Planning Your Walk: Maps & Essentials

Before you take your first step, you must respect the cobblestones. The entire historic center is paved with uneven stones that can be punishing on thin soles. Wear your most comfortable trainers or walking boots. Heels are not recommended for this route.

Timing is also critical for the best experience. The route gets crowded by 10:00 AM, especially near the bridge. We recommend starting this walk around 8:30 AM. This gives you time to enjoy the empty squares. For more advice on gear, read our Prague walking tips and footwear guide.

Part I: Historic Old Town & The Jewish Quarter

The first leg of your journey focuses on the right bank of the Vltava River. This area is dense with history and architectural marvels. You will move from the dark Gothic city gates into the colorful heart of the square.

1. Name: The Powder Tower (Prašná brána) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the dramatic traditional starting point of the Royal Route. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view; entry fee for tower climb. Getting there: Metro line B to Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look at the Municipal House right next door for stunning Art Nouveau details.
2. Name: Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the medieval heart of the city, featuring the Týn Church and the famous clock. Best for: Everyone. Where: Staroměstské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk down Celetná street from the Powder Tower. Tip: Crowds gather on the hour. Check when the astronomical clock strikes to arrive 5 minutes early.
3. Name: Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Type: Neighborhood/History Why go: One of the best-preserved Jewish heritage sites in Europe. Best for: Deep history and culture. Where: North of Old Town Square. Time: 1-2 hours (if entering museums). Cost: Area is free; synaguogues require tickets. Getting there: Walk down Pařížská street. Tip: Read our full Jewish Quarter walking guide if you want to explore the interiors.
4. Name: Clementinum Complex Type: Museum/Architecture Why go: It houses one of the world's most beautiful Baroque libraries. Best for: Book lovers and photographers. Where: Near Charles Bridge entrance. Time: 50 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Follow Karlova street towards the river. Tip: Book tickets online in advance as tours sell out quickly.

Part II: Crossing the Vltava River

Leaving the Old Town behind, you will cross the river. This section offers the most photogenic views of the castle on the hill. The atmosphere changes from medieval bustle to riverside calm once you reach the other side. This area is a highlight of any Old Town Prague walking tour.

5. Name: Charles Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is an open-air gallery of 30 statues connecting the two river banks. Best for: Views and romance. Where: Connects Old Town to Lesser Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Direct path from Clementinum. Tip: Touch the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck, but watch your pockets in the crowd.
6. Name: Kampa Island Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: Known as the "Venice of Prague," it offers a peaceful park and watermills. Best for: Relaxing and picnics. Where: Just under the end of Charles Bridge (take the stairs down). Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the stairs on the left side before exiting the bridge. Tip: Check out our guide on walking from Charles Bridge to Lennon Wall for directions.
7. Name: The Lennon Wall Type: Experience/Art Why go: A constantly changing symbol of peace and free speech. Best for: Instagram photos and street art fans. Where: Velkopřevorské náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 3-minute walk from Kampa Park. Tip: Bring a marker if you want to add a small message of peace to the wall.

Part III: Lesser Town to Prague Castle

Now the real workout begins. You will climb from the river level up to the castle ridge. This district, known as Malá Strana, is famous for intact Baroque architecture. It feels much quieter than the Old Town across the river.

8. Name: St. Nicholas Church Type: Sight/Architecture Why go: The most significant Baroque building in Prague with a stunning dome. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Malostranské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Follow Mostecká street from the bridge towers. Tip: Discover more stops in our Mala Strana and Kampa Island walk.
9. Name: Nerudova Street Type: Experience/Old Street Why go: A steep, picturesque street lined with ancient burgher houses and heraldic symbols. Best for: Photography and souvenir shopping. Where: Leading up from St. Nicholas to the Castle. Time: 30 minutes (walking slowly). Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the square. Tip: Look above the doors; houses are named by symbols like "The Two Suns" or "The Red Lion."
10. Name: Prague Castle (St. Vitus Cathedral) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest ancient castle complex in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: The grand finale. Where: Hradčany district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; interiors require a ticket. Getting there: Top of Nerudova street. Tip: To save energy on the steep climb, consult our guide on the best entrance to Prague Castle for walkers.