They say “the best things in life are free” and when it comes to free things to do in Prague, it couldn’t be more accurate! Baroque gardens, grand churches, public artworks, and breathtaking viewpoints are just some of the things you can look forward to if you’re looking to head to Prague on a budget.
The capital of the Czech Republic attracts tourists with its fairy-tale charm and rich history. It is one of the best destinations in Europe; from the iconic Charles Bridge to Prague Castle, every corner oozes with beauty. It’s very easy to explore the city and experience enormous adventures without breaking the bank. Explore cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, or savour traditional Czech cuisine without worrying about the budget. So, here is our pick of some fun things to do in Prague on a budget or free.
Cheap(Free) Things To Do In Prague
1. Enjoy the panoramic views from the castle grounds
Prague is a city that whispers history at every corner, but you don’t need a heavy wallet to experience its grandeur. Believe it or not, one of the best free things to do in Prague is to explore the grounds of Prague Castle. Imagine strolling through majestic courtyards, feeling the weight of centuries under your feet. As you wander, the city unfolds beneath you like a storybook. Red-roofed houses tumble down the hillsides, the Vltava River snakes through the heart of Prague, and the spires of St. Vitus Cathedral pierce the sky. Prague Castle is the largest castle in Europe and it is open from 6 AM – 10 PM, seven days a week. Enjoy the panoramic views from the castle grounds in the early morning to avoid the crowds or head up there for sun down for the best light over the Old Town.
2. Visit the exteriors of Prague Castle and enter inside St Vitus Cathedral
Another cheap thing to do in Prague is to get a free peek at the famous changing of the guard ceremony, a colorful tradition that happens on the hour at the main entrance to Prague Castle. But the real gem here is St. Vitus Cathedral. Step inside this Gothic masterpiece, leaving you speechless by its stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings. While some areas require a ticket, the first fifth of the cathedral is free to explore, and a grand fifth it is. It’s the perfect way to soak up Prague’s rich history and architectural beauty, all without spending a dime! You can explore the tiny lanes with cafes, which give you the feel of medieval times.
3. Walk through Wenceslas Square
Dive into the city’s heart with a free stroll through Wenceslas Square. This bustling square of Prague is buzzing with energy and overflowing with things to see. Start at the top, beneath the watchful gaze of the Saint Wenceslas statue on horseback. As you walk down the avenue, window-shop at the trendy stores or admire the grand Neo-Renaissance buildings. Keep an eye out for quirky street performers, maybe even a mime or a magician! Soak in the atmosphere of a city that’s historic and electric. Exploring Wenceslas Square is one of the best cheap things to do in Prague, and if you happen to visit during Christmas or Easter, you’ll find seasonal wooden huts to visit too!
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4. Explore Wallenstein Garden and its Baroque statues
Tucked away in charming Malá Strana, Wallenstein Garden is a 17th-century park that offers a tranquil escape from Prague’s bustling streets. Imagine manicured hedges, beautiful frescoes, vibrant flower beds bursting with color, and wild peacocks wandering around merrily. Your eyes will immediately be drawn to the grand pavilion with its three monumental arches, rich stucco and beautiful frescoes depicting the Trojan war story.
But the real stars are the Baroque bronze statues! These larger-than-life figures, inspired by Greek myths and legends, stand guard throughout the garden. See if you can spot Zeus, the mighty king of gods, or Neptune, the seas’ ruler. Wallenstein Garden is a feast for the senses and the best part? It’s one of the best cheap things to do in Prague for couples! So pack a picnic, bring a book, and wander through this hidden gem. You might even meet a friendly peacock or two along the way!
5. See the John Lennon’s Wall
John Lennon’s Wall is dedicated to the Beatles band member, John Lennon, who was famous for its lyrics and political activism. His work inspired many people when the Czech Republic was under community rule. Imagine being so inspirational and famous that you have a whole wall dedicated just to you! Sounds interesting, right? Nowadays, this wall is mostly covered in graffiti related to the lyrics of John Lennon and his portraits. You can merge this free thing to do in Prague with other attractions in your itinerary such as the Wellenstein Gardens nearby or Prague Castle. The John Lennon Wall is also a few minutes away from the Charles Bridge, which you can cover together, especially if you are doing a walking tour.
6. Learn about Franz Kafka’s connection to Prague
Nestled in the heart of the city is the Franz Kafka Museum, which offers a captivating look into the life and works of this legendary author. It is one of the free museums in Prague that you can explore to learn about Prague’s history. When you are in the museum, be sure to check out the statue in front, famously known as the “Piss Sculpture.” Explore the quirky exhibits that bring to life Kafka’s strange and wonderful stories.
Also Read: 10 Top Reasons to visit Prague
7. Visit the Jewish Quarter
Wander through cobbled streets of Prague’s Jewish Quarter, where you’ll find historic synagogues, some dating back centuries. The Old-New Synagogue is the oldest in Europe and is still in use! Imagine the stories these walls could tell. Learn about the fascinating Jewish community that thrived here for centuries, and even see the haunting beauty of the Old Jewish Cemetery, a maze of headstones layered through time. Do you know what is the best part about it? It is one of the best free things to do in Prague, and you cannot miss it! You can also club this attraction with the Franz Kafka Museum, as the Jewish quarter is the birthplace of the famous novelist Franz Kafka.
8. Look at the astronomical clock in the Old Town Square
If you ask any local or tourist, you will hear good things about the Astronomical Clock in the old town square. By far, it is one of the best free things to do in Prague. At the Astronomical Clock, you will witness the genius work of engineering that was first implemented in the 15th century. It looks like an attraction straight from your fantasy world. As soon as you visit this clock, you will first see the astronomical dial, which is 24-hour time, Bohemian time, position on the earth, Sidereal Time, moon phases, and zodiac positioning. Secondly, you will see the Calendar Dial, which showcases the crest of Old Town Prague, surrounded by the 12 zodiac signs. You can visit this attraction anytime in the day as it is open 24/7 but visit on the hour for a show of the twelve apostles appear through the windows and the skeleton for death rings his bell!
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9. Enjoy the views from the Charles Bridge
Here is an interesting fact about the Charles Bridge: it was the only way for people in the Czech Republic to cross the Vltava River until 1870. Add this iconic monument to your list of free things to do in Prague. Walking to this only-standing medieval structure will take you back in time. Around 30 intricate statues line the walkway, and these statues represent important figures in the Czech Republic, whether entrepreneurs or nobles. The spires and domes of the bridge make the perfect backdrops for your Insta-worthy pictures. The best time to visit Charles Bridge is early morning or night to avoid crowds. Getting to the Charles Bridge during the sunrise is a breathtaking sight.
10. Watch the sunset over Prague from Riegrovy Sady
Prague stuns with its fairytale architecture, but who says magic has to cost a fortune? Here’s a secret for budget travellers: snag a cheap beer for about 2 EUR, climb the grassy slopes of Riegrovy Sady, and witness a sunset that will leave you speechless. You can also carry a blanket to spread on the lush green hill. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky explodes in a kaleidoscope of colours like fiery oranges, blushing pinks, and deep purples. Breathe in the crisp evening air, clink your budget-friendly beer with your partner, and soak in the beauty. So, if you are looking for a quiet moment to spend with your partner, choose this amazing cheap thing to do in Prague for couples and ditch the fancy bars.
11. Free Walking tour
One of the best ways to experience a new city like a local is to take a free walking tour on your first day. In Prague, there are 4 walking tours that you can choose from – Old Town, Castles & Charles Bridge, New Town, and the off-the-beaten-path Žižkov neighborhood. You can pick one or all four, depending on your itinerary. The best part about these free walking tours is that they are led by a local who gives you inside knowledge about the attractions and points out hidden gems you might miss on your own. Moreover, if you do the Prague free walking tours on your first day, then you can ask your tour guide about the places to eat and what to do in Prague for cheap or free. While these tours are advertised as free, we do recommend tipping your guide at the end of the tour. There is no set amount as it depends on how satisfied you were with the tour but around 10 – 15 EUR per person or 30 EUR per couple is the average.
12. Exploring the Farmer’s Market at Naplavka
The riverside walkway transforms into a vibrant sprawl of colorful stalls every Saturday. Forget tourist trinkets – it’s all about fresh, local goodness here at Farmers Market. Imagine strolling along the Vltava River, the iconic Prague Castle looming in the distance. Now, picture the air filled with the aroma of sizzling sausages and sweet pastries. Rows of stalls burst with seasonal delights: plump strawberries, glistening mushrooms, and hand-woven baskets overflowing with vibrant flowers. Sample a tangy slice of sheep cheese or nibble on warm, crusty bread. Friendly vendors are happy to chat about their wares, many offering free tastes of their jams or honey. So, try these cheap things to do in Prague to explore the city locally.
13. Golden Lane after 5:00 PM
Golden Lane is part of the Prague Castle circuit. This charming alleyway, lined with colorful miniature houses, whispers stories of alchemists and artisans. While the shops and exhibitions inside close after closing, the magic of the Lane stays open after 5:00 PM, making it one of the best free things to do at night. Franz Kafka had his office in house No. 22 in 1917, and writers and poets used to meet in house No. 12, which was the home of Jiri Maranek. Today, a permanent exhibition in nine of the 16 houses, documenting life in the lane over the past five centuries. If you want to explore the historic houses, museums, shops, and cafes, you can also get a standard Prague Castle ticket and explore the lane.
14. Statues Hunt
Wander around Prague’s city streets, and you’ll find quite a variety of quirky art installations. Whether it be giant baby statues or colorful murals, keep your eyes open to art everywhere. While walking, don’t forget to look up, as you might see a statue falling from the sky! Prague’s quirky art installations around the city and hunting them are some of the best free things to do in Prague.
15. Watch the Kafka Turning Head
Franz Kafka’s rotating head is one of the popular tourist destinations in Prague, and it’s free to see! Sculpted by David Cerny, this giant metallic head performs a mesmerising metamorphosis. Composed of 42 individual layers, it rotates and contorts, offering a constantly shifting visage of the famed writer. The Franz Kafka – rotating head rotates for fifteen minutes at a time, stopping at the exact position twice an hour. This choreography lasts approximately 40 minutes, as the head turns 15 times. You can watch it from 8 a.m. to 7 or 10 p.m., making it one of the best things to do in Prague at night.
16. Church of Our Lady Victorious
Prague boasts a treasure trove of historic sites, and the Church of Our Lady Victorious is a must-see for art enthusiasts and spiritual seekers. Nestled in the charming Lesser Town, this Baroque gem offers a captivating blend of architecture and religious significance – all for free.
Originally built in the early 17th century, the church holds a special place in the hearts of Czechs and pilgrims worldwide. Adorned in a dazzling array of outfits throughout the year, the statue is a sight to behold. You can also visit here to see the large wax figure of baby Jesus resting on the main altar.
17. Explore Novy Svet near the castle.
Enjoy a peaceful walk down the Novy Svet near the castle, away from the crowd. Explore this picturesque street, which is one of the best free things to do in Prague. Imagine strolling down cobblestone streets lined with colourful 16th-century houses. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the remnants of the city’s ancient walls. Novy Svet offers a peaceful escape where you can truly soak Prague’s magic. Don’t forget to click Insta-worthy images here reflecting the history of Prague. You can also find a cafe to give your feet a break and enjoy the delicious coffee while admiring this cobblestone street.
Further Read: Best things to do in Cesky Krumlov
18. Beer Gardens
Prague boasts a vibrant beer culture, and its beer gardens are a delightful way to experience it. Imagine sprawling green spaces, clinking glasses, and laughter under the warm Czech sun. These open-air havens offer much more than just beer. If you are looking to visit these Beer gardens in the evening, then head to the Letna beer garden, where you can enjoy a pint or 2 on a picnic bench with your partner or friends while enjoying the most beautiful views of the river and city as the sun sets dips below the horizon. In these beer gardens, the beer costs, but it is free to experience the atmosphere in these gardens.