Explore the “City of a Hundred Spires” on a Prague river cruise

Prague is often referred to as the "City of a Hundred Spires," a nickname that reflects its skyline of pointed towers and domes. While many travelers gravitate toward the cobblestone paths of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the city offers a great deal for the curious traveler. If you are looking for enriching things to do in Prague, venture beyond the central square and explore the architectural landmarks and museums that define the local culture.

The architectural grandeur of the Castle District

High above the Vltava River sits the Castle District, a site that has served as the seat of Czech power for centuries. This area consists of palaces, churches and gardens that reflect many architectural styles from the last millennium.

At the heart of the district, St. Vitus Cathedral stands as a testament to the dedication of generations of craftsmen. Although construction began in 1344, the cathedral was not completed until 1929. As you walk through the nave, you will notice the stunning 20th-century stained glass windows designed by the artist Alphonse Mucha, which cast vibrant colors across the Gothic stone.

Nearby, Golden Lane offers a more intimate look at the city's history. This narrow street of 16th-century houses once provided dwellings for castle guards and goldsmiths. The small, brightly colored buildings now house exhibits that recreate the lives of the people who lived and worked within the castle walls.

Timeless wisdom within Strahov Library

For book enthusiasts and those who value intellectual history, Strahov Library is a site of awe and elegance. Located within stately Strahov Monastery, the library contains two magnificent halls: the 17th-century Theological Hall and the larger, 18th-century Philosophical Hall.

The Theological Hall, built in the baroque style, houses more than 18,000 volumes. The ceiling features murals that illustrate the importance of wisdom and learning while the ceiling of the Philosophical Hall was decorated by the prominent Austrian painter Franz Anton Maulbertsch. Visiting this library provides a thoughtful perspective on how knowledge has been preserved through the ages.

The Municipal House and the Dancing House

Prague is a city where the historic and the modern exist in a deliberate balance. The Municipal House, built between 1905 and 1912, is said to be the most significant example of art nouveau architecture in the city. Every detail, from the mosaics on the facade to the brass fixtures inside, was designed to celebrate the cultural identity of the Czech people.

The Dancing House, a landmark of deconstructivist architecture completed in 1996, stands in contrast to the ornate symmetry of the Municipal House. Designed by Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry, this building was inspired by the movement of two dancers. This striking structure illustrates the city's willingness to evolve while still honoring its historic roots.

Immersive exploration at Prague museums

To better understand local history, we recommend visiting several Prague museums. The National Museum, located at the top of Wenceslas Square, is the primary repository for the nation's natural history and cultural artifacts. Its neo-Renaissance architecture is marvel in itself, having recently undergone an extensive renovation to preserve the building’s original grandeur.

For insight into the 20th-century history of the region, the Museum of Communism provides a somber yet authentic look at life behind the Iron Curtain. The Mucha Museum celebrates the work of Alphonse Mucha (1860-1939), whose stylized posters and paintings defined the art nouveau movement and remain a source of national pride.

Experience The Viking Difference in Prague

At Viking, our goal is to ensure you feel supported throughout your travels. For guests who wish to spend more time in Prague, our pre and post land extensions offer a seamless transition between your voyage and your additional time in this spectacular city.

Join us to discover why Prague remains one of the most meaningful destinations in the world. Explore our itineraries to view dates, pricing and excursion details.