café from 1902, once frequented by Kafka and Einstein 🍺 Local Beer & Breweries Try a Pilsner or dark Kozel Many restaurants serve tank beer (unpasteurized and extra fresh) 5. Best Time to Visit 🌸 Spring (April–May): Mild weather, fewer crowds ☀️ Summer (June–August): Festive but busy – arrive early at top sights 🍂 Autumn (September–October): Golden hues and ideal temperatures ❄️ Winter (December): Magical Christmas markets and snow-dusted rooftops 6. Tips for Visitors Wear comfy shoes – the cobblestones are charming but tough on feet Currency: Czech koruna (CZK); some places don’t accept euros Tipping: Around 10% in restaurants is appreciated Avoid peak hours (10am–2pm) at major sights 7. Where to Stay in the Old Town Luxury: Hotel Paris Prague – Art Nouveau beauty with spa The Grand