Prague Old Town

The Old Town of Prague is one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe, a UNESCO ensemble of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque facades around the Old Town Square, watched over by the Astronomical Clock whose hourly show of moving figures draws crowds. Beyond the square, a maze of cobbled lanes leads to hidden courtyards and the river.

What you actually see

• The Astronomical Clock - the medieval clock with its hourly parade of the apostles.
• Old Town Square - the square ringed by the Tyn Church and colourful facades.
• The Old Town Hall Tower - the climb for a view over the red rooftops.
• The cobbled lanes - the maze of medieval streets and courtyards.

When to go

Spring and autumn for mild weather and thinner crowds; December for the Christmas market on the square. Early morning gives you the square before the crowds.

Honest expectations

It is extremely popular and touristy, so the square and clock are packed, and the hourly clock show is brief and underwhelming for the crowd it draws. Prices near the square are high. Its beauty is real, but the quieter lanes reward wandering more than the main square.

Nearby

Charles Bridge, the Jewish Quarter and Wenceslas Square are all a short walk.