All Articles 3 perfect days in Prague

3 perfect days in Prague

By Petr Hník2 Apr 2024 13 minutes read
People eating at outdoor cafe with view of Vltava River, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Prague
Cafe dining along the Vltava River with view of Charles Bridge in Prague.
Image: Hans - Peter Merten/Getty Images

Walk through Prague’s Old Town and you’ll pass historical wonders like the oldest preserved building, dating back to 1100, and a medieval astronomical clock. Turn the corner, and you’ll find modern mural tributes to John Lennon. They’re all part of Prague’s timeless allure.

This three-day itinerary is organized to give you a taste of everything this fascinating city has to offer. So that you’ll get the most out of your trip, we’ve incorporated Tripadvisor reviews so that you can be sure to visit the places that other travelers have loved.

Before you get started though, a few tips: The streets here are narrow and parking is difficult, so don’t even think about bringing a car. Instead, walk around the Old Town to immerse yourself in its cobblestone streets, and get a public transportation pass to use the city’s easy-to-navigate trams and metro.

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DAY ONE

Strawberry waffles at SmetanaQ Cafe and Bistro
Breakfast at SmetanaQ Cafe and Bistro.
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

MORNING: A stroll through time

Start off your first day at Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world. The former home of kings and emperors, the buildings here span hundreds of years and include Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. It's impressive, and sometimes a bit overwhelming. To avoid the crowds, you’ll want to get an early start. If you’re really an early riser, the complex opens at 6 a.m., when you’ll mostly have the streets to yourself. The historical buildings open their doors at 9, which is a good time to get started.

To get to the castle, catch tram 22 or 23, but here’s a tip: instead of the Prague Castle stop, get off at Pohořelec station, which will save you a steep walk uphill. Instead, you’ll walk partly downhill and past Loreta church, best known for its Baroque carillon (which chimes a tune every hour) and the Loreto treasure: a diamond-encrusted monstrance, aptly called the “Prague Sun“, covered with 6,222 diamonds believed to come from the wedding dress of Countess Ludmila of Kolowrat.

A five-minute walk from the church will take you to Nový svět (New World), an often missed quarter behind the castle complex with quaint residential houses. Stop at Kavárna Nový svět cafe for a coffee to fuel your morning. Then head to Hradčanské náměstí square and the entrance to Prague Castle.

The castle complex is composed of several historical palaces, buildings, and churches, so allow several hours for your visit. You need an entry ticket to access most of the sights, which you can purchase in advance using Ticketportal.

Alternatively, you can also plan a more expedited visit by wandering through the complex without exploring all of the building's interiors. If you choose this option, you can still enter St Vitus Cathedral, a gem of Gothic architecture that was completed in 1929 and is known for its stained-glass windows by Alphonse Mucha.

Next, stop at the Lobkowicz Palace to see its impressive collection of paintings (including one by Bosch) and original scores by Beethoven. Or, if you don’t want to pay for admission here, skip the displays and instead grab a seat at the Lobkowicz Palace Café; on clear days the terrace seats have stunning views of Prague, and the coffee and traditional apple strudel are always a good choice.

Stroll back through the castle gardens to Hradčanské náměstí for an iconic view of the city’s red-tiled roofs. If you get here at midday, you can catch the changing of the guards. (Fun fact: The castle uniforms were designed by Czech designer Theodor Pištěk who also created costumes for the Oscar-winning movie Amadeus.)

Worked up an appetite? Just across from the castle entrance is Kuchyň (Kitchen) which has outdoor seating with excellent views and equally impressive Czech cuisine. Some top options include pork with sauerkraut or roasted duck with red cabbage and dumplings, both go well with a crisp Pilsner Urquell.

Travelers say: "[Prague Castle] is an absolutely stunning place to visit and a must do while in Prague…The complex itself is free to enter and walk round, but I'd suggest you pre buy tickets for entry to the specific sites within the complex as the ticket offices were super busy with long queues. So much history and St Vitus cathedral is a real must visit in my opinion. Changing of the guard at the castle happens daily at 1200. Get there early if you want a good view." —@tcc334

PRAGUE CASTLE TOUR OPTIONS

  • Prague Castle is one of the largest in the world and a private tour lets you explore at your own pace and enjoy the undivided attention of your guide.
  • Seeing Prague Castle at night means less crowds, but possibly a few ghosts, or, at the very least, lots of mystery and intrigue.
  • Get an up-close look at the interiors of the castle while skipping the ticket line.

AFTERNOON: Explore Malá Strana (Lesser Town)

Leave the castle via Nerudova Street, just off Hradčanské náměstí, and you’ll find yourself in Malá Strana, literally the Lesser Town (or lower) quarter, comprised of narrow cobblestone streets, Medieval buildings, and lots of shops and spots to eat and drink. Stop for a beer at U Kocoura, a popular pub with students and locals. On the way, admire the St Nicholas Church; its opulent Baroque architecture is worth the entry fee.

From here it is only five minutes to get to Charles Bridge, but before you reach it, turn towards Velkopřerovské náměstí to see the murals at John Lennon‘s wall. For many Czechs, Lennon was a symbol of freedom during the bleak communist times; today it’s a popular photo stop.

Next to the wall is Čertovka, a canal with a medieval water mill. This whole space under the Charles Bridge is known as Kampa Island; it’s the site of an annual Christmas market and it’s also a very popular area with Hollywood filmmakers (you may have spotted it in Mission Impossible).

On Kampa island, you’ll find IF Café, where the desserts are divine and many are crafted to look like fruit (don’t miss the lemon-shaped cake if it’s in the case).

Check out the Museum Kampa for some contemporary art exhibits or just enjoy the statues of unusual babies by Czech sculptor David Černý outside. Then turn around to return to the bridge and end your afternoon on a vintage boat trip on the Vltava River canal (Little Venice), the boat stop is just under the Charles Bridge pillar.

EVENING: A river edged in stone

Yes, Charles Bridge is a touristy place, but also a very magical one. Be patient while crossing this 15th-century bridge, or come very early in the morning or late at night when you won’t encounter as many people. However, the bridge also holds a certain charm during the day and early evening when local vendors set up small souvenir stalls and musicians entertain fellow travelers.

Stay in the area for dinner and indulge in some fine dining at Kampa Park (on the Kampa side of the bridge) or Mlýnec (Old Town side of the bridge)---the former has a Michelin star, and both earned 2023 Traveler’s Choice awards and have magnificent views of the bridge and the castle. For something less formal, Smetana Q Café & Bistro serves snacks and wine. Or, get lost in the small streets of Old Town where you can find some wine bars such as Champagneria.

Worthy detours along the way

DAY TWO

Historical medieval astronomical clock in Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic
Clock in in Old Town Square of Prague.
Image: Olga_Gavrilova/Getty Images

MORNING: Discovering Prague’s amazing architecture

Begin your second day in front of the Obecní Dům (Municipal House), a gorgeous art-nouveau theater that also hosts changing art and design exhibitions. Before you step inside though, head around the corner to Černá madona, both a rare example of cubist-inspired architecture and also a great cafe that’s a nice spot for breakfast (although the display of decadent cakes may make you want to skip straight to dessert).

From here, it’s time to visit Prague’s Old Town Square, where Gothic and Renaissance architecture stand side-by-side. This is where to find one of Prague’s most popular sites: the Old Town Hall and the oldest astronomical clock in the world still in operation, installed here in 1410. The clock shows the position of the Sun and Moon, and when it strikes the hour, a parade of the statues of Twelve Apostles appears at the two top windows. Statues on the side of the clock also move, notably a skeleton reminding all of us that we all have measured time on Earth.

After the spectacle, visit the Old Town Hall's interiors where you can see the clock mechanism from the inside. Head up the tower for breathtaking views of Prague (there’s an elevator here, too).

The best way to explore the Old Town is to become lost in the maze of its narrow streets. Don't forget to glance up at the stucco and sculpture-adorned facades. Wander through Ungelt courtyard, and around Dlouhá Street, where the fashion savvy can find shops from Czech designers.

Travelers say: "Put this on your “must see” list when you’re visiting Prague! We didn’t really know what to expect and thought it’d just be a self guided tour of an old building with a unique clock. But this was fantastic! The views from the top are spectacular and we spent a long time up there taking in Prague." —@Millie B

AFTERNOON: Josefov Quarter and beyond

Time for lunch? Then head to Dlouhá Street and grab a seat at Lokál, a great choice for typical Czech cuisine and beer; be sure to try the svíčková, a traditional dish of beef in a cream sauce.

Next, head to the Josefov area, the Jewish quarter, where you can visit several synagogues, including the oldest surviving medieval Old-new synagogue dating back to the 14th century. Next to it is the second oldest synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, built in 1535, which has been turned into a poignant memorial to the holocaust.

Also here is a mystic old Jewish cemetery, one of the oldest burial sites in the city; there are over 12,000 tombstones, the oldest of which is from 1439. It is here that the astronomer and Talmudic scholar Rabbi Loewe is buried; he is the subject of many legends, mainly as the inventor of Golem, a mystic figure of clay.

OLD TOWN AND JOSEFOV TOUR OPTIONS

EVENING: Classical or jazz it up

Praguers love music, and it often feels like there is a concert or opera in the city almost every night.

Our advice: Avoid the tourist concerts held in churches and instead check out the schedule of the State Opera (part of the National Theatre) or Prague Symphony Orchestra at the Municipal House.

Before your show, plan to have dinner at Čestr steakhouse, located in the National Museum complex next to the opera house. Travelers love the good prices, attentive service, and high-quality beef.

For all jazz lovers, there are several clubs to choose from. A top choice is Jazz Dock on the Vltava River, where you can listen to some of the best musicians in Prague’s jazz scene and also get a tapas dinner. Jazz Club Ungelt, near the Old Town, is always a good choice with several dining options in the Ungelt courtyard.

Worthy detours along the way

DAY THREE

People shopping in Wenceslas Square, in Prague
View of Wenceslas Square.
Image: ANDREY DENISYUK/Getty Images

MORNING: Breakfast in Vinohrady

Take the metro to Jiriho z Podebrad Square to reach Vinohrady (literally “Vineyards“), a lively residential area full of cafes and things to explore.

Start with the Church of the Sacred Heart of the Lord right on the square where a farmer’s market is held Wednesday to Saturday in spring and summer. It’s a great spot to sample some local fruit and baked goods for breakfast. Eat it on a bench outside the church. (And if the church is open, be sure to peek inside; its simple modernist architecture is an interesting contrast to the opulent Baroque churches usually seen in Prague.)

When the farmer’s market isn’t operating, stop in at some of the local bakeries. Some favorites include Antonínovo pekařství or Kus koláče. Or for a more leisurely breakfast, check out Kro Bistro which serves perfectly brewed coffee and one of the best egg Benedict in town.

Wander the twisting streets of the neighborhood, then take a tram from Vinohradská vodárna, or alternatively walk (15 minutes) to náměstí Míru, Peace Square with gothic Church of St Ludmila.

Ready for an early lunch? Vinohradsky Parlament is a no-fuss spot with an entire menu of dumplings, plus other Czech specialties.

NEW TOWN TOUR OPTIONS

  • Get to know the offbeat side of contemporary Prague and explore the city with a local on this private tour.
  • Stop in at historic pubs and traditional restaurants to get a classic taste of Czech cuisine on this food tour.
  • Why walk when you can ride? Especially if it’s on a tour in a vintage convertible.

AFTERNOON: Strolling through New Town

Take the metro to the Museum stop, where the impressive neo-renaissance building of the National Museum overlooks Wenceslas Square (actually a long boulevard lined with shops) and the statue of King St Wenceslas (of the Good King Wenceslas fame), heavenly protector of Czech lands.

Stroll a little further to the Lucerna Palace where there is another statue of St Wenceslas interpreted with a twist by the sculptor David Černý (no spoilers here, but we’ll just say it’s a completely different perspective). The sprawling passage which weaves under the Lucerna palace has a cinema and several stores and shops, but do not linger there, instead head to the rooftop (accessible by one of the surviving Paternoster lifts) to grab a drink and a snack and enjoy the views. Want to shop? Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě Street offer an array of Western brands and some smaller shops with souvenirs.

One of the hidden gems here in the warmer months is Franciscan Garden just off the Wenceslas Square. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet break.

EVENING: Náplavka - Riverside bliss

The Náplavka area has recently seen a new era with a complete revitalization including the embankment cells, former riverside storage areas, that have been turned into pulsating cafes, galleries, and community centers.

You can stay at Rašínovo nábřeží and walk along the embankment. Have a pre- or after-dinner cocktail at Kobka č. 5, then plan for dinner at Na břehu Rhony, for French-inspired cuisine, or at U Kalendů for Czech fare and fresh draft beer, of course.

Round off your day with a stroll around Rašínovo nábřeží to see the Dancing House. One of the most iconic buildings of the new Czech architecture era, it’s modeled after Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire and designed by the famed architect Frank Gehry. The Jirásek bridge next to the building also gives you a mesmerizing view of the illuminated castle, a perfect way to wrap up a visit to the City of a Hundred Spires.

Travelers say: "The Prazska Naplavka is a great opportunity to see the riverbank of Vltava from another perspective. You can walk the whole route from the Vysehrad rock to the city centre without worries about traffic, get some snacks or coffee in stylish bistros in old cells and enjoy the view to the Petrin hill." —@TomasT_11

Worthy detours along the way

Know before you go


There is no best time to visit Prague. The city is beautiful in every season. To avoid crowds, travel in January to April. In the summer the city can feel packed (especially the main tourist artery, so called Royal Route, from Prague Castle across Charles Bridge to Municipal House), but there are a lot of little streets, open spaces, parks, outdoor festivals and terraces which make the city lively. Winters can be cold so make sure you bring something to wrap yourself in. The city is at its most magical during Christmas time with the decorations up and market stalls. (And our famous Christmas trams.)



Any day is good to explore Prague.



Most stores and shops are open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, and closed on Sunday. Usual bank business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Most museums are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m to 6 p.m.



There are many options to stay in the city from rental apartments to five-star hotels. The competition can reduce prices at certain times of the year, so take your time to make the choice best suited to you.

Prague Castle Area: There are not too many hotels right in the vicinity of the castle, but the Lidner hotel, part of the Hyatt brand, is the exception. Nestled in the grounds of the Strahov monastery and near the Petrin hill, it’s outside the main attractions, but connected to public transportation.

Lesser Town: Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa is a great choice close to the Lesser Town end of Charles Bridge with spacious rooms in a historical building, a cozy spa, and great dining.

The Mandarin Oriental, Prague, is tucked away in a picturesque street near the Kampa area with plenty of historical elements and a soothing spa with relaxing massages.

Old Town: Four Seasons Prague has unparalleled views from their spacious, luxurious rooms looking onto the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.

A close contender for both views and comfort is the Mozart Prague just a few steps from Charles Bridge. The hotel offers opulent Baroque rooms with frescoes on walls and ceilings (note no air-con to protect the historic value).

New Town: The elegant NH Collection Prague Carlo IV located in a neo renaissance palace which was once a bank, has spacious rooms, a subterranean spa and pool, and one of the best breakfast buffets in town.

The chic, hip Andaz Prague is located in the former Sugar Exchange Building and has an eclectic choice of dining and modern rooms.



Prague is very easy to navigate on foot, so pack some good shoes. The city also has one of the best, and safest, public transportation systems in the world.

Public transportation: The Metro has three lines that cover almost the whole city and connects you quickly to the neighborhoods you'll be visiting. You can buy a whole range of tickets (single journey, one day to three-day pass) in any of the metro vestibules. Don’t forget to validate your ticket. The tickets are valid for the tram and buses network too.

The tram lines are an equally efficient means of transportation and there are even sightseeing trams (or just take the line 22 which passes the majority of the sights).

The Prague visitor pass is a new initiative by the city that combines both public transportation tickets as well as entry to the majority of the sights including Prague Castle and a boat tour.

By car: Unless you're traveling beyond Prague, you definitely will not need, or want, a rental car in the city.

By ride sharing: Uber, Bolt, or Liftago are good and safe ride-sharing options in Prague.

Airport transfers: Getting into the city from Prague International Airport can seem complicated since there is no train or metro connection to the city. The official taxi service is run by Uber, so you can request a pick-up through the app (the trip to the city center takes about 30 minutes and costs about US$35).

The Airport Express bus takes you to the Main Railway Station in the city center in about 40 minutes and costs about US$5.


Petr Hník
Petr Hník was born and raised in Prague and continues to live in the city today. He’s an idea maker, copywriter, and seasoned traveler. When not sitting in one of Prague’s cafes, he’s thinking up where to travel next with his family or where to take his friends who come to visit from all corners of the globe. He has a talent for discovering new things in his own city, is passionate about history and is an amateur photographer