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Hooray! Free Things to Do in Prague
Updated January 2025
Looking for free? I've got a list of free things to do in Prague just for you. Actually, there are at least 25 things, and a few extra items to keep you exploring. No budget necessary!
And by "free," I don't mean walking down the street and looking at architecture.
That's not free, that's a cheap answer.
These free things include sights, destinations, and general stuff you might overlook. Some of these are especially good if you want to get away from the tourist crowds. Go local and see more.
Please note... I've listed these by area, or major attraction, so you can group things together and plan your days accordingly.
For example, if you're near the castle, I've got things to do in its vicinity. The same for Malá Strana, Old Town and outside the historical center.
If you have ANY doubts, drop me a message and I'll help as best as I can.
Free Things to Do in Prague, Near the Castle
1. Changing of the guards
You don't need a ticket to see the changing of the guards at the castle.
In fact, you don't even have to go through security.
The best moment to see them change is at 12:00 (noon) in the first courtyard, near Hradčanské náměstí. This highlight of the day includes fanfare and flag ceremony (see video below).
Can't get there for 12:00?
Then you can catch the guards do smaller rotations on the hour, every hour.
2. You don't need no stinkin' ticket
Let's put an end to some misleading information.
You DO NOT need a ticket to get into Prague Castle.
Actually, the castle is a large collection of buildings. To "get in" you just have to go through security like everyone else. That's free.
If you want to enter all the buildings within the castle grounds, then you need to buy a ticket.
Absolutely free areas of the castle...
- Golden Lane (Nov-Mar after 16:00; Apr-Oct, after 17:00).
- St. Vitus Cathedral - 2025 update - the free are of the cathedral is under construction and closed. You'll have to buy a ticket for any access. No end date has been given. Sorry!
- Royal gardens
- Historic courtyards
Some garden areas may be open only during the summer period of April-October.
3. A quiet place is a rewarding place
I would guess that most locals don't know about this quiet spot.
That's probably because the Černín Palace Gardens were closed to the public until 2014. And the palace is home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs which is generally closed.
Thankfully you can visit this quiet English garden for free during the tourist season of May-September.
The palace is a short walk from the castle and this area has lots more to see...
4. Czech Citizens free, but...
The Lobkowicz Palace is absolutely wonderful.
Unfortunately the free entrance is for Czech citizens only. But not many locals are aware of this option, so I'm listing here too. It's free to Czechs on the first Wednesday of the month, 16:00-18:00.
If you're not Czech, then you'll want to visit anyways. This place is fantastic.
It consistently rates on TripAdvisor as one of the top things to do in Prague.
Lobkowicz Palace is within the castle grounds and includes a lovely cafe, awesome views and lots more.
Their mid day concerts are an absolute treat also.
Free Things to Do in Beautiful Malá Strana
5. An absolute must-see
I feel like I've recommended Wallenstein Garden a gazillion times.
Maybe that's because I've been there so often - it's one of my all-time favorite places in Prague. And, I used to walk through the garden twice a day, to and from work. Lucky me!
Anyway, this gorgeous Baroque garden is free to enter from April to October.
Reasons to visit...
- peacocks, owls and cool statues
- awesome photo ops with the castle in the background
- lots of benches
- that weird mud dripping wall
- free concerts on Thursday afternoons
6. Infant Jesus of Prague
For many, the Infant of Prague can be the sole reason to visit Prague.
It's one of Prague's holy pilgrimage sites. People come from all over the world to see this encased and clothed doll of Jesus which is said to have powers to heal and answer prayers.
The Infant of Prague is located on a side altar inside the Church of Our Lady Victorious. It's free to enter the church and visit its corresponding museum in the front near the main altar. There is also a gift shop.
Read more about the Infant of Prague
7. Yes, the John Lennon Wall
I know adding this one to the list is kind of cheating. But not everyone is clear on the situation.
You would be surprised how many times I've been asked... "Is the John Lennon Wall open?"
So, to clarify, the John Lennon Wall is outside on a public street. It's free to see any time of the day or night.
TIP: Don't miss the mill wheel on the canal, just around the corner from the John Lennon Wall.
8. Overlooked museum gem
In the grind of visiting Prague, places like the Czech Museum of Music are extremely refreshing - for two awesome reasons.
1. The museum is super easy to connect to other sightseeing destinations. For example, Kampa Island, Charles Bridge and the Infant of Prague are just a couple minutes walk from here.
2. All the hordes of tourists are too occupied to visit. That means inside you can relax and enjoy this unique building and exhibition.
Oh, and admission is free the first Thursday of the month (14:00-18:00).
9. Visit the American Center of the U.S. Embassy
Wait. What the heck is the American Center?
Glad you asked. The American Center is a place for cultural connection between America and Czechia. They offer a broad program of U.S. related topics - from lectures and seminars to art and concerts.
Most of their events are free and open to the public.
And, every Tuesday at 18:00 they have free movie screenings.
Bonus things to do in Prague free...
These aren't a secret, but always worth mentioning...
- Infinity Book Tower - At the city's main library, check out this wild sculpture which was built from 8,000 books and a mirror for a dramatic effect. Unfortunately, it's been swamped by social media coverage, so there's always a line to see it. Come early in the morning for the shortest wait. Address: Mariánské nám. 98/1, 110 00 Josefov-Old Town
- Head of Franz Kafka - This rotating, 11-meter tall statue was built by Czech artist David Černý. It has more than 40 layers of steel that move periodically to create a representation of Prague's famous author. It's located beside the Quadrio shopping center and Narodní třída metro station. Address: Charvátova, 110 00, New Town
10. Narrow street and peeing statues
Ok, file these under fun and kinda weird.
There's a spot near the Kafka Museum where you can "experience" two of Prague's odd attractions.
First, there is a super narrow street that is fun to walk down, if you're not claustrophobic. It's for pedestrians only and even has a traffic light. It will take you all of 2 minutes to try it. Whatever you do, avoid the restaurant at the bottom of the street. It's a tourist trap.
Now for the second part.
Next to the narrow street is a sculpture by Czech artist and provocateur, David Černý. It's basically of two men facing each other and peeing into a pool of water that is shaped as Czechia.
For additional fun, you can send a text to the sculpture and the men will write out each letter via their urine streams.
Free things to do in Prague's Old Town
11. Free tours in Prague
Ok, not entirely free, but you can still enjoy a quality tour on a tip-only basis. Excellent guides take you on a 2 hour tour and you pay what you think they deserve. So it's up to you how "free" you want the tour to be.
12. Old Town Tower: Hall of Architects
A unique exhibition covering a range of architecture and city-based themes. The tower offers lots more to do, and a visit is highly recommended. This is the absolute heart of Prague.
13. Prague's astronomical clock
You must visit Prague's famous clock at the top of the hour for its show. It's amazing that this spectacle is from the 14th century. It never gets old, a must see!
Be aware, large crowds start to gather here a few minutes before the hour. I suggest visiting in the morning or later evening when there's less people.
14. Czech Republic Visitor Centre
Want more information about Czech Republic? Curious about day trips from Prague or other cities to visit? This is the place for you. Get insider knowledge about events, places to go, and much more.,
The friendly staff will answer all your questions and there are loads of free brochures, maps and information about Czech Republic.
15. Prague's Jewish Cemetery
Jewish cemetery in PragueExploring Prague's old Jewish Quarter (Josefov) is essential. However the area has many parts so it can be time-consuming to see everything.
If you're short on time or money, you can get a peek of the iconic cemetery from a door on the back side. Follow the street 17. Listopadu north from Old Town and the door is just past the Museum of Decorative Arts. See map for pin point.
This view will give you a deep impression of this incredible place. I know it's not ideal, but I think the door was intentionally designed.
Things to do in Prague FREE and on a map
16. Church of Our Lady Before Tyn
This is the incredible church on Old Town Square. You can't miss its black spires. Free to enter (or 1 EUR suggested voluntary fee).
17. Visit the Globe bookstore
They used to have a free movie night, check their calendar for other free and cheap events. Of course they have a great collection of books and cheap events too.
18. Galerie Lapidarium
This is the kind of cool historical place you find by wandering around. I simply found it by accident one afternoon. Lesson learned, get off the beaten path. However, the gallery is in Old Town!
Original and some copies of Baroque statues highlight the space. But there are rotating exhibitions and the cryptic recovered paintings on the walls is very interesting.
It's free with suggested donation of only 50 czk.
Head of Franz Kafka - a sculpture by David ČernýGet rewarded for going beyond the tourist zone
This group of free things to do in Prague is outside the typical tourist zone. This means you'll be enriched by local sights and a different vibe. Yeah, good for you!
19. Vyšehrad Castle
Vyšehrad Castle is one of the most underrated places in Prague. I think most people simply run out of time during their stay. It's a shame because Vyšehrad very special.
The grounds of the castle are free to enter as well as the ornate cemetery, which includes many famous Czechs.
Come just for the park atmosphere and beautiful views, or tour some of Vysehrad's interiors - the casemates are so fun to experience!
Read more about Vyšehrad Castle
20. Botanical Gardens
These gardens, managed by Charles University, might be one of my favorite places in Prague to relax on a nice day.
If you need an escape from the crowds or just want to get out of tourist zone for a while, go here. Bring a book or just your thoughts as you wander the grounds. You won't regret it!
It's free to enter the gardens and there's a small fee for greenhouses.
21. Beautiful cemeteries in Žižkov
I know, walking there's a lot of cemetery talk on this page. Sorry, but not sorry, because each one offers a glimpse into Prague's history. And there's a certain beautiful ambiance at each one.
The cemeteries in Žižkov are no different. There are 3 in this immediate area that we recommend (see map). By the way, Franz Kafka is buried in the New Jewish Cemetery near the Želivského metro station.
See something out of date? Are these things to do in Prague no longer free? Let me know!
22. and 23. Discover two art galleries and uncover more of Prague
The Hunt Kastner Gallery is also located in Žižkov. It offers free admission and an array of exhibitions. If you like contemporary art, you'll want to visit this place. And it's a great reason to explore local areas of Prague. The curios TV Tower is nearby as well.
For fine art exhibitions, visit Nová Galerie. Take the effort to find the gallery and then wander around for a meal or stroll in the park.
24. Army Museum of Žižkov
This is one that I discovered while researching the city for free stuff to do. I'm glad I found it because it's totally different - and free. Plus it will get you out of the city center for a new perspective.
The museum has several permanent exhibitions that cover Czech military history. Across different floors you will find objects and detailed information that span periods from the 18th century until present day.
Address: U Památníku 2, 130 05, Žižkov, Prague 3
25. Memorial to Pečkárna
During WWII the gestapo controlled the Petschek Palace, near Wenceslas Square. And they performed interrogations and the torture of some Czech citizens. The building now houses a memorial to these people and their resistance.
Address: Politických vězňů 20, 110 00, New Town, Prague 1
So, What About Museums?
Good question!
The answer is yes, many museums in Prague have free admission times.
But, there is no universal day or time when museums are free. It's best to contact individual museums and galleries to ask about their schedule.
We know it's not the best answer! Check out the National Gallery for specific information.
Free Things to Do in Prague...
Honorable Mentions
There are loads of other things to see and do. These sights are also worth mentioning...
- Prague metronome - free to get up close to this giant contraption in Letna Park and the view from here is awesome
- parks + gardens - there are too many to mention but we love the castle's Stag Moat, Kampa, Franciscan Gardens, Střelecký Island
- riverbanks are perfect for walking
- farmer's markets are booming these days in Prague
- churches galore!
To be re-confirmed...
- Kino Evropský Dum - I'm waiting to hear back from the cinema if the free movie night (every 2nd Wednesday, 19:00) is still on or not. TBC
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