A perfect itinerary for 3 days in Prague (+ map of all popular attractions, the best beer spa and how to skip the lines at Prague Castle).
Famous for its beer and magical atmosphere, Prague is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. In the past, the city was the seat of the kings of Bohemia and served as the main residence of several Holy Roman Emperors. Today, Prague is the largest city and the capital of the Czech Republic.
With a history shrouded in mystery and legends, cobblestone alleys, a medieval castle and thousands of spires, Prague looks like it came straight from a fairy tale. Add in some of the best beer in Europe and delicious local cuisine, and you’ve got the perfect city escape.
Perfect 3-day Prague Itinerary
If you’re looking for the perfect Prague itinerary for first-timers, look no further. This itinerary focuses on the best things to do in Prague, including where to try delicious local specialities.
In the first two days of the itinerary, you’ll explore all the main sights on both sides of the Vltava River. But trust me, Prague has so much more to offer, including quirky museums and even some cat cafés! I’ve added these extra spots in the “more things to do” sections after each day’s itinerary. For day three, I’d suggest taking a day trip to Kutná Hora to check out the famous Sedlec Ossuary, it’s definitely worth it.
3 Days in Prague Itinerary (for first-timers)
- Day 1: Old Town Hall Tower, Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady before Týn, Jewish Quarter
- Day 2: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Bridge Tower
- Day 3: Day trip to Kutná Hora, Beer Spa, Beer Tasting
In my opinion, two full days in Prague are enough to see all the popular historical sights. The top attractions are divided between the Old Town (Staré Město) and the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), connected by the iconic Charles Bridge. You’ll need about a day to explore the main sights on each side of the river. However, if you’re thinking of taking a day trip to the famous Kutná Hora or treating yourself to a beer spa (which I highly recommend), consider adding an extra day.
Tips for your 3-day Prague itinerary
Accommodation – Already have a hotel booked? Then take a look at my guide on where to stay in Prague first time to see if your hotel is in a good area.
💖 My favourite hotel in Prague: Allure Hotel & Residence
Perfect for: sightseeing – 10-minute walk from Old Town Square and a metro station
What I loved: spacious comfy rooms, excellent breakfast
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
Sightseeing – Prague is a popular destination year-round, so it’s always packed with tourists. Be ready for some lines (especially at the Prague Castle), and make sure to book tickets in advance to save time.
Prague itinerary map
Here you’ll find a map of this 3-day Prague itinerary, complete with attractions and restaurant links.
3 Days in Prague itinerary – Day 1
Morning
On the first day of this itinerary, you’ll explore the Old Town, located on the right bank of the Vltava River.
Breakfast at Pekárna Nostress
Duration: 40 min 🕒 09:00 AM – 09:40 AM
Start your day with breakfast at Pekárna Nostress, hands down my favourite bakery in Prague. You definitely have to try the pistachio croissants, the pistachio and chocolate cake, or if you’re craving something savoury, the ham and cheese croissant is amazing. The coffee is great as well!
Old Town Hall Tower and Astronomical Clock
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 09:45 AM – 11:15 AM
The Old Town Square is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions. I recommend starting with the Old Town Hall Tower and then continuing to the Church of Our Lady before Týn. The Old Town Hall Tower opens an hour earlier in the summer (at 9 AM) compared to the Church of Our Lady before Týn, which opens at 10 AM year-round.
The Astronomical Clock is the most famous landmark of Prague. Located on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall Tower, this medieval masterpiece was built in 1410. And it’s the oldest working astronomical clock in the world! The clock displays the positions of the sun and moon, along with the signs of the Zodiac.
If you get there before 10 AM, I recommend heading straight to the clock to catch the show. It happens every hour from 8 AM to 11 PM, and you’ll see the animated figures of the Twelve Apostles parade. There are always crowds waiting, so I’d suggest arriving 10-15 minutes early to grab a good spot.
After watching the show, make your way to the Old Town Hall Tower. Take the lift to the top and enjoy one of the most iconic views of Prague. I absolutely loved the view of the Church of Our Lady before Týn from the Old Town Hall Tower.
I’d recommend buying your ticket on-site because online tickets only cover the stairs for the Old Town Hall Tower, not the lift. By getting your ticket there, you can include the lift access. You can also grab an additional ticket for the Old Town Hall, which lets you check out the clock mechanism, the Chapel of the Virgin Mary, the historical halls, and the Romanesque-Gothic underground.
Still, if the lines are really long, you can buy a skip-the-line ticket for the tower here. Then, head to the priority counter where you can upgrade your ticket to include the lift.
Church of Our Lady before Týn
Duration: 30 min 🕒 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM
On Old Town Square, you’ll find another iconic Prague landmark – the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Built in the 14th century, it’s been the city’s main church ever since. The Gothic spires are around 80 meters tall, but what’s really interesting is that they’re not symmetrical. The larger spire represents Adam, and the smaller one symbolises Eve, reflecting the masculine and feminine sides of the world.
Be sure to step inside, as the interior is truly remarkable.
Lunch at Pauseteria
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:00 PM – 01:30 PM
For lunch, head over to Pauseteria, just a few steps from Old Town Square. I discovered this gem on my last trip to the capital of the Czech Republic. Their Avo Bread was hands down one of the best avocado toasts I’ve ever had! Don’t miss out on the delicious cakes, I especially loved the pistachio and chocolate ones. The coffee is fantastic, too, sourced exclusively from selected Czech roasters.
Another great option for lunch is Venue. It’s a popular brunch place with three locations in the Old Town. The one near the Jewish Quarter (which you’ll explore in the afternoon) is the newest, so it’s less busy. They get their ingredients from local farmers, and their eggs are from cage-free chickens. I personally really enjoyed their croque monsieur, it was amazing!
Afternoon
Jewish Quarter
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 01:30 PM – 03:00 PM
Just a short walk from Old Town Square, you’ll find the Jewish Quarter (Josefov). It’s home to some interesting sites, including the Spanish Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Old-New Synagogue, and the Old Jewish Cemetery. You can visit all these sites with a single ticket, called the Tour of the Jewish Town. You can purchase it online or at the museum’s locations, including the Spanish Synagogue and Pinkas Synagogue (situated next to the Old Jewish Cemetery).
I’d personally recommend stopping by the Spanish Synagogue, which is one of the most beautiful in the area, and the 15th-century Old Jewish Cemetery. I visited all the sights included with the ticket, but for me, these two were the most worth it.
Old Jewish Cemetery
The Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds in the world. Despite its small size, it’s believed that over 40,000 people are buried here. The gravestones are stacked one on top of another due to the limited space, creating a hauntingly beautiful and unique sight.
The oldest grave dates back to 1439 and belongs to the poet Avigdor Karo. Among the graves, you’ll also find that of Rabbi Löw, the chief rabbi of Prague, who is famously linked to the legend of the mythical Golem.
Spanish Synagogue
Built in 1868, the Spanish Synagogue is the newest in the Jewish Quarter. I found the interior absolutely stunning, richly decorated with gilded motifs, geometric patterns and stained glass. The name Spanish comes from its Moorish design, inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. It’s definitely the highlight of the area!
Try the cakes at Votre Plaisir
Duration: 20 min 🕒 03:10 PM – 03:30 PM
Votre Plaisir is another gem I discovered during my last trip to Prague. Their pastries are incredibly delicious and freshly made. I tried the Paris-Brest, the pistachio tart, and the vanilla choux. Each one was fantastic, right down to the last bite!
Dinner at Next Door by Imperial
End your first day in Prague with dinner at Next Door by Imperial. This gourmet bistro serves traditional Czech cuisine with a modern twist. I highly recommend the deer terrine, parmesan croquettes, veal schnitzel, and, of course, don’t miss out on the desserts!
More ideas for 3 days in Prague – Day 1
Discover Prague with a vintage car tour
Duration: 1 h 30 min
Experience Prague in style with this historic vintage car tour! You’ll explore some of the city’s most iconic spots, like the Old Town and the Prague Castle. Since it’s a private tour, you can adjust the route to suit your interests. Plus, your guide shares so many interesting facts along the way!
Gallery Of Steel Figures
Duration: 1 h
The Gallery of Steel Figures is a one-of-a-kind interactive museum with steel sculptures made entirely from scrap metal. Among these hand-made figures, you’ll find your favourite characters from cartoons, sci-fi and fantasy movies. And if you’re a car enthusiast, you will love the full-scale replicas of iconic vehicles!
Speculum Alchemiae
Duration: 45 min
Speculum Alchemiae is one of my favourite museums in the city! This hidden gem is tucked inside a real 16th-century alchemist laboratory, which makes it feel like stepping straight into history.
The only way to visit is with a guided tour, starting every half hour. During the tour, you’ll hear all about ancient alchemical potions and elixirs, and explore the preserved laboratory and the catacombs beneath. It’s a unique experience, and I’d definitely say it’s worth adding to your Prague itinerary!
Powder Gate Tower
Duration: 15 min
Located in the heart of Prague, the Powder Gate Tower is one of the city’s original gates. It served as an entrance for coronation processions of Czech kings into the Old Town. Completed in 1475, the tower was later used to store gunpowder, hence the name. If you want a unique view of the Old Town, head up to the 44-meter (144-foot) high viewing platform.
A few steps away from the Powder Gate Tower, you’ll find the Municipal House. Built in 1912, it’s a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture and one of the finest in Europe. This is also where the proclamation of Czechoslovakia’s independence was made in 1918. Today, it’s home to Prague’s largest concert hall.
Jerusalem Synagogue
Duration: 1 h
Known also as the Jubilee Synagogue, this is the city’s largest synagogue. Built in 1906, it is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau and Moorish Revival architecture. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition of artefacts and photographs about the history of the Jewish community post World War II.
3 Days in Prague itinerary – Day 2
On the second day of this itinerary, you’ll explore the Lesser Town, located on the left bank of the Vltava River.
Morning
Breakfast
If you’re staying in the Old Town, I’d recommend having breakfast at your hotel or somewhere nearby. Around Prague Castle, there aren’t many good breakfast spots that aren’t tourist traps. But if you want a quick coffee and pastry on your way to the castle, Torto is a great option. This small local bakery offers traditional Czech pastries and nice coffee.
Prague Castle
Duration: 3 h 🕒 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world, covering an area of 45 hectares. Founded in the 9th century, the castle has dominated the city skyline for more than a thousand years! Initially, it was the residence of Czech princesses, later becoming the seat of the Kings of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Emperor. Today, it serves as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
The huge castle complex includes palaces, churches, medieval alleys, and fortifications. Some of the most iconic sights are the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, St. Vitus Cathedral (and its Great South Tower), and the Golden Lane. To see everything properly, you’ll need around 2-3 hours, so it’s best to start your visit early.
🎟️ Book in advance: lines are often long, so secure your ticket now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Castle ticket (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)
Best guided tour: Castle Tour with Local Guide – see the castle’s highlights, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the Golden Lane
The entry ticket is valid for 2 days, but you can only visit each building once. Note, that even with a skip-the-line ticket, you’ll only skip the line for purchasing tickets, not for the individual sights inside the complex.
St. Vitus Cathedral
I’d suggest starting your visit to the castle complex with St. Vitus Cathedral. It’s the most popular spot, so visiting it first will help you avoid the crowds.
St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest in the Czech Republic, and it’s where the kings of Bohemia were crowned. Built in stunning Gothic style, it took over 600 years to complete. The Chapel of St. Wenceslas is a must-see, with its gorgeous decorations of semi-precious stones, gold and ornate frescoes.
You can climb the Great South Tower of the cathedral, but be prepared – it’s 287 steps up a spiral staircase, and there’s no lift. I didn’t realise that until I started the climb, but the views of the city from the top are absolutely worth it!
Old Royal Palace
The Old Royal Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Prague Castle and was once the residence of the Kings of Bohemia. A highlight of the palace is Vladislav Hall, a stunning 16th-century hall where royal coronations took place.
Golden Lane
Golden Lane is one of the most charming spots in the castle complex. This colourful little alley, with its 16th-century houses, used to be home to goldsmiths, which is where it gets its name. Today, many of the houses are museums and souvenir shops. However, you can still get a feel for what life was like for the medieval artisans who lived and worked here.
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard takes place daily at 12 PM in the castle’s first courtyard, complete with a fanfare and flag ceremony. In case you miss this, you can watch the changing of the sentries at the gates (every hour on the hour).
Lunch at Bistro Monk
Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:15 PM – 01:45 PM
For a delicious brunch, head to Bistro Monk. This cosy café has a garden seating area that’s perfect for sunny days. I highly recommend their avocado toast with roasted mushrooms, it’s amazing!
Another great option for lunch is Choco Café U Červené židle. Located in the Old Town, it’s just a short walk away from Charles Bridge (the next stop for the day). Along with their amazing hot chocolate (more than 30 varieties!), they also serve delicious bruschettas. The one with prosciutto is a personal favourite of mine!
Afternoon
Charles Bridge
Duration: 20 min 🕒 02:00 PM – 02:20 PM
Charles Bridge is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, but it can get pretty crowded during the day. If you want to get some great photos without the crowds, try to get there early, ideally before 8 AM.
The bridge was built in the 14th century during the reign of Charles IV. Legend has it that construction began at 5:31 AM on July 9, 1357 (an hour chosen by Charles IV himself). He was a firm believer in numerology and thought this particular time would give the bridge extra strength.
As you walk along the Charles Bridge, you’ll notice the 30 Baroque statues lining the sides, each one representing a different saint. The most famous is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk. According to legend, he was thrown into the Vltava River from the bridge and drowned.
Old Town Bridge Tower
Duration: 30 min 🕒 02:20 PM – 02:50 PM
At each end of the Charles Bridge, you’ll find a defensive tower. The one on the Old Town side is called the Old Town Bridge Tower. Built in the 14th century, it was used as a victory gate, with Czech kings passing through it on their way to their coronations.
If you want the best views of the Charles Bridge, climb the Old Town Bridge Tower! There are 138 steps up to the viewing gallery, but don’t worry, it’s an easy climb and totally worth it for the beautiful views at the top. Just keep in mind that there’s no lift, so be prepared to take the stairs!
Gelato at Crème de la Crème
Duration: 30 min 🕒 03:00 PM – 03:30 PM
I’m a huge gelato fan, so when I came across Crème de la Crème during my Prague trip research, I knew I had to check it out. They serve some of the best Italian gelato in the city. I went for pistachio and poppy seed, and both were amazing!
Dinner at Restaurant Pod Věží
I discovered Restaurant Pod Věží during my last trip to the capital of the Czech Republic. Honestly, given its location, I was worried it might be too touristy, but I was totally wrong! I tried the duck confit and the chicken with mushroom risotto, and it turned out to be the best meal I had in Prague.
More ideas for 3 days in Prague – Day 2
Take a river cruise
Duration: 50 min
One of the best ways to explore Prague is by taking a river cruise. On this 45-minute tour along the canals, you’ll see some of the city’s top landmarks, including the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle. Plus, your cruise ticket gives you free access to the Charles Bridge Museum.
Classical Concert at the Mirror Chapel
Duration: 1 h
If you’re a classical music fan, you can’t miss the concert at the Mirror Chapel. It takes place in the stunning Baroque chapel with its unique mirrored walls in the Clementinum. You’ll enjoy classical works by Chopin, Smetana, and Beethoven, all performed by the talented Royal Czech Orchestra.
Lobkowicz Palace
Duration: 1 h
Lobkowicz Palace is located within the Prague Castle complex. Named after the Lobkowicz family, it has been their home for over 400 years. The family is one of the oldest and most influential noble families in Bohemia. The palace itself was built in the 16th century and has been passed down through generations.
Inside the palace, you can explore the Lobkowicz family’s private art collection. Some of the highlights include paintings by Bruegel the Elder, Canaletto, and Velázquez, as well as manuscripts by Mozart and Beethoven. I highly recommend using the audio guide, narrated by two generations of the Lobkowicz family!
Another highlight is the daily classical music concert. It is held from 1 PM to 2 PM in the Baroque Concert Hall, decorated with beautiful 17th-century frescoes. You’ll hear works by famous composers like Bach and Vivaldi, as well as Czech legends such as Dvořák and Smetana.
Strahov Monastery
Duration: 1 h
Strahov Monastery, founded in 1143, is one of Prague’s oldest and most important religious sites. I’d been wanting to visit it for ages, and on my last trip, I finally made it!
The Strahov Library is the most impressive part of the monastery, a must-see if you’re a book lover like me. It holds thousands of ancient texts, some going back to the 9th century. The library’s two main halls, the Theological Hall and the Philosophical Hall, are truly stunning, decorated with gorgeous frescoes.
Keep in mind that you can only view the two halls from the corridors unless you join a guided tour of the monastery. These tours must be booked in advance, and spots are very limited. If visiting the halls is on your must-do list, make sure to secure your spot as early as possible!
Be sure to also visit the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the monastery’s art gallery, and its brewery, which has been operating since 1400. You can even sample some great Czech beer while you’re there. And, for a breathtaking view of the city, head to the monastery’s terraces!
I recommend getting the self-guided Joint Tour ticket. It grants you access to all the public areas of the monastery, including the library, the art gallery with its treasury, and the abbey itself.
Loreto
Duration: 40 min
This beautiful Baroque monastery is one of the top Catholic pilgrimage sites in the Czech Republic. The complex consists of a church, a cloister, a few chapels and a carillon tower. Even if you’re not religious, visit the monastery for its unique treasure collection of liturgical objects from the 16th to 18th centuries. Among them, you’ll see the famous Prague Sun, a monstrance encrusted with 6,222 diamonds.
Church of Saint Nicholas
Duration: 20 min
The Church of Saint Nicholas is one of the city’s greatest examples of Baroque architecture. While its exterior may seem simple, don’t let that stop you! Step inside to admire its gilded interior, featuring exquisite carvings, frescoes and marble pillars. Also, make sure to climb the few steps up to the gallery for a closer view of the painted ceiling.
Church of Our Lady Victorious
Duration: 20 min
The Church of Our Lady Victorious is best known as the home of the famous Infant Jesus of Prague. This 16th-century wooden statue is a depiction of the infant Jesus, and it’s believed to have miraculous powers.
Be sure to visit the small museum located to the right of the main altar. It showcases a collection of the Infant Jesus’ dresses, many of which are true works of art!
3 Days in Prague itinerary – Day 3
The third day of the itinerary is about trying something unique, like a Beer Spa, and exploring beyond Prague.
Morning
Breakfast at Kolacherie Celetná
Duration: 30 min 🕒 09:00 AM – 09:30 AM
On your way to the main train station, grab breakfast at Kolacherie Celetná, a small bakery that serves delicious koláče. These soft, round pastries are made with yeasted dough and filled with fruit preserves, poppy seed paste, or cheese. I really enjoyed the ones with walnuts and the cheesy ones.
Day trip to Kutná Hora
Duration: 6 h 🕒 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM
Featuring a stunning cathedral and a church decorated with real bones, Kutná Hora is the most popular day trip from Prague. Once a major silver mining town, it was the second most important centre in medieval Bohemia after Prague.
Sedlec Ossuary
I recommend starting with the Sedlec Ossuary, as it tends to get busier later in the day. Known as the Bone Church, it’s one of the most unique attractions in the Czech Republic. Located just outside Kutná Hora, this small chapel is decorated with the bones of over 40,000 people from the adjacent cemetery. A short walk from the ossuary, you’ll find Sedlec Cathedral (Cathedral of Assumption of Our Lady and St. John the Baptist).
I suggest buying the combined Sedlec & Barbora ticket. It gives you access to the Sedlec Ossuary, Sedlec Cathedral, and St. Barbara’s Cathedral. You can buy the ticket online or at the Information Centre on 279 Zámecká Street, right before the Sedlec Ossuary. Please note that photography is no longer allowed inside the ossuary.
Also, keep in mind that there’s about a 40-minute walk between the Sedlec Ossuary and St. Barbara’s Cathedral, as the ossuary is located outside the city centre.
St. Barbara’s Cathedral
Located in the heart of Kutná Hora, St. Barbara’s Cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in the Czech Republic. Built in the 14th century, the cathedral is dedicated to St. Barbara, the patron saint of miners.
I found the cathedral impressive and well worth the visit. However, if you’re short on time, I’d recommend visiting just the Sedlec Ossuary, as the two attractions are a bit far from each other.
How to get to Kutná Hora
- the easiest option is to take an organised Kutná Hora day trip (with over 1,900 excellent reviews), so you can skip the logistics and just enjoy your day
- on your own – take a train from Praha hl.n. to Kutná Hora hl.n. The journey takes about an hour, with trains running every two hours (check the train schedule here). I recommend taking the 8 AM or 10 AM train, as the Sedlec Ossuary tends to get busy later in the day. After visiting the ossuary, head to the Old Town, which is about a 40-minute walk away
Afternoon
Beer spa with unlimited beer
Duration: 1 h 30 min
If you’re looking for a unique way to end your Prague trip, I highly recommend trying a beer bath. These baths have been around since the Middle Ages and are amazing for your skin. At the Bernard Beer Spa, you can soak in a private beer-filled bath and enjoy unlimited beer from the tap! You can even add a massage to make the experience more relaxing.
Pilsner Urquell Experience & Beer Tasting
Duration: 2 h
If you’re a beer lover, the Pilsner Urquell Experience is a must. You’ll explore the history of the world’s first Pilsner beer and learn all about the brewing process. The best part? The tasting session, where you’ll enjoy the rich flavours of Pilsner Urquell!
Dinner at Restaurace Tiskárna
Finish your last day in Prague with a traditional Czech meal at Restaurace Tiskárna. I recommend trying Svíčková, a dish of braised beef with dumplings, along with a cold Pilsner beer.
Another great dinner spot is Sad Man’s Tongue Bar & Bistro. In my opinion, they serve the best burgers in the city! The burgers are perfectly made and come with crispy, salty fries.
More ideas for 3 days in Prague – Day 3
Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour
Duration: 1 h 30 min
Discover Prague’s darker side on this Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour. You’ll explore the Old Town and Jewish Quarter while hearing chilling ghost stories and mysterious legends. It’s a great way to see a different side of the city!
See Prague’s quirky statues
Throughout Prague, you’ll come across some unusual sculptures by David Černý. Two of the most famous are Man Hanging Out and Head of Franz Kafka. These unique works have become iconic symbols of the city, each with its own quirky style and story.
To see Man Hanging Out, you’ll need to look up. This unusual sculpture depicts Sigmund Freud dangling above one of the cobblestone streets in the Old Town.
The Head of Franz Kafka stands 11 meters (36 feet) tall and is made of 42 rotating panels. Every hour, the panels rotate, creating a constantly changing effect.
Kočičí Kavárna and Cat Cafe Prague
If you’re a cat lover, make sure to visit Kočičí Kavárna and Cat Cafe Prague. I had the chance to go to both, and the cats were super friendly, always seeking attention. Add in some delicious cake and tea, and there’s really nothing more to ask for!
National Monument to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror
Duration: 1 h
If you’re interested in WWII history, I highly recommend visiting the National Monument to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror. It’s located in the underground crypt of the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius. This is where the Czechoslovakian soldiers hid after the assassination of Reinhard Heydrich, known as the Butcher of Prague. The soldiers were part of Operation Anthropoid, a mission planned by the British Special Operations.
The site is free to visit, and I’d recommend watching the short movie about Operation Anthropoid. It gives you a great historical background!
Prague Christmas Market
If you’re in Prague during December, don’t miss its magical Christmas markets. The main ones are located at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with several smaller markets scattered throughout the city. The festive atmosphere, with all the twinkling lights and Christmas decorations, really makes it feel like a winter fairytale.
Find all you need to know in my complete guide to the Prague Christmas market.
Book your tickets in advance
Prague Castle – with more than 3 million visitors a year, the castle is one of the most popular city attractions. To skip the lines, book your ticket in advance here.
1-day Prague itinerary
While it’s possible to visit the city’s main attractions in a single day, it can feel rushed, and you’ll likely need to skip some sights. If you only have one day, I’d recommend starting with Prague Castle, the city’s top attraction. Make time to see St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. From there, head to Charles Bridge and finish at the Old Town Square. Skip the Jewish Quarter, as it takes around two hours to explore.
If you only have one day in Prague, I’d suggest doing the Old Town and Castle Walking Tour. This 3-hour tour is perfect if you have limited time. It covers all the must-see spots and gives you great insights into the city’s history!
One day in Prague
- Breakfast at Pekárna Nostress
- Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
- Charles Bridge
- Lunch at Pauseteria
- Old Town Hall Tower and Astronomical Clock
- Church of Our Lady before Týn
- Dinner at Restaurant Pod Věží
2-day Prague itinerary
You can easily explore the city’s top attractions in just two days. Simply follow the first two days of the 3-day itinerary, and skip the Kutná Hora day trip. If you’d like to enjoy the Beer Spa, I suggest fitting it in after your sightseeing on either day. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of exploring!
2 days in Prague
- Day 1: Old Town Hall Tower, Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady before Týn, Jewish Quarter
- Day 2: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Bridge Tower, Beer Spa (optional)
Where to stay in Prague
If you’re visiting Prague for the first time, I’d suggest staying in the Old Town (Staré Město). It’s where you’ll find all the must-see sights, like the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance of places like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the main railway station.
I’d recommend skipping Lesser Town (Malá Strana) for your stay. While it’s home to Prague Castle, the area is quite hilly, which can make getting around difficult. You might find it challenging to reach your hotel without a lot of effort, especially if you’re walking.
Hotel Rott – Best 4-star
Hotel Rott is right in the heart of the city, just a short walk from Old Town Square and Staroměstská metro station. The spacious rooms are comfortable, and breakfast is a highlight, with plenty of options to choose from. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace! Its panoramic view of the city is stunning and a great way to relax after a day of sightseeing!
Hotel Kings Court – Best luxury
This luxury hotel is ideally located near Na Příkopě Street and Palladium Mall. It features a nice Spa with a pool, jacuzzi, and sauna, along with various massages and beauty treatments. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at the Italian restaurant with lovely views of Republic Square.
U Medvidku-Brewery Hotel – Best 3-star
U Medvidku-Brewery Hotel is a great budget-friendly option in the heart of the city. It’s home to one of the city’s oldest restaurants, dating back to 1466, and a historic brewery. The restaurant offers a traditional beer hall and a beer garden, and for something a bit unique, there’s even a beer spa on-site!
Day trips from Prague
Karlštejn Castle
Karlštejn Castle is one of the most iconic castles in the Czech Republic. It was built in 1348 by Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor. The castle served as his private residence and a safe place for the Imperial Crown Jewels.
Karlštejn Castle has some impressive towers, and the Great Tower is the tallest of them all. Inside, you’ll find the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is decorated with beautiful paintings.
You can only visit the castle as part of a guided tour (check out all the tour options here). I went for the main tour, called the Imperial Residence of Charles IV. It can be booked directly on-site and takes you through the historic rooms on the 1st and 2nd floors of the Imperial Palace. If you’re interested, you can also book the Karlštejn Castle Chapels Tour in advance, which gives you access to some of the most impressive rooms. I chose the basic tour since both cover different rooms, and I didn’t have time for both.
How to get to Karlštejn Castle
The castle is located 40 minutes away by train from Prague. There are trains every half hour departing from the Praha hl.n. to Karlštejn station. From the train station, it’s about a 30-minute walk to the castle.
Getting around in Prague
Prague is an easy city to explore on foot. This is especially true if you’re staying in the Old Town, where most of the landmarks are within walking distance. I’d suggest walking through the city to truly experience its charm and appreciate the beautiful architecture.
Still, if you need to travel farther in Prague, I’d recommend using the metro or tram. They’re a reliable and quick way to get around. You can buy individual tickets or a day pass (see all available tickets here). Just remember to validate your ticket before you board.
How to get to Prague
By air
The international Václav Havel Airport Prague (Letiště Václava Havla Praha) is located only 12km away from the city centre. The Airport Express shuttle is the most convenient way to get there, connecting the airport to the central railway station. You can also take an Uber, which will cost around €40.
By train
The capital of the Czech Republic is easily reachable by train from many other European cities like Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava. Prague’s main railway station (Praha hlavní nádraží) is just a short walk from the Old Town.
If you’re travelling between Vienna and Prague, consider booking tickets on the official České dráhy website. Their prices are generally lower than on ÖBB’s site, even though it’s the same train. For the best price, make sure to book at least two months in advance, and remember to reserve a seat for a more comfortable journey.
By car
If you’re arriving by car, you can find parking in the central parts of the city difficult. The streets are divided into three zones – parking only for local residents and two zones of paid parking (long-term and short-term). It’s best to either choose a hotel with parking or use a public parking garage (see all parking garages here).
Best time to visit Prague
Prague is a popular destination, and it can get pretty crowded in the summer. To avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder season – April, May, September and October. You’ll still get great weather, but without the heavy tourist traffic.
The capital of the Czech Republic is also known for its beautiful Christmas markets, and I have to say, the city is absolutely magical in December. If you don’t mind the cold, it’s definitely worth experiencing Prague around Christmas time.
FAQs about visiting Prague
It’s typical to leave a tip of 10% if the service is good.
Yes, tap water is safe to drink and of high quality. You can easily drink it straight from the tap without any issues.
Two days are enough to see the main sights, including Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. If you’re planning a day trip to Kutná Hora, though, consider adding an extra day.
Yes, Prague is definitely worth visiting! It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with stunning architecture and a rich history. Plus, it’s more affordable than many other European capitals.
In 3 days, visit Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. Get the best views of the city from the Old Town Hall Tower. On the third day, take a day trip to Kutná Hora and relax with a beer Spa in the afternoon.
Yes, Prague Castle is worth visiting for its rich history, impressive architecture, and stunning views of the city. It’s home to key sights like St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace.
Yes, 3 days is enough to see the main sights and get a good feel of the city. You can visit all the tourist attractions like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock and even fit in a day trip to Kutná Hora if you’d like.
Two days are enough to see the main sights, like the Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. But if you want to take a day trip to Kutná Hora or relax at a beer spa, then three days would be perfect.
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