National Theatre, Česko - Things to Do in National Theatre

Things to Do in National Theatre

National Theatre, Česko - Complete Travel Guide

Prague, the enchanting capital of Czechia (Czech Republic), is a city where fairy-tale architecture meets vibrant cultural life, with the magnificent National Theatre standing as one of its crown jewels. This golden city of a hundred spires captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval Old Town, dramatic Gothic churches, baroque palaces, and the iconic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases over 1,000 years of architectural evolution from Romanesque to Art Nouveau styles. Beyond its stunning visual appeal, Prague pulses with artistic energy, world-class museums, legendary beer culture, and a thriving performing arts scene centered around venues like the National Theatre. The city seamlessly blends its rich imperial past as the seat of the Holy Roman Empire with modern European sophistication, offering visitors everything from classical concerts in ornate halls to cutting-edge galleries and bustling nightlife in atmospheric cellar bars.

Top Things to Do in National Theatre

Attend a Performance at National Theatre

Experience world-class opera, ballet, or drama at this stunning Neo-Renaissance theatre, considered the spiritual heart of Czech culture. The ornate interior features beautiful frescoes, crystal chandeliers, and plush red velvet seating that creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Book tickets well in advance for popular productions, especially during the festival season.

Booking Tip: Tickets range from 200-2000 CZK ($8-80) depending on seating and production. Book online 2-3 months ahead for popular shows, or try for same-day tickets at the box office. Dress code is smart casual to formal.

Explore Prague Castle Complex

Discover one of the world's largest castle complexes, featuring St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and charming Golden Lane. This thousand-year-old fortress offers stunning city views and houses the Czech Crown Jewels. Allow a full day to properly explore the various courtyards, gardens, and historical exhibitions.

Booking Tip: Entry tickets cost 250-370 CZK ($10-15) for different circuit options. Buy online to skip queues, especially in summer. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer better lighting for photos and smaller crowds.

Stroll Across Charles Bridge

Walk the iconic 14th-century stone bridge adorned with 30 baroque statues and bustling with street artists, musicians, and vendors. This pedestrian-only bridge connects Old Town with Lesser Town and offers postcard-perfect views of the castle and river. The bridge is particularly magical at sunrise and sunset when the light illuminates the statues and surrounding architecture.

Booking Tip: Free to walk across, but arrive early morning (before 8 AM) or evening after 7 PM to avoid crowds. Street performers and artists typically charge 50-200 CZK for photos or portraits.

Discover Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock

Marvel at the medieval Astronomical Clock's hourly show and explore the colorful baroque buildings surrounding this historic square. The Gothic towers of Týn Church and St. Nicholas Church create a stunning backdrop for outdoor cafes and seasonal markets. Climb the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the red-tiled rooftops.

Booking Tip: Clock viewing is free, but tower access costs 250 CZK ($10). Visit during hourly shows (9 AM-11 PM) for the moving figures display. Christmas and Easter markets add special atmosphere but increase crowds.

Experience Prague's Beer Culture

Immerse yourself in the birthplace of pilsner beer with visits to traditional beer halls, modern craft breweries, and historic pubs. Sample world-famous Czech lagers like Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar while enjoying hearty local cuisine. Many venues offer brewery tours explaining the brewing process and Czech beer history.

Booking Tip: Beer costs 30-80 CZK ($1-3) per half-liter in pubs, more in tourist areas. Join organized beer tours (800-1500 CZK) for expert guidance and multiple venue visits. Traditional beer halls like U Fleků offer authentic atmosphere.

Getting There

Prague is easily accessible via Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), located 17km west of the city center, with direct flights from major European and international destinations. The Airport Express bus (60 CZK) connects to the main train station in 35 minutes, while taxis cost around 600-800 CZK. Prague is also well-connected by train to major European cities including Vienna (4 hours), Berlin (4.5 hours), and Budapest (7 hours), with the main railway station (Hlavní nádraží) located in New Town near Wenceslas Square.

Getting Around

Prague's excellent public transportation system includes metros, trams, and buses operating from 5 AM to midnight, with night services available. A 24-hour transport pass costs 120 CZK and covers all zones within the city. The historic center is very walkable, and many major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available, while river cruises offer a scenic alternative for sightseeing along the Vltava.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Staré Město)
Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
New Town (Nové Město)
Vinohrady
Karlín
Smíchov

Food & Dining

Prague's culinary scene combines traditional Czech hearty fare with innovative modern cuisine and international options. Traditional dishes like goulash, schnitzel, and roasted duck are best enjoyed in historic beer halls and traditional restaurants, while the city's growing fine dining scene offers creative interpretations of local ingredients. The areas around Wenceslas Square and Vinohrady neighborhood offer the best concentration of quality restaurants, from casual bistros to Michelin-recommended establishments, with meals ranging from budget-friendly pub food (200-400 CZK) to upscale dining experiences (1000+ CZK per person).

Top-Rated Restaurants in Prague

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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‪La Piccola Perla‬

4.5 /5
(5773 reviews) 2
bar

Indian Jewel

4.6 /5
(5040 reviews) 2

Restaurant Mlýnec

4.7 /5
(4691 reviews)

GamberoRosso

4.6 /5
(4619 reviews) 2

Fly Vista

4.8 /5
(3855 reviews)
bar

San Carlo Dittrichova

4.6 /5
(3704 reviews) 2
meal_delivery

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Prague is during late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) when weather is mild, crowds are manageable, and the city's gardens and parks are at their most beautiful. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather and long daylight hours but also peak tourist crowds and higher prices. Winter offers a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and fewer crowds, though weather can be cold and daylight hours are limited. The National Theatre season runs from September to June, making fall through spring ideal for cultural performances.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Prague Castle ticket online in advance and enter through the less crowded northern gate near the Royal Garden to avoid the main entrance queues.
Many museums and attractions offer free admission on the first Monday of each month, but expect larger crowds on these days.
Avoid restaurants directly on tourist squares like Old Town Square - walk one block away for better prices and more authentic experiences favored by locals.

Explore Activities in National Theatre