WEEKEND AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

We welcome you to explore Prague, the "City of a Hundred Spires" and the historic home of the Prague Linguistic Circle. ESSLLI 2026 takes place in a city where medieval cobblestones meet cutting-edge research, with endless possibilities. The city offers many options how to spend your free time between the lectures or during weekends.

A City of Living History

Prague is one of the few European cities where the architectural layers of the last millennium remain perfectly preserved.

• Old Town (Staré Město): Just a short walk from Staroměstská (metro line A), you can find the Astronomical Clock and the winding streets that inspired Franz Kafka.
• Charles Bridge at Sunrise: Experience Prague's most famous bridge without the tourist crowds.
• Prague Castle: The largest ancient castle complex in the world, overlooking the city and the Vltava river. You can walk down to Malá Strana through the gardens.
• Vyšehrad Fortress: A historical fort with stunning views of the Vltava river and a peaceful park.
• Petřín Lookout Tower: Our "Little Eiffel Tower," offering a panoramic view of the entire city.
• Klementinum & Astronomical Tower: Visit one of the most beautiful Baroque libraries in the world.

A Legacy of Logic and Language

For ESSLLI participants, Prague is more than just a tourist destination; it is a pilgrimage site for logicians and linguists.

• The Prague Linguistic Circle: Follow in the footsteps of Roman Jakobson and Nikolai Trubetzkoy.
• The Matfyz Tradition: Experience the unique atmosphere of the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics (MFF UK), located in the heart of the historic center.
• Bernhard Bolzano & Ernst Mach: Walk the same streets as the giants of logic and physics who lived and worked here.
• Café Culture: Visit historic cafés such as Café Louvre or Café Savoy, once frequented by Albert Einstein.

Relaxation and Parks

• Letná Park (Letenské sady): Enjoy a beer garden with an iconic view of Prague's bridges.
• Stromovka Park: Prague’s largest park, perfect for a picnic or a morning run.
• Riverbank (Náplavka) Farmers' Market: Saturday morning by the river with local food and live music.
• Rowboats & Pedal Boats: Rent a boat on Slavonic Island (Slovanský ostrov) and see the city from the water.
• Waldstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada): A stunning Early Baroque garden belonging to the Czech Senate. It features an ornate pond, a massive artificial grotto wall, and free-roaming peacocks, a perfect quiet escape in the city center. 

Culture and Science

• National Museum: The newly renovated landmark dominating Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí).
• National Gallery (Trade Fair Palace): A vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
• National Technical Museum: Fascinating exhibitions on transport, astronomy, and technology.
• John Lennon Wall: A symbol of freedom and peace in the heart of the Lesser Town (Malá Strana).
• National Library of Technology (NTK): A masterpiece of modern architecture and the primary hub for STEM students in Prague. You will not miss it, as it is located in the CTU campus and features 24/7 study areas and a vibrant student vibe.
• The Academy of Sciences Library: For a "dark academia" experience, this library across from the National Theater features a breathtaking neo-Renaissance interior with ornate archways and marble columns.