
Chasing the Light: My Essential Prague Sunset Photography Spots
Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires, transforms into a city of liquid gold and fire at sunset. As a photographer, there’s no “golden hour” quite like the one over the red roofs and Gothic towers of the Czech capital.
But where exactly do you set up your tripod for that show-stopping shot? Forget wandering aimlessly. I’ve spent countless evenings hunting the perfect light, and I’m ready to share my absolute essential Prague sunset photography spots—guaranteed to give your gallery a fairytale edge.

1. Charles Bridge: The Iconic Classic
This is the quintessential Prague photography location, and for good reason. The view west towards Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral as the sun dips behind the hills is pure magic.
The Shot: Position yourself toward the middle-to-east side of the bridge, facing west. You’ll capture the silhouette of the Castle complex and the statues lining the bridge, often with a moody sky in the background.
Pro Tip for Photographers: This spot is notoriously crowded. To get a clean shot without hundreds of tourists, arrive at least an hour early, or better yet, shoot during the “blue hour” immediately after sunset when the crowds thin and the bridge lamps illuminate.
2. Letná Park & The Metronome: The Panoramic Powerhouse
For a sweeping, elevated view that captures the full beauty of the Vltava River and a string of bridges, head up to Letná Park. The area around the giant functional Metronome is the sweet spot.
The Shot: The wide-angle panorama from the plateau offers a spectacular view of the river winding through the city, with the Old Town and bridges creating an incredible foreground.
Pro Tip for Photographers: Bring a telephoto lens! You can isolate elements like the bridges or the Old Town Bridge Tower for a compressed, stunning composition. This spot is also a fantastic alternative to the busy Old Town Square.
3. Old Town Bridge Tower: Elevated & Exclusive
While Charles Bridge itself is chaotic, ascending one of the bridge towers offers a unique, elevated perspective away from the throngs. The Old Town Bridge Tower is arguably the best of the two.
The Shot: From the top, you get a clean, high-angle view straight down the length of the Charles Bridge, with Prague Castle perfectly framed in the distance. The streetlights glowing below during blue hour are an added bonus.
Pro Tip for Photographers: Check the opening hours! Towers often close shortly after sunset, so plan your visit to catch the peak golden hour and the start of blue hour before they usher you out.
4. Riegrovy Sady: The Local’s Favorite Park View
If you want a more relaxed atmosphere, pack a blanket and a picnic and head to Riegrovy Sady in the Vinohrady district. It’s a hugely popular Prague sunset view point with locals.
The Shot: The vantage point here looks over the rooftops towards Prague Castle, offering a slightly more distant, yet beautifully framed, view of the skyline. The setting sun often illuminates the Castle walls in deep orange and red.
Pro Tip for Photographers: The best viewpoint is on a gentle grassy hill near the soccer pitch. The foreground of happy locals and trees adds a wonderful sense of scale and life to your cityscape.
5. Vyšehrad Fortress: The Hidden Gem
Located on a high rocky outcrop above the Vltava, Vyšehrad is a historic fort and cemetery that feels a world away from the busy center. It’s truly a Prague hidden gem for sunset.
The Shot: The southern walls offer a dramatic, sweeping view over the Vltava River toward the distant castle and a sea of red-tiled roofs. It provides a different, less tourist-centric composition.
Pro Tip for Photographers: Arrive early and explore the beautiful Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul and the national cemetery before finding your spot on the ramparts for the sunset show.
Essential Sunset Photography Checklist for Prague:
Tripod: Absolutely essential for sharp photos during the low-light blue hour.
Wide-Angle Lens: Perfect for capturing the expansive cityscapes from Letná or Vyšehrad.
Telephoto Lens (70-200mm or similar): Ideal for compressing the scene and making Prague Castle appear closer from the parks.
Check Sunset Time: Know the exact time to maximize your shoot—aim to arrive at least 60 minutes beforehand for the warm “golden hour” light.
Ready to immortalize the Golden City? Grab your gear and start chasing the light—Prague’s evening show is waiting for you!
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