Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with a rich history and culture that dates back centuries. Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague offers a mix of stunning architecture, delicious food, and fascinating history. In this 3-day travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, where to sleep and eat, and provide some helpful tips for your visit.
Day 1 – Old Town and Jewish Quarter
On your first day in Prague, we recommend starting your day in the Old Town. This area is the heart of the city, and it’s filled with historic buildings, beautiful architecture, and great places to eat and drink.
- Old Town Square – This is the most important and busiest square in the city, located in the center of the Old Town. Here you’ll find the famous Astronomical Clock, the Týn Church, and plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee.
- Charles Bridge – This iconic bridge is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks, connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town. You can walk across the bridge to get stunning views of the city and the Vltava River.
- Jewish Quarter – Also known as Josefov, the Jewish Quarter is located in the Old Town and is home to several synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. It’s a fascinating area to explore and learn about the history and culture of Prague’s Jewish community.
For lunch, we recommend trying some traditional Czech cuisine. Head to one of the restaurants in the Old Town that serves dishes like goulash, roast pork, or dumplings.
In the afternoon, you can continue exploring the Old Town or visit one of the museums in the area. The Museum of Communism is an interesting option, as it provides a look into Prague’s recent history under communist rule.
For dinner, head to the Jewish Quarter and try some traditional Jewish dishes like matzo ball soup or gefilte fish.
Day 2 – Prague Castle and Lesser Town
On your second day in Prague, head to the Prague Castle and the Lesser Town. This area is located on the west bank of the Vltava River and is home to some of the city’s most important landmarks.
- Prague Castle – This castle complex is the largest ancient castle in the world and has been the seat of Czech kings, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents. The complex includes the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
- Lesser Town – Also known as Malá Strana, the Lesser Town is located at the foot of the Prague Castle and is a charming area filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and great restaurants.
- Petrin Hill – Located in the Lesser Town, Petrin Hill offers stunning views of the city and is a great place for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
For lunch, head to one of the restaurants in the Lesser Town and try some Czech beer and a traditional dish like svíčková (beef with cream sauce) or knedlíky (dumplings).
In the afternoon, you can explore the Lesser Town or head to one of the nearby museums like the Kampa Museum or the Museum of Czech Music.
For dinner, we recommend trying some international cuisine in the Lesser Town. There are plenty of options for Italian, French, or Asian food.
Day 3 – New Town and Vysehrad
On your final day in Prague, explore the New Town and the Vysehrad area. The New Town is located east of the Old Town and was established in the 14th century, while Vysehrad is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River.
- Wenceslas Square – This large square in the New Town is named after the patron saint of the Czech Republic and is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
- National Museum – Located at the top of Wenceslas Square, the National Museum is the largest museum in the Czech Republic and houses a collection of natural history and historical artifacts.
- Vysehrad – This historic fortress is located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and offers stunning views of the city. It’s also home to the Vysehrad Cemetery, where many famous Czechs are buried.
For lunch, head to one of the restaurants in the New Town and try some international cuisine like sushi or pizza.
In the afternoon, you can explore the New Town or head to one of the nearby museums like the Museum of Decorative Arts or the Mucha Museum.
For dinner, we recommend trying some modern Czech cuisine at one of the restaurants in the New Town.
Travel Tips in Prague
Here are some helpful travel tips to make the most of your trip to Prague:
- Wear comfortable shoes – Prague is a city best explored on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Use public transportation – Prague has an efficient and affordable public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a metro.
- Buy a Prague Card – If you plan to visit many museums and attractions, consider buying a Prague Card which includes free entry to many places and discounts on others.
- Beware of pickpockets – Like any major tourist destination, Prague has its share of pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Where to Sleep in Prague
Prague has a wide range of accommodations to suit any budget. Here are some options:
- Hostels – Prague has plenty of hostels that offer affordable accommodations in central locations. Hostel One Home and Czech Inn are popular options.
- Hotels – There are also many hotels in Prague, ranging from budget to luxury. The Grand Mark Prague and the Carlo IV are popular luxury options.
- Airbnb – Another popular option in Prague is to rent an Airbnb apartment or room. This is a great way to experience local life and can be more affordable than a hotel.
Whatever your budget and preferences, make sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Where to Eat in Prague
Prague has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of traditional Czech cuisine as well as international options. Here are some restaurants to try:
- Lokál – This restaurant chain is known for its traditional Czech cuisine and excellent beer.
- Eska – A modern Czech restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and creative dishes.
- La Degustation – A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a tasting menu of traditional Czech cuisine with a modern twist.
- Dish – This restaurant offers international cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
There are plenty of other great restaurants in Prague, so don’t be afraid to explore and try something new.
Free Tours in Prague
Prague has several free walking tours that are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Here are some options:
- Prague Free Walking Tour – This tour covers the main sights in the Old Town and is offered several times a day.
- Discover Prague – This tour covers the history of Prague from the Middle Ages to the present day and is offered twice a day.
- New Europe Tours – This tour company offers several free walking tours in Prague, including a tour of the Old Town and a tour of the Communist history of the city.
These tours are a great way to get an overview of the city and learn about its history and culture. Keep in mind that while the tours are free, it’s customary to tip the guide at the end.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time of year to visit Prague? – The best time to visit Prague is in the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, Prague is a beautiful city year-round and can be visited any time of the year.
- Do I need a visa to visit Prague? – Citizens of the EU, the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa to visit the Czech Republic for up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy to confirm the visa requirements for your country.
- Is Prague a safe city? – Prague is a relatively safe city, but like any major tourist destination, there are pickpockets and scams to be aware of. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
- What is the currency in Prague? – The currency in Prague is the Czech koruna (CZK).
- What is the official tourism website for Prague? – The official tourism website for Prague is https://www.prague.eu/en.
