A Mini Guide to Prague: What to See, Eat & Do in the Czech Capital

Written & Photographs by Samantha Diaz

Some cities impress you, and others enchant you. Prague does both. With its medieval charm, red-roofed skyline, and the Vltava River winding through its heart, the Czech capital feels like something out of a storybook. From the haunting beauty of its Gothic cathedrals to the warm glow of its centuries-old pubs, Prague is a city that invites you to lose yourself in its history, one cobblestone street at a time. I had the perfect excuse to visit when I kicked off my 30th birthday trip here in January. It was the first stop of my journey, and Prague set the tone beautifully.

Wandering through Old Town with the crisp winter air and fewer crowds made the whole experience feel even more magical—like I had the city’s history all to myself.

Start your journey in Old Town Square, the city’s beating heart. Surrounded by pastel-colored buildings, this historic square is where you’ll find Prague’s Astronomical Clock, a mesmerizing medieval wonder that has been marking time since 1410. Every hour, a small crowd gathers to watch the mechanical figures put on a charming, centuries-old show.

Cross the legendary Charles Bridge, one of the most picturesque spots in Europe. Flanked by 30 baroque statues, this stone bridge connects Old Town to Prague Castle, offering dreamy views of the river and cityscape along the way. Once you reach Prague Castle, get ready to be transported into another era. More than just a castle, it’s a sprawling complex of historic buildings, including St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that looms over the city like a guardian from another time.

For a different perspective, head to Petrin Hill, where a charming funicular ride will take you to one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the city. If you’re up for a climb, the Petrin Lookout Tower—often called Prague’s “mini Eiffel Tower”—offers an even more breathtaking view.

Prague isn’t just about grand landmarks—it’s also about the little secrets hiding around every corner. Wandering through the windin

g streets of Malá Strana (Lesser Town), I found myself in a quiet world of colorful facades, hidden courtyards, and tucked-away cafés, where it felt like time had slowed down. One of the most unexpected highlights was the John Lennon Wall—a vibrant explosion of street art, poetry, and messages of hope. Originally a place of peaceful rebellion during communist rule, it now serves as a constantly evolving symbol of freedom and creativity.

And then there’s the Old Jewish Cemetery in Josefov. It’s hauntingly beautiful, with centuries-old gravestones stacked upon one another, each telling a silent story of Prague’s past. Prague is a city best enjoyed one meal (or beer) at a time. Czech cuisine is hearty, comforting, and perfect for fueling a day of exploring.

• Svíčková – A Czech classic: tender beef in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings and topped with a dollop of whipped cream and cranberry sauce.

• Vepřo knedlo zelo – The ultimate Czech comfort food: roast pork, fluffy dumplings, and sauerkraut, best enjoyed with a cold Pilsner Urquell (Prague takes its beer seriously!).

• Goulash – A thick, paprika-rich stew that warms you up on chilly days, paired with—of course—more dumplings.

• Medovník (Honey Cake) – A traditional Czech dessert made of thin layers of honey-infused sponge cake and creamy caramel filling. Lightly sweet with a delicate texture, it pairs perfectly with a strong cup of coffee.

Prague is beautiful year-round, but January’s quiet charm made my visit magical—crisp air, glowing streetlights, and cozy cafés. Spring and fall bring mild weather and vibrant scenery, while December’s Christmas markets turn the city into a festive wonderland. Public transport is efficient and affordable, but Prague is best explored on foot—where hidden alleys, historic courtyards, and candle-lit cafés create the city’s true magic.

Prague was the perfect first stop for my birthday adventure—a city where history feels alive, where every bridge and street tells a story, and where I could soak in the beauty of a place that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re standing on Charles Bridge at sunset, sipping Czech beer in a centuries-old pub, or simply watching the world go by in Old Town Square, Prague will enchant you—and keep calling you back.

For more travel tips and stories, check out more posts from Samantha’s Travel & Brew blog at www.travelandbrew.com.