Powder Gate and Republic Square

Prašná brána (Powder Tower), one of Prague’s original city gates, is a striking example of Gothic architecture that once marked the start of the Royal Route to Prague Castle. Built in the late 15th century, it earned its name in the 17th century when it was used to store gunpowder. Today, visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city center.

Just beside the tower lies Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square), a lively urban space where old meets new. On one side stands the elegant Municipal House, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture, while the other side is anchored by the Palladium, a massive modern shopping mall housed in a historic former barracks. With over 200 shops and dozens of eateries, it’s a convenient place for shopping, coffee, or a quick meal.

The square also hosts outdoor markets and seasonal festivals, making it a dynamic place to pause and enjoy the local atmosphere.

 

💡 Top Tip 💡

Climb the 186-step spiral staircase of Powder Tower early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy one of the best views over Prague’s Old Town rooftops. Reach a 44-meter-high viewing gallery with panoramic views over Prague. Along the way, explore an exhibition detailing the tower’s rich history, including its role in royal coronation processions and its transformation from a city gate to a gunpowder store. If you're visiting during a market or festival, grab a snack from a local stall and take a seat on one of the benches in Republic Square—it's a perfect spot for people-watching between sightseeing stops.

 

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📅 Plan your visit

 

🕒 Opening hours:
      Jan–Mar & Oct–Nov: 10:00–18:00

      Apr–May: 10:00–19:00

      Jun–Sep: 9:00–20:30

      Dec: 10:00–19:30
🌐 Buy tickets online
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the ground floor cash desk inside the tower

 

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🍴Where to eat : 

(All suggestions are within 7 min walking from your current location)

 

[$]

Lokál Dlouhááá (Traditional Czech Pub) 4.4 ⭐ 

Cacao Prague (Café & Healthy Eats) 4.0 ⭐

 
[$]

Public Chilli (Asian Street Food) 4.4 ⭐

Indian Jewel (Authentic Indian Cuisine) 4.6 ⭐

Gambero Rosso (Italian Cuisine) 4.6 ⭐ 

 

[$$]

Yami Sushi Dlouhá (Japanese Sushi & Rolls) 4.6 ⭐

Pizza Nuova (Italian Pizza & Pasta) 4.4 ⭐ 

BoHo (Modern Asian-Inspired Dining in a Boutique Hotel) 4.4 ⭐

 

[$$]

Zem (Modern Czech & Japanese Fusion) 4.5 ⭐

La Gare (French Brasserie) 4.4 ⭐