The best free things to do in Prague

The Vyšehrad Citadel isn’t technically a castle, though this hilltop fortress, with its own twin-spired church, once served as a royal residence and a rival to Prague Castle downriver.

It’s centuries old and according to Czech legend, the spot where Prague was first prophesied. Hike here for great river views and a relaxed vibe, far from the tourist throng downtown.

The city centre is filled with beautiful Gothic and baroque churches from centuries past. Some churches have introduced small entry fees but most remain free to enter (and only ask a donation).

Don’t miss the shrivelled human arm that hangs from the Church of St James or the tomb of legendary Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe at the Church of Our Lady Before Týn.

Prague is filled with parks and gardens and every neighbourhood has its own top spot. Some favourites include the late-Renaissance Wallenstein Garden as well as Kampa, Stromovka and Letná Gardens

The latter offers stunning views over the River Vltava and Old Town, and even has its own beer garden from April to October.

Prague has a fine collection of public art, all viewable for free, including several provocative and humorous works by Czech artist David Černý. Černý is modern master of installation art.

To get a taste, check out Kun, an upside-down horse hanging inside the Lucerna Palace shopping arcade, or K, a giant rotating bust of Prague writer Franz Kafka.

See the Infant Jesus of Prague, a waxwork figure of baby Jesus. Brought from Spain in 1628, it's said to have healing powers, including possibly protecting Prague from the ravages of the plague.

Find the baby Jesus at a small museum inside the Church of Our Lady Victorious on the Malá Strana side of the river.

'Free' tours are not always exactly free (guides usually expect a tip), but these walking tours are an excellent way to see the sights, get some exercise and meet fellow travellers along the way.

And the amount of money you leave at the end is always up to you. Several outfits offer these types of tours, including Prague Extravaganza and the Royal Walk Free Tour.

Okay, it’s over in under a minute, but the hourly procession of mechanical figures above the face of the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall is an absolute must and costs nary a Czech crown.

Arrive a few minutes before the hour to secure a decent spot to stand and don’t leave until the bells chime.

A guided tour of Prague’s beautiful art nouveau Municipal House, a lavishly appointed cultural centre with a concert hall and bars and restaurants, will set you back some cash.

The building, though, is usually open throughout the day and you’ll normally be left to your own devices to climb the ornate stairways or prowl the hallways.

While there's a fee to visit the castle’s interiors, the lavish castle gardens and courtyards are free to wander. Note the Royal Gardens are open only from April to October.

Also, don’t forget to take your passport or EU identification card, as visitors must pass through a security check before entering the grounds.

Prague’s landmark Charles Bridge, a 650-year-old Gothic span, topped by rows of baroque statues on both sides, is a museum in itself.

Ponder the various works of art, while admiring the city’s spires and domes. During the day, the bridge hosts an array of bands, buskers, and artists, giving it a carnival-like vibe.