One of the great things about Prague is that you don’t have to splash out to get the full city experience.
The Bohemian capital is best explored on foot, with a curious mind and a good camera. In fact, you can enjoy plenty of breathtaking views if you’re up for a bit of walking – and climbing!
Let’s look at the best viewpoints in Prague.
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Where to enjoy the best views of Prague
If you want to enjoy the most stunning views of Prague, you’ll need two things: a good pair of walking shoes and a lot of patience.
You’ll be climbing quite a few hills and stairs, and you’ll likely have to wait for other people to get out of your shot. But the effort is totally worth it – especially if you’re visiting Prague in September, when the weather is just gorgeous.
Without further ado, here are the best viewpoints in Prague.
1. The Astronomical Tower
The Astronomical Tower in the Klementinum complex offers 360° views over the city at a height of 52 metres.
The tower was built in 1722 and used to serve as an observatory. The stairs to the top might wear you out, but the view is worth every bead of sweat.
The Klementinum complex also houses the Baroque Library Hall – another breathtaking sight!
Tip: You’ll need to book a guided tour of the Klementinum to visit the Astronomical Tower.
2. Vyšehrad
Resting on a hill over the Vltava River, the fort of Vyšehrad is a quiet, lesser-known area in downtown Prague.
The view from the ramparts encompasses most of the city, including the industrial quarter.
Vyšehrad is also home to the Romanesque Rotunda of St Martin, the neo-Gothic Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, and many other beautiful buildings.
From Vyšehrad, you can go for a walk along the river promenade towards the Old Town, which should take around 30 to 45 minutes at a leisurely pace.
3. Letná
The Letná Park viewpoint offers some of the most stunning views of Prague. The park sits on a hill right above the Vltava River, and overlooks both sides of the city.
In summer, Letná is a great place to hang out, meet people, and watch the sunset. Plus, it’s home to one of the best beer gardens in Prague!
4. Garden on the Ramparts
Located along the southern side of Prague Castle, the Garden on the Ramparts treats visitors to a pleasant walk with gorgeous views of Prague’s red rooftops.
Despite being a busy place in peak season, there are plenty of viewpoints along the garden for taking photos.
Tip: Lobkowicz Palace Cafe within the castle complex has a nice terrace with views over the gardens and the Lesser Town.
5. The Old Town Hall
This historic building in the Old Town Square is one of the most visited landmarks in Prague.
Every hour on the hour, scores of tourists gather in front of the hall to watch the astronomical clock come to life.
But what also makes the Old Town Hall a popular site is its panoramic views of the city from a height of 59 metres.
If you’re done climbing hills and winding stairways for the day, do not despair – the tower is equipped with a lift that takes you all the way to the top (against a fee!)
6. The Cupola of the National Museum
The National Museum on Wenceslas Square harbours a wealth of artefacts from Prague’s rich and colourful past. The building itself is a work of art, with sweeping halls and a beautiful green dome.
When you purchase a ticket, you’ll get access to the cupola, where you can enjoy amazing views of the Prague skyline.
You can even see Prague Castle from here!
7. Charles Bridge
Of course, walking across Charles Bridge is a must when visiting Prague.
This medieval bridge is famous for its endurance. Its stone arches have stood the test of the time, despite the constant stream of people in the summer months.
From the bridge, you can admire the ornate buildings that line the river. If you’re walking towards the Lesser Town, you’ll get a beautiful view of Prague Castle towering over a sea of red roofs.
8. Park Cihelna
Park Cihelna in the Lesser Town has one of the best viewpoints in Prague.
Located on the banks of the Vltava, this quiet little spot offers a great view of Charles Bridge and the colorful buildings on the other side of the river.
This area is usually teeming with ducks and swans. You may also encounter a couple of coypus – big friendly rodents that inhabit the riverbank.
9. Křižovnické Square
As you come off Charles Bridge in the Old Town, you’ll find a little square overlooking the river. This is a popular viewpoint, so you may need to jostle your way to the front.
If you come here in the evening, you’ll enjoy a view of the sun setting behind the castle. And if you’re feeling a tad romantic, you can leave a love lock on the fence!
10. Jirásek Bridge
While it may not be as popular as Charles Bridge, this bridge in the New Town is another great spot for taking photos of Prague.
Jirásek Bridge enables you to appreciate the full width of the Vltava and the stretch of ornate buildings on either side of the river.
From here, you’ll also a good view of the iconic Dancing House.
11. Old Castle Stairs
Climbing up the steps to the castle complex is a little exhausting, especially in summer, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Old Town.
This spot also has one of the best night views in Prague. From the top of the steps, you can see some of the city’s landmarks lit up, their spires piercing a black sky.
The lamps lining the wall cast a gentle glow over the cobbled steps. It’s a very romantic place, and the perfect way to wrap up the day!
12. Petrin Hill
Petrin is another hill overlooking Prague, crowned with a 19th-century structure that resembles the Eiffel Tower.
This forested hill is laced with a network of paths that take you to different landmarks, including the Strahov Monastery. You can enjoy stunning views of Prague along the way – and possibly spot a few squirrels!
Tip: If you don’t fancy walking up the hill, you can ride the funicular to the top.
13. Strahov Garden
A lesser-known viewpoint in Prague, Strahov Garden is a quiet green area on the fringes of Petrin Hill.
Founded in the Middle Ages, the garden stretches across the slope below Strahov Monastery and offers scenic views of the city skyline.
If you’re visiting Strahov Monastery, you can hike through garden on your way back.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best view of Prague Castle?
You can get the best view of Prague Castle from Charles Bridge.
You can also get some great shots of the castle from Křižovnické Square, on the east end of Charles Bridge.
What should you not miss in Prague?
The Astronomical Clock!
Also, I highly recommend taking a tour of the Klementinum to see the Baroque Library, and enjoy the views of the city from the Astronomical Tower.
What is the most beautiful part of Prague?
The Lesser Town! It’s a lot quieter than the Old Town, and you can explore the picturesque streets without having to weave your way through throngs of tourists.
A map of the best viewpoints in Prague
To help you find the best viewpoints in Prague more easily, I’ve put together a map with markers (look for the pink camera icons!).
