Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square (“Václavské náměstí” or familiarly “Václavák” in Czech) is a 700-meter long and 60-meter wide boulevard in Prague’s New Town (“Nové Město”) quarter. Formerly it was called “Horse Market” (“Koňský trh”), because of its original purpose. The modern name refers to probably the most significant Czech patron saint, Wenceslaus (“Svatý Václav”).

Wenceslas Square is located between Prague’s “magistrála” (the main route going through the city) and “Na Příkopě” street. From the lower part of the square, one can easily walk to the Old Town.

Since the square is a significant Prague centre, there are two transit stations connecting different metro lines. In the upper part of Wenceslas Square, there is the “Muzeum” metro station, connecting lines A and C, and at the other end of the boulevard, there is the “Můstek” metro station, where metro lines A and B meet. In the middle of the square, there are also tram stations.

Nowadays, Wenceslas Square is Prague’s cultural and business centre. During the history of Bohemia, it witnessed many significant historical events, since it is a traditional venue for demonstrations, celebrations, and other mass gatherings.

History and Facts

The Wenceslas Square was set up as part of the project of the New Town of Prague (“Nové město pražské”), decreed by the celebrated King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV himself in 1348. It was intended to be one of the main marketplaces of Prague. The original name, “Horse Market” (due to regular horse markets taking place there in the Middle Ages), was changed to Saint Wenceslas square in 1848.

Nowadays, Wenceslas Square is, among other things, a traditional meeting point for the citizens of Prague. They often say “let’s meet at the horse” or “under the tail”, referring to the famous statue of Saint Wenceslas on a horse. The square is one of Prague’s most popular centres of culture, shopping and dining.

The above mentioned bronze equestrian statue of Saint Wenceslas was created by Czech sculptor and medallist Josef Václav Myslbek in 1913. It was placed at the top of the square, in front of the main building of the National Museum, which was built between 1885 and 1890. The statue displays St. Wenceslas with other Czech patron saints. On the pedestal you can find writing, saying (in Czech, of course): “Saint Wenceslas, duke of the Czech land, prince of ours, do not let perish us nor our descendants.” The sculptural group became soon the symbol of Czech nationhood.

During the German occupation of Czechoslovakia within the World War II, the Nazis used Wenceslas Square for mass demonstrations and propaganda. At the end of the war, when the Prague uprising took place, many fights happened at the Square. Several buildings in the area were destroyed as the Czech people fought the Nazi troops.

When the war was over, the peaceful period of the Czech history unfortunately did not last long. In 1948, the Communist regime took power. Later on, when the Czechs tried to reform the regime, their efforts were suppressed by a military engagement –  the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia. In 1968 the occupation (one of the darkest eras of Bohemian history) started, among other things with Soviet military armed vehicles driving onto Wenceslas Square. The tanks shot at the building of the National Museum, thinking it was the Czech Radio building, and the historical building was severely damaged.

In January 1969, a Czech student called Jan Palach committed self-immolation as a protest against the invasion. Remembering his heroic act was part of the Czech students’ and other Czechs’ strong motivation for the liberation activities in the late 80s. And Jan Palach will never be forgotten; in 1989 his memorial was placed in front of the National Museum.

Finally, in 1989, Wenceslas Square was the venue of many public speeches against the Communist regime. The processes of opposition to the lack of freedom culminated in November, when there were over a hundred thousand people taking part in the demonstrations. When, as the result of the “Velvet revolution”, Communism was finally toppled in Czechoslovakia, Wenceslas Square was one of the venues of celebration.

Honest Tip: Secret Franciscan Garden

Wenceslas Square can be very crowded, and sometimes you just need a break to enjoy the moment. There is a perfect spot for that: the Franciscan Garden (Františkánská Zahrada), one of Prague's hidden gems, located right next to Wenceslas Square. Just walk to the lower end of the square, head to Vodičkova Street, and go through the Svetozor passage.

Inside, you'll find a peaceful getaway with lots of flowers, benches, a children's playground, and a great coffee place called Head Shot Coffee. Once you've rested a bit, you can head back to the city and continue strolling through the busy Wenceslas Square.

Historical Landmarks

• ‍National Museum: The above mentioned main building of the National Museum, located at the top of Wenceslas Square, is probably the most important structure on Wenceslas Square. The Neo-Renaissance building is currently closed for a long-planned reconstruction. The re-opening of the historical building is set to happen in 2018, when the National Museum will celebrate 200 years of its existence. The National Museum is the most significant Czech museum institution.‍
• Statue of Saint Wenceslas: The prominent equestrian statue of Saint Wenceslas, the Czech Republic's patron saint, serves as a popular meeting point.
• Lucerna Palace: Famous for its quirky upside-down horse statue, this palace houses boutiques, cafés, and a historical cinema.

Shopping

Wenceslas Square is not only the home of Czech history and the cultural centre of Prague, but it is also one of the most popular shopping venues of the Czech Republic’s capital. In addition to numerous occasional and regular markets, such as Easter markets or Christmas fairs, taking place at the square, there are also a great number of shops there. One can buy pretty much anything, from souvenirs to groceries, at Wenceslas Square.

The shops are placed along both sides of the boulevard, and when you are tired you can rest either in one of the many cafés or restaurants, or just sit on a bench in the centre of the square. A significant part of Wenceslas square is nowadays a pedestrian precinct, which contributes to the fact that so many people like to spend their leisure time there, shopping, meeting friends, or just strolling.

The most popular shopping places are:

• ‍Dum Mody: A 5-floor shopping house for men and women. It’s located at the top part of the square (below the National Museum building) and opens everyday from 9 AM to 8 PM (from 10 AM during the weekend)
• Primark: Primark is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering affordable fashion, accessories, and home goods. It's ideal if you're looking for trendy clothes at reasonable prices.
• Luxor: Luxor is Prague's largest bookstore chain, perfect for book lovers searching for literature in various languages, stationery items, travel guides, or unique souvenirs.
• Van Graaf: Van Graaf is a premium shopping destination offering high-quality fashion from international brands. It's excellent for visitors seeking elegant and stylish apparel.
• Hodinářství Bechyně: This renowned luxury watch boutique specializes in prestigious international brands such as Rolex, Tudor, and Breitling. Ideal for visitors interested in timeless elegance and craftsmanship.

Nightlife

After dark, Wenceslas Square turns into a nightlife centre. There are many clubs in the square or on the streets around it. Prague in general is, among other things, considered to be a “night-life metropolis” and many young tourists come to the Czech Republic’s capital to party. The variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants with late night opening hours is great, so everyone can easily find a place to drink, eat, dance and have fun according to their taste.

If you're looking for a party spot, Wenceslas Square has you covered. Start your night at the rooftop Duplex Club, one of Prague’s most famous nightlife venues offering amazing city views, great DJs, and a vibrant dance floor. For craft cocktails in a unique setting, head to Crazy Daisy, a stylish bar with a roaring 1920s atmosphere, or The Alchemist Bar, known for its mysterious vibe and imaginative drinks inspired by old apothecaries. If you're interested in adult entertainment, Hot Peppers is a popular gentleman’s club located right off the square, featuring international dancers and a VIP experience. And if live music is your thing, be sure to check out the program at Lucerna Music Bar, one of Prague’s legendary venues known for hosting everything from local indie bands to international artists and nostalgic 80s/90s parties.

Safety

Yes and no. It is safe in terms of your personal safety, you can walk there safely alone at any time during the night or early morning. But with the darkness coming you will be approached by many club boys attracting you to strip clubs and offering drugs. There is also a high concentration of junkies.

The best way is to just ignore them and mind your own business, do not start the conversion because as soon as they will see you are a tourist they will increase their effort. If they won’t let you know just say “Ne, diky” (No, thanks) and pretend you are a local.

Overall, there are better places to be at night than Wenceslas Square. For example, Vinohrady or Letna are completely safe 24/7.

Conclusion & Takeaways: How to Enjoy Wenceslas Square Like a Local

Wenceslas Square stands at the heart of Prague as a vibrant hub pulsating with history, culture, shopping, and nightlife. From its medieval beginnings as a horse market to being the symbolic stage for the Czech Republic’s most pivotal events, it remains not just a popular tourist destination but a living testament to the nation’s resilience and modern spirit. Whether you are tracing its historic landmarks, indulging in world-class shopping, enjoying the bustling nightlife, or simply absorbing everyday life in Prague, Wenceslas Square offers something for everyone.

To make the most of your visit, keep these five tips in mind:‍

1. ‍Start Your Tour at the National Museum: Begin at the top of the square, where you can admire the grand facade of the National Museum and the famous statue of Saint Wenceslas, both key landmarks that encapsulate the square’s historical significance.‍
2. Explore Beyond the Main Street: Don’t miss the peaceful Franciscan Garden—Prague’s hidden oasis—when you need a break from the crowds. Access it through the Svetozor passage for a quiet respite amid flowers and local cafés.‍
3. Stay Aware After Dark: While the area is generally safe, be cautious of touts and avoid engaging with those offering clubs or substances. A polite “Ne, diky” (“No, thanks”) and moving along is the best response.‍
4. Experience Local Shopping: Take advantage of the square’s diverse shops and markets. From trendy finds at Primark and Van Graaf to unique souvenirs and books at Luxor, there’s something for every taste and budget.‍
5. Plan Your Nightlife Smartly: If you want to enjoy Prague’s nightlife, start with reputable venues like Duplex Club or Lucerna Music Bar and always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded or late-night environments.
   

By keeping these tips in mind, your time at Wenceslas Square will be enjoyable, memorable, and safe—an essential part of your Prague adventure.