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New Town, Česko - Things to Do in New Town

Things to Do in New Town

New Town, Česko - Complete Travel Guide

New Town (Nové Město) in Prague is a vibrant district that forms the heart of modern Czech capital, established by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1348. Despite its name, this historic quarter seamlessly blends medieval architecture with Art Nouveau masterpieces, bustling shopping streets, and lively nightlife. The area encompasses iconic landmarks like Wenceslas Square, the National Theatre, and the famous Dancing House, making it a perfect base for exploring Prague's rich cultural heritage. As Prague's commercial and cultural center, New Town offers visitors an authentic taste of contemporary Czech life while maintaining its historical charm. The district features wide boulevards, beautiful parks, traditional beer halls, and some of the city's best museums and galleries. From luxury shopping on Na Příkopě to enjoying classical performances at the State Opera, New Town provides endless opportunities for cultural immersion and urban exploration.

Top Things to Do in New Town

Explore Wenceslas Square and National Museum

Walk through Prague's most famous square, a bustling boulevard lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The National Museum at the top of the square houses extensive collections of natural history, archaeology, and cultural artifacts that tell the story of Czech civilization.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs around 250 CZK for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing a Prague Castle + Museums combo ticket for better value.

Attend a Performance at National Theatre

Experience world-class opera, ballet, or drama at this stunning Neo-Renaissance building, considered the symbol of Czech national identity. The theatre's golden interior and exceptional acoustics make every performance memorable, whether you choose classical Czech works or international productions.

Booking Tip: Tickets range from 200-2000 CZK depending on seating and performance. Book online in advance for popular shows, and consider dress circle seats for the best view-to-price ratio. Student discounts available with ID.

Visit the Dancing House and Riverfront

Marvel at this iconic deconstructivist building designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, nicknamed 'Fred and Ginger' for its dancing-like appearance. The building features a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River, plus a gallery showcasing contemporary art.

Booking Tip: Gallery entry is around 150 CZK, while the rooftop restaurant requires reservations and has a smart casual dress code. Visit during golden hour for the best photography opportunities and river views.

Stroll Through Franciscan Garden

Escape the urban bustle in this hidden oasis behind Wenceslas Square, featuring beautiful rose gardens, medicinal herb plots, and peaceful walking paths. This former monastery garden offers a tranquil retreat with benches, fountains, and seasonal flower displays that change throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Entry is completely free and the garden is open daily from dawn to dusk. Best visited in late spring through early fall when flowers are in bloom. Perfect for a picnic lunch from nearby food vendors.

Experience Traditional Czech Beer Culture

Immerse yourself in authentic Czech pub culture at historic beer halls like U Fleků (brewing since 1499) or modern craft breweries. Learn about Czech brewing traditions while sampling world-renowned Pilsner and darker lagers, often accompanied by traditional hearty Czech cuisine like goulash and schnitzel.

Booking Tip: Most traditional pubs don't take reservations - arrive early evening for best seating. Beer costs 40-80 CZK per half-liter, and tipping 10% is customary. Look for pubs with locals rather than tourist-heavy establishments for authentic experiences.

Getting There

New Town is easily accessible from Václav Havel Airport Prague via Airport Express bus (60 CZK) to Hlavní nádraží (Main Railway Station), followed by a short metro or tram ride. The district is well-connected by Prague's efficient public transportation system, with multiple metro stations (Muzeum, Můstek, Náměstí Míru) and tram lines running through the area. If arriving by train from other European cities, Praha hlavní nádraží station is located right in New Town, making it extremely convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

New Town is highly walkable with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other, though Prague's excellent public transportation system makes longer journeys effortless. Purchase a Prague Public Transport pass (32 CZK for 30 minutes, 110 CZK for 24 hours) to use metros, trams, and buses throughout the city. Trams are particularly scenic and convenient for reaching riverfront attractions, while the metro system efficiently connects New Town to other districts. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, though often unnecessary given the comprehensive public transport network.

Where to Stay

Wenceslas Square area
Vinohrady district
Near National Theatre
Karlovo náměstí vicinity
IP Pavlova neighborhood
Náměstí Míru area

Food & Dining

New Town offers an exceptional culinary scene ranging from traditional Czech taverns serving hearty goulash and roast pork to innovative modern restaurants and international cuisine. The area around Wenceslas Square features everything from street food vendors and casual bistros to upscale dining establishments with Michelin recognition. Don't miss trying authentic Czech specialties like svíčková (beef sirloin with cream sauce), accompanied by world-famous Czech beer. The Vinohrady section of New Town is particularly known for its trendy cafes, wine bars, and farm-to-table restaurants popular with locals and discerning visitors alike.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Prague

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

View all food guides →

‪La Piccola Perla‬

4.5 /5
(5773 reviews) 2
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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

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit New Town is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when weather is pleasant, crowds are manageable, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summer months (July-August) offer the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for evening strolls and outdoor dining, though this is peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds. Winter visits (December-February) provide a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and fewer tourists, though weather can be cold and some outdoor attractions may have limited hours.

Insider Tips

Many museums and attractions offer free entry on the first Monday of each month - plan accordingly to save money
Prague's tram system runs 24/7 on weekends, making late-night exploration easy and affordable
Look for 'hospoda' signs rather than tourist-oriented 'restaurant' signs for authentic Czech pub experiences with better prices and local atmosphere

Explore Activities in New Town