Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) has been the beating heart of Prague's historic core since the 12th century, ringed by pastel Gothic and Baroque façades, the twin spires of Týn Church, and the towering Jan Hus Memorial. On the southern wall of the Old Town Hall sits the Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj), installed in 1410 and the oldest astronomical clock in the world still in operation; on every hour its 'Walk of the Apostles' brings twelve carved figures to the windows. As of 2026 the square and clock are operating normally and draw some of Europe's densest summer crowds. For a first visit to Prague, it makes an ideal starting point for a half-day walking loop through the Old Town.
The hourly Walk of the Apostles — twelve moving figures appear as skeleton, merchant and other allegorical statues animate to a chime
The clock's astronomical dial — sun, moon, the twelve zodiac signs and old Bohemian time all on one medieval face
The Old Town Hall Tower gallery (about 42 m) — take the lift up for a panorama of the square and Prague's red rooftops
The Gothic twin spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn and the Baroque St. Nicholas Church
The Jan Hus Memorial at the square's centre and the 'Prague Meridian' line set into the paving
Good to know
CautionThe area right in front of the clock just before the hour is a prime pickpocket spot. Wear your bag in front and mind wallets and phones in back pockets.
CautionMen posing as plainclothes 'police' who ask to inspect your wallet for counterfeit notes or drugs, and groups collecting 'charity' signatures for deaf children, are scams — Czech police confirmed in 2025 that such street collecting in tourist zones is banned. Decline and walk away.
CautionPrivate exchange booths around the square offer terrible rates. The local currency is the Czech koruna (CZK); always decline euro pricing and any ATM/card offer to convert to your home currency (DCC) and pay in CZK.
MannersRestaurants and cafés on the square often charge tourist-premium prices. Confirm prices before ordering and check the bill for cover or service charges; tipping is typically around 5–10%.
SeasonJuly and August combine peak heat with the heaviest crowds. To watch the Apostles from the front, arrive 10–15 minutes before the hour; early morning is the calmest time.
SeasonIn December the square hosts a Christmas market — atmospheric but very crowded and cold, so dress warmly for winter visits.
SafetyThe square is paved with cobblestones that can be slippery and hard on the feet, so wear comfortable shoes and expect queues for the tower stairs and lift.
Practical info
The nearest metro is 'Staroměstská' on Line A (green), about a 5-minute walk, with trams 2, 17 and 18 stopping at Staroměstská. The square itself is free and open 24 hours, and the Walk of the Apostles is free to watch on the hour (roughly 9:00–23:00). Access to the Old Town Hall interior and tower gallery requires a paid ticket (adult around 350 CZK, tower lift extra), so check opening hours and prices on the official site for the latest before you go.
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