Prague is hands down one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe and even more so when seen from above. The city has a landscape so unique (a mixture of mostly Bohemian and Gothic architecture) that it can only be truly appreciated when you see it from above or from one of the city’s best viewing points. On my Christmas visit to Prague I took on the task of finding the best views over the city and below is a collection of the best views to take in the magic of Prague!
1. Old Town Tower
For the most classic 360 degree view over Prague you can’t go past a climb up the Old Town Tower. The good news is the steep stairs are gone (replaced with a ramp that is easy to walk up) or you can even take a lift if you fear you might run out of breath! The ticket price is Kč250 (approx 9.50€) which is well worth the views over the Old Town.
From the top of the tower you can see the city in every direction. Be sure not to miss the view over the Old Town and if you’re visiting during December, the view of the Christmas markets below. On the other side of the tower you can also see Prague Castle in the distance. The best time of day to climb to the top of the tower is around golden hour for sunset, though if you are visiting Prague during the colder months sunshine can be limited and thus a visit in overcast conditions is good any time of day!
2. On Top of Castle Hill
Speaking of Prague Castle, the hill on which the castle resides also has an incredible view of the city from afar. This view is one of the best places to watch the sun set over the hill and brings some of the best golden daylight before the sun sets. Best of all – this view is completely free!
3. Charles Bridge Tower
For a small fee you can also climb the Charles Bridge Tower which overlooks the bridge and its many pedestrians below. This is one of my favourite viewing points at sunrise or sunset, as well as the hour after sunset known as blue hour. The eeriness of Charles Bridge below really sets in at dusk and dawn, as the birds circle the bridge and darkness provides an eery backdrop for the city.
4. Most Legii
Although Charles Bridges is Prague’s most famous bridge (and for good reason – it is the most beautiful!) the two bridges either side of it are well worth a visit for a view of Charles Bridge from across the water. Most Legii provides a great view in the early hours of the morning when the sun rises or begins to settle in to the buildings and provide a beautiful reflection in the water below.
5. Manesuv Most
Another bridge with a great view of Charles Bridge is Manesuc Most, located on the other side of Charles Bridge near to where the swans congregate. This bridge is better visited later in the day so you can capture the sun setting in the background. From there be sure to make a quick run for the Prague Castle and catch the sunrise itself!
6. The Rooftop Terrace at Aria Hotel Prague
Finally if you’re looking for a hidden secret not known to many: the terrace on top of the Aria Hotel has one of my favourite rooftop views in all of Prague. I could spend hours up there watching the city wake up or settle in for the evening!
The hotel has been newly renovated and is my favourite place to stay in the city (and believe me, I’ve stayed in quite a few hotels in Prague!) The atmosphere is lovely and the staff make it feel like coming home every time.
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.