Old Great Square
Prague's historic Old Great Square, a vibrant hub of medieval architecture, the famous Astronomical Clock, and lively street life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Old Great Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Prague's historic Old Great Square, a vibrant hub of medieval architecture, the famous Astronomical Clock, and lively street life.
"The heart of Prague, where history whispers from every cobblestone and the Astronomical Clock puts on a show."
📸 Capture the Clock Show
Arrive 10-15 mins early for a good spot to see the Astronomical Clock's hourly performance. :iphone:
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Cobblestones are beautiful but tough on the feet. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Astronomical Clock
Old Town Hall Tower
Witness the hourly show of apostles and figures on this medieval marvel. A must-see spectacle!

Church of Our Lady before Týn
Eastern side of the square
Gothic spires dominate the skyline. Admire its imposing facade and intricate interior.

Jan Hus Memorial
Center of the square
A powerful monument commemorating the religious reformer. A central meeting point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Clock Show
Arrive 10-15 mins early for a good spot to see the Astronomical Clock's hourly performance. :iphone:
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Cobblestones are beautiful but tough on the feet. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Beat the Rush
Visit before 9 AM or after 6 PM for a more peaceful experience. :clock1:
🗺️ Get a Map
The square is large and can be disorienting. A map helps navigate surrounding streets. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Clock Show
Arrive 10-15 mins early for a good spot to see the Astronomical Clock's hourly performance. :iphone:
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfy shoes! Cobblestones are beautiful but tough on the feet. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Beat the Rush
Visit before 9 AM or after 6 PM for a more peaceful experience. :clock1:
🗺️ Get a Map
The square is large and can be disorienting. A map helps navigate surrounding streets. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Great Square as the breathtaking historical heart of Prague, captivated by the Astronomical Clock and stunning architecture. While the beauty and atmosphere are undeniable, many note the significant crowds and higher prices for food and souvenirs directly on the square.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Great Square is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. Tram lines 2, 9, 17, 18, 24, and 26 stop nearby at 'Staroměstská'. Many visitors also walk from other central attractions. :bus:
Parking in the immediate vicinity is very limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or park at a P+R (Park and Ride) facility outside the city center and take public transport in. :car:
Yes, it's a pleasant walk, taking about 20-30 minutes downhill. You'll pass through charming streets and enjoy scenic views along the way. :walking:
From Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), take bus 119 to Nádraží Veleslavín metro station (Line A), then take the metro towards Depo Hostivař and alight at Staroměstská station. The square is a short walk from there. :airplane:
Absolutely! Many walking tours focusing on Prague's history and architecture begin right in the Old Great Square. It's a great starting point to get oriented. :tour_guide:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Great Square itself is a public space and free to enter. However, individual attractions within or around the square, like the Old Town Hall Tower or St. Nicholas Church, require tickets. :ticket:
The square is accessible 24/7. However, shops, restaurants, and attractions around it have their own operating hours, typically from morning until evening. :clock1:
Entry to the square is free. Costs will apply if you choose to enter the Old Town Hall Tower for views, climb the Týn Church towers (seasonal), or visit other paid attractions. :moneybag:
The Astronomical Clock show is a free public spectacle that happens on the hour. You don't need a ticket to watch it from the square. :performing_arts:
Yes, the Prague City Tourism often offers combo tickets that can include entry to the Old Town Hall Tower and other city landmarks, potentially saving you money. Check their official website. :gift:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Jan Hus Memorial, and the Old Town Hall Tower. The surrounding architecture is also stunning. :star2:
Yes, it's one of Prague's most popular spots, so it can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season and midday. Visiting early or late helps. :bustsinsilhouette:
You can enjoy street performers, browse souvenir shops, dine at traditional restaurants, or simply soak in the historic atmosphere. :performing_arts:
The square itself is mostly flat, but the cobblestones can be challenging. Access to some buildings and attractions may be limited. :wheelchair:
You can spend anywhere from an hour to half a day, depending on your interest in the attractions. Watching the clock show and exploring the immediate area takes about 1-2 hours. :timer:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding the square, ranging from traditional Czech pubs to international cuisine. Be aware that prices directly on the square can be higher. :forkandknife:
Venture a few streets away from the main square for more budget-friendly options. Look for 'denní menu' (daily lunch menus) for good value. :moneywithwings:
Try goulash with dumplings, svíčková (marinated sirloin), trdelník (sweet pastry), and of course, excellent Czech beer. :beer:
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and many are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's always best to check the menu or ask your server. :leafy_green:
Some restaurants have rooftop terraces or upper floors offering great views of the square, especially at night. These often come with a higher price tag. :cityscape:
📸 📸 Photography
The area in front of the Astronomical Clock, the view of the Týn Church spires from the square, and the Jan Hus Memorial are prime spots. Try different angles! :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late evening offers the best light and fewer crowds. Golden hour and blue hour provide magical lighting conditions. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, but be prepared for crowds. Tripods might be difficult to set up during busy times. Consider a wider lens to capture the whole scene. :movie_camera:
Generally, photography in the public square is allowed. However, some specific attractions or interiors might have their own rules or fees for photography. :noentrysign:
A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens (e.g., 16-35mm) is great for the square's expanse. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Astronomical Clock: A Medieval Marvel
To get the best view of the hourly show, arrive at least 10-15 minutes early, especially during peak season. While watching from the square is free, you can also purchase a ticket to climb the Old Town Hall Tower adjacent to the clock for a panoramic view of the square and the clock mechanism from above. This offers a unique perspective and a chance to appreciate the intricate details of the clock's construction.
Navigating the Old Great Square and Its Surroundings
When exploring, comfortable footwear is non-negotiable due to the ubiquitous cobblestones. Many visitors find it helpful to download an offline map or grab a physical one to navigate the labyrinthine streets. Consider dedicating time to simply wander; you might stumble upon a picturesque cafe or a quiet corner away from the main tourist flow. The area is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully absorb the historical ambiance and discover its many secrets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit