Things to Do in New Town

New Town (Nové Město) stretches across central Prague as the city's bustling commercial heart, created by Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century as an ambitious urban expansion. Despite its name, this district actually predates many European city centers, though it feels decidedly more modern than Prague's Old Town with its wider boulevards and grander squares. The area pulses with energy around Wenceslas Square and the shopping corridors, while quieter residential streets reveal Art Nouveau facades and hidden courtyards that locals still call home. What makes New Town particularly compelling is how it bridges Prague's medieval past with its contemporary life. You'll find yourself moving between Gothic churches and sleek shopping centers, from traditional beer halls serving svíčková to trendy wine bars that wouldn't look out of place in Berlin. The district tends to be less touristy than the castle area, which means you're more likely to hear Czech being spoken and see how modern Prague actually functions day to day.

New Town's dining scene ranges from traditional Czech taverns serving goulash and dumplings to contemporary restaurants experimenting with modern European cuisine. The area around Národní třída has become particularly trendy, with wine bars and bistros that locals actually frequent rather than just tourist-oriented establishments. You'll find excellent value in the traditional beer halls, where a full meal with beer costs 12-18 EUR, while upscale restaurants typically charge 25-40 EUR for dinner. The lunch scene is particularly good, with many places offering solid Czech classics at reasonable prices between 11 AM and 3 PM.

New Town works well year-round, though spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather for walking around the district. Summer can get quite busy with tourists, but the wider streets and squares handle crowds better than Old Town. Winter actually has its own appeal - the Christmas markets around Wenceslas Square create a genuinely festive atmosphere, and the indoor attractions like theaters and beer halls provide perfect refuges from the cold. The shoulder seasons tend to offer better hotel rates and shorter lines at popular restaurants.