Charles Bridge at dawn, and Vyšehrad instead of the castle crowds

The Charles Bridge is empty at 6 a.m. and a conveyor belt by 10. For a castle experience without the lines, the Vyšehrad fortress south of the center has ramparts, a cemetery where Dvořák and Mucha are buried, and views over the river, all free. Prague Castle's grounds are free too; only the interiors need a ticket. Letná park's beer garden gives the classic bridge panorama at sunset for the price of a lager.