Old Great Square - The palace square in warsaw, poland.
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Old Great Square

4.6
·491k reviews·Turku, Finland

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
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Old Great Square - The palace square in warsaw, poland.

Old Great Square

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The heart of Prague, where history whispers from every cobblestone and the Astronomical Clock puts on a show."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Astronomical Clock

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

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

Jan Hus Memorial

Center of the square

A powerful monument commemorating the religious reformer. A central meeting point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays are busiest. Check for local events that might impact access or add to the atmosphere.

Comfortable Footwear is Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the Old Great Square and its surrounding alleys without discomfort.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, illuminated
Crowd
Medium

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Stunning medieval architecture
Astronomical Clock show
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
High prices on square

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

The Old Great Square offers a magical experience for families. The Astronomical Clock's hourly show is a guaranteed hit with children, providing a moment of wonder and excitement. TikTok Consider a ride on the horse-drawn carriages that often circle the square for a fun, albeit touristy, experience. Instagram The Old Town Hall Tower offers fantastic views, and the climb itself can be an adventure for older kids. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as prices directly on the square can be high. Venturing a few streets away can lead to more casual eateries suitable for families. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Old Great Square is free to enter, making it an excellent budget-friendly destination. Focus on enjoying the atmosphere, watching the Astronomical Clock show, and admiring the architecture from the outside. Reddit For affordable meals, avoid restaurants directly on the square and seek out local pubs or bakeries a few blocks away offering 'denní menu' (daily lunch specials). Reddit Consider purchasing a Prague Card if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions, as it can offer significant savings. Walking is the best way to explore, saving on transportation costs. :moneywithwings:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Astronomical Clock: A Medieval Marvel

The Old Town Astronomical Clock (Orloj) is more than just a timepiece; it's a masterpiece of medieval engineering and art. Installed in 1410, it's the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operating. Every hour, from 9 AM to 11 PM, a crowd gathers to witness the Procession of the Apostles, a brief mechanical show where figures of the Apostles emerge from windows above the clock face. Below, figures representing Death, Vanity, Greed, and Lust strike the hours. The clock also displays astronomical information, including the position of the sun and moon, zodiacal constellations, and phases of the moon. It's a truly captivating experience that draws visitors from all over the globe. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Navigating the Old Great Square and Its Surroundings

The Old Great Square (Staroměstské náměstí) is the historic heart of Prague's Old Town and serves as a central hub for exploration. Its vast expanse is surrounded by stunning architecture, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Beyond the main attractions within the square, the surrounding narrow, winding streets are just as enchanting. These alleys are filled with charming shops, traditional pubs, and hidden courtyards waiting to be discovered. Reddit

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. TikTok

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