Prague is a very unique city and it can be easy to find something totally offbeat. Take for example this axe-throwing spot inspired by legends of alchemists.
Charles Bridge is magical and photo-worthy, but during the day it’s crowded shoulder to shoulder with tourists like sardines. Instead, cross over to Letna Park for a beer garden and secluded paths with views of the river and castle.
1. Dancing House
In a city known for its Baroque and Gothic architecture, this deconstructivist structure stands out. Known as the Dancing House, or Tancici dum in Czech, its twisted pillars give it the look of a pair of dancers locked together. The unique shape attracts tourists from around the world to take selfies with the building.
For a more immersive experience, book a tour of the building with a local guide who can explain the architecture and history behind it. You’ll also get to see the inside of the bending towers, which are home to a hotel, restaurant, cafe, and rooftop bar.
While Prague might have a reputation for beer, wine lovers won’t be disappointed here either. Book a winery tour to sample the country’s best blends while learning about its rich history and culture from a local guide.
2. KGB Museum
Visiting the KGB Museum is an eye-opening experience. The dimly lit corridors are a treasure trove of Soviet-era knowledge, showcasing everything from spy cameras to instruments of torture. Even those with little knowledge of the KGB will find themselves fascinated by the range of tactics and power wielded by this secretive agency.
After a visit to the museum, take some time to explore the neighborhood. This is one of the few places in Prague where locals outnumber tourists, making it an incredibly unique area to explore.
If the weather is nice, a stroll along the Vltava River is a must. During the summer, the water is dotted with boats. Those looking for a little extra flair can enjoy the luxury of a private riverboat.
3. Sedlec Ossuary
The eerie bone chapel known as Sedlec Ossuary is a popular attraction for visitors looking for an experience with a touch of darkness. Located in Kutna Hora, it’s easy to reach by taking a train from Prague that departs at least every hour.
The story behind this macabre attraction begins in 1278 when an abbot from the Cistercian monastery at Sedlec was sent to the Holy Land by King Otakar II. Upon returning, he brought back a small amount of earth from Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, and sprinkled it over the abbey cemetery. This made the area one of the most popular places to be buried throughout the region.
In 1511, a half-blind (or maybe just slightly crazy) monk started decorating the ossuary by stacking bones into ornamental forms. Today, the chapel is adorned with more than 40,000 human skeletons, including a chandelier that’s sure to scare any visitor.
The Schwarzenberg family took over the site in 1783, and a skilled woodcarver named Frantisek Rint added some Baroque-style flourishes to the Ossuary. Among other things, he fashioned the family crest from bones and fastened it to a railing over one of the pyramids.
4. National Marionette Theater
Just a minute from Old Town Square, the National Marionette Theater hosts a delightful performance of Mozart’s Don Giovanni that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Grab a seat in the small theater, fill your hands with Czech beer (optional), and prepare to be entertained by a collection of stringed puppets that come to life during the show.
With a backdrop of Prague Castle, St Nicolas Cathedral, and the historic Lesser Quarter district, the Golden Lane is an antique path lined with small colorful houses that used to house goldsmiths. While some locals call it a tourist trap, others consider it a charming way to take a walk back in time and a fun experience for all ages.
For those who are a bit too afraid to jump out of a plane and want to feel the rush of free falling, the Prague Skydiving Arena offers a risk-free thrill in the city’s first wind tunnel. The venue also offers ecstatic dance classes for those wanting to let their hair down and boogie.
5. Petrin
While Prague’s most famous landmark is the Eiffel Tower lookalike Petrin Observation Tower, there are plenty of other ways to take in stunning views of this city from high up. One way is to hike up the hill, which can be a bit of a workout, or take a funicular for a more laid-back experience.
Another option is to visit a smaller, more local brewery like Dva Kohouti (Two Roosters). These tiny microbreweries are taking over the country and offer an opportunity to taste some of the best beer in the city.
Czechs love to stroll along the Naplavka riverbank area, which is lined with vendors selling everything from sausages to beers and cocktails. This is a popular pastime both during the day and at sunset.
If you’re craving the thrill of freefall but don’t want to jump out of a plane, head to the Prague Skydiving Arena for an adrenaline-pumping experience that’s always supervised by professionals. It’s a great activity to try with kids, too! You can also hop on a boat tour for another perspective of the city.