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Old Town Square, Česko - Things to Do in Old Town Square

Things to Do in Old Town Square

Old Town Square, Česko - Complete Travel Guide

Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) stands as the beating heart of Prague's historic center, a magnificent cobblestone plaza that has witnessed over 1,000 years of Czech history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and medieval architecture, creating one of Europe's most photographed squares. The famous Astronomical Clock draws crowds every hour with its medieval spectacle, while the twin spires of Týn Church dominate the skyline. Beyond its architectural splendor, Old Town Square serves as Prague's cultural epicenter, hosting Christmas markets, Easter celebrations, and summer festivals throughout the year. Street performers, horse-drawn carriages, and outdoor cafés create a vibrant atmosphere where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern city life. The square connects to the Jewish Quarter, Wenceslas Square, and Charles Bridge, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Prague's treasures.

Top Things to Do in Old Town Square

Watch the Astronomical Clock Performance

Every hour from 9 AM to 11 PM, crowds gather to witness the medieval Astronomical Clock's enchanting show featuring the Twelve Apostles and other moving figures. This 600-year-old timepiece is one of the oldest functioning astronomical clocks in the world. The best viewing spots are directly in front of the Old Town Hall, though arriving 10 minutes early is essential during peak season.

Booking Tip: The clock show is completely free to watch from the square. For interior tours of the Old Town Hall and clock tower (around 250 CZK), book online to skip lines. Best viewing times are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.

Climb Old Town Hall Tower

Ascend the 60-meter Gothic tower of Old Town Hall for panoramic views over Prague's red-tiled rooftops, spires, and the Vltava River. The tower offers both elevator and stair access, with viewing platforms providing 360-degree vistas of the city. The experience includes close-up views of the Astronomical Clock mechanism and historical exhibitions about Prague's development.

Booking Tip: Tower tickets cost around 250 CZK for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Purchase tickets online or at the entrance, but expect queues during summer months. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography.

Explore Týn Church

The Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn, with its distinctive twin spires reaching 80 meters high, has been Old Town Square's architectural centerpiece since the 14th century. Inside, visitors can admire baroque altars, medieval tombstones, and the grave of astronomer Tycho Brahe. The church's dark Gothic interior provides a striking contrast to the colorful square outside.

Booking Tip: Entry to Týn Church is free, but opening hours are limited (usually Tuesday-Saturday afternoons). Check current schedules as times vary seasonally. Guided tours focusing on Prague's churches cost around 400-600 CZK and provide historical context.

Take a Traditional Czech Food Tour

Old Town Square and surrounding streets offer authentic Czech cuisine experiences, from traditional goulash and schnitzel to local beer and trdelník pastries. Many restaurants feature medieval cellars and historic atmospheres dating back centuries. Food tours typically include visits to traditional pubs, local markets, and family-run establishments serving recipes passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from 1,200-2,500 CZK per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book with reputable operators that include multiple venues and drinks. Avoid tourist trap restaurants directly on the square - walk one block away for better prices and authenticity.

Experience Evening Ghost Walking Tours

Old Town Square transforms after dark into the perfect setting for ghost tours exploring Prague's mysterious legends, medieval history, and supernatural tales. These walking tours visit haunted sites, ancient cellars, and hidden corners while sharing stories of alchemists, executions, and ghostly apparitions. The atmospheric lighting and Gothic architecture create an genuinely spooky experience.

Booking Tip: Ghost tours typically cost 400-800 CZK and last 1.5-2 hours. Evening tours starting around 8 PM offer the best atmosphere. Choose smaller group tours (under 20 people) for a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Getting There

Prague's Old Town Square is easily accessible from Václav Havel Airport Prague via Airport Express bus to Hlavní nádraží (Main Railway Station), then metro line C to Můstek station, followed by a 3-minute walk. From other European cities, Prague is well-connected by train, with direct routes from Vienna (4 hours), Berlin (4.5 hours), and Budapest (7 hours). International buses also arrive at Florenc Bus Station, connected to Old Town by metro line B to Náměstí Republiky, then a 5-minute walk through the historic streets.

Getting Around

Old Town Square sits in Prague's compact historic center, where most attractions are within walking distance. The efficient public transport system includes metro lines A (Staroměstská station) and B (Náměstí Republiky), plus numerous tram and bus connections. A 24-hour public transport ticket costs 120 CZK and covers all zones. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber operate throughout the city, though walking remains the best way to explore the narrow medieval streets and discover hidden courtyards around the square.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Staré Město)
Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
New Town (Nové Město)
Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Vinohrady
Wenceslas Square Area

Food & Dining

The area around Old Town Square offers everything from traditional Czech pubs serving hearty goulash and world-famous Pilsner beer to upscale restaurants with modern European cuisine. Historic establishments like U Fleků brewery (dating to 1499) and medieval-themed restaurants in Gothic cellars provide authentic experiences. For budget-friendly options, explore side streets off the main square where local favorites serve svíčková (beef sirloin with cream sauce) and other Czech classics. The nearby Havelské Tržiště market offers fresh produce and street food, while trendy cafés around Wenceslas Square serve excellent coffee and pastries.

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

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Restaurant Mlýnec

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GamberoRosso

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Fly Vista

4.8 /5
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San Carlo Dittrichova

4.6 /5
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When to Visit

May through September offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring Old Town Square's outdoor attractions and café terraces. However, this is also peak tourist season with larger crowds and higher prices. Winter months (December-February) bring magical Christmas markets to the square, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere despite cold temperatures. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) provide ideal conditions with mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colors, making these shoulder seasons perfect for photography and comfortable sightseeing.

Insider Tips

Visit the Astronomical Clock at 11 AM or 3 PM for smaller crowds compared to noon peak times, and position yourself slightly to the left of center for the best view of the apostles
Many restaurants on Old Town Square are tourist traps - walk just one block away to find authentic Czech pubs with half the prices and better food quality
The square's cobblestones can be slippery when wet, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip, especially during winter months when ice may form between the stones

Explore Activities in Old Town Square