how to travel prague

13 things to know before going to Prague, Czech Republic

Feb 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Here's what you should know about before heading to Prague © Michal Kalasek / Shutterstock

For a city that knows how to surprise, come to  Prague .

Wander its beautiful medieval core, and you’ll soon be bumping into both fairy-tale vistas and provocative street art. At night , small, dimly lit doorways can lead to vast convivial beer halls, whereas riotous music clubs hide behind grand art deco facades. Whatever brings you to the eclectic Czech capital, though, it’s best not to be thrown completely off guard.

No matter the season , come prepared with these insider tips and make the most of a trip to Prague.

1. Choose where (and where not) to stay

With its abundance of soaring spires and must-see attractions, Staré Město (Old Town) is a good-looking and convenient base – but don’t overlook Prague’s other neighborhoods . The center is compact, and the neighboring districts of Malá Strana and Nové Město are also handy for the sights and have their own gauntlet of pubs, bars and clubs. Just be aware that Wenceslas Square transforms from a respectable shopping destination into party central after dark, and its glut of strip joints can attract roaming stag parties. 

For those keen to see where locals kick back, head to the outlying districts. Both cosmopolitan Vinohrady and hip Holešovice have good-value stays, fun nightlife and top-notch transport links. 

2. Pack comfy shoes and layers

Central Prague’s timeworn streets and alleyways are best explored on foot. Pack comfortable shoes that are cobblestone ready; high heels can lead to unfortunate pratfalls. 

Besides dressing for upscale restaurants or a night at the theater, Czechs are a casual lot. Comfy layers – which can be peeled back in a subterranean pub and then restored during a blustery walk home – will help you blend in. Whatever the season, never discount the chance of a rain shower, so bring some kind of waterproof too.

3. The metro doesn't go all the way to the airport

Prague has an excellent affordable public transport system . Its main pitfall is that the metro doesn’t quite stretch to the airport. The cheapest route to Prague’s Old Town is to catch the often busy 119 bus to Nádraží Veleslavín station and then change to metro Line A. Tickets can be bought either in the visitor center or from machines in the terminals, which mostly accept contactless debit/credit card payments. If you’re staying close to Prague’s central train station, consider taking the slightly more expensive but direct Airport Express bus .

4. Pre-book your airport taxi for the best price

Opportunistic taxi drivers can be a problem. If you want to avoid hulking suitcases on and off buses, it’s best to arrange a transfer in advance rather than stepping into a cab outside the airport (or the main train station, for that matter). At the very least, ask about the price before you set off, and let the driver know you’ll want a receipt. Uber , Bolt  and local company Liftago are popular ride-hailing apps.

5. Remember to validate your public transport ticket

Public transport tickets lasting from 30 minutes to three days can be bought at most newspaper stands, corner shops, and in all metro stations. Trams also have orange contactless debit/credit ticket machines onboard. Alternatively, you can use the PID Lítačka app . Just make sure to validate your ticket when starting your journey. This involves popping it into the yellow machine inside buses and trams or at the top of the metro escalators (or clicking the button on the app); forgetting can leave you with a hefty fine.

6. Prague’s not quite as cheap as it was (but it’s still good value)

Although prices have increased in recent years, Prague is still a good destination for budget-conscious travelers compared to many European capitals. The currency you’ll be spending is known as both Czech koruna and Czech crown. Beer remains refreshingly cheap, and a 500ml tanker will only set you back about 55Kč. A cappuccino is approximately 70Kč, and a decent traditional Czech meal costs around 200Kč. It’s usual to tip around 10% for table service.

Buying the Prague City Pass or Prague CoolPass means free and discounted admission to some key attractions and sightseeing tours, although you’ll need to work hard to make either worth the investment. If you’re on a budget, paying for a few key attractions and making the most of Prague’s free diversions makes more sense.

7. Don't expect much small talk

If you come from a culture where having a chat about the weather is the obligatory warm-up to every interaction, you may find the Czech approach more, well… abrupt. Czechs (like everyone) can be very warm and funny, but being reserved with strangers is common. Be polite, but it’s fine to get straight to the point.

8. English is widely spoken, but a little Czech is welcome

It’s common for people who live or work in Prague’s tourist hot spots to speak English. Menus and museum information boards will usually be translated into English, too. For the odd occasion where you’re struggling to be understood, it’s worth having the Google Translate app ready on your phone.

Despite the ubiquity of English in central Prague, some basic Czech is appreciated. Greet people by saying, " Dobrý den"  (good day) or "Dobrý večer" (good evening). The more informal "Ahoj!" (hi/bye!) is best saved for close friends and relatives.

9. Try traditional Czech baked goods

Chimney-shaped cakes called trdelník are hawked at stalls by most tourist attractions, and they’re an Instagram favorite. The thing is: they aren’t Czech, but rather Slovakian or possibly Hungarian. So, sure, devour one of these sugar-encrusted towers (they’re delicious), but it’s also worth scouring local bakeries for some more traditional Czech treats. Keep a hungry eye out for kolaches – palm-sized, sweet-bread disks filled with poppy seeds or fruit jam.

10. There are ways to sidestep the crowds

Prague can get hectic, especially in the late spring and summer. To escape the hubbub, venture beyond the tourist triad of Charles Bridge , Old Town Square , and Prague Castle . For example, instead of jostling through selfie sticks, admire Charles Bridge from the river islands of Kampa or Střelecký ostrov. Also, consider swapping the carnival atmosphere of Golden Lane for a romantic stroll around the tranquil castle district of Nový Svět . And if it all gets too much, bag yourself a shady spot in one of Prague’s handsome parks (some come with beer gardens and sweeping city views).

11. Be wary of exchange rates that look too good to be true

Some unscrupulous currency exchanges promise brilliant deals and then charge hidden fees. When changing money, ask for the final amount in writing before handing over your cash, and make sure you get a receipt. If you believe you’ve been given a bad deal and have changed less than €1000, you have three hours to cancel the transaction. A more scam-proof alternative is to have a bank account that offers reasonable rates and low fees for international withdrawals and use an ATM (cashpoint).

12. Take standard safety precautions and use common sense

Prague is generally a safe city: violent crime rates are low, traffic rules are followed, and the tap water is clean. Take the same precautions you would in your home country and be especially vigilant about your belongings: pickpockets have been known to target crowded tourist areas, trains, and trams. Should you need emergency help, calling 112 guarantees an English-speaking operator.

13. Get travel insurance 

The Czech Republic has high-quality health care. If you need a Schengen visa for entry, having medical insurance is mandatory. Visitors from the EU can get free emergency treatment in Prague by showing their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or, for travelers from the UK, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). It’s still advisable to take out travel insurance, as the cards do not cover all costs, such as medical repatriation.

This article was first published January 2022 and updated February 2024

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Home » Europe » Prague

PRAGUE Itinerary • MUST READ Guide! (2024)

The ‘city of a hundred spires’, this is a magical place. Prague has a rich history that is both fascinating and awe-inspiring. 

During your visit to Prague, you’ll get the chance to explore colourful baroque style buildings, Gothic churches, and Medieval structures. And I’m here to help you experience the best Prague itinerary possible!

If you’re a lover of all things historical, it’s the perfect destination: you have great places to visit! Museums, galleries, theatres, cinemas, and historical exhibits await you on your wonderful trip to Prague.

During your vacation, you can expect warm summers and cool winters, but there is no wrong time to visit this gorgeous city. With so many Prague points of interest, your vacation is sure to be filled with fun activities and epic adventures!

A Little Bit About This 3-Day Prague Itinerary

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Prague is a delightful place, packed to the brim with fascinating culture, tasty food, and a plethora of unique things to do. You can be sure that your visit to this enchanting city will leave you spellbound whether you’re backpacking around Eastern Europe or you’re having a casual weekend in Prague.

There’s a good reason why Prague is one of the most popular destinations in Eastern Europe, it’s jam-packed with imposing Gothic architecture and enchanting culture. You’ll never run out of things to do in Prague.

If you want to see all of the important landmarks, you could fit highlights into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

So it’s important that you plan out your time properly, especially if you’re on a shorter trip. You’ll need 2 or 3 full days to explore the city.

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there, and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this Prague itinerary as inspiration, not fixed plan!

3-Day Prague Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Old Town Square | The Astronomical Clock | Charles Bridge | The Jewish Ghetto | Prague Castle | Medieval Dinner
• Day 2: The Golden Lane | St Vitus Cathedral | KGB Museum | Seven Foot Sigmund Freud | Lennon Wall | Black Light Theater Show
• Day 3: Vysehrad Castle Tour | Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour | Prague River Sightseeing Cruise

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You’re going to need to know when to visit Prague , so you can make the most of the weather you prefer!

Summer (June- August) is Prague’s busiest season. The weather is warm and sunny, but the crowds come in hordes. This is generally when prices tend to shoot up, and accommodation, as well as attractions, can get pricey. Find out how affordable Prague is throughout the year.

During springtime (March-May), you can expect mild weather and a lack of crowds, which makes it a great time to travel to Prague!

Autumn (September-October) is also a great time to spend a weekend in Prague, although the weather is a little colder, it’s not too icy and you’ll avoid a good portion of the crowds. It’s still a good idea to book in advance because during this time a few of the holiday-makers linger around.

During winter (November-February), Prague can get very cold! If you’re able to brave the sometimes below freezing temperatures, there will be plenty of perks waiting for you! It’s a great European winter destination . Things come down in price as the mercury drops, accommodation becomes far more affordable, and you can completely avoid the crowds!

Here’s what you can expect month-to-month, so you can plan a trip to Prague!

What’s the Weather like in Prague?

We all know that the weather is going to make a difference. The best time to visit Europe will really depend on what kind of experience you want to make.

There are so many wonderful places to stay in Prague that it can become challenging to make a decision.

One of our favourite neighbourhoods in Prague is Old Town. It’s filled with enticing things to see and incredible medieval history to learn about! At its centre, you’ll find the historic Old Town Square, which draws over six million tourists every year.

This is the perfect place to stay if you’re a history-lover and like to be close to all the action. You may encounter crowds during peak season, however, during the quiet season, it’s a magical place!

New Town is a great neighbourhood and is far less tourist-focused. It’s filled with bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops! The prices in New Town tend to be a lot easier on the pockets, making it a great place to stay if you’re on a budget or backpacking around the Czech Republic .

Now that you know some of the best areas to stay in Prague, it’s time to look at which hotels or hostels best suit your needs! There are so many things to do in Prague, you’re going to want to stay somewhere awesome!

Best Hostel in Prague  – Czech Inn

The Czech Inn is located in the perfect place, close to all the major tourist attractions, but outside of the busy areas. You can also take part in daily Prague walking tours that depart from the reception area!

The staff are friendly and there are a host of accommodation options to suit your travelling needs. If your heart is set on a hostel, there are plenty more hostels in Prague !

The Best Airbnb in Prague – Back to the Past

Start exploring in the heart of Prague while still on your budget. This is easily one of the best Airbnbs in Prague ! The location for solo and couple travellers is central and exciting.

This open-plan studio apartment is bright and airy while still being still charming. The cosy studio offers a well-designed space that includes a double king size bed and a sofa bed, so you can camp out in front of the TV or have a 3rd guest (best for a child). There’s also air conditioning for the warm summer months.

And if it’s summer, the owner may even offer to take you paddle boarding. On the nights you aren’t at the Dlouha, well known for its restaurants, bars, clubs, and nightlife, there’s a selection of books you can choose from to read while you are snuggling up in the loft bedroom overlooking the city.

Best Budget Hotel in Prague – Bed&Books

Hotel Inos offers spacious rooms located 10 minutes away from the Old Town by tram and right on the Vltava River. Each room features a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a free wifi connection. Some rooms also have a balcony. In the morning, a buffet breakfast with traditional Czech items is served to guests.

Free wifi is offered in every room which makes staying connected to family and friends or digital nomading really easy while you’re on the road.

With a Prague City Pass , you can experience the best of Prague at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

When touring Prague, it’s important to know how you’re going to get around, so you can plan your trip in the most effective way possible.

Boarding a metro is by far the fastest way to get around Prague. There are three different lines that cover the city centre and the outskirts of the city.

If you’re travelling short distances within the city centre, taking a tram is generally the most effective way to get around.

If you like to get a bit of exercise during your travels, renting a bicycle is a great way to see a more authentic side of the city, and it’s a nippy way of getting from place to place! There are plenty of bicycle lanes that make cycling through Prague pain-free.

If you prefer to travel on foot, that’s also an effective way of navigating Prague and it’s by far the cheapest way to travel! Walking gives you a chance to get to know the delightful locals, who are always ready to lend a helping hand to travellers looking for directions.

Be careful about taking taxis around the city, they tend to be a lot more expensive than public transport and can escalate their prices during the busy season. They also have a knack for ripping off tourists, so be careful if you decide to travel this way.

Now that you know the most effective way to navigate the city, let’s look at what to do in Prague , and what you should be adding to your Prague trip itinerary!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

If you’re spending one day in Prague, you’re going to need to fill it with all the best things to do, so you don’t feel like you’re missing out! You’ll spend your day exploring the most significant historical sites in Prague and learning about the city’s rich history.

9am – Stroll Through the Old Town Square

Walk the cobbled streets of this area and be transported back in time! This area is swarming with tourists in the busy season but makes a very pleasant excursion at any other time of the year.

Take some time to admire the incredible architecture of the buildings that surround the square, or merely enjoy the street performers, musicians, and merchants that frequent the area. Despite the throngs of people, seeing these performances is an absolute treat!

You’ll find merchants selling all kinds of touristy trinkets, so be sure to take some cash along for the trip! If you’re in the mood for a bite to eat, some of the best restaurants in Prague are around this area, so you really can’t go wrong! See our recommendation above if you’re looking for the perfect place to stop for a bite.

• Cost – Free!
• Getting there – It’s right in the centre of town, you can’t miss it!
• How long should you stay – 1.5 hrs

11:30am – Watch the Astronomical Clock

This absolutely beautiful mechanical clock is the pride of Prague! Built in the 15th century, it is thought to be the best-preserved medieval mechanical clock in the world!

It has been damaged and repaired over the years but remains fully intact. The show that takes place on the hour never fails to disappoint on-looking tourists.

The clock is located on the south side of Old Town Hall, making it easy to find and wonderful to watch. Be sure to be there as the clock strikes on the hour, so you don’t miss the spectacular sight!

• Getting there – It’s located in the Old Town Square, so you won’t have to relocate after your last activity (cutting down on transportation cost is a great plus while traveling abroad).
• How long should you stay – 30 mins

12:00am – Walk Across the Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge was commissioned to be built by King Charles IV in 1357 to replace an older bridge that had been damaged, as parts of it washed away in a flood.

The bridge only came to completion in 1390, and only in the 19th century did the bridge come to take his name.

Statues were added to the bridge in the 17th-century, most of them in baroque style. Although none of the originals are left, replicas have been made in place of the damaged statues. These statues are incredibly intricate and make for a very interesting sight!

The bridge connects Prague Castle and the city’s Old Town, two very important Prague landmarks! If you’re visiting Prague for the first time, this is a must-do activity on your Prague itinerary.

You’ll also find that this is one of the more unique places in Prague, so be sure to visit before your trip is over!

• Getting there – You can walk from the clock

1pm – Visit the Old Jewish Ghetto

During the 13th century, Jewish people living in Prague were forced to vacate their homes and live in an area between Old Town and the Vltava River. The houses were smaller and families were forced to live in apartment-style buildings.

The Jewish Ghetto, also known as the Jewish Quarter was where Jewish people in Prague were forced to stay right up until the 19th century when the town was remodelled.

Many of the buildings were destroyed, however, there are still a few to explore, and there are many synagogues still standing!

Be sure to check out this historically significant area on the first day of your Prague itinerary!

• Cost – Free to visit!
• Getting there – It’s a 5 min walk.
• How long should you stay – 2.5 hrs

4:00pm – Explore Prague Castle

They have three summer terraces and a winter garden, which all provide exquisite views. However, if you’d prefer to be seated inside, they have a beautiful inside dining area too! Enjoy incredible views of Charles Bridge while you dine on fine cuisine.

Prague Castle can be visited for free, but we recommend taking a guided tour, which enables you to learn a lot more while you’re exploring the castle.

It was built way back in the 9th century, holding many years’ worth of history in its walls. It is also the largest ancient castle in the world, taking up 70,000 square meters!

The Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept in a hidden room within the castle. Although you won’t get to see them, knowing they are there is enough to enthral you.

The Prague castle draws over 1.8 million tourists every year, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Prague.

The castle has always been the dwelling place of the ruler of the Czech Republic. This means that many kings have stayed there throughout the years! It is now the official office of the current president of the Czech Republic.

With so much history and grandeur, this is by far one of the best Prague activities you can take part in!

• Cost – USD $19 for a guided tour.
• Getting there – There are several tram stops nearby (Královský letohrádek, Pražský hrad, Poho?elec) and also two metro stations (Malostranská, Hrad?anská).
• How long should you stay – 2 hrs

7:00pm – Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks

This three-hour activity takes place in a tavern that will transport you back to medieval times.

Spend the evening right in the heart of Prague enjoying a five-course medieval dinner. You’ll be able to choose from six different menus, so there’s sure to be something for you!

Plus, you’ll get the chance to enjoy unlimited drinks, which always makes the evening a little better! These include wines, beer, and soft drinks.

You’ll be entertained by medieval-themed performances while you indulge in your meal. Performances range from swordsmen and jugglers to belly dancers- all accompanied by wonderful music!

This is a truly entertaining and unique way to spend the evening. Be sure not to miss out on this wonderful and spooky experience in the heart of Prague!

This evening is sure to satisfy your palate and leave you enthused and enthralled by the exciting entertainment. Be sure to book in advance to guarantee your spot at this incredible dinner table! You’ll need to order off the menu ahead of time, so the tavern can prepare the perfect meal just for you.

• Cost – USD $55
• Getting there – Kr?ma U Pavouka restaurant is right in the centre of the Old Town
• How long should you stay – 3-hour tour with unlimited drinks

If you’re spending two days in Prague, you’re going to need a few extra activities to add to your Prague itinerary. Make sure you have some comfy shoes on your packing list , you’re going to need them! You’ll spend the day exploring some of the more unique things to do in Prague. Here are a few of the best things to add.

9am – Walk Along Golden Lane

Golden Lane gets its name from the story that is told throughout Prague. It is said that alchemists used to stay in the houses along Golden Lane, and they were commissioned to find a chemical reaction that would turn ordinary objects into gold!

It’s debatable whether this is true or not, but one thing is not up for debate. If alchemists ever stayed there, they didn’t succeed in turning ordinary objects into gold.

The Czech writer, Franz Kafka, stayed in one of the houses along Golden Lane for around two years. He is said to have found it very peaceful, the perfect place to work on his writing!

Each house along the lane is a different colour, making it look like a scene out of a movie. This is a great place to come and take some touristy photos during your trip, and the perfect place to visit in Prague.

• Getting there – It’s close to Prague Castle.

11am – Visit St. Vitus Cathedral

The Cathedral is hundreds of years old and is one of the largest cathedrals in the country. It’s a Roman Catholic cathedral and the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. St Vitus Cathedral is a great example of Gothic architecture, and is widely thought of as the most important cathedral in the country!

The Cathedral contains the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Roman Emperors. If you’re an architecture fan or a lover of history, this is a must-visit during your time in Prague!

This could be considered one of the more unique things to do in Prague as not as many tourists visit the cathedral. Its many spires and turrets are picture perfect and look like they belong on a postcard!

• Cost – USD $8
• Getting there – St. Vitus Cathedral is located in the castle grounds, near to Golden Lane, which means travel costs are not an issue!
• How long should you stay – 1 hr

1pm – Investigate the KGB Museum

For the first time in history, the historic objects that belonged to the first persons of the Soviet state and the senior functionaries of the Soviet State security are all collected in one place!

Because it’s a private collection, you can only see the museum by a private tour which should be arranged prior to arrival.

The museum holds some very unusual pieces, like the death mask of Lenin, Trotsky’s murder weapon, and the radio from Beria’s cabinet. You can also find equipment from the KGB laboratories, as well as many other weird and wonderful things!

You can also take a look at the KGB photo collection, which depicts KGB soldiers on the streets of Prague!

The aim of the museum is not to depict violence, racism, and other forms of hate, but rather to remember a previous time in Prague history, through the eyes of the KGB.

• Cost – USD $21 for a guided tour
• Getting there – It’s a 10 min walk from the Castle
• How long should you stay – 1.5hrs

3pm – See the Hanging Sculpture of Sigmund Freud

Above a cobbled street in Stare Mesto, hangs a 7-foot statue of the famous psychoanalyst, Sigmund Freud. The artwork has been so popular that it’s been replicated in Chicago, London, and Berlin!

If you are unaware that the statue is there, it can easily be missed, so make sure you make the effort to find it during your time in Prague. Although a glance is all it takes to see the statue, the meaning it holds is a crucial one. “Lookup” is its message, and we think it’s quite powerful!

• Getting there – The statue can be found in the Stare Mesto area of Old Town, hanging from a pole on top of a building.
• How long should you stay – 15mins

3:30pm – See the Lennon Wall

The Lennon wall has been covered in Beatles-themed graffiti, Beatles lyrics, and quotations since the 1980s! It’s very popular amongst tourists as well as fans wanting to pay homage to the group.

The wall is located in a small secluded area, just across from the French Embassy. The wall started after the assassination of John Lennon when an artist daubed a single painting of the legend. Since then, others have added their own pieces to the wall to pay their respects to the famed musician!

The wall is continuously changing, in fact, the original painting of Lennon is long lost under layers and layers of paint!

At one point, authorities painted over the wall, but by the next morning, it was filled with art again. This goes to show just how much Beatles fans respect and love these musicians!

This activity is one of the most fun things to do in Prague, and is great for getting the perfect touristy photo!

• Getting there – It’s a 5 min walk from Charles Bridge on Velkop?evorské nám
• How long should you stay – 30mins

5pm – Black Light Theatre Show Experience

This incredible spectacle will grab your attention from the very beginning. The lights, the intricate artworks that make up the show and the exciting entertainment are all you need to have an incredible evening!

The performance is the tale of a man who is searching for his true self, and the only thing standing in his way is deep fear. He manages to defeat his fear with the help of magical beings.

If you’re a fan of performance art or love conceptualizing new ideas, this is the perfect show for you. The drama is gripping and the artistic sets are awe-inspiring!

Various different stories unfold on stage in front of your eyes, each a little more enthralling than the last. This is a great show to come to for both children and adults alike. It showcases the incredible talent that Prague has to offer and its culturally diverse performance capabilities!

You’re sure to love the beautiful music, the 4D effects, and the interesting insights the show provides into the human mind!

The theatre claims that the show is a story about each and every one of us! They’ve created a story that anyone can relate to, making it a very exciting experience.

If you’re wondering what to do with your evening in Prague, why not check out this enthralling, inspiring and artistic show!

• Cost – USD $27
• Getting there – 7 minute walk from the Astronomical Clock on Na P?íkop?
• How long should you stay – 65-minute show

The Czech Inn is located in the perfect place, close to all the major tourist attractions, but outside of the busy areas.

• 24 Hour Reception
• 24 Hour Security

If you’re spending three days backpacking through Prague or more, you’ll need to add a few more of our favourite activities to your  Prague itinerary.

9am – Vysehrad Castle E-scooter Tour

Before your three-hour E-scooter tour, you’ll get a brief introduction to the E-scooter by your knowledgeable guide. They’re fairly easy to use, so making your way around town on them shouldn’t prove to be any trouble!

Your tour will begin with a trip through town to the beautiful Vysehrad Castle. You’ll spend some time touring around the castle grounds and learning about its rich history! Your professional guide will give you great insight into what life was like for the nobles that stayed in the castle, before hopping back on your E-scooters for some more sightseeing!

After your tour of Vysehrad Castle, you’ll head to the Vltava River Bank, where you’ll see monuments and important historical sites. You’ll also be able to enjoy gorgeous panoramic views of Prague city!

Along the way, you can expect to see Wenceslas Square, Jungman’s Square, the church of Saint Lady Snow, Palace Adria, and the iconic statue of Franz Kafka’s head.

All these sights have a historical significance and along the way, you’ll become incredibly knowledgeable about the city of Prague and its great history. Be sure to take a good travel camera along for this tour as there’ll be plenty to photograph along the way!

If you’re a fan of history, architecture or simply want to learn a little more about the city you’re visiting, this is a great tour for you!

• Getting there – Take the tram to Bílá labut’
• How long should you stay – 3-hour E-scooter tour

1pm – Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour

On this Prague walking tour, you’ll uncover some of the best myths and legends in the area and be baffled by unsolved mysteries!

This alternative tour will allow you to see a completely different side of Prague than the one you see in the day. You’ll hear myths that have been lingering in the city throughout the ages and hear stories about its ever-changing cultural landscape!

Learn Prague’s hidden secrets and ghost stories that may or may not be true. If you love a spooky tale, this tour is sure to give you goosebumps!

It’s said that on this tour, you could come face to face with the famed Prague headless horseman or a phantom that’s roamed the streets of Prague for centuries!

You’ll stroll quietly through the darkened cobbled streets and learn the secret behind the skeleton of the Astronomical clock. You’ll hear tales of the elves that live in the Burgrave’s house and get up to mischief in the Prague castle complex.

Learn why a dishonest shopkeeper was drowned, and if you’re not too lucky, you’ll get a glimpse of the bloody headman’s sword!

If all these spooky activities sound right up your alley, this is the perfect tour to send shivers down your spine and keep you up at night!

• Cost – USD $18
• Getting there – Meet your guide by the statue of King Charles IV on K?ižovnické nám?stí 191/3
• How long should you stay – 1.5-hour tour

5pm – Prague River Sightseeing Cruise

What better way to see a city than from the waters of its famous river. On this hour-long cruise down the Vltava River, you’ll take in incredible views of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

From the boat, you’ll get the chance to see the Charles Bridge, the famous Prague Castle and many other interesting sights along the way.

Cruising down the Vltava River might be the most relaxing way to spend the afternoon! Sipping on tea and nibbling on delicious cake while you enjoy the wonderful views.

The boat is made for comfort! With air-conditioning and a shaded sundeck, you’ll feel like you’re living large while cruising down the river. Audio guide commentary is available in multiple different languages, making it easy for you to gain knowledge about this beautiful city along the way!

If you like to travel in style while enjoying beautiful sights and smells, this is the perfect tour for you!

Be sure to take your camera along for this trip, as you’ll want to immortalize every moment of it. A touristy photo of you travelling down the Vltava River with Prague Castle in the background is sure to make all your friends jealous!

• Cost – USD $17
• Getting there – Pier 3, Dvo?ákovo Náb?eží (embankment), under the ?ech?v Bridge and Hotel InterContinental
• How long should you stay – 1-hour cruise

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Generally, Prague is safe , and there aren’t many dangers to watch out for. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry! It’s always a good idea to keep your eyes peeled during your Prague trip.

Always be on the lookout for pickpockets when you’re in touristy areas. These places are hotspots for pickpockets, so it’s best to keep your personal belongings hidden.

There are certain buildings in the city where photography is not allowed. Check before you enter as there is usually a sign that indicates whether or not photography is allowed. If you’re taking photos in a church, be sure to turn your flash off so that you don’t disturb worshipers.

Be sure to validate your public transport ticket each time before you catch a ride. If you’re caught on public transport with an unvalidated ticket you will face a hefty fine.

Be aware of money exchange scams, or stick to ATMs. Some money exchange stations will take advantage of unsuspecting tourists with hidden charges, or simply shortchange you.

These are just a few things to be aware of during your time in Prague, but for the most part, it is very safe but it’s best to be cautious anyway.

Find out what people want to know when planning a Prague itinerary.

How many days do you need in Prague?

2-3 days is more than enough time to explore Prague’s highlights – thanks to the city’s efficient public transport network. It’s not a big place.

What should you include on a 3 day Prague itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Prague highlights: – Visit the Old Town Square – Walk over Charles Bridge – Stroll down Golden Lane – See the Lennon Wall

What are the coolest things to see in Prague?

Prague’s most unique attractions include the Astronomical Clock, the KGB Museum, the Hanging Sculpture of Freud, and the Old Jewish Ghetto.

Is Prague worth visiting?

Yes! Prague is one of the coolest destinations in Europe and 100% worth a visit. Here, you’ll find some of the most exquisite architecture in the Czech Republic.

Now that you know what to add to your 3-day itinerary in Prague, be sure to book all our activities and day trips in advance! You don’t want to risk losing out on the opportunity of a lifetime!

With so many wonderful things to offer, Prague really does have it all! Incredible architecture, wonderful natural beauty, historical sites, and sunsets that will take your breath away.

Whether you’re a history fanatic or just a lover of beautiful things, Prague will blow you away! This Prague itinerary will make sure that you’ve added all the very best places to visit in Prague to your to-do list.

There’s nothing better than a getaway to one of the most picturesque cities in the world! So what are you waiting for? Get booking a vacation to your dream destination and have an incredible holiday in Prague!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Agness and Cez

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Prague Travel Tips – 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting the Czech Capital

by Drifter Planet | Aug 22, 2018 | Czech Republic , Most Popular Blog Posts

Prague travel tips to help you have a good time in this lovely city.

Is Prague the prettiest city in Europe?

Paris had claimed title many decades back, but many say this medieval seat of Bohemian kings is even prettier. With ancient bridges, pastel houses, Vltava River, historical squares, look out towers, and one of the largest castles in the world – Prague is definitely bejeweled.

Beautiful Prague at Night – Charles Bridge – cc0 via Pixabay

By the way, Prague is called “ Praha ” in the Czech Republic and is also called the City of a Hundred Spires . There are many other nicknames too but my favorite is “ the heart of Europe ” because it is in Central Europe. Funnily enough, there are 4 different cities in the USA that are called Prague or Praha.

Prague Travel Tips – Important things you need to know before visiting Prague

If you’re visiting Europe then you should definitely include the loveliest city of the continent in your itinerary. Here are some essential Prague travel tips that will help you plan your trip:

Travel Tips for Prague

Currency in the czech republic.

Czech Currency Coins – Prague Travel Tips

No, the currency of the Czech Republic isn’t Euro but is Czech Crown. Yes, it is basic info but I was surprised to see so many travelers who didn’t know when they arrived here. – haha. The locals mostly say “Koruna” instead of “Crowns”. The abbreviation is CZK or Kč. 1 Euro is currently 25 Czech Crowns but check the latest currency rates.

The coins are available in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 denominations, while the notes are in 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000. Why am I telling you this? You will know the answer in the next point.

Currency Exchange Scams in Prague

There are a few exchange offices that claim “0% commission” but charge an exorbitant “exchange fee” when you exchange with them. Make sure you not only ask the exchange rate but the final amount that you will get for your money.

Another horrible currency exchange scam in Prague is that many touts walk around exchange offices and catch a hold of tourists. They offer a rate that’s too good to be true but give out old currency that’s not accepted anywhere. Check Czech National Bank website to see which notes are currently in circulation.

There are some really good currency exchange offices that actually charge no commission, so I recommend you head to a few of them, ask and then exchange. A few locals recommended I visit eXchange in Kaprova . Normally I prefer withdrawing directly from an ATM but I got a horrible rate when I did. Avoid EuroNet ATMs because they charge a fee.

Traveler SIM Card in Prague

If you’re coming to Prague from another European Union country, you don’t need a local SIM card in Prague. My German SIM worked very well here.

If you’re looking to buy, then I will give you a few options. Vodafone offers a 10 GB data SIM card for visitors for 800 CZK, which is valid for 30 days. There is not much price difference between the 4 GB and 8 GB one. Vodafone SIM cards are available at the airport and many supermarkets.

Prague Weather and Best Time to Visit

Sunrise in Prague – it looks even better in Spring and Autumn – cc0 via Pixabay

Prague is good to visit throughout the year and you can enjoy all the seasons. Winters are cold but the city looks charming under the magic of snow. Spring and autumn are the best months to visit because Prague looks very colorful, the weather is not too cold and the city is not extremely crowded.

Like most of the European cities, Prague tends to get extremely crowded in the summer months. I visited Prague in summer and it was warmer than usual because of the unexpected European heat wave.

By the way, if you have a thing for castles, then you should check out Germany’s Burg Eltz and Heidelberg .

Public Transport in Prague – Metro and Trams

Prague Metro – Travel Tips for Prague – CC0 via Pixabay

Prague metro is well spread out and will get you just about anywhere you want in the city. The metro system is not confusing at all and most likely you won’t need to take any other mode of transport at all. There are just 3 metro lines in Prague – A (Green), B (Yellow) and C (red).

The best part is that you can get a combined ticket for the metro train, tram, and even buses. A 30-minute ticket is for 24 CZK and a 90-minute one is for 32 CZK. You won’t need the 90 minute one in 90% of the cases. A full day ticket is for 110, which only makes sense if you’re making more than 4 journeys.

The metro ticket machines in Prague CAN BE confusing and will ONLY accept coins. On the left are the normal fares and on the right are child fares. The first button is for a 30-minute ride and you need to put coins after pressing the button so that you can get your ticket.

All my validated metro tickets in Prague – Travel Tips for Prague

Wait, it doesn’t end here. You HAVE to stamp and validate your ticket before entering the platform. The ticket validator machines are generally yellow or orange in color. You may just miss them because the locals don’t stop there since they have a monthly or annual pass. If you get caught traveling in the metro without stamping your ticket then you will have to pay an expensive fine.

Liftago, Uber and Local Taxies in Prague

Even though the metro in Prague can get you literally everywhere, you may need to take a taxi if you’re carrying a lot of luggage. Also, if you’re more than 2 people then taxis are more economical. App-based taxi services in Prague are super comfortable!

The Czech version of Uber is called Liftago and I used it a few times. You just need to put your pick up and drop locations, and the drivers send you the best prices that you can pick. On the other hand, the locals warned me that if I hail a taxi from the street directly, they would overcharge me or scam me. Thankfully, never experienced this.

Typical Travel Costs in Prague

Prague – the bejeweled heart of Europe is an affordable destination – Prague Travel Tips – cc0 via Pixabay

Prague isn’t as expensive as most of the European cities and you can do a lot here even on a shoestring budget.

A room in a five star will cost you around €200 and a mid-range room can be from €50 to €150. You won’t end up spending more than €10 per person in a good restaurant if you eat well. The cost of attractions is not high.

If you’re on a backpacker budget, then a hostel in Prague can cost you 15 – 20 euros. One time metro ticket is 1 euro. Food from the street (hot dog) can be as low as 1 euro too. Food in a decent restaurant will be for around 5 euros. Beer is cheap and is really good. You can easily do your day in less than 50 euros if you want to.

Avoiding Crowds in Prague – Charles Bridge and Old Town

Extremely Crowded Old Town Square in Prague – Essential Travel Tips

Do you know what are the most popular things to do in Prague? Visiting the Charles Bridge and the Old Town! That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit these places at all but get there before the others do. 

If you’re thinking of heading to the Charles Bridge for Sunset Photography, forget it because you will only capture people. Instead, wake up super early and get there before the sunrise. The same is the case with the Old Town too. I even wrote a guide about how to experience Prague in 2 days and have mentioned touristy spots during early hours. 

• Prague Castle : Skip the line entry ticket and transfers
• Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Tower Ticket : This ticket costs EUR 10 in 2022 and has the best of the old town. See Prague’s oldest town hall. Visit the Gothic chapel and the staterooms, see at the inner mechanism of the astronomical clock, and view into the extensive underground space below the Old Town Hall building. 

The Lesser Town (Mala Strana) in Prague wasn’t crowded as the Old Town when I visited. In fact, I even found a few empty streets to myself. And hey, I found the Lesser Town area to be very beautiful. I spent most of my time in Jiřího z Poděbrad area because it wasn’t crowded.

Sunset Spots in Prague

View from Riegrovy Sady Sunset Spot in Prague – travel tips for Prague

As mentioned in the last point, avoid the Charles Bridge and the Old Town at sunset time. Instead, I will give you two options that are actually public parks – Letna Park or Riegrovy Sady . Hanavský Pavilion in at Letná Park is a good spot.

I enjoyed Riegrovy Sady so much that I went there on two occasions to watch the sunset. The view from here is definitely one of the top sights in Prague . You can carry something to eat and drink and put your mat on the garden to watch the sunset in Riegrovy Sady.

Alternatively, the city has a few lookout towers . Head to Petřín Tower , it is Prague’s “ mini Eiffel Tower ”. The line outside it tends to get long at sunset time, so check below for a special “skip the line” ticket.

You can also go on top of the Žižkov Television Tower for the sunset view. I personally did not go (even though I was staying pretty close to it), but I have heard it is great.

To see all the places I love in Prague, check out this diary I’ve created with Wowanders . Wowanders is a travel diary app that both lets you easily save the details of all the places you visit on your travels, while also making it easy to share your recommendations with others.

Get Out of the Centre

Most of the travelers get stuck in Prague’s center and don’t end up exploring anything beyond the Old Town and the Charles Bridge. Prague is a beautiful city and even the lesser-known areas are amazing.

I spent most of my time in and around Jiřího z Poděbrad Square because I really enjoyed the chilled out vibe there. Moreover, the restaurants were definitely cheaper here. The streets were NOT full of souvenir shops and I actually saw some lovely boutiques.

Trdelník is not a Czech Dessert

Trdelník – Round Pastry in Prague – NOT a local delicacy – Prague travel tips – cc0 via Pixabay

Yes, it looks pretty and you will see an insane amount of vendors selling Trdelník in the touristy areas but it is not a local delicacy. It has kind of become one of the most popular Instagram accessories for photos in Prague. It actually originated in a town called Skalica in Slovakia.

…And Neither Are These Russian Dolls

Matryoshkas – these are Russian Dolls but sold in Prague’s souvenir shops – cco via Pixabay

Somehow a lot of souvenir shops in Prague (and other European cities) sell Matryoshkas dolls, which have nothing to do with Prague or the Czech culture. Many travelers get fooled into thinking that they’re buying something local. Would you buy a saree when you’re visiting Germany?

Instead, Buy These Local Souvenirs in Prague

Buy puppets in Prague – Prague Travel Tips

If you want a locally made souvenir, then you should buy crystals, Moser glass, blue onion patterned porcelain or my favorite – Czech puppets. While glass or porcelain souvenirs are fragile to carry, marionettes and puppets are easy to carry.

Czech Dumplings Are Not What You Think

Czech Dumplings – Prague Travel Tips – cc0 via Pixabay

I’m from Asia and dumplings are very different from where I come. There’s usually a dough coating with a filling inside. If you are from Asia and order dumplings in the Czech Republic, then you’re in for a shock. You will receive a plate with pieces of bread and meat.

 Absinthe in Prague.. or Slivovice?

A lot of travelers buy Absinthe in Prague, which is actually from Switzerland. Absinthe – the Green Fairy is highly regulated in most of the countries and is sold without thujone there. However, in the Absinthe in the Czech Republic has thujone so it is near its true form. But the Czech Absinthe doesn’t have anise or herbs , so it is better to buy it from France or Switzerland. Buy it in Prague only if you’re not visiting France or Switzerland. Keep it mind that many shops in Prague sell overprized Absinthe.

I’d recommend you to try Slivovice and consider buying it instead. Slivovice is a locally produced brew that you can buy in the Czech Republic. It enjoys a status of Moravian national drink. It is very strong and the alcohol content is 50%. It is mostly served in shot glasses.

Prague Neighborhoods

Prague’s neighborhoods have both names and numbers. However, confusingly an entire neighborhood can be two numbers and one number can be more than 2 neighborhoods.

The numbers start from Praha 1 to Praha 10 but to make things even more confusing, there is an old number system too and some buildings display that instead.

Most of the travelers visit the Praha 1, which is the Old Town (Staré město), Jewish Town (Josefov), some part of the Prague Castle (Hradčany), some parts of the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and some parts of the New town (Nové město) too.

It is easier to understand the neighborhoods by just looking at the names: Praha North, Praha East, Praha West, Praha South, Castle (Hradčany), Lesser Town (Malá Strana), Old Town (Staré město), New town (Nové město), Jewish Town (Josefov), and Vyšehrad.

Spas in Prague – They’re Very Naked!

I have been to spas before but Czech spas have a different level of nakedness . You can’t get inside with your clothes but you will be given the flimsiest towel to wrap around you, which is basically just a piece of cloth. No, there aren’t robes.

You can wrap them around your waist because they are not big enough to wear as full body sarongs. No, the Czech spas are not usually gender segregated.

Don’t misunderstand me – I don’t have anything against human body or nudity. However, these are the things I like to know before visiting and I bet some of you do so too.

Get out of Prague – Regiojet is Awesome

Yes, it is lovely but don’t spend all your time in the capital city. Instead, head out to the quitter towns such as Pardubice or National Parks such as the Bohemian Switzerland.

The best way to travel out of Prague is by RegioJet train. I traveled to Ostrava by the government-run České dráhy but booked the privately run RegioJet when I visited Pardubice. I was so amazed at the difference in service and comfort.

Living in Germany, the trains are extremely expensive and the service standards are not at all like Czech trains. The cost of my train rides in the Czech Republic was a fraction of German train tickets AND there was a hight-speed free Wifi, free tea/coffee / water, and even a porter service. Every seat had a plug point.

Day Trips from Prague

The Czech Republic is not so massive geographically, so you won’t spend much time when you travel from Prague to another destination in the country. In any case, I have handpicked a few day trips from Prague to the nearby areas. Check them out:

• Bohemia and Saxon Switzerland Full-Day Tour from Prague – Saxon Switzerland National Park, historic Bastei Bridge over the River Elbe, Kamenice Gorge.
• Bohemian Switzerland National Park – Hiking Tour from Prague – Pravcicka Gate, Bastei Bridge, etc, in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
• Bohemian Paradise UNESCO Geopark : Prachov rocks city, Kost Castle, Bohemian Paradise Geopark.
• Český Krumlov and České Budějovice Day Trip from Prague – Cesky Krumlov Castle and the famous Black Tower of Ceske Budejovice in South Bohemia + lunch
• Karlovy Vary Full-Day Tour with Lunch from Prague – historic Czech spa town of Karlovy Vary, Hot Spring Colonnade + 3 course lunch.
• Kutna Hora and Bone Chapel Tour – historic buildings of the Kutna Hora, macabre Bone Chapel, Hrádek Castle + More

All these day trips include transportation to and back from Prague but I highly recommend you check all the details before booking, in case the terms have changed.

Prague Main Train Station

Praha hlavní nádraží – Main Train Station in Prague – CC0 via Pixabay

If you’re getting out of Prague, then most likely your train will depart from Praha hlavní nádraží. (Hlavní nádraží. means “the main railway station” by the way.)

Here’s the thing – the platform number where your train will depart from, will NOT be displayed on your ticket. It will ONLY be displayed around 30 minutes before your journey in the main station. It gets even more confusing because the platform numbers are alphanumeric.

From what I learned, don’t look for exact directions but just follow the signs that say “all platforms” and look for your number. Once you’re there, then ask for the alphabet part of your platform. A girl from Brno helped me because she said the platform numbers are super confusing!

I’m used to German trains where I don’t have a fixed seat but I can get into most of the coaches and sit anywhere. That’s not how it works with Czech trains. You need to find your coach and your seat.

Where to stay in Prague ?

If you want to stay right next to the Old Town, then check out Hotel Residence Agnes – it is a 4-star hotel that’s the highest ranked by other travelers in Prague. You can read the reviews about this hotel on TripAdvisor before booking.

The Old Town gets a little crowded but I really liked the Lesser Town where I was able to find a few empty streets. I highly recommend Hotel Pod Věží in this area that is also a 4-star. This hotel has an extremely charming balcony that overlooks the Charles Bridge. Go check out the reviews by other travelers who stayed here .

For mid-range, check out Miss Sophie’s boutique hotel in New Town. It is affordable, pretty and the location is super chill. You can see the reviews about this hotel on TripAdvisor .

If you’re backpacking, then check out Sophie’s Hostel in New Town – a super luxurious and clean hostel. You can read reviews about this place on Tripadvisor .

Watch Honest Guide for Prague

The BEST thing that you can watch before reaching Prague is Honest Guide’s Prague Playlist. Their videos are entertaining and will give you a lot of important information about Prague. From where to eat, what to do and where to party in Prague, their massive playlist has info about ALL the things to know before visiting Prague.

Prague Travel Tips – things you need to know before visiting Prague

PS: Drifter Planet  contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission  at no extra cost to you . These commissions help us reduce the costs of keeping this site active. Thanks for reading!

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20 Comments

This is so detailed and perfect for those who are new to Prague. It’s funny how you just don’t know what you don’t know until you run into a problem.

I totally second watching the Honest Guide, they are epic!

Great post! My grandmother visited Prague in the 70s and she always talks about how amazing it was. I’ love to go, I hear there are some amazing libraries here!

Amazing post, Sonal! I like the tips on which souvenirs to get which not to:)

Haha, yes – I kind of regret not buying Czech puppets but I had no more space left in my bag. I’d love to go back to Prague and get them.

This is a truly impressive post! So much great detail. I’ve been to Prague and made all those first timer mistakes. I love your detailed advice on how to have a more local experience. Thanks for sharing.

Hey Chris, thank you! Glad you like our travel tips for Prague and it is so easy to make those first timer mistakes when you’re visiting Prague for the first time. 🙂

What a fun place guys. A friend of mine lived there for a minute; raves about it. Tweeted for you.

Thank you Ryan 🙂 glad you like our post about Prague. Yes it is a fun place and we’d love to live there too for a while.

Just read your post as my family and I are going next May. Very informative and I’m even more excited to see Prague now!

CommentVery well written, thanks for the tips! Indeed, the Czech Republic has come a long way since the fall of communism in 1989 and is today one of the most enjoyable countries in Europe.

However, in this beautiful land also lie tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime. Do be wary of overcharging restaurants, fake monks, taxi rigged meter, fake metro ticket inspector, fake police, rogue money exchanges and many more!

I just love the way you explained it, am travelling tonight to Prague for 2 months in business visa. Many thanks for solving the queries before raising it. Bit scared to touch Europe on very first time. One small question, how about shopping clothes in Prague, bcoz I didn’t take any winter wears with me. And any chances ll get Indian foods?

I had really good Indian food in Prague in a place called “Indian by Nature”. The staff is actually from India and it felt I was eating in Delhi. It was the BEST Indian meal that I had outside India. For shopping, try the Bohemian village – mentioned in “Vinohrady & Vršovice” section in my post about Prague’s neighborhoods. .

Very useful! Thank you!

Prague is my dream city, I wish to visit there soon.

Your travel guide is really awesome and informative.

Thanks for sharing and photos are really awesome.

Thank you for sharing your amazing photos and information, I love Prague and looking forward to backing again to this city.

Hi Olga, thank you, glad you enjoyed these travel tips for Prague. 🙂

Hi, A couple of friends and I are going to visit Prague for a weekend and are staying at an Airbnb. The host asked us to share some personal information like passport numbers, she says its according to police regulations and share a link with us, but I cant find another source saying that we have to provide such information. Do you know anything about it?

Yes, you do have to share your passport details for Air BnBs and hotels in Prague.

Thanks for this tips. I visited prague couple of days ago in my vacation following your ideas. I could not implement all the ideas but I was aware of currency exchange scamming. The crowds on charles bridge is always huge. About ticket, the best ideas was to take 4 euro 24 hour ticket. One of my friend’s passport bag was stolen from another bag. So always be aware of your materials because the crowd is massive and you won’t know what happens within few seconds.

HEY……Thanks for sharing this blog its very useful for me I just love to visit Prague….amazing view beautiful pics….

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a think for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on January 25, 2022 by Drifter Planet

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Prague Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

Over the last decade, Prague has become one of the most visited destinations in Europe . When I first visited in 2006, it was popular but still “off the beaten path.” Today, it’s a huge tourist destination and, now, a big spot for people to move to thanks to its growing digital nomad scene.

Despite the crowds, I can’t help but fall in love with Prague every time I visit — the city, the parks, the history, the cheap beer, and the wonderful people. It’s all wonderful! Just try to visit outside the peak summer months or you’ll risk wall-to-wall tourists clogging the ancient city’s arteries.

This travel guide to Prague will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this beautiful and historic city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Prague

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Prague

1. Visit Prague Castle

Built around 870 CE by Prince Borivoj, Prague Castle dominates the city skyline. Once the seat of Czech Kings, here you can explore the castle gardens and much of the grounds for free. The St. Vitus Cathedral is the most famous building here and is home to the tombs of saints and rulers in Czech history. Today, the castle remains the official residence of the Czech President. During your visit, you can view the Czech crown jewels along with precious historic artifacts from the Bohemian kings who once ruled the region. Tickets are 250 CZK while in-depth guided tours (including admission) are 846 CZK.

2. Stroll through the Old Town Square

This square is home to historic churches, the astronomical clock, cafes, tourist shops, and the occasional football (soccer) game. The area was once a bustling marketplace and an important crossroads on European trade routes. You can enjoy centuries worth of architecture, such as the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn or the Baroque St. Nicholas Church. An astronomical clock is perched on the Old Town Hall. Originally installed in 1410, it is the oldest operational astronomical clock in the world. Despite being the biggest tourist area of Prague, Old Town square has virtually remained untouched since the 10th century and remains the historical center of Prague.

3. Cross the Charles Bridge

Originally constructed in 1357 by King Charles IV, this is one of the oldest standing bridges in the world. For hundreds of years, until the 1840s, the bridge that connects the Castle District to Old Town was the only way to cross the Vltava River. Along the bridge, you’ll find street artists, musicians, dancers, and other entertainers. Take in the incredible statues that line the bridge, including the bronze statue of John Nepomuk. Locals believe that touching the statue brings good luck. There’s almost always a sea of people here so if you want to beat the crowds get there early in the morning or late at night.

4. See the John Lennon Wall

Since John Lennon’s death in 1980, his face (and lyrics and political graffiti) has been painted on the plain wall opposite the French Embassy. Created by the Czech youth, the wall represented freedom of speech and non-violent resistance in what was then communist Czechoslovakia. Although it was painted over a number of times, the art was always re-posted and so they have “let it be.” It’s now the only place in the city where graffiti is legal, and you can often catch street performers singing Beatles songs nearby. The wall serves as both a memorial for John Lennon as well as an iconic symbol of love and peace.

5. Peruse the National Museum

This museum was founded in 1818 and houses over 2,000 exhibits and 14 million items relating to natural history, art, music, and librarianship. Located in Wenceslas Square, the main building, a 19th-century Neo-Renaissance masterpiece, reopened in 2019 after an 8-year reconstruction. Tickets are 260 CZK for the main museum. In addition to the main building, there are exhibitions scattered amongst over a dozen other buildings in Prague, each with its own admission (50–170 CZK per person).

Other Things to See and Do in Prague

1. see the astronomical clock.

Built in the 15th century, this intricate clock in the main square is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Every hour, on the hour, people gather in front of the clock to watch the Procession of the Twelve Apostles. It’s a bit anticlimactic and I wouldn’t go out of the way to see it but since you’ll probably pass through the square often you might as well check it out since it’s free.

2. Relax at a Beer Garden

Spend an afternoon at a beer garden — any beer garden! Drink cheap local beer, meet some locals, and have an awesome time soaking in the city. I like Riegrovy Sady Beer Garden. Stop by for food, meet some locals, then sit on the nearby hill for a spectacular view of Prague during sunset. If you’d rather do a guided craft beer tasting, visit the Czech Beer Museum for a tasting. It’s just 415 CZK.

3. Visit the Josefov (the Jewish Quarter)

Located in the Old Town, this small area dates back to the 10th century. It was the birthplace of Franz Kafka and is home to some of the city’s less-visited attractions such as the Old Jewish Cemetery and the synagogue. Today, 6 synagogues and a historical Jewish cemetery remain and are worth checking out. You can purchase a ticket that will give you access to all the synagogues for 200 CZK.

4. Ride a boat on the Vltava River

The Vltava River is the main river that runs through Prague. There are several activities that you can do on the river such as riding a paddle boat, taking a river cruise, or going on a nightly booze cruise. Prices vary, but a two-hour cruise costs around 465 CZK. It’s touristy but a nice way to have fun and see the city from a new perspective. Paddle boats rentals cost around 300 CZK per hour.

5. Shop in Wenceslas Square

This is the main shopping area and the center of business and cultural communities. Many bars, hotels, stores, offices, shops, and delicious fast-food vendors are located here. Over the years, the square has been the setting for many protests and demonstrations, which means all kinds of historical events have taken place here (specifically during the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which helped transform the country from a one-party system to a parliamentary republic).

6. Climb Petrin Hill

This 327-meter hill lies along the Vltava River and is one of the greenest places in Prague. There are always people here chilling with their friends, drinking beers, or having a picnic. This is where you can visit Prague’s iconic Petrin Tower (which looks like a mini Eiffel Tower). Also, the Church of St. Michael, a 17th-century wooden building (relocated to Prague from a village in Ukraine), is located on this hill.

7. Visit Kutna Hora

Located a few miles outside of Prague is “the bone church,” a Roman Catholic chapel home to over 40,000 bones. There are strings of skulls and bones hanging from the ceiling, a skull candelabra, and a display case showing skulls with wounds inflicted by various medieval weapons. Admission is 200 CZK. Children enter free…though I don’t know if this is really a place for kids! You can read about my visit here .

8. See Powder Tower

Be sure to check out this Gothic medieval tower, one of the original 13 city gates. Construction began in 1475 and, during the 17th century, the tower was used to store gunpowder. It was heavily damaged in 1757 during the Seven Years’ War (a conflict involving most of Europe’s powers) and most of the sculptures on it were replaced in 1876. Inside, you’ll find a small museum with information about the tower as well as a spiral staircase offering spectacular views over the city. Admission is 150 CZK.

9. Explore Vyšehrad Castle

While Prague Castle gets all the love, Vyšehrad, located in the southern part of the city, was also one of the original castles of the kings of Prague. It was built around the 10th century and contains Prague’s oldest surviving building, the Rotunda of St Martin. It offers picturesque views of the city from the hill. General admission to the castle is free, but you need to pay if you want to visit some of the rooms inside the castle: The Old Burgrave’s Residence is 60 CZK, Vysehrad Gallery is 20 CZK, The Brick Gate and Casemate is 60 CZK, and The Gothic Celler is 50 CZK. Guided tours cost 850 CZK.

10. Take the underground tour

Located 5 stories under Prague, this museum is full of Cold War paraphernalia. The bunker was designed to house civilians during a nuclear attack, after which they would then flee into the countryside. You’ll learn about life behind the Iron Curtain and get to explore the bunker yourself. Tours with Prague Underground Tours last about two hours and cost 750 CZK.

11. Enjoy a classical show

Prague is famous for its classical performances. Whether you’re interested in ballet, opera, or classical music you’ll be able to find something to your liking in Prague. Prices vary but expect to pay anywhere from 100-1,000 CZK per performance. Check out venues like the Karlin Music Theatre, the National Theatre, and the Black Light Theatre Srnec.

12. Visit the Franz Kafka Museum

If you’re a fan of Kafka, this is an obvious place to stop. And if you’re not familiar with his work, a visit is a must. Born in Prague in 1883, he is regarded as one of the most important writers of the 20th century. The museum displays the first editions of some of his most famous short stories (such as The Metamorphosis ), photos, diary entries, and drawings. The museum also includes audiovisual pieces as well as a soundtrack composed especially for the exhibit. Admission is 240 CZK.

13. Take an Alternative Prague Tour

This fun tour is one of the best guided tours in the city. It’s organized by artists and musicians who take you to Prague’s non-touristy neighborhoods. You’ll discover famous local contemporary art, hidden street art and graffiti, cool markets, crypto houses, and beer gardens. Tours start at 650 CZK.

Prague Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostel dorms start at 350 CZK per night for a 6-8-bed dorm. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels have kitchens. A couple of hostels in the city also include free breakfast. For a private room, expect to pay at least 1,400 CZK per night.

Camping is available outside the city with basic plots without electricity costing around 130 CZK per night. Expect to pay double that for a plot with electricity. Wild camping is illegal so you’ll need to stick to official campgrounds.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 930 CZK per night for a basic double room. Expect standard amenities like TV, AC, and a tea/coffee maker. Many budget hotels also include free breakfast. Prices are higher in the summer (and availability is slim) so be sure to book early if you’re visiting then.

Airbnb is a budget-friendly option available around the city with private rooms starting at 550 CZK per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 1,000 CZK per night.

Food – Czech cuisine is hearty and heavily influenced by neighboring Poland and Germany. Expect a lot of soups/stews, sauerkraut, potatoes, breaded meats, and dumplings. One of the most famous dishes is goulash, a pork stew flavored mainly with paprika and served with knedliky (bread dumplings). Be sure to try buchty , a sweet bun, if you’ve got a sweet tooth.

For an inexpensive meal of traditional cuisine, expect to pay at least 265 CZK. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs closer to 174 CZK. For Indian food, expect to pay around 300 CZK for a main dish and for pizza, expect to pay around 325 CZK for a large.

A three-course meal of traditional cuisine costs around 800 CZK, including a drink. Expect to pay around 50 CZK for a beer or 64 CZK for a latte/cappuccino.

If you’re looking to eat out, some of my favorite places in the city are Vinograf (wine bar), Country Life (vegetarian), Prague Beer Museum (beer/traditional food), and Pivovar U Medvídku (traditional cuisine). For good cocktails, check out Hemmingway Bar.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 600-900 CZK for basic staples like bread, cheese, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Prague Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend at least 1,000 CZK per day. On this budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, take public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, do free hikes, take free walking tours, and cook most of your meals. If you plan to go out and drink more, expect to spend closer to 1,150 CZK per day.

On a mid-range budget, expect to spend around 1,900 CZK per day. On this budget, you can stay in an Airbnb or private room at a hostel, take the occasional taxi or Uber to get around, do some larger activities like a wine tour or rafting, eat out for most meals and restaurants, and enjoy a few drinks.

On a “luxury” budget of around 4,700 CZK per day you can stay in a hotel, do any activities you want, eat out anywhere you want, go out for drinks, take a booze cruise, and rent a car for some day trips. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CZK.

Prague Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Prague has become incredibly popular in recent years, it’s still pretty affordable. Nothing is too overpriced and restaurants and beer remain pretty inexpensive compared to neighboring destinations. That said, it never hurts to save a little extra when you can. Here are some tips to help you save money when you visit:

• Don’t eat near the Charles Bridge – Restaurants near the Charles Bridge are considerably more expensive than spots further afield. Ask around, see where the locals dine and enjoy a cheap meal for a fraction of the price. You’ll need to walk a few blocks but you’ll save a ton and the food will be better.
• Take a free walking tour – Explore Prague’s many winding streets and breathtaking architecture as part of a free tour. You’ll find a plethora of walking tours in the city, such as Free Walking Tour Prague. Their tours cover all the highlights and give you a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Visit the free parks and churches – There are lots of beautiful parks, gardens, and churches that you can explore for free. The Wallenstein Gardens in Valdštejnský palace are gardens lined with fountains, trees, and numerous bronze statues. There are also many free concerts and performances taking place here so make sure to check out the schedule. Saint Vitus Cathedral, Saint Nicholas’ Church, and The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn are beautiful free churches to visit.
• Eat cheap – If you want to save money on your food you can take the tram to the city outskirts to find restaurants. Prices here are significantly cheaper than in the city. Otherwise, stick to outdoor vendors in the city for cheap eats.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle so you can save money and lower your reliance on single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe!
• Stay with a local – Prague has an active Couchsurfing community so if you’re on a budget and love meeting locals, stay with one to save money and get insider tips! Just be sure to send your requests in advance since it is a popular destination.

Where to Stay in Prague

Prague has a lot of hostels. They’re all pretty comfortable but there are a few standouts that I love the best. These are some of my favorite places to stay in the city:

• Miss Sophie’s
• Little Quarter Hostel
• PLUS Prague
• MadHouse Prague
• Sir Toby’s

How to Get Around Prague

Public transportation – Metro fares are based on time and tickets range from 30 minutes (30 CZK), 90 minutes (40 CZK), 1 day pass (120 CZK) or 3-day pass (330 CZK). There are 4 lines (A, B, C, and D) that run from 4:45am until a little after midnight.

The bus lines in Prague operate in areas not reachable by the metro, but if you are at a bus station marked with an “M” it means you can exit the bus and continue your trip on the metro.

Tickets work the same way as the metro and buses run every 6-8 minutes during peak hours and every 10-20 minutes during off-peak hours. The wait time for buses is a little longer on the weekends, around 15-30 minutes. There are also night buses that run from midnight until 4:30am.

Bicycle – Biking is a fun way to see the city also while getting some exercise. There are lots of different bike rentals in Prague. Places like Okolo, in the heart of Prague’s Old Town neighborhood, offer accessories like helmets and bike locks for no extra charge with your rental. Prices start at 200 CZK for 1 hour while a full 24 hours is 400 CZK.

Taxis – The starting fare for taxis in Prague is 40 CZK, with an additional 24 CZK per kilometer. Skip the taxis if you’re on a budget. The city is walkable and the trams go everywhere.

Rideshare – For a cheaper alternative to taxis, use Uber.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for around 450 CZK per day. However, I would only suggest renting one if you’re heading outside the city for a day trip. You don’t need one to get around Prague. Drivers need to be 21 or older to rent a vehicle.

When to Go to Prague

Prague has four distinct seasons. The summers are warm and dry while the winters are cold and snowy and can also get pretty windy too. Temperatures hover around freezing so dress appropriately.

The most popular time to visit Prague is from May to September, but this is also peak tourist season. If you visit in the summer, expect highs in August to be around 25°C (77°F). June and July aren’t as hot, with temps averaging to 21°C (70°F).

If you can, avoid visiting in July and August; that’s when the city is overflowing with tourists. Prices are higher and accommodation is scarce. There are wall-to-wall tourists in the Old Town during this time as well.

During the shoulder seasons, you’ll avoid both the heat and the crowds. The best months to visit are between March-May and September-October, especially if you’re hiking. You’ll have cooler temperatures and, in the fall, you’ll get to see the leaves change. Expect temperatures around 14°C (59°F).

How to Stay Safe in Prague

Violent crime against tourists in Prague is virtually nonexistent. Petty crimes like theft and pick-pocketing occur pretty often, especially in high-traffic areas. Pickpockets tend to target tourists on big walking tours so always be aware of your surroundings and keep your guard up when in large crowds. Keep your valuables safely tucked away when in public just to be safe.

With so many visitors, scams against tourists can occur. Keep an eye out for people with fake petitions who will demand money, as well as taxi drivers that won’t use the meter. For other scams, here’s a list of the most common travel scams to avoid .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. The standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific safety tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs in the city.

If you experience an emergency, dial 150 for the fire department, 155 for an ambulance, and 158 for the police.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Prague Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Prague Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Maddy's Avenue

By: Maddy Cornelius · Last Updated: April 4, 2024

3 Days in Prague: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Timers

Planning to spend 3 days in Prague? This 3 Day Prague Itinerary has you covered with the best of everything you can see, do, and eat in Europe’s most enchanting capital city.

Between sunrise views, roaming the cobblestone streets, summiting the Old Town Hall Tower, exploring Prague’s Castle grounds, drinking plenty of Czech beer, marveling at the stunning architecture, and scarfing down big ol’ bowls of goulash, you’re sure to fall in love with Prague. Any other outcome simply isn’t possible! Especially with this itinerary to guide you.

In this 3-day Prague itinerary, I’ll share the best things to do in Prague, what to see, what to eat, and where to stay! Plus a few hot tips to make your trip a beautiful adventure.

Let’s get started! Here’s the ultimate Three-Day Prague Itinerary.

The Ultimate 3-Day Prague Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know!

Table of Contents

Arriving in Prague

Best neighborhoods in prague, where to stay in prague, day 1 of 3 days in prague, day 2 of 3 days in prague, day 3 of 3 days in prague, where to eat & drink in prague, must-book guided tours in prague, prague travel tips, 3 days in prague: travel faqs, did you know….

*This post contains affiliate links.

By Airplane

Flying into Prague airport? The journey into Prague city center is easy and takes about 30 minutes. The quickest option is to simply call an Uber or Bolt once you arrive; the journey shouldn’t cost more than $20 USD.

If you’re on a budget, then opt for public transport. From a bus stop outside of the airport, hop on Bus 119 and get off at Nádraží Veleslavín. From there, take the green subway line and get off at Malostranská (for the Malá Strana side of Prague, where the Aria Hotel Prague  and Alchymist Prague Castle Suites are located) or at Staroměstská or Můstek (for central Old Town ). From there, you can walk, change lines, or call an Uber.

The main bus station, Florenc, is located in the Florenc neighborhood, close to Old Town Prague. From Florenc, you have several options to reach your hotel. The easiest option is to call an Uber or Bolt. But from the bus station, you will also have plenty of public transport options at your fingertips.

Prague’s main train station is located in the center of Old Town. From the train station, you can either call an Uber or Bolt or hop on a bus, tram, or subway to get to where you’re going.

There are two different areas of Prague which are ideal to stay in: Old Town (Staré Město) or Lesser Town (Malá Strana).

Prague’s Old Town was the city’s original medieval settlement, and it’s absolutely magical . Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, bright-colored Renaissance-style façades, pubs galore, and terracotta rooftops make up the Old Town, and history literally oozes through every little crack in the old paint.

However, just across the Vltava River and the Charles Bridge is the city’s other historic quarter:  Prague’s Lesser Town . This district is full of outstanding Baroque architecture, steep streets and stairways, quiet alleys, little shops, regal gardens, and the city’s most luxurious hotels. Lesser Town also lies beneath Prague’s Castle District, making it the perfect base for exploring every inch of Prague.

Whether you decide to book a hotel in Old Town , or book a hotel in Lesser Town , you really can’t go wrong.

When it comes to major touristic cities in Europe, you can usually expect sky-high prices. But in Prague, that’s not the case.

Depending on what you’re used to, you’ll find Prague to be very affordable, and maybe even cheap . And the same goes for accommodation!

Just to give you an idea, you can easily  stay at a lovely 4-star hotel for $100 (USD) per night! So in other words, it’s almost necessary to splurge on a nicer hotel than you might usually book. As for me, I’d choose to stay at Prague’s best 5-star properties for around $200-300 per night.

Best (Affordable) Luxury Hotels in Prague

• Aria Hotel Prague : located in Lesser Town; this is my favorite hotel in Prague and one of the best hotel stays I’ve ever experienced!
• BoHo Prague Hotel : located in Old Town
• Alchymist Prague Castle Suites : located in Lesser Town
• Golden Well Hotel : located in Lesser Town

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Prague

• Dancing House : located in the City Center; this hotel is an architectural masterpiece and Prague icon!
• Hotel Pod Věží : located in Lesser Town
• Bishop’s House : located in Lesser Town

Best Budget Accommodation in Prague

• Miss Sophie’s New Town : located in New Town
• Hostel One Old Town : located in Old Town
• Hostel One Miru : located near Wenceslas Square

These are my top recommendations, but if you’re still looking, you can find more amazing deals on Prague accommodations HERE . Most of them offer free cancellation, just in case.

What to See & Do in Prague in 3 Days

With 3 days in Prague, you’ll have just enough time to see all of Prague’s main sites, explore Prague’s different neighborhoods, and get lost in the city’s many charming laneways.

Here’s what you should do with 3 days in beautiful Prague!

HOT TIP: You can download a printable version of this itinerary here!

Use Day 1 as an opportunity to get to know Prague, see some of the main sites, and start getting a feel for the city. Get lost wandering in Old Town. Take a guided history tour. Try out some traditional food and drink. And enjoy.

1. Explore Before Sunrise

If you only do one thing on this list during your 3 days in Prague, let it be exploring the city before the sun rises. It’s absolute magic.

From about 8 AM, until the wee hours of the morning, Prague is packed with tourists. So if you want to experience what Prague was like a few centuries ago, then you better prepare for an early wake-up call.

Before the sun comes up, you’ll find Prague eerily empty. And trust me, there’s nothing better than being the only person out and about in the magical, medieval city of Prague, seeing the city’s spires aglow in pink-orange hues, hearing only the noises of birds’ wings flapping overhead and the Vltava River rushing by.

From the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle, to the cobblestone streets of Old Town, wherever you end up, it’s sure to be beautiful.

2. Get Lost in Old Town

When you first arrive in Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you should have only one goal: to get lost.

Explore the streets, wander into the souvenir shops, and walk the impossibly charming alleyways. Listen to the street performers’ music, take too many photos, check out the street art, and breathe in the smells of goulash and freshly baked strudel.

Take it slow, and take it all in. It couldn’t be more beautiful. So wander, and simply see where your two feet take you…

3. Take a Guided Tour

Obviously, Prague is full of fascinating history, from medieval times to the Communist takeover. If you’re interested in taking a guided tour to learn about some of it, these are the best (and most interesting!) options:

• Prague Old Town: Private Tour
• Communism and Bunker Walking Tour in Prague
• Alternative Prague Walking Tour
• 3-Hour Complete Prague Bike Tour

As you explore Old Town, these are some of the sites you can’t miss…

4. Visit Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is the heart of Prague, and as such, it cannot be missed. Follow any winding cobblestone lane in the Old Town, and you’ll most likely end up in the square.

With 12th century origins, the square is one of the most historic sites from medieval Europe — and undoubtedly, it’s one of the most beautiful, too. 

While in the square, take in the varied architectural styles, the endless stream of colors, and the lively atmosphere. Do some people watching, and simply appreciate the history and allure of the Old Town Square.

And just for your reference, important landmarks within the Old Town Square include the world-famous Astronomical Clock, Old Town Hall, Church of Our Lady before Týn, and St. Nicholas Church!

5. Check out the Astronomical Clock

First installed in 1410, Prague’s medieval Astronomical Clock is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world, and the oldest still operating today. 

The clock’s intricate design alone is beautiful, but its ability to track the moon’s different phases and the sun’s course through the zodiac constellations is also very impressive — especially considering how old it is!

Each hour, on the hour, crowds gather around the clock to watch a mechanical procession of the 12 Apostles and to hear the clang of bells. While it’s not worth rushing to the square to see this procession, if you happen to be in the area already, make sure to watch!

6. Climb the Old Town Hall Tower

For the best 360-degree views of Prague, climb the Old Town Hall Tower !

For adults, entrance costs about $10 (US) — but for those views, oh, it’s so worth it.

And if you can fit it into your schedule, summiting the tower just before sunset is the way to go ! The only sight more amazing than Prague’s colorful houses, red rooftops, Gothic spires, and rusted Baroque towers, is all of that, plus  a cloudy sky of pink, orange, and purple. Just don’t forget your camera!

7. See the History of Josefov (Jewish Quarter)

Another highlight of spending 3 days in Prague is exploring Josefov, also known as the Jewish Quarter.

Josefov was previously the city’s Jewish ghetto , and as such, there’s a ton of fascinating history to discover.

I recommend taking a guided tour of Josefov so you don’t miss out on anything.

However, whether you take a guided tour or not, make sure to visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and Spanish Synagogue . These are the most interesting parts of the quarter that you shouldn’t skip. Seriously! (Even if you think visiting a cemetery is weird, do it. It’s actually so cool to see.)

8. Walk Across Charles Bridge

Prague’s world-famous Charles Bridge is probably the most beautiful bridge in the entire world.

And no, I’m not exaggerating.

During your three days in Prague, you’ll surely be drawn to visit the Charles Bridge more than once. And nobody would blame you for that. Such a charming, historic bridge deserves a second look!

However, make sure to visit the bridge at sunrise so you can have the whole thing to yourself! Sunrise is your best shot to walk the bridge in silence, enjoy the bridge’s many beautiful statues and sculptures, and soak in the gorgeous views of Prague’s many spires and red roofs.

After about 8 AM, excited tourists, street musicians, and people selling art, souvenirs, and so on, pack the Charles Bridge until at least 10 PM. With all of the crowds, it’s certainly a different (and touristy) experience. But worth seeing nonetheless.

9. Soak at a Luxury Beer Spa

After a big day of walking, it’s time to treat yourself to an evening spa! And since this is Prague, we’re talking about a beer spa !

Surprisingly, soaking in a warm and bubbly bath of yeasty beer nourishes and hydrates the skin, delivers B vitamins, and is super relaxing. Plus, you have access to unlimited beer on tap!

While you’re there, why not upgrade for a 20-minute massage?

Click here to book your Beer Spa Experience (with Unlimited Beer)!

On Day 2 of your 3 days in Prague, explore historic Malá Strana ! It’s my favorite part of the city, by far.

Check out the stunning architecture, gardens, and street art. Head up to Prague Castle (and take a guided tour to soak up the history). And savor a mind-blowing modern Czech fine-dining experience with the most beautiful views imaginable!

10. Wander Malá Strana (Lesser Town)

This side of the Vltava is much quieter, has a more local feel, but is jam-packed with history and beautiful, old architecture. So in other words, it’s totally amazing. And worth roaming for a bit.

This quarter features outstanding Baroque architecture, steep streets and stairways, giving way to incredible views of the river and Old Town, enchanting alleys, little boutiques and antique shops, and perfectly manicured gardens and parks.

11. Explore Prague Castle

Dating back to the 9th century, Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world. Impressive much?!

Exploring this district is best done with a guide , in order to appreciate the castle’s historical significance and make the most of the experience! This Prague Castle and Castle District Walking Tour is very affordable and I highly recommend it.

If you’re staying in Malá Strana (which is what I recommend!), then you may like to head up to the castle early. It opens at 6 AM. The benefits of visiting this early are two-fold:

• You can explore the castle without all the crowds.
• The sunrise views over the city are unbeatable .

On the flip-side, Prague Castle closes at 10 PM, so you can also head up to watch the sunset and see the city light up.

12. Stroll the Golden Lane (in Prague Castle)

A must-see place within the Castle District is the Golden Lane. It’s like something out of a fairy tale. (It reminds me a lot of these Fairy Tale Towns in Germany .)

Often referred to as the “street of alchemists,” it’s said that the king’s alchemists lived here.

In reality, though, Emperor Rudolf II’s alchemists lived in the castle, while some of the royal goldsmiths actually dwelled here in the 17th century.

Nowadays, this cute cobblestone lane is lined with colorful historic buildings, housing small souvenir shops, museums, and showrooms.

13. See St. Vitus Cathedral (in Prague Castle)

The gorgeous Gothic Saint Vitus Cathedral looms over all of Prague, making it impossible to ignore. But the question is, why would you want to?

There are thousands of cathedrals all over Europe. So many, that visiting one after another can get old… Fast.

But the St. Vitus Cathedral? Never.  You’d be hard-pressed to find a cathedral more stunning than St. Vitus. And actually, I challenge you to try!

In addition to religious ceremonies, this church saw the coronations of Czech kings and queens past and is the burial place of numerous sovereigns, archbishops, noblemen, and patron saints.

14. Visit St. George’s Basilica (in Prague Castle)

Founded in the year 920 by Prince Vratislav, this church is another must-see while inside the castle complex.

Architecturally and size-wise, St. George’s Basilica is a lot different than its neighbor, St. Vitus, but worth checking out, as its history runs just as deep! It’s the best example of Romanesque architecture in Bohemia and an important Prague landmark.

15. Admire the John Lennon Wall

Outside of the castle, there’s more to see in During a time when communist authorities banned free speech, Western influence, and general freedoms, young activists of Prague glorified John Lennon’s messages about peace and freedom — even if it meant prison time.

When Lennon was murdered, they erected the John Lennon Wall in his honor, as a symbol of defiance against oppressive authorities and a demand for freedom . At night, activists would paint the wall with Beatles lyrics, poems, and pictures, as well as their own ideas, hopes, and dreams.

Today, the John Lennon Wall is covered in colorful street art and graffiti, and for its important historical significance, it’s worth a visit and a few photos.

You’ll find the vibrant John Lennon Wall just steps away from the Charles Bridge, on the Malá Strana side of Prague.

16. Relax at Vrtba Garden

One of Prague’s best-kept secrets is the beautiful Baroque-style Vrtba Garden. This garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of bustling Prague, full of gorgeous sculptures, topiaries, vines, and sweeping views of Malá Strana and beyond.

When you need a break from walking around, and simply want to relax for a bit, the Vrtba Garden is your place!

The Aria Hotel Prague (my favorite hotel and top recommendation!) actually offers guests a private entrance to these gardens.

A hidden gem and a must-visit.

17. Dine at Terasa U Zlaté Studně

If you’re ready to experience an exquisite meal you’ll never forget, inside of a 16th-century building,   Terasa U Zlaté Studně , inside of a 16th-century building, is where you should go. The restaurant has been named the “Best Czech Restaurant,” so you know it’s a must.

The service, the wine list, and especially the food are all next level . But the main event? That. View. It’s insane.

This fine-dining experience is worth the splurge, so please, do yourself a favor and don’t miss out. You can read more about my experience at Terasa U Zlaté Studně here !

If you’re a foodie like me, I got you. You can find all of my Prague food & drink recommendations toward the bottom of this post!

On your final of 3 days in Prague, it’s time to head back across the river to explore more of Prague.

Today, discover Czech cuisine in depth with a food tour , visit a popular city square, go to a museum, drink Czech beer, and squeeze in a unique, super fun activity.

18. Go on a Czech Food Tour

The best (and most delicious) way to discover any culture is through trying traditional dishes. Whether it’s a food tour or a cooking class, I always weave an authentic foodie experience into my trips. I recommend you do the same, by taking this Prague Foodie Tour !

On this tour, you can expect to eat and drink at some of the city’s most local and authentic spots with an expert guide. You’ll try hearty Czech food, drink Czech beer, and learn about Prague history and culture – by seeing it and tasting it.

This Prague Food Tour doesn’t have a full 5 stars for no reason. It’s awesome , and if I were you, I wouldn’t miss it. It may just be the best thing you do during your entire time in Central Europe.

19. Visit Wenceslas Square

There’s always something happening at Wenceslas Square in New Town. If you haven’t wandered up to this area yet, make sure you do today! Even if it’s just for a bit of people watching.

In Wenceslas Square, you’ll find some of the best shopping in Prague, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. This square is also home to the National Museum.

After dark, this square is the center of Prague’s booming nightlife scene, so you can’t miss it.

20. Explore the National Museum

The National Museum is the largest museum in the country and houses all kinds of interesting exhibitions spanning history, science, and the arts.

From the beautiful architecture inside and out, to all of the fascinating things to see, this museum is definitely worth your time if you have extra — or if you haven’t had your fill of history yet by simply walking the streets!

21. Solve Riddles at an Escape Room

Have you ever completed an escape room before? I am obsessed with them. And while I wouldn’t usually recommend them here on my blog (because there are escape rooms all around the world), I can’t not recommend this one. Because Prague is home to a HARRY POTTER-themed escape room !

Take a break from exploring and immerse yourself into the magical world of Harry Potter. With the help of your wand, spells, talking portraits, and your own problem-solving and sleuthing skills, race against the clock to solve a mystery and escape the room.

It’s a rush. It’s fun as hell. If you’ve done an escape room before, then you know what I mean.

And if you haven’t, well, you might find this recommendation a little left-field. So just trust me. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

Click here to book your extra random, extra awesome escape room experience .

22. See the Dancing House

The Dancing House — a famous landmark in Prague — is an excellent example of the modern culture and architecture that’s taking Prague by storm.

If you’re passing by on foot, make sure to stop for a while and admire the shocking clash of old and new .

Or better yet, stay there ! The Dancing House is actually a hotel, which has great reviews and features amazing views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle!

23. Drink Czech Beer

When you think of the Czech Republic, what comes to mind? For many, the answer is beer .

Drinking pilsner-style beers at traditional pubs is a very important part of Czech culture , so during your three days in Prague, you’re due for a few frothy pints! (And it’s obvious why! While it’s true that Czech cuisine isn’t the healthiest — consisting of lots of meats, carbs, and rich sauces — it sure is the perfect match for a nice, cold beer.)

To get a taste of the best craft beers in the country, head to U Kunštátů , Beer Point , or the Prague Beer Museum .

You may not realize it yet, but a delicious foodie experience awaits you in Prague! From trying traditional Czech food and drinking plenty of Czech beer, to amazing (and affordable) fine-dining experiences, you’re in for a treat.

Here are the best places to eat and drink in Prague in 72 hours.

Coffee & Brunch

• Onesip Coffee : Most likely, the best coffee in all of Prague. It’s so good, you won’t just go once.
• EMA Espresso Bar : Another contender for the city’s best coffee, plus incredible pastries.
• Café Jen : Super friendly service in a cute space, located outside the hustle and bustle of Old Town. Great breakfasts and coffee.
• Den Noc : One of Prague’s top-rated eateries for breakfast or brunch! This cute, little cafe serves up the best sweet and savory pancakes ever. The best part is that each plate of pancakes costs roughly $7 (US)!
• Lokal : Offering a local, no-frills Czech dining and drinking experience, Lokal is a giant food and beer hall, filled with locals, offering the perfect introduction to typical, traditional Czech cuisine. It’s cheap and delicious, with plenty of beer on tap.
• The Bowls : Need a break from all the hearty Central European food? This restaurant features nourishing bowls of deliciousness, from brekkie bowls and smoothie bowls, to salads and poké. You can’t go wrong!
• Taro : An open kitchen in Prague, surrounded by 17 counter seats, is serving up Vietnamese cuisine with a modern European twist. They’re open for a la carte lunch service and offer a brilliant degustation experience in the evenings! A must! Make a reservation.
• Terasa U Zlaté Studně : An exquisite, unforgettable fine-dining experience with the most magnificent views over Prague. Please, do yourself a favor. Do NOT miss it! Make sure to make a reservation!
• Coda Restaurant : Not done splurging yet? Coda is another incredible fine-dining restaurant, offering a taste of modern, elegant, elevated Czech flavors. I loved this experience! Housed in the fabulous Aria Hotel Prague , you know it’s going to be equally as great. Make sure to reserve a table in advance.
• ZEM Prague : At this restaurant, modern Czech cuisine meets Japanese flair. The interior is stunning and the food is equally so.

Bars & Nightlife

• Wine Office : Superb wines. Delectable nibbles – from cheeses to olives to jamon. What more could you ask for? Oh, friendly, attentive service? Yep, they have that too.
• U Kunštátů : Great craft beer bar, located on a quiet street in Old Town. They have dozens upon dozens of interesting craft beers to create your ideal tasting flight. A must!
• The Banker’s Bar : Cozy, classy. Exceptional cocktails.
• Prague Beer Museum : This pub showcases the best of Czech craft beer, with 30 beers on tap. Touristy for sure, but a must for beer lovers.

Just to sum up all of the tours I’ve recommended in this 3-day itinerary, here they are:

Guided History Tours

• Prague Castle and Castle District Walking Tour

Cool Experiences

• Prague Foodie Tour
• Magic School Escape Game in Prague

SPLURGE! Prague is cheaper than most other popular European travel destinations, which means you might be able to afford nicer hotels, meals, and activities than you usually might. Look for awesome deals on Prague hotels here!

WATCH OUT FOR PICKPOCKETS!  They are everywhere in Prague. Always pay attention to your surroundings, keep your zippers shut, and keep your belongings close to you, in front of your body.

SPEAK CZECH WITH THE LOCALS!  Throughout the world, locals usually appreciate when tourists attempt to speak their language. Here are three essential words to know:

• Hello = Ahoj (A-hoy)
• Thank you = Děkuji (Dya-koo-yee)
• Please = Prosím (Pro-seem)

VISIT DURING CHRISTMASTIME!  Visiting Prague during the holiday season is one of the best times. If you can handle the bitterly cold weather, you’ll be rewarded with Christmas markets, festive decorations, and a bustling, cheerful atmosphere throughout the city.  Read about my experience at the Old Town Square Christmas Market here!

LOOK BOTH WAYS! Don’t wander around aimlessly. Prague drivers are ruthless and can’t be bothered with tourists crossing the streets, so always look both ways before crossing.

UNDERSTAND CULTURAL DIFFERENCES! Prague locals may be less friendly than you’re used to, especially the older generations; in fact, some can be very cold. Don’t take it personally! Instead, understand that the city once was governed by communist laws and “culture,” and that change is a very slow process.

3 Days in Prague Itinerary: The Ultimate Three-Day Guide for First-Timers

Prague is one of those cities that’s too good to be true — yet somehow , it is. It’s a place that looks like nothing but a dream online — and even when you see it in person, you still have trouble believing it’s actually real. How can a city like Prague, a city so old and magical, so perfectly medieval and eerily stunning, actually exist?

Each time I visit Prague, I expect the overwhelming awe and shock I feel to wear off. But it never does. Prague is just that good!

If you’re lucky enough to spend 3 days in Prague, you’re in for a treat! And with this 3-day itinerary at your fingertips, you’re sure to have an incredible time in this amazing city!

3 days in Prague is the perfect amount of time to see all of the main sights in the city. With 72 hours in Prague, you’ll be able to explore Prague’s Old Town and Lesser Town on foot, discover the castle, take a food tour, drink at a traditional pub, visit Wenceslas Square, see some of Europe’s finest art nouveau buildings, climb the Old Town Hall Tower, see the Astronomical Clock, walk the Charles Bridge and the Golden Lane, see the incredible Jewish cemetery and Jewish quarter, see the St. Vitus Cathedral, and more. This 3-Day Prague Itinerary is packed with all of the best recommendations for things to do in Prague, what to eat, where to stay, and so much more.

Prague is one of the most beautiful, well-preserved cities in all of Europe. History literally oozes through every little crack in the old paint. From exploring the medieval Old Town’s cobblestone streets and walking across the beautiful Charles Bridge, to discovering the largest castle complex in the world , taking a river cruise, and marveling at the many bright-colored Renaissance-style façades and Gothic spires, Prague couldn’t be more worth visiting! Not to mention, the affordable luxury hotels, beautiful gardens, countless traditional pubs, delicious local restaurants, booming nightlife, and interesting antique shops. There are endless amazing things to see, do, and eat in Prague, making this city well worth your while.

3 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Prague. It’s just enough time to explore all of the city’s main sights and attractions, without feeling rushed. Plus, with three days in Prague, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the city’s food, pubs, and nightlife scene! If you want to see more of the Czech Republic (such as Český Krumlov , Terezín , or Kutná Hora ), then you might consider staying in Prague for a few more days and booking a day trip or two. That way, you can explore more in the daytime, while still enjoying Prague’s restaurants and nightlife.

If you can, it’s best to avoid Prague in the peak season of summer. The best time to visit Prague is during the shoulder season months of March to May and September-November. During these months, you’ll find mild temperatures, way less crowds, and lower hotel rates — though it’s worth noting that Prague is one of the most affordable capital cities in all of Europe anyway! If you’re looking to experience Prague’s famous Old Town Christmas Market , then plan your trip for December. If you’re lucky enough to see snow in Prague, you’ll never see a more beautiful cityscape! However, keep in mind that hotel rates will be at their highest during this time of year!

The best way to get around Prague is on foot. The city center is relatively small and easy to navigate, and most of the main sights and attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you’re tired of walking (or if the weather’s bad), you can always call an Uber or Bolt, or hop in a cab. Prague also offers ample and cheap public transport, spanning buses, trams, and the subway.

There are  a lot  of incredible sights, tours, and delicious meals to experience in Prague! Generally speaking, three days in Prague is enough to see and do all of the best things the city has to offer. This 3-Day Itinerary includes all of the best things to do in Prague!

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Have you been to Prague before? What did you love about it? If anything, what didn’t you like? What is your favorite thing to do in Prague? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Maddy Cornelius

Hey! I'm the cook, world explorer, chief wordsmith, and photographer behind Maddy's Avenue. A California native, I've lived in many countries around the globe, but I'm currently traveling through Latin America. Slowly. Running two businesses. Livin' the "digital nomad" life. I’m here to learn, grow, and explore this planet - ever in search of big flavors and epic adventures. My goal? To inspire you to live a bold life: to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Thanks for being here!

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October 9, 2017 at 6:56 pm

Ah, this post is SO helpful! Planning on visiting Prague for the first time next month and i’m looking forward to it now!

December 2, 2017 at 6:37 pm

Hey! We’re so glad to hear that our post helped you plan your trip. We hope you had an awesome time in Prague. :)

July 11, 2018 at 11:37 pm

What an incredible insight into this amazing city. Thank you for putting this together. I’m now even more excited about our visit in December.

September 28, 2022 at 9:48 am

This guide is so well described and you should keep writing :)

September 28, 2022 at 2:44 pm

Thanks Lef! :)

November 14, 2022 at 1:46 am

This itinerary was SO helpful – thanks so much. There’s a couple of things I’d add (the “authentic” neighbourhood of Zizkov) but this really was brilliant. Especially the sunrise tip…especially the bridge before sunrise. Thanks again – had an incredible 3 days :)

January 31, 2023 at 6:33 am

Prague is truely a beautifil city with so much history and culture to discover!

February 20, 2023 at 7:26 am

Prag is am incredibly beautifil and historically rich city that always manages to take my breath away!

February 25, 2023 at 2:20 pm

Thanks so much for all of this helpful information! I’m so happy to have stumbled upon your site! I’m even more excited to see Prague. Cheers!

February 27, 2023 at 5:21 pm

You are very welcome, Shannon! Happy you found my site too – and I hope you have the most incredible trip :)

November 11, 2023 at 12:09 pm

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Best Of Prague Itinerary: 3 Days In Prague With Map & Tips [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 66 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
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Prague has a very  unique energy . Its buildings and the entire setup will capture your attention shortly after arriving. It’s in the top 3 of my travel list of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

I spent 1 year living and working in Prague and quickly fell in love with the city. During that time, I visited almost every corner of the city, seeing the sights and experiencing the majority of its offerings.

So, I’ve created this self-guided walking tour and itinerary based on my experience so you can see the highlights of Prague within just 2 days . Let’s explore the city together.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Prague Itinerary For 3 Days & Map

Here is an overview of the walking tour for each day. It shows all the places I recommend visiting in Prague. Follow it and use the map below to navigate to each sight:

1. Day In Prague In A Nutshell

📍 Prague Castle 📍 Schwarzenberg Palace 📍 Archbishop’s Palace 📍 St. Vitus Cathedral 📍 Monolith 📍 St. George & Dragon 📍 Old Royal Palace 📍 Golden Lane 📍 Wallenstein Palace & Gardens

📍 Franz Kafka Museum & Peeing Man Statue 📍 Skinny Lane 📍 Lennon Wall 📍 Charles Bridge 📍 Prague Town Hall 📍 Astronomical Clock 📍 Our Lady Before Tyn Church 📍 Jan Hus Monument

2. Day In Prague In A Nutshell

📍 Dancing House 📍 St. Cyril & Methodius Cathedral 📍 Franz Kafka Rotating Head 📍 St. Wencelas Square

📍 Museums in Prague 📍 Jewish Quarter 📍 Beer Spa

3. Day In Prague In A Nutshell

Guided Tours & Experiences: 📍 Prague In WWII. Guided Tour 📍 Food Tour Of Prague 📍 Guided Tour Of The Jewish Quarter

Day Trips From Prague:

📍 Kutna Hora & Sedlec Sanctuary 📍 Karlstejn Castle 📍 Carlsbad & Spa 📍 Cesky Krumlov 📍 Brno

Map Of The Prague Itinerary

Here is a map of the walking tour in Prague. Save it to your phone and navigate to the places when you’re exploring the city by yourself:

👉 READ ALSO: Is Prague Worth Visiting? 19 Reasons To Visit & Best Things To Do

Where Is Prague?

Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic , located in Central Europe . It’s close to Austria , Slovakia , Poland, and Germany.

Check out the map below to see where Prague is:

Getting To Prague

You can get to Prague by plane, train, bus, or car.

Prague has an international Airport – Vaclav Havel Airport – with great connections. So the fastest and most convenient way to get to the city is to fly.

If you’re visiting Prague from other nearby countries and cities like Berlin, Salzburg , Bratislava , or Budapest , it’s great to take trains. Prague has great train connections. Regiojet , Czech Railways , or Railjet (my favorite) are the most common railways.

Alternatively, if you’re on a budget , you can also take a bus to Prague from nearby cities. It’ll take longer time than a train, but it’s cheaper.

How To Get To The Prague Center From The Airport?

The best way to get to Prague’s city center from the airport is either by public transportation, a taxi, or a private shuttle.

You can take the bus n. 119 , which says ‘Nadrazi Veleslavin’. Take the bus to the end station and get off (at Nadrazi Veleslavin) . After, change to metro. A metro line A (green line) will take you directly to the city center . Check where your hotel is located and which metro station is the closest to it.

A taxi ride from Prague airport to the city center costs approx. 35 EUR (750 CZK).

Alternatively, you can also book this private transfer from the airport to the center. It’ll be much faster and more convenient .

➡ Book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Prague here.

Getting Around Prague

Prague is a walkable city , so the best way to get around is on foot. You can explore everything on a walking tour following this itinerary.

Alternatively, you can also take the metro and trams .

The metro in Prague is easy to navigate as it only has 3 lines: A, B, and C. I always take a metro and walk a bit to my final destination.

You can check the metro and tram departures in Prague using this online timetable .

1. DAY IN PRAGUE

Welcome to Prague. After some delicious  breakfast  at your hotel or in a nice  local bakery , it’s time to start our walking tour. In the morning, take a tram to the stop  ‘Malostranské Náměstí.’

Then, use Google Maps to  walk up to the castle . Follow this itinerary until you reach Prague Old Town. Have fun and enjoy!

Prague Lesser Town

In the first part of this tour, we’ll explore the Lesser Town of Prague . It’s the side of the city with a castle, on the left bank of River Vltava . So, let’s focus on this area first.

📍 Prague Castle

Prague Castle dates back to the  9th century  when Prince Borivoj founded it around 870. It was an  official residence of the Czech princes , later  kings , and the  bishop’s seat  back then.

The Castle in Prague dates back to the 12th century when King Ottokar II of Bohemia built the  Royal Palace , making it a  royal residence .

When  Charles IV  became the  Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire , Prague experienced one of the most flourishing times. His son  Wenceslas IV.  continued with the expansion, but then, due to the  Hussite Wars (1419 – 1437) , the Castle, the Royal Palace, and the Cathedral of St. Vitus were significantly destroyed and abandoned.

In 1618, the  Second Prague Defenestration  caused significant damage to the Castle. Maria Theresia then reconstructed it in the 18th century.

Once the  Habsburg dynasty  took over the throne and moved their residence to Vienna,  Prague Castle remained abandoned  and served mainly for recreational purposes.

It wasn’t long until  Emperor Ferdinand I Habsburg  came to the Czech throne in 1526. He lived in the Castle and reconstructed it again.

Today, it’s a residence and an office of the  Czech President.

➡ Join this guided tour of Prague Castle and visit it with a local guide.

What To See In The Prague Castle

Now, you can explore the area, which has  4 churches  –  St. Vitus Cathedral ,  St George’s Basilica ,  All Saints Church , and  Holly Cross Chapel .

Besides, it also has  4 palaces  –  Old Royal Palace ,  New Palace ,  Belvedere , and  Schwarzenberg Palace .

FUN FACT: It’s considered to be the largest castle in the world in terms of area, occupying almost 70,000 square meters.

Guards At Prague Castle

Changing of Guards  takes place every day at  noon . These are the Czech  Armed Forces , which serve and  protect the President.

Their role is to defend the Castle . Besides, they also take part in various ceremonies .

The guards have  summer and winter uniforms , which must be fit for any situation and weather. The three most important elements of the uniform are:

• The  sword  that every guard holds in his hand.
• The  golden belt .
• The  hat  on which you can spot the  Czech coat of arms .

So go closer and check out these elements on them.

📍 Schwarzenberg Palace

Coming to  Castle Square , you can see one of Prague’s most beautiful examples of a  Renaissance building  – Schwarzenberg Palace. It used to be named  Lobkovicz Palace  since it was built for John Count of Lobkowicz in the 16th century.

However, John was murdered, and the Palace was confiscated. After the  Schwarzenberg family gained it by marriage  in 1719, the Palace lost its importance when the emperor and his family moved to Vienna and only served as a  military stable .

Before the  First World War , it was an exhibition place for the National Technical Museum and Military Museum. Nowadays, it’s  part of the National Gallery  and remains empty.

➡ Join this guided tour to learn more about Lobkowicz Palace & Prague Castle.

📍 Archbishop’s Palace

The Archbishop’s Palace has served as a  seat of the Prague Archbishop  and his administration bodies since 1562. The interior is designed in a  Rococo style , where you can explore his portrait gallery.

Go inside and look closer at the  altar in the archbishop’s chapel . Admire its beautiful painting of the Jesus Crucifixion. It’s very unique.

📍 St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most stunning cathedrals in Europe. It’s  the largest one in Prague , built in a Gothic style. The cathedral served for the  coronations of Czech Kings and Queens . Besides, several saint  patrons and bishops are buried here .

Charles IV started the construction in 1344. He wanted to build a place for the  family crypt ,  coronation ,  treasury for the most precious relics ,  pilgrimage site , and a  resting place  for the significant Czech patron Saint Wenceslas.

And he managed to do so. Today, you can explore the following:

✅ Chapel of St. Wenceslas ✅ Czech Crown Jewels Chamber ✅ Tomb of St. Vitus ✅ Great South Tower

At the  Third Courtyard of Prague Castle , you’ll see an  obelisk , a granite monolith, and a  memorial to the victims of the First World War .

It was designed by Jože Plečník and donated in 1928 for the 10th anniversary of the formation of the Czechoslovak Republic by Thomas Garrigue Masaryk (the First President).

It’s 16 meters high but used to be twice as high as you can see. While locals were transporting it to Prague Castle, it broke into two halves ; only half of it stands here today.

📍 St. George & Dragon

In the same courtyard, you can see the  statue of St. George . It shows the  fight between St. George and a dragon  above the Baroque fountain. The dragon is being hit by St. George right inside its mouth, while the dragon has its tail rolled up on one of the horse’s legs.

The  legend of St. George & The Dragon  dates back to the 11th century. During the  First Crusades , knights believed that Saint George, with his fellow soldiers, had been fighting against the dragon around Jerusalem.

📍 Old Royal Palace

Old Royal Palace was a  residence for the Bohemian princes  and  Czech monarchs  in the 11th century.

When  Emperor Charles IV died in the Old Royal Palace  in 1378,  all the bells in Prague started to ring , including the biggest one at the St. Vitus Cathedral.

Pay your attention to the  rooms of the Bohemian Chancellory . When the  Thirty Years War  started, it was here where the Czech Protestant nobles threw the two imperial governors out of the windows.

📍 Golden Lane

Walk further until you reach Golden Lane,  Prague’s smallest street . It became mainly famous for the  goldsmiths, who moved here in the 17th century. As a result,  the street became known as  the golden lane .

It originally had  24 houses  made from wood, stone, and mud.

Many legends and sources refer to  alchymists living in those houses . They also mention that they were trying to create the  philosopher stone  and the  elixir of youth  by transforming  metal into gold .

After the Second World War,  Communists expelled locals living in these houses . Nowadays, you can walk through, admire the colorful houses, and hear interesting stories.

📍 Wallenstein Palace & Gardens

Wallenstein Palace is now  home to the Czech Senate . In the 17th century, along with three families, the  Wallenstein family supported Emperor Ferdinand II  during the  Thirty Years’ War . As a thanksgiving, he gave the Palace to Wallenstein.

Albrecht Wallenstein  was one of the most significant and favored  military commanders and chief  of the  Imperial Forces . He didn’t spend much time in the Palace as he was frequently traveling during wars.

After WWII, it became a  state property . Nowadays, you can attend many concerts, theatre performances, and cultural events in the gardens.

📍 Franz Kafka Museum & Peeing Man Statue

Once you come down to the town, enjoy the Franz Kafka Museum . The museum is a  mixture of facts and fiction ,  reality and fantasy . You’ll see how much  Prague inspired Franz Kafka  and  how he shaped the city  thanks to his writings.

The museum  explains Franz Kafka’s life in 2 parts  through several letters, journal entries, photographs, and 3D illustrations.

Different statues illustrate the writer’s strange, sometimes even absurd, ideas. The  Peeing Man Statue , located in the middle of the courtyard, is one of them. He is peeing on the map of the Czech Republic.

📍 Skinny Lane

Do you dare pass through the narrowest street? If yes, walk further to Skinny Lane.

Skinny Lane is  the narrowest street in Prague  that even  has its traffic lights . It’s barely 50cm wide. But let’s face the reality. Researchers say that it’s actually not a street, and locals installed the traffic lights here only for fun.

PRO TIP: Stop at the bottom of the passage. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Charles Bridge.

📍 Lennon Wall

After, continue walking to the Lennon Wall.

On December 8th, 1980, when  John Lennon was murdered , people started to  protest against his death , painting his face on the wall.

Afterward, the wall was mainly  used for the protests  that arose when the  Communists took over the city  in 1948. People gathered around it and started to paint and write many words expressing  disagreement against the Communist regime . That’s why it’s also called the  ‘Crying Wall.’

Nowadays, it’s the only place in Prague where it’s  allowed to do graffiti .

📍 Charles Bridge

Let’s  cross the Vltava River  and walk through the  621-long and 10-meter-wide  Charles Bridge. It’s the most famous pedestrian bridge in the city that takes us from the Lesser Town to the Old Town of Prague.

The construction started in the 12th century. Unfortunately,  in 1342 ,  huge floods destroyed 2/3 of the bridge . Later, Charles IV. decided to reconstruct the bridge, and that’s why it got the official name ‘Charles Bridge.

Locals used  Bohemian stone for its construction . They also mixed  egg yolks into the mortar  to strengthen it. What can better explain why the bridge has survived several floods and battles? The egg yolks helped, for sure.

It’s decorated with  30 statues on its sides , most of them in Baroque style. They  symbolize different saints and patron saints .

Charles Bridge is my favorite place in Prague – enjoy it.

📍 Prague Town Hall

Welcome to the other side of Prague –  Old Town . From Charles Bridge,  walk through the main streets  until you reach the center of it – Old Town Square.

If you  feel hungry , you can  taste some   chimney cake  – there are many shops. Then, walk towards the Town Hall.

Prague Town Hall  was built in the 14th century and became the  center of the government  until the 20th century.

It was severely  damaged during WWII.  Locals reconstructed it right after and incorporated the Astronomical Clock within. Nowadays, it’s  69,5 meters high .

Walk to the tower and enjoy the Old Town & Charles Bridge views.

📍 Astronomical Clock

Take a moment to stare at the stunning Astronomical Clock.  Pay attention every full hour  when  twelve apostles  go out of the clock and march around.

If you look closer, you can also see a  skeleton  on the right side representing Death and pulls the string, which is super funny.

Below the apostles is the  astronomical clock , where you’ll see  Earth  depicted in the middle of the  Universe . It shows the  movement of the sun and the moon  with  zodiac signs .

Underneath, you’ll see a  calendar , which displays all days of the year together with  symbolic pictures  of each month.

The watch is stunning; make sure to see the show at least once.

📍 Our Lady Before Tyn Church

After, walk towards the  majestic church  before you. It’s the Church Of Our Lady Before Tyn. Our beloved  Charles IV started the construction  in the 14th century.

In the late 17th century, it was  hit by fire  and was reconstructed in a Baroque style.

The church got its name from the  enclosed court – in the Czech’ Tyr Dvur’ , also known as  Ungelt . From the first half of the 13th century, this court s erved foreign merchants  as a common  lodging place  and a  customs house .

📍 Jan Hus Monument

You’ll spot a monument in the middle of the Old Town Square. It’s dedicated to Jan Hus, one of the most relevant personalities in the history of the Czech Republic.

When  Martin Luther started the protestant reformation , many people helped him spread this belief. One of them was the  Czech heretic Jan Hus .

Jan was the  dean of Charles University  and actively  criticized many ideas introduced by the Catholic Church . One of them was the  selling of indulgences . In the 15th century, the pope  was excommunicated .

Finally, authorities called him to the  Council of Constance  to renounce his ideas, but he didn’t. So, t hey burnt him down in 1415 .

As a result of his death, several people who sympathized with his ideas started a  Protestant movement against the Catholic Church in Prague .

Now you can admire Jan Hus’s monument. The statue looks at the  Lady Before Tyn Church , as it used to be a  protestant church  from the beginning of the 15th century until the middle of the 17th century.

Evening: Vltava River Cruise

Today in the evening, I recommend doing a Vltava River Cruise . It’s another great way to see the sights in Prague from a different perspective and enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

Have a good rest since tomorrow; we’ll continue exploring Prague and its beauty.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

2. day in prague.

Today, we’ll enjoy more  highlights in Prague , including some fun activities. And have a lot of beer. Are you ready for it?

I’ll also give you  several ideas  on what you can do for more days in the city.

📍 Dancing House

Today, we’ll start with one of the most interesting buildings in the city –  Dancing House . You can have breakfast inside and enjoy the views of the Vltava River .

Locals call it a  drunk house . The place where the House stands today was a  target for bombing during Nazi times  in Prague. Until the  Velvet Revolution  in 1989, it was pretty much empty.

The first President of the Czech Republic,  Václav Havel , decided to build the House to what you see today.

After, continue walking to the  St. Cyril & Methodius Cathedral.

📍 St. Cyril & Methodius Cathedral

I’ve brought you to this cathedral as it  holds stories from WWII.  As you might know, the Czech Republic was  occupied by Germany . The  SS police were all over the city , checking all corners.

Two brave agents , one Slovakian, and one Czech, got a mission to assassinate the police officer and the  right-hand of Hitler,   Reinhard Heydrich . They were successful and killed him.

But, after, SS police chased them for several weeks. These  two agents hid in this cathedral . Then the Nazi found them, it was a  bloody battle  between the agents, their bodies, and the SS police.

You can still see the  shots on the cathedral’s walls . Go inside and learn more about it and see a  free exhibition.

This event is called  Operation Anthropoid.  I highly recommend you  see the movie before going to the cathedral .

➡ Join this guided tour to learn more about Prague in the WWII & Operation Anthropoid.

📍 Franz Kafka Rotating Head

Afterward, continue walking towards St. Wenceslas Square. On the way, stop to see the famous  Franz Kafka Rotating Head . It’s so cool, one of the most unique statues in Prague.

📍 St. Wencelas Square

If you want to  do some shopping , head to  St. Wenceslas Square . There are hundreds of shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you keep walking from the square towards  ‘Náměstí Republiky,’  the shops continue alongside the street.

📍 Jewish Quarter

After lunch, you can explore the Jewish Quarter. It was entirely destroyed during the bombing in WWII. Germany  deported   many Jews to concentration camps  from this Quarter, and you can learn about these events.

Check out  the Synagogue  and the  Jewish Museum  if that interests you.

➡ Join this guided tour of the Jewish Quarter with a local guide.

📍 Museums In Prague

If you fancy seeing some museums in Prague, I recommend the following:

✅ National Museum ✅ Beer Museu ✅ Jewish Museum ✅ Speculum Alchemiae (History Museum) ✅ Mucha Museum (famous painter) ✅ Franz Kafka Museum ✅ LEGO Museum

Let’s be honest. Many people are coming to Prague because of the  cheap beer . And that’s true. According to research, Prague and the entire Czech Republic officially have  the world’s best and most affordable beer .

Here in Prague, you can drink it and  have a bath  in it. So in the afternoon, I suggest going to a beer spa and experience what you can only do in this country.

📍 Evening: Beer Time

More beer is happening today in the evening. Saying goodbye to Prague won’t be easy. But what better way to celebrate your visit than drinking local beer?

Go to  Beer Time Pub  and taste various types of beer. They also have  production from small brewers  from around the country. And you can  have a delicious dinner  there, too.

3. DAY IN PRAGUE

On your last day, I recommend doing more activities like seeing a concert and visiting many museums.

Check out my suggestions for a guided tour to learn more about Prague in WWII , join a food tour and try Czech specialties , explore the Jewish quarter with a guide, and enjoy even more activities.

Best Guided Tours Of Prague

If you want to learn more about the history of Prague in detail and hear interesting stories, I highly recommend doing one of the guided tours I recommend below.

Prague is a hotspot for history lovers , and the city has played a major role in the history of the entire Europe. You’ll hear all the important names like Emperor Charle IV or the Habrburgs and major historical events like WWII, the Thirty Year’s War, the Hussite Wars , concentration camps, and more.

So, it’s a great idea to walk through with a local historian .

I recommend these guided tours in Prague:

✅ Prague Old Town & Castle Guided Tour ✅ WWII Guided Tour & Operation Anthropoid ✅ Guided Tour Of Old Town & Jewish Quarter ✅ Food Tour Of Prague

Make A Day Trip From Prague

Visit some of the most beautiful towns in Czech Republic . I also highly recommend making a day trip from Prague.

The best day trips you can make from Prague are:

Practical Tips For Visiting Prague

To help you plan your stay in Prague even more, I have more tips for you. See when the best time to visit is, how many days should you stay, where to stay, and learn about the safety:

How Many Days Should You Spend In Prague?

2 to 4 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Prague. 2 days are enough to explore the main sights and enjoy the atmosphere of Prague.

Spend 4 days if you want to do extra activities like visiting museums, enjoying a beer spa, going on a Vltava River Cruise, or going to a theatre performance.

👉 READ ALSO: How Many Days In Prague Is Enough? Revealed!

Best Time To Visit Prague

The best time to visit Prague is May, June, September, and October . The temperatures are mild during these months, and the weather is great for sightseeing (not so hot). It’s also much less crowded than during the peak summer months (July & August).

December is also a great time to visit Prague, as you can experience one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas Markets. The city has wonderful markets with a great Christmasy atmosphere and delicious food.

Where To Stay In Prague: Best Areas & Hotels

The best areas to stay in Prague are the Old Town, Lesser Town, or Zizkov/Vysehrad . They’re close to the main attractions, and the areas are also very safe.

These are the hotels I recommend for your stay in Prague:

BEST HOTELS IN THE OLD TOWN PRAGUE:

➡ HOTEL ZLATA VAHA – budget-friendly hotel ➡ HOTEL LIBERTY – mid-range hotel ➡ GRANDIUM HOTEL PRAGUE – luxury hotel

BEST HOTELS IN THE LESSER TOWN PRAGUE:

➡ REPUBLIC HOTEL – budget-friendly hotel ➡ HOTEL AT THE GOLDEN SCISSORS – mid-range hotel ➡ AUGUSTINE LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL – luxury hotel

BEST HOTELS IN ZIZKOV/VYSEHRAD:

➡ HOTEL LUNIK – budget-friendly hotel ➡ HOTEL TAURUS – mid-range hotel ➡ AMETYST HOTEL PRAHA – luxury hotel

Where To Eat In Prague: Best Restaurants

Prague is a very touristy city, so choosing a place to eat matters. I don’t like how touristy it became, and locals often take advantage of it.

Avoid eating at the Old Town Square – the food is mostly average and overpriced.

Instead, check out these traditional Czech restaurants and try local food:

✅ Lokal – traditional Czech restaurant with great beer ✅ Sad Man’s Tongue Bar & Bistro – great burgers & grilled food ✅ Beertime Pub – traditional Czech restaurant with great beer ✅ Czech Slovak Restaurant – traditional Czechoslovakian restaurant ✅ Pork’s – traditional Czech restaurant ✅ U Glaubiců – traditional Czech restaurant ✅ Lehka Hlava – vegetarian restaurant ✅ Dhaba Beas – vegetarian restaurant ✅ Liberske Lahudky – traditional Czech bread with toppings (for breakfast & snack) ✅ Antoninovo Pekarstvi – best bakery with sweet and savory bread (for breakfast & snacks)

Prague Christmas Markets

The Christmas Markets in Prague are one of the most beautiful in Europe (I would say top 5). You can enjoy the atmosphere and delicious food .

Try local chimney cake, mulled wine, sausages, and cheap beer. Some stalls also sell traditional Czech souvenirs .

👉 READ ALSO: Magical European Christmas Markets By Train: Full Itinerary

Currency In Prague & Budget You’ll Need

The official currency in Prague (Czech Republic) is the Czech Crown . Many people can pay with Euro , but they often have a high conversion rate . So I recommend exchanging cash for Czech Crowns.

Always have some cash handy , as some places still don’t accept card payments. Or you’ll need it for toilets in the city.

The best places to exchange cash for Czech Crowns are local exchange places in the city (not the airport or hotels). Check the official rate online via XE.com .

Prague is a relatively cheap city compared to other European capitals. You can expect to spend around $80 per day , including accommodation, food, and activities.

Is Prague Safe To Visit?

Yes , Prague is safe to visit. It was ranked the safest city to visit in Europe in 2023 by research done in the UK. It has a low crime score, and there is not much danger overall. If you stay in touristy areas, walking outside alone at night is also relatively safe.

Be aware of pickpockets and use common sense – it’ll keep you safe.

BONUS: 10-Day Czech Republic Itinerary

If you want to explore more of the Czech Republic , follow my 10-day road trip through the country. It includes all the Czech highlights , beautiful places, nature, stunning towns, and a lot of culture.

Get my Czech Republic Road Trip Itinerary by clicking on the image below and explore beyond Prague.

I’ve also answered some of the frequently asked questions about Prague. Check my answers below:

Is 3 Days In Prague Enough?

Yes, 3 days are enough for Prague. Add a few more days depending on how many extra activities you want to do, such as seeing the opera, enjoying the Vltava Cruise, a beer spa, or visiting many museums.

But if you only want to see the main sights in Prague , 3 days is the perfect time.

Can You Pay In Euros In Prague?

Yes , you can pay in euros in Prague, but I don’t recommend it . The conversion rates are often too high , so you’d lose a lot of money. Instead, convert some USD or EURO into the local currency, the Czech Crown.

Is Prague A Walkable City?

Yes , Prague is a walkable city. You can easily visit all the sight on foot. When you want to make longer distances, take a metro or a tram.

WRAP-UP: 3 Days In Prague Itinerary

This is my itinerary and a self-guided walking tour of one of the most beautiful European cities – Prague. Even after living there for a year , I still love coming back . The city has such an incredible atmosphere; I believe everyone should experience it.

Not to mention the delicious and cheap beer . And if you don’t like beer, come to eat as many chimney cakes as possible – these are delicious.

If you have any questions or need help planning your itinerary for Prague, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Czech Republic Travel

Looking to visit more places in Czech Republic? Check out my related articles:

Czech Republic Road Trip Itinerary For 10 Days

How Many Days In Prague Is The Perfect Time? Ultimate Guide

Is Prague Worth Visiting? 19 Reasons To Visit & Best Things To Do

8 Most Beautiful Towns In Czech Republic

European Christmas Markets By Train Itinerary

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

CZECH REPUBLIC : Interested in more articles for Czech Republic? Chech out my Czech Republic Travel Page .

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Prague Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know As a First Time Visitor

Prague welcomes over 8 million travelers a year, making it the 5th most visited city in Europe. If a trip to Czech Republic’s Golden City is in your future, there are a few things you should know to keep to make the most of your trip. Keep reading to discover 15 Prague travel tips, including how to save money, how much to tip, how to get from Prague Airport to city center and more.

15 PRAGUE TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

1. get up early.

One of my favorite memories in Prague was the morning that we explored Old Town at sunrise. Standing on Charles Bridge alone was a sharp contrast to the day before when we were packed together, shoulder to shoulder with other tourists.

I understand that waking up at sunrise is not what most people want to do while on vacation, but if you can make it out during at least one of your mornings, you will see a completely different side of Prague.

RELATED POST: PRAGUE WITH NO PEOPLE – WAKING UP BEFORE THE CROWDS

2. Skip the Astronomical Clock Show

Every hour on the hour, hundreds of people flock to Prague’s Astronomical Clock to watch the infamous “show.” It is a highly anticipated event, with a pretty subpar payoff. During the show, you will watch the little figurines to the side of the clock do a short dance, then the skeleton turns his hourglass over, and a bird pops out of the top. The movements are so subtle, I didn’t even know what I was watching.

The only amusing part of this experience was listening to the disappointed commentary around us. Everyone was questioning what had just happened before finally realizing it was over and slowly dispersing back into the city.

If you find yourself near the Clock Tower at the top of the hour, go ahead and check it out. If not, I would not recommend the taking time out of your day to make a special trip to watch the show.

3. Prauge Money Tips : Avoid Unnecessary Added Conversion

My favorite way to exchange US Dollars for local currency is by withdrawing money from an ATM (vs visiting an exchange). It’s easy and convenient, and ATMs have some of the most competitive exchange rates in the city. If you plan on using an ATM while in Prague, I recommend opting for bank owned ATMs to avoid unnecessary fees. Euronet ATMs in particular should be avoided as their fees are outrageous and their conversion rates are horrible.

If you find yourself at an ATM, and the machine asks you if you would like to withdrawal with or without conversion, choose without conversion. You are going to receive local currency either way – what you are actually choosing is whether you would like your bank to do the conversion, or the ATM. It’s a sneaky way for them to charge you higher rates. Check out this post for a better explanation (and video) of how this works.

On a similar note, if you are ever paying by credit card and the merchant asks if you would like to pay in Czech Crowns or your home currency, always choose Crowns. This is called Dynamic Currency Conversion and while it may seem convenient to have your card charged in your local currency, you will be paying an extra conversion fee which always winds up being more money.

4. Prague Public Transportation Tips

Buy a long term travel ticket.

Prague has an excellent public transportation system which offers multiple ways to travel about the city. If you know you will be taking public transportation more than two times in a 24 hour period, save money by purchasing a 24 or 72 hour transportation ticket. These tickets are good for unlimited travel on all public transportation within the city, including trams, metros, and busses.

WHERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Tickets are available for sale all over the city. Look for the yellow machines at almost every public transportation stop. To buy a ticket from these machines, you must have exact change and they do not accept any bills.

Alternatively, you can download the “ PID Lítačka” app from the Google Play or Apple Store to purchase tickets online. You can also buy tickets from information centers, newspaper shops and even onboard the trams.

MAKE SURE TO VALIDATE YOUR TICKET

If you have a paper ticket, make sure to get it validated before getting on the metro, or as soon as you board the bus or tram . The validation machines timestamp your ticket, making it valid for your journey. If you have not validated your ticket, you risk a large fine if a ticket inspector happens to come on board.

You can find yellow validations machines on the busses and trams, and before you get on the metro.

YOU MIGHT NEED A TICKET FOR YOUR LUGGAGE

If you are coming to or from the airport on public transportation, you might need to buy an extra ticket for your luggage if your bag is over 25×45×70 cm (9.8×17.7×27.5 inches). If you find yourself needing a ticket for your luggage, choose the discounted ticket rate of 16CZK (.74 cents USD).

5. Climb the Charles Bridge Tower for a Quiet View of the City

While the Old Town Hall Tower has a never ending line that wraps around the corner, the tower at Charles Bridge sits almost completely empty. The doorway to enter is very inconspicuous, which maybe be the reason for the lack of visitors.

To access the tower, you have to climb 137 steps to the top and there is a small entry price of 150CZK ($7USD), but the view is well worth the cost of admission.

6. Be Wary of Pickpockets

Prague is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and unfortunately wherever large groups of tourists gather, there are bound to be those looking to take advantage of the unsuspecting visitors.

In general, Prague is a very safe city but petty theft does happen, so just be aware of your belongings while you’re traveling. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, keep your camera and/or your purse secure by wearing it crossbody. If you’re sitting down at a restaurant, wrap your purse around your leg or your arm, so it can’t be snatched away. The same with your phone or camera – don’t leave them sitting openly on the table.

Most theft happens when people are distracted. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in highly populated areas such as around the Astronomical Clock, the Charles Bridge and Tram 22.

7. Take a Break from Beer and Try a Cocktail (or Absinthe)

The Czech Republic drinks more beer per capita than any other country in the world. There is no shortage of places to grab a pint, but if you’re looking for a break from beer… Prague also happens to be known for its absinthe bars. Absintherie Jílská, Green Devil’s Absinthe Bar and Absinthe Time are some of the most popular.

Also check out Hemingway Bar , a small speakeasy style cocktail bar on Karoliny Světlé, serving an endless list of absinthe, rum, whiskey, and champagne. The menu is creative, the presentations are incredible and the bartender really seems to care about making a drink that you will love.

Hemingway Bar is very small so there is usually a wait, especially if you don’t have a reservation. We initially visited for their absinthe but the rest of the menu was way more appealing. I ordered the “Chocolate Factory” cocktail which was made with ghee butter infused Becherovka (herbal liquor), Pedro Ximénez Sherry, Nutella and macadamia nut syrup.

Nick had “Hemingway’s Gasoline” which was basically the house version of an old fashioned, but way better. It was made with Whiskey, Campari, Punt e Mes and walnut bitters. We also tried their “BBQ Mary,” which was made with mezcal, lemon juice, bbq sauce, tomato juice, herbs and dijon mustard. It was the best version of a Bloody Mary I’ve ever had.

HEMINGWAY BAR ADDRESS  Karoliny Světlé 279/26, 110 00

8. Avoid Taxis and Opt for Uber Instead

If you do any amount of research on Prague, chances are you’ve come across a handful of taxi horror stories. From overcharging to rigged meters, Prague taxi drivers do not have the best reputation. There are several ways to reduce your risk of a taxi scam such as calling for a taxi vs. hailing one, asking for their rate before getting in the car etc..

But why not avoid the hassle all together and call an Uber instead. Uber is available in Prague and they quote you the rate upfront. You can also look into Liftago, the Czech Republic’s version of Uber.

9. Tipping in Prague

RESTAURANTS Within the city, it is customary to tip 10% of the bill (15% if the service is excellent) . If you’re dining in a more touristy area of Prague, make sure that the bill does not already include a service fee before you tip. If they do, there is no need to tip anymore. Do not tip bad service.

HOW TO TIP AT A RESTAURANT As is common with many European cities, when the waiter brings you your bill they will present it to you and then expect you to pay on the spot, including however much you would like to add for the tip.

The first time we experienced this, we were not prepared and had to quickly do the math in our head so that we could let them know how much change was needed. If you are paying with a credit card, you will need to calculate the tip and tell them how much to charge your card. There is nowhere on the receipt to add a tip, and leaving change on the table is also not a common practice.

BARS Round the bill up. If your beer is 45CZK, give 50CZK.

TAXI If you haven’t agreed on a fixed amount for the ride, take the fare and round up . For example: if the meter says 280CZK, round up and tip 300CZK. If you have agreed on a fixed amount, there is no need to tip on top of it.

HOTELS For hotel porters, tip 20-25CZK per bag . For housekeepers, there has been an ongoing online debate about whether or not to tip housekeeping in Europe, and I still get confused. Some argue that it is not customary while others recommend leaving a small tip at the end of your stay. I would base it on your own circumstances taking into consideration the length of your stay, the type of hotel you’re in, how much of a mess you’ve left etc.

TOUR GUIDES Tip your tour guides $15-20 per person. $10-15 for free walking tours.

10. Buy Your Old Town Hall Tower Tickets Online to Save Money and Skip the Line

Lines to access the Tower viewing area in the Old Town Hall can take hours, especially during peak season. Buy your ticket online so that you can skip the line and save a little money. Standard admission is 250 CZK ($11.64 USD) but if you purchase them online you can save 40CZK ($1.86 USD).

If you are an early riser, plan on making your visit to the tower within the first hour of opening and they will give you 50% off the admission price.

11. Visit Prague During Off Season

Visually, Prague is one of the most beautiful European cities I’ve ever seen, but unfortunately the mass crowds of people prevented me from falling in love with it. We visited during the middle of peak season and it felt like a trip to Disneyland, not a European vacation.

My vision of strolling down Charles Bridge at sunset was replaced with a reality that included shuffling shoulder to shoulder with thousands of other tourists. Even stopping to take a photo was nearly impossible because everyone behind you starts piling up. When we were in Old Town, the crowds never let up and it got old very fast.

While Prague is busy year round, I highly recommend booking your trip for the off season (Spring and early Fall). You will not only beat some of the crowds, but you will get better room rates too.

12. Explore The Road Less Traveled

The majority of tourists will start and end their trip to Prague in Old Town but if you want to beat the crowds and see a different side of the city, I highly recommend venturing beyond Staré Město.

We booked an AirBnb in Vinorhady, which is located 3 miles (4.8 km) from Old Town. It was so nice to leave the chaos each night, and we discovered a handful of hidden gems on our way to and from the city center. We found an open air market with delicious street food, an amazing local Czech restaurant and one of the best bakeries I’ve ever been to.

You don’t have to travel far to see the quieter side of Prague. Even some of the alleys that run parallel to the main streets in Old Town were significantly more quiet. You never know what you’re going to find if you step off the beaten path. Like the day we stumbled upon swing dancers in Letna Park, and a 17th century monastery brewery near the Petřín Lookout Tower.

RELATED POST: LETNA BEER GARDEN – CZECH BEER AND THE BEST VIEWS IN PRAGUE

13. The Metro Shuts Down at Midnight

I expected a party city like Prague to have public transportation available 24 hours a day, but we learned the hard way that this is not the case. One night after staying out longer than usual, we were heading home and discovered that the metro had been boarded up. During our trip, we had been taking the metro to and from our hotel and we didn’t know of any other way to get back. We also couldn’t find wifi as everything was already closed, so we had to flag down a taxi and pay much more than we should’ve to get back to our hotel.

Prague’s metro runs from around 4:45am to midnigh t. Trams and buses do remain in operation so if you only know how to reach your hotel via metro, research an alternative way of getting back if you know you’ll be out late.

14. Take a Day Trip

If you’re looking for a change of scenery and want get out of the city for a little while, there are dozens of interesting destinations just a short train ride away.

CESKY KRUMLOV is only two hours from Prague and this magical little town looks like it was ripped from the pages of a fairytale. Like Prague, it is also packed with tourists, so I recommend staying one night if you can. Once the day trippers go home, you’ll have the whole place to yourself.

RELATED POST: CESKY KRUMLOV – THINGS TO DO, WHERE TO STAY & HOW TO GET THERE.

BRNO is located two hours from Prague and it is the second largest city in the Czech Republic. I spent a few days here and really fell in love with it. It’s much less touristy and it is a beautiful place to spend some time. Click below to read some of my posts about Brno including things to do, the best bars , photos and more.

RELATED POSTS : BRNO : EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PRAGUE’S SISTER CITY

PILSEN is only 1 hour from Prague and is the perfect day trip for Czech beer fans. Visit the Pilsen Urquell Brewery where you will tour the factory and even taste some unfiltered beer straight from the barrel.

TEREZIN is located 45 minutes from Prague and was where Terezin Concentration Camp and the Jewish Ghetto were located. During WWII over 150,000 Jews were sent here, and while thousands died at Terezin, it was mainly used as a transit camp before sending people to death camps such as Auschwitz. It was also used as a “model” ghetto to trick the rest of the world into thinking that the Jewish people were being treated fairly.

RELATED POST: TOURING AUSCHWITZ – BIRKENAU – WHAT TO EXPECT

15. Read Up on Some Common Tourist Scams

As with any large city that caters to tourists, there are bound to be a few tourist traps and scams. I recommend reading up on the most common ones so that you can be prepared, and hopefully save yourself some money and avoid getting taken advantage of.

RESTAURANT ADD ONS A common scam in Prague restaurants (mostly in the tourist areas of town) is charging for extras. If you sit down to eat and find bread or pretzels on the table, they are not complimentary. If you don’t plan on eating them, ask the waiter to take it way, or you will find it on your bill later.

PAY BY WEIGHT In some of the markets you will see vendors selling various grab and go food options such as pork knuckles or ham. The price advertised in large font may seem like a good deal, until you read the fine print. If you see /100g anywhere on the sign, know that you will be paying that rate per 100g. It ends up costing much more than you expected, for a lot less food.

For a list of other common scams within Prague, click here .

PRAGUE TRAVEL TIPS : THE BASICS

What currency do they use in prague.

Despite being a member of the European Union, Prague and the rest of the Czech Republic still use their own currency, Czech Koruna (Crowns).  

1 Czech Koruna (CZ) Equals:  .047 USD .039 EURO .033 Pounds Stirling .057 Canadian Dollar .060 Australian Dollar For a full list of currencies, click here.

WHAT LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN IN PRAGUE?

Czech is the official language of Prague.

WHAT ADAPTER DO I NEED IN PRAGUE? POWER SOCKETS & VOLTAGE 

Prague’s most widely used plug types are C and E , the standard European two pin socket. Their voltage is 230V / 50Hz AC .

If you are traveling from North America, you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter. North American voltage is 110V and you can easily ruin your appliances by plugging it into an outlet supplying double the voltage. If you are traveling with an iPhone or MAC, it’s good to know that Apple products are dual voltage.

HOW TO GET FROM PRAGUE AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER 

If you will be flying into Prague, you will arrive at the Václav Havel Airport, located 9.3 miles (15km) from the city center. Depending on which mode of transportation you take (and the current traffic), the journey takes about 25-45 minutes.

AIRPORT EXPRESS BUS

The Airport Express Bus is the easiest way to get from the Prague airport to city center. The bus stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 and will drop you off in the city center at the Main Train Station (Praha hlavní nádraží) on Wilsonova Street

The AE Bus runs every 30 minutes between 6:30am-10pm going from the airport to the city center. You can purchase tickets directly from the bus driver (with correct change) or from the information centers within the airport. Tickets cost 60 CZK for adults ($2.79 USD), 30CZK ($1.40) USD for ages 6-15. Children under 6 are free.

Public bus is the cheapest way to get to the city center, but it’s not a non-stop journey. The bus will take you to the metro, which will then take you to the city center.

The most common public bus that travelers take is bus 119. It will take you to the metro stop Nádraží Veleslavín where you will hop on the green line toward the center (centrum). You can get off at Staromestska, Mustek or Muzeum , depending on where your hotel is located.

Purchase your bus tickets from the yellow ticket machines right outside of the airport. Opt for the 90 minute ticket, which will be good for both the bus and the metro. A standard 90 minute ticket costs 32CZK ($1.49 USD).

Uber is available in Prague and is usually a better deal than taxis. Expect to pay between $15-30 USD.

Is Prague Accessible? Prague Tips for people with Limited Mobility and/or Disabilities

Prague is moderately accessible with some definite limitations . A majority of streets are cobblestone which might be difficult for some travelers. The public transportation system is a work in progress, but with enough options to access the city.

Check out WheelChairTravel.com , a fantastic resource with many Prague travel tips for those with limited mobility and/or disabilities. They cover all aspects of accessibility in Prague, from the airport to the public transportation. AccessiblePrague.com is a travel agency for travelers with special needs. They arrange transportation, accommodation, equipment rentals tours and more. Lastly, check out the city’s public transportation page for updated information about their barrier free metro stops and other accessible travel options.

Did I miss anything? Share your best Prague travel tips in the comments below!

Pin it: prague tips for first timers – the ultimate travel guide.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

3 thoughts on “Prague Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know As a First Time Visitor”

Prague is such a cute place and I will definitely go back. Just remember, to change your money. Also, watch out for the taxis at the train station. We got ripped off big time our driver. A lot of people don’t like Uber, but it saved us a lot of money in Prague.

Prague is my dream city, I wish to visit there soon.

Your travel guide is really awesome and informative.

Thanks for sharing and photos are really awesome.

Hi Amanda! Thanks so much, I hope you travel there soon 🙂

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A Little Visit… How to Spend 3 Days in Prague (Plus 5 Things You’ll Love)

Last updated on January 13, 2024 by Shannon

Lauded as one of the top cultural centers of Europe, and a city almost unparalleled for architecture and beauty, I had always wanted to see Prague for myself. I have long held a romantic nostalgia for Prague thanks to Hollywood using the city’s medieval streets as the backdrop for intrigue and romance—I confess a deep love of romance novels and RomComs.

As an American, much of the city’s architecture is older than my entire country. Prague—or Praha to the locals—suffered far less damage and destruction than most European cities during World War II, making it a showcase of the best preserved European architecture from the past centuries.

And the downtown city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , a designation of cultural significance for the world. So it was a shoe-in that I would head to the Czech Republic on my round the world trip . I had already planned to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina , Croatia , and Slovenia , so Prague would require just a short train ride.

Table of Contents

Arriving in Prague

As my travels moved into Eastern Europe, other travelers warned me that the city doesn’t live up to the hype. It’s not the first time travelers have said this—sometimes others claim a town has lost its authenticity : it’s too busy, too slow, or just too  something that they don’t like.

But each person is unique, so I decided I would continue on toward Prague, I would find all the interesting things to do, dive into the food scene, and wander the maze of streets.

I would discover for myself if Prague was, in fact, the destination of a lifetime and a must on any round the world itinerary, or an overrated touristy city glamorized by Hollywood.

My train from Slovenia arrived in the late evening, which was not an ideal introduction to Prague. I prefer to enter a new city late during daylight—this is one of the ways I stay safe as a solo female traveler , plus, darkness is just not ideal for locating transportation and then plodding through the streets of a strange city with my 45 pound backpack strapped to my back since the hostel is almost never precisely where I think it should be.

When you exit the main train station, there is little information available about getting around. Although I cautiously used a taxi (again, nighttime and all, but there are some taxi con-artists to be aware of), it’s a short walk downhill into Old Town, or it’s easy to take the metro , too.

If you have a smartphone (I didn’t on our first visit!), load the maps onto your phone and use that to walk. Like most transport hubs, I faced a few predatory cabbies stalking me as I searched for the official taxi stand, but they left me alone once I found a low-key driver, handed over the address, and dumped my bags into the trunk.

My hostel was a bit outside of Old Town, so the private transport was pricier than I anticipated, but still worth it. Since Uber is in Prague now, I wouldn’t hesitate to summon one as soon as my train arrived and avoid the entire mess. (It is a great option from the airport , too).

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

Best Places to Visit in Prague’s Old Town

What a gorgeous city. I mean, it’s huge—the city itself is massive, but the bulk of tourism centers on Old Town. Staré Město is small and easily navigated as a tourist.

It’s a section of Prague filled with delightfully narrow cobbled paths. Lanes wind through towering buildings, each one ornately decorated with spired Gothic and baroque architecture.

One fellow traveler recommended that I always remember to look up. What good advice!

Old Town’s buildings all have  some sort of ornate decoration along the top edges. Eroded carvings of a beautiful woman emerge from a stone wall of one building, while a wandering minstrel is juxtaposed on the very next. (There is even a seven-foot tall statue of Sigmund Freud hanging from one building!)

The city is a fascinating hodgepodge of architectural styles: art nouveau, neoclassical, cubist, renaissance, gothic, baroque. And although I can’t readily identify the differences between each one, the varied styles make for a never-ending parade of impressive buildings.

The beauty of the buildings is a feast for the eyes for even the least art-inclined. History has carved itself into every corner of Prague. Life and humanity spanning hundreds of years is visible in the worn stone steps that lead to Prague’s castles and churches.

Even busy touristy areas shine above the chaos. The Charles Bridge teemed with tourists just as expected, but the bridge still oozed charm. This current crush of tourists is simply the latest incarnation of this bridge’s journey through history. It’s the latest incarnation of a bridge, stones, and carvings that existed before me and will continue after me as well.

So when I passed the busking musicians and artists offering cheesy caricatures of young preening couples engaging in showy PDA—I simply smiled and continued my stroll.

Three days in Prague is enough to eat all the things and see a whole lot, too. I recommend budgeting time into your days to simply relax, shop, and wander Old Town, as it was a real highlight.

Planning Your 3-Day Prague Itinerary

If you have three days in town, here is an itinerary that takes in all the highlights while leaving plenty of time to explore your own interests, too.

Take a free walking tour of the city (there are many). Most end near Prague Castle, so buy a ticket and explore. Be sure to visit the castle and St. Vitus Cathedral, too. Once done, wander the picturesque streets of Mala Strana, the “lesser quarter” and find lunch, coffee, etc.

Then continue your meandering through Mala Strana, finding the Lennon Wall (tourists can add to it!).

As late afternoon hits, wander into Petřín Park for sunset—hike to the top through the shady paths, or take the funicular. Enjoy the sweeping views of sunset before taking the funicular down to the bottom. Dine in Kampa, it’s not a far walk from the base of the park and there are many options.

Head to Old Town and plan to spend hours here. Wander past the Astronomical Clock (seriously impressive), and perhaps have your morning coffee and croissant in the busy town square.

The Mucha Museum was my favorite, but there are others in town, too. Visit one of the museums that strikes your fancy.

After the museum, head to the Jewish quarter nearby and continue your wanders, museum visits, and history lessons. Buy lunch and make a picnic of it at Letna Park nearby (just across the river) and enjoy gorgeous views.

Then either head back to change, or go straight to your meeting spot for a beer and tapas tour that offers local insight from your guide alongside the chance to sip the best drinks in the city.

This will start your evening off, and you can head to additional beer spots (recommendations below), or home for the night.

Venture a bit further in the city today. Head south to Vyšehrad Castle, then walk along the river back to town. If food is your thing, consider scheduling a food neighborhood tour for the afternoon, which will take you to  hidden spots and provides a lot more backstory and tasty eats.

Otherwise, visit any of the other museums you find interesting (there’s everything from a KGB museum to a Kafka one on offer).

And if you need some shopping time, head back to the antique places in Mala Strana, or the souvenir shops in Old Town.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Prague Travel Basics

Where to Eat in Prague

Lehka Hlava offers delicious vegetarian fare near the Charles Bridge; Maitrea is a sister restaurant with a large menu and convenient for Old Town wanders. Country Life offers a veggie buffet and it’s one of the best values for budget food in the city, even if you’re not vegetarian.

Vegetarian food is tricky at general restaurants and markets, but the Czech sweets are phenomenal and I collected several memorable favorites.

Where to Drink

For a large beer selection and a hip vibe, head to  Lokál Dlouhááá (it has local Czech food too, but the beer menu stands out). The Prague Beer Museum (multiple locations) also has an enormous selection of beers on tap. For wine lovers, Vinograf can be pricier than some places but is a good bet.

Best Things to Do in Prague

1. enjoy the mucha museum.

I discovered  Alfons Mucha back in 2009 and I thought the works were simply stunning. This museum is well laid out and a great stop if you like his art—I enjoyed it more than I expected.

2. Visit The Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the Vltava River and connects the Old Town to Malá Strana. Artists and kitschy knickknacks converge on this bridge with an unbelievably gorgeous backdrop of the river and castles all set off with the tinkling music of roving buskers. It’s charming and a must for any visit.

3. Explore Prague Castle

Prague Castle is a historic castle located in the city of Prague in the Czech Republic. It is the largest castle complex in the world, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle is home to a number of museums, galleries, and historical exhibits, and it offers beautiful views of the city.

The castle is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Prague, and it is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. You just have to visit this, even on a tight budget. The views over the city and the river are worth the price alone.

4. Wander Old Town

Put away your map and just wander through the streets of Old Town. The Old Town is the historic center of Prague, and it is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the famous Astronomical Clock, the Charles Bridge, and the Jewish Quarter.

The Old Town is a great place to explore on foot, with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively atmosphere.

5. Get lost in the the Mala Strana neighborhood.

Located on the other side of the river from the Old Town, Malá Strana is a charming neighborhood with beautiful Baroque-style houses and a number of cultural attractions. The neighborhood is home to the Prague Castle, as well as the Petřín Hill, which offers beautiful views of the city.

6. Meander through Žižkov.

Žižkov is a lively and diverse neighborhood with a bohemian atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Žižkov Television Tower, which offers beautiful views of the city.

7. Guzzle down a beer!

Czechs drink a whole lot of beer, and taking either a formal tour or a self-guided tour of pubs and brews is a highlight for any beer-lover. You can also visit a brewery. The Czech Republic is famous for its beer, and there are many breweries in Prague that offer tours and tastings.

Visiting a brewery is a fun and unique way to learn about the local culture and to try some of the city’s famous beers. You could also just get very, very lost and explore until you find a little nook and cranny pub. Sit down, have a Czech beer. Then, pull out the map and navigate back to the next item on your to-see list.

8. Visit the Petřín Hill

The Petřín Hill is a popular spot for tourists, and it offers beautiful views of the city. The hill is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Petřín Lookout Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.

9. Take a River Cruise

A river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and it offers beautiful views of the city’s historic landmarks.

10. Go on a Food Tour

Prague has a diverse and delicious food scene, and a food tour is a great way to explore the city’s culinary offerings. These tours take you to some of the city’s best restaurants and food markets, and they provide an opportunity to try local specialties and learn about the city’s food culture.

Book a day tour to maximize your time.

Get Your Guide has a phenomenal range of tours in Prague, and they’re affordable too. Book your must-dos as a tour, and then slot in the rest as time permits.

11. Take an Off-Beat, Special-Interest Tour

• Graffiti tours : Prague has a vibrant street art scene, and a graffiti tour is a great way to explore the city’s art and culture. These tours take you to some of the city’s most interesting graffiti spots and provide insight into the local art scene.
• Coffee roasteries : Prague has a thriving coffee culture, and visiting a coffee roastery is a great way to learn about the city’s coffee history and to try some of its delicious brews.
• Ghost tours : Prague has a long and fascinating history, and a ghost tour is a unique way to explore the city’s darker side. These tours take you to some of the city’s most haunted places and provide insight into its spooky past.
• Bike tours : Prague is a small city, and a bike tour is a great way to see the city’s landmarks and hidden corners. Many bike tours offer guided rides through the city’s parks, neighborhoods, and along the river, with stops at notable landmarks and cultural attractions.

12. Visit a Contemporary Art Museum

Prague is home to a number of contemporary art museums, including the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art and the National Gallery’s Trade Fair Palace. These museums offer a modern contrast to the city’s historic landmarks and are a great way to see contemporary art from Czech and international artists.

Prague has one of the most charming skylines I have ever seen; it’s for this reason that so many guides like mine include recommendations to get higher views and visit during the sunset magic hour.

There is no chance that you won’t find beauty in Prague. Even though it’s a big city (and I don’t love big cities, as a rule), it’s fun, historic, and interesting. There is never a shortage of activities, which makes it an ideal spot to spend at least three days. 

Although I don’t want to live in Prague, the city has earned a place on the itinerary for any trip. Whether you’re on a weekend break or an epic trio through Eastern Europe, Prague only enhanced my trip with its beauty and European charm.

Quick Travel Tips: Visiting Prague

Where to stay in prague, where to stay.

There are a lot of options on neighborhoods, each one with a different vibe and convenience factor. The city center/Old Town is Prague 1, while Letna (Prague 7) is adjacent and walkable.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods for tourists in Prague:

• Old Town : The Old Town is the historic center of Prague, and it is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the famous Astronomical Clock, the Charles Bridge, and the Jewish Quarter. The Old Town is a great place to stay for tourists, as it is within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions and has a lively atmosphere.
• Malá Strana (Lesser Town) : Located on the other side of the river from the Old Town, Malá Strana is a charming neighborhood with beautiful Baroque-style houses and a number of cultural attractions. The neighborhood is home to the Prague Castle, as well as the Petřín Hill, which offers beautiful views of the city.
• New Town : The New Town is a modern neighborhood located to the east of the Old Town. It is home to a number of shopping and entertainment areas, as well as the popular Wenceslas Square. The New Town is a good choice for tourists who want to be close to the city’s main shopping and entertainment areas.

Prague 1 and 7 have mid-range prices to astronomical. If you are on a tight budget, most of the affordable guesthouses, Airbnbs, and hostels are in the other neighborhoods. Consider that Vinohrady (Prague 2) has a good vibe while Žižkov (Prague 3) is funky and fun. I consistently find good guesthouses and hostels through Booking.com .

Best Prague Guidebook

If you’re just visiting Prague, the DK Eyewitness guide is best, but if you’re exploring other areas, go with the Rick Steves Prague & Czech Republic .

Prague Travel Tips

• Pack light : Prague is a small city, and it is easy to get around on foot. Pack light to make it easier to walk around the city and visit its many cultural attractions.
• Use public transportation : Prague has a good public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, and it is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
• Learn some basic Czech : Prague is a Czech-speaking city, and it is helpful to learn some basic phrases to communicate with locals. Many people in Prague are also fluent in English, so you can also use English to communicate with them.
• Stay safe : Prague is a generally safe city, but it is always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables safe when out and about. And buy travel insurance like IMG Global —this can protect both you and your belongings should something happen.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: It is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Avoid walking alone at night, and stay in well-lit and populated areas.
• Keep your valuables safe : It is a good idea to keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded areas or when using public transportation. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider using a money belt or keeping your valuables in a secure location.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation companies : It is important to use reputable tour operators and transportation companies to ensure your safety. Research companies before booking, and be sure to read reviews and check for any safety concerns.
• Protect yourself from pickpockets : Pickpocketing is a common problem in tourist areas of most major European cities, not just Prague. It’s important to take precautions to protect yourself. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use common sense : As with any destination, it is important to use common sense and to be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t feel safe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.

What to Pack for Prague Travel

When packing for your trip to Prague , consider the following items:

• Comfortable and practical clothing : Prague has a temperate climate, with cool to mild temperatures year-round. Pack comfortable and practical clothing that you can layer, such as jeans, t-shirts, and a sweater or light jacket.
• Walking shoes : Prague is a small city, and you will do a lot of walking to explore its many cultural attractions. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes to make it easier to get around.
• Rain gear : Prague can be rainy at times, especially in the spring and fall, so it is a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella.
• Personal items : Pack your personal items, such as toiletries, medication, and any other essentials you may need during your trip.
• Passport and travel documents : Don’t forget to bring your passport and any other travel documents you may need, such as visas or travel insurance documents. Learn how to safely carry your passport while traveling .
• Cash and credit cards : Prague is a cash-based society, and it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips. You should also bring a credit card for larger purchases and for emergency situations. Many locations across Europe also offer tap to pay—if your U.S. credit or debit card doesn’t have the wifi symbol on it, consider loading your card into Apple Pay so you can easily tap to pay at restaurants, shops, and more.

Backpacking the region?

I have free travel guides covering Ljubljana, Slovenia , Croatia , and Bosnia and Herzegovina , and stories of my time in Cesky Krumlov .

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

12 thoughts on “A Little Visit… How to Spend 3 Days in Prague (Plus 5 Things You’ll Love)”

What a useful guide for visitors! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. By the way, i am going to Prague next week and preparing for the itinerary. I already noted from this text.

Love this advice! I had the chance to visit here last summer and fell in love with it. You mentioned a lot of things that I did not get a chance to do and it makes me want to go back!

Hey, love your photos amazing! Nice article, it helped us a lot to explore. I am an entrepreneur by profession and a traveler by heart. Your article is going to make my future journey exciting.

Hi Shannon,

I enjoyed your review of Praha…..to me the most beautiful city in the world! I was there in October of 2007. I enjoyed it so much that I’m planning to return this October and this time spend more time. I was overwhelmed by the architecture, the beauty and even the general lay-out of the city is amazing. The only thing I can say is, being a big city, the people were not very friendly, keeping to themselves. Take care.

I think I would agree with the unfriendly bit – it was really more that they just had no interest in interacting with you if you were a tourist. Enjoy it in October!!

Yes, Dubrovnik would have been a great stop over, lots of history (you can still see the scars from the Bosnia war on the Wall). Also, if you love fresh seafood like I do then you would have been treated with an amazing variety of Dalmatia seafood cuisine. Aside from Dubrovnik, we also visited Split and Island of Brac(Bol) last year and we loved Bol more than Split. Purely for the Bol’s tranquility and picturesque views.

Anyway, I am heading to the airport tomorrow to fly over to Prague, any recommendation or tips on visiting Cesky Krumlov?

btw I’m on twitter if you get a chance to swing by http://twitter.com/AMJle

I love Prague and been there twice already and looking forward to visit a third time this Friday. This time I’m looking to explore the outskirt of Prague like Kutna Hora and Cesky Krumlov. I keep coming back to Prague for several reasons, cheap and tasty beer and food. Prague’s history and Renaissance architecture have always intriguing to me and I can never get tire looking at them. With that said, I do agree with you that Florence is one of my favourite cities and I would live there in a heart beat. My wife and I went there for our honeymoon in 2004 and fell in love with the city. Great food, wine with lots of museum and gallery to feast your eyes. Florence is only an hour away from Adriatic coast which is so temtpting to take a ferry to my second favourite city, Dubrovnik.

Love your blog., great work.

Thank you for stopping by the site! Florence for your honeymoon must have been just wonderful – Now that you say that about Dubrovik though I feel bad that I skipped it. Yikes! I didn’t want to try to cram in too much, but now I am thinking I should have made it over there – esp since I was in Mostar :-( Next time though!

Very good read and nice to hear that the city does live up to the hype. I still want to go to Prague one day even though it is becoming very popular. So, I will make sure to reference this article again to recheck your top 5 sights. It looks beautiful

That’s the biggest thing about Prague – it’s just so darn pretty and that’s what takes it out of the “just another capital city” category – can’t wait to see what you guys think when you get there :-)

Beautiful! A treat to read – to share – and to imagine – as usual! : )

Thank you Miss Nina :-)

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• Transportation
• Staré Mesto & Josefov
• What to do & see
• Sightseeing Guides

The Ultimate US to Prague Travel Guide for 2024

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Why you should visit prague in a weekend, český krumlov, the city of dresden, germany, plan today and travel to prague from the us.

There are now more than 20 million annual tourists to the Czech Republic, making it one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Europe. Prague, the country’s capital, draws in more than 8 million tourists a year, over 7 million of whom are from abroad, including Americans. This guide shows you how to travel from Prague to the US .

Because of its strategic location in Europe, Prague is a breeze to get to. Traveling to Prague by plane or rail is the norm.

Direct flights flying from the United States to Prague are offered by just a select group of airports and airlines. You may fly directly with Delta, KLM, and Air France via JFK Airport in New York City.

Therefore, a stopover at JFK airport or another European location such as London is probably required. Also, remember to book one of the hotels within your price range. There are so many hotels in Prague with spectacular views to choose from.

• This city has flourished and is now more popular than ever with travelers. The city’s charming core, though, conceals a troubled history as well as its own capacity for renewal. Prague has been around since around A.D. 870, and during that time, it has survived countless uprisings, invasions, fires, and floods. Because of its reputation for staying alive and keeping going, the Czech capital is incredibly interesting. 
• Today, a weekend in Prague seems like something out of a fairy tale, with its historic churches, winding alleyways, foreboding hilltop castle, and masterpiece bridges. This city has so much to offer that even the most cynical visitor will have a hard time saying no.
• Before its western neighbors became so popular, Prague was a little-known jewel. The city was unable to keep its wonders a secret for very long and is now a Mecca for sightseers in search of jaw-dropping adventures on a budget. 
• Some of the world’s finest beers are made in Prague, and the city’s restaurants serve up traditional Czech cuisine that will leave a lasting impression on your tastebuds.
• The capital of Czech is a musical wonderland with soul because of the contributions of composers such as Dvoák and Mozart.
• Many of the city’s best hotels still charge a fraction of what they would in other European capitals, and popular sights like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle are free to visit. 

Best Weekend Trips From Prague 

The moon is out tonight; how about a romantic dinner for two? Often the couples who visit Prague on a romantic trip in Europe opt to take a dinner cruise as part of their sightseeing plans.  So in a chic three-hour dining cruise aboard a state-of-the-art boa on river Vltava , you can admire the city’s historic sights.

Visit the spooky sites of old Prague and get the chills while learning about the city’s eerie past. You’ll be taken on a tour through haunted streets by a guide dressed as a ghost or other scary character.

Beer tasting is an ideal activity for those who appreciate drinking beer, hearing about its history, and sampling numerous varieties. Guests will be able to try seven quality Czech beers as well as other wonderful foods from this part of Europe!

The Czech Republic’s capital is an excellent base from which to see the rest of the continent, so if that sounds appealing, you should definitely consider a trip there.  Find the top four day trips from Prague right here!

The picturesque village of  Český Krumlov rests on the winding Vltava River , about 3 hours by either bus or train from the capital of Czech. The town of Český Krumlov, surrounded by a castle built in the 13th century, is a delightful labyrinth of narrow alleys and courtyards. The castle is a popular tourist destination in the Czech Republic; it was originally constructed in the 13th century and then renovated in the medieval and baroque styles. Also in Český Krumlov is the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, a museum honoring the life and work of the city’s most well-known native son and a prominent figure in Austrian modernism.

The Sedlec Ossuary, sometimes referred to as the ‘bones chapel,’ is situated in Kutná Hora, a tiny town approximately two hours by rail from Prague. Skeletal remains from more than forty thousand people, the majority of whom perished in the Black Plague, which ravaged Europe in the 1400s, adorn the interior of the modest church.

 St. Barbara Street is a great place to take in the sights of the capital, and the Medieval St. Barbara’s Church, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, is definitely worth a visit.

Just a little further north of the Czech Republic’s Switzerland is the historic city of Dresden, Germany. Many well-known buildings and landmarks were damaged or destroyed during World War II but had been subsequently reconstructed.

The city has been there for more than 800 years, and despite its age, it has retained a lot of its grandeur and allure. Have a wonderful time in this beautiful German city by visiting its castles and museums.

Take the train for a relaxing 40 minutes, and you’ll arrive at Karltejn, a Medieval castle from the 14th century that has been remarkably well-preserved. Ascend the hill, and you’ll see souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and even the rare antique shop before you reach the castle gates. The only way to see the castle inside is to pay for a guided tour, but if you visit in the summer or fall, pack a pair of hiking boots and explore the various trails in the area.

For stays of up to 90 days, the U.S. Department of State asserts that U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter the Czech Republic, making it possible to fly to Prague from the US and stand in awe at the city’s famous landmarks like the renowned Dancing House , Powder Tower , St. Nicholas Church , the popular Charles Bridge , and the medieval Astronomical Clock .

Time is of the essence if you’re looking to score a bargain in this heritage of thrift, so if you’ve been keeping an eye out, this is the best time to act. Check out the Prague visitor guide for the best things to do in Prague .

• Sightseeing

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How to get to Prague

Due to its location in the heart of Central Europe , Prague is a very easy to access. The most popular ways of getting to Prague are by plane or by train.

Although the Czech Republic has several international airports, the largest and best-connected airport is located approximately 9 miles (15 km) away from Prague’s city centre: Prague Ruzyne Airport (Václav Havel Airport Prague) .  This airport has three terminals, and in 2014 over 11 million passengers used one of them.

Even if you’re thinking of travelling to another city in the Czech Republic, the easiest option is to fly to Prague’s airport and from there take alternative transport to your destination.

Flying from Europe

There are numerous low-cost airlines that fly directly to Prague from most cities in Europe . Here are a few options:

• Flight search engine – Try our search engine to find the best deals.

Flying from the US

Very few airports and airlines offer direct flights from the USA to Prague. In New York City, there are direct flights from JFK with the following airlines:

Consequently, a stop-over either in JFK or any European city like London is most likely necessary.

Flying from Canada

Air Canada has recently added new non-stop flights to Prague leaving from Toronto.

Air Transat flies to Prague from Toronto, with a touchdown in Montreal.

If you have your flights booked, find out how to get to the city centre in our article on Prague Ruzyne Airport.

If you’re organizing a holiday in several cities of Central Europe and are planning on flying first to Vienna, Budapest or Bratislava , we suggest getting a train from any of these destinations to Prague.

Trains from Vienna take four hours and the fares are quite cheap. There are currently no high speed trains connecting the two cities. To book your tickets check out the OBB Austrian Railway website . We recommend getting your tickets in advance. 

• OBB Austrian Railway
• Trains from Budapest take between seven and eight hours and it can be tricky to get tickets online unless you understand Hungarian or Czech. Therefore, we recommend getting the ticket to Prague from Budapest Keleti railway station once you arrive in Budapest. If you get the ticket a few days in advance,  it will cost as little as 19 €.
• Trains from Bratislava take approximately four hours from Bratislava hl. station to Praha hl. Station. You can book your ticket on the Czech railway website. If the language is set in Czech, change the language to English in the upper right corner of the webpage:
• C D railway website
• You can also check out the TGV website to buy tickets to Prague from any destination in Europe :
• T GV website

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Prague has nightlife for every day of the week, but above all between Thursday and Saturday.

Prague Airport

Vaclav Havel Airport Prague, Ruzyne (PRG), is the most important international airport in the Czech Republic. In 2019, over 18 million passengers used one of its terminals.

How to Travel to Prague

Prague.eu The Official Tourist Website for Prague

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You can reach the Czech Republic by every means of transport except ocean liners. Both international buses and convenient trains provide regular connections on many European routes. The airport is ready to handle more than 15 million passengers a year.

Václav Havel Airport Prague (1 / 3)

Photo: www.prg.aero

Photo: www.regiojet.cz

Main Railway Station (3 / 3)

Photo: Prague City Tourism

By Airplane 

The international Václav Havel Prague Airport  is located on the northwestern outskirts of Prague in the Ruzyně district. Connections to the city center are provided by public transport buses, AE - Airport Express buses, or   Tick Tack-Airport Taxi. More information can be found  here . Information on departures and arrivals: tel. +420 220 111 888, prg.aero

Three European railway corridors intersect in Prague, connecting the metropolis with the whole of Europe. The city’s primary train station is the Prague Main Railway Station , which sends over 200,000 trains a year to all major Czech cities and abroad. The second international train station is Prague Hole š ovice. Czech Railways is the largest national carrier in the Czech Republic; other major operators include RegioJet and  Leo Express .

Train connection information (non-stop): tel. +420 221 111 122, idos.cz

Major Prague train stations

• Main Station - Prague 2, Wilsonova Street (metro line C, Hlavní nádraží station) 
• Masaryk Station - Prague 1, Hybernská Street (metro line B, Náměstí Republiky station)
• Smíchov Station - Prague 5, Nádražní Street (metro line B, station Smíchovské nádraží)
• Prague - Holešovice Station - Prague 7, Partyzánská Street (metro line C, Nádraží Holešovice station) 

The central bus station in Prague is Prague Florenc Bus Station , a full-service station in the city center at the Florenc metro station (lines B and C). More than 100 transport companies service the station, including international carriers. One of the major domestic and interstate carrier is RegioJet , which operates both buses and trains. Other large carriers include Eurolines and FlixBus . LEO Express provides bus connections to Prague from Germany and Austria.

Bus connection information: tel. +420 221 895 555 (daily 06:00 - 22:00), idos.cz

Major Prague Bus Stations

• Florenc - Prague 8, Křižíkova Street (metro lines B and C, Florenc station)
• Na Knížecí - Prague 5, Nádražní Street (metro line B, Anděl station)
• Holešovice - Prague 7, Partyzánská Street (metro line C, Nádraží Holešovice station)
• Černý Most - Prague 9, Chlumecká Street (metro line B, Černý Most station)
• Zličín - Prague 5 (metro line B, Zličín station)
• Roztyly - Prague 4 (metro line C, Roztyly station)
• Želivského - Prague 3 (metro line A, Želivského station)
• Dejvice - Prague 6 (metro line A, Dejvická station)

A dense network of roads leads to Prague, which are linked together by the Prague ring road (D0) in Prague. The ring road also handles transit traffic from the D1, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8, D10 and D11 motorways. Motorway tolls are collected in the form of a  motorway vignette (dálniční známka in Czech) which can be purchased  in an e-shop , at sales points , or at self-service kiosks . You can find a map of toll sections and other information about the motorway network in the Czech Republic here .

There is a system of electronic information boards on all access routes to Prague, which guide drivers to P + R (park and ride) parking lots and provide information regarding the current state of parking spaces.

Price of a motorway coupon for vehicles up to 3.5 t:   CZK 310 / 10 days CZK 440 / one month CZK 1,500 / one year

Emergency assistance - road and towing non-stop services

• Central Automotive Club - Yellow Angels, tel. 1230, www.uamk.cz

Road distances to Prague from other cities in Czech Republic

Public Transport Information: Travel around Prague

Public transport in prague is cheap, efficient and highly integrated., travel around prague by public transport, modes of public transport, more information.

How to Get the Most Out of Prague in Just 24 Hours

With its historical sights, the city’s romance remains undiminished—and it still offers great value for your money..

Friends Read Free

Few places in the world just absolutely wow you like Prague. From the very first moment you see that storybook skyline, you’ll be spellbound. Whether you’re exploring by water, on foot, or from high up above, at every turn, this City of a Hundred Spires will take your breath away. And for the record, it’s (way) more than a hundred: If we’re counting today, between steeples and turrets and towers, more than a thousand spires rise high above the Czech capital.

Getting There

Morning: top sights.

Like many great projects, the bridge—later named after King Charles IV—was a long work in progress. Two towers, one constructed in Gothic style and the other in Renaissance style, were added in the 15th and 16th centuries. A series of Baroque statues, including one of the country’s patron saint, appeared in the 17th century. Today, painters and performers line the bridge.

Lunch: Simple and Hearty

Afternoon: Heart of a Nation

Take a Break

Early Evening: Czech History and Communism

Sneak in a visit to the well-curated and quite impressive Museum of Communism. A simple entry hall, under a big red star and next to a statue of Karl Marx, declares: “Dream, Reality, Nightmare.” Exhibits are excellent, bringing together photos and videos, audio recordings, and art.

Dinner at Field

Later evening: catch a show.

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Or, if you’re into something a little faster, and harder, Rock Café hosts regular live shows. The venue was a key site of the anti-communist resistance, with local rock bands, including one called Plastic People of the Universe (or just “the Plastics”) providing subaltern voices.

And for a nightcap? Try one last quintessential Prague experience. For hundreds of years, this city was known as a place of alchemists and magicians. The Alchemist Bar plays on that theme, with flickering candles and intricately inscribed menus. Make this your final stop for a nice elixir, a signature, handmade cocktail—Heaven Mountain, maybe, or a Bohemian Twist—before bedtime.

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Getting around Prague

Planning to travel in Prague? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Prague experience. Travel from the airport to a hotel using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations. Depending on your city, you can even use the app to get around with public transport, bikes or scooters, and more.

Plus, check out Uber rates for riders and drivers and learn how to use Uber to get paid to drive or deliver in Prague.

Reserve car service in Prague with Uber

Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Prague. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to Václav Havel Airport Prague, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.

Ride Sharing in Prague

Getting around Prague without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit in the area, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride in real-time or request a ride in advance so your ride is ready when you are. Whether you’re traveling in a group or alone, you can use the app to find a ride option for your needs.

Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Prague.

Prague-area airport car service

When your travel in Prague takes you to an airport from a neighborhood, or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)

Choose the best ways to get around prague, taxi in prague.

Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when getting around Prague. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. Request a ride from an airport to a hotel, head to a restaurant, or visit another place. The choice is yours. Open the app and enter a destination to get started.

Public transport in Prague

Getting around with public transport is an affordable way to travel. Depending on the area, you can view nearby bus or subway routes with Uber Transit to help plan your travels. Open the app to see if Uber Transit is available in your neighborhood or visit popular places in Prague by ridesharing with Uber.

Bike rentals in Prague

Biking is an eco-friendly way to get around the heart of a city. In select cities, you can find and ride electric bikes with Uber. Open the app to see if bikes are available in Prague. If bikes are available in Prague, remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws while riding.

Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.

Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.

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Best Places to Visit in Europe | Money

If you’re overwhelmed while planning for a European vacation, you’re not alone. There are so many popular destinations worth visiting that it can be difficult to pare down a list to chose from. How do you sort out which cities are too expensive, too crowded, or have the type of attractions you’re looking for?

Read on for an in-depth look at five European cities you might want to include in your travel itinerar y and check out our quick travel guide to help you plan the perfect European vacation.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Visit in Europe

• Dublin, Ireland – Best tourist attractions
• Barcelona, Spain – Best theme parks
• Gdansk, Poland – Best historical destination
• Prague, Czech Republic – Best architecture
• Chania, Greece – Best beaches

Best Places to Visit in Europe Reviews

Best tourist attractions in europe: dublin, ireland.

• Free parks and hiking areas
• Accessible from other Western European destinations
• Inclement weather during off-season

Why we chose it : Dublin, Ireland is full of entertaining tourist attractions including castles, museums, free parks, historical sites and plenty of nightlife.

Dublin offers attractions to visitors of all stripes. Its well-maintained historical sites dating back to medieval times attract history buffs; its nightlife, whiskey and plentiful pubs make it a reveler’s delight, while its free parks and natural scenery make it an agreeable place for the whole family.

A few of Dublin’s most popular tourist attractions are:

• Trinity College Dublin : One of the oldest universities in Europe, with beautiful stone architecture and classical buildings. Several guided tours are available for a fee.
• National Botanic Gardens : World-renowned botanical gardens in the heart of Dublin. Entrance is free.
• Temple Bar : A popular nightlife district, centered around the famous Temple Bar Pub.
• Dublin Castle : A medieval castle that currently serves as a government complex. Tour costs vary by season.
• Phoenix Park : One of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe, free to visit.

On top of the attractions within Dublin’s city limits, you can also visit the castles, national parks, charming towns and beaches dotted throughout Ireland by renting a car or taking public transportation. Another advantage is that the city is highly accessible from other destinations — you’ll find affordable flights to Dublin from most major European cities.

Dublin can get crowded during the summer months and around the winter holidays. Prices for museums and tours also tend to increase during those months, so you’ll save money by traveling to Dublin in the off-season. Unfortunately, those winter months are when the weather can get unpleasant, blustery and rainy.

Despite the rain and cold, Dublin is an entertaining and accessible city to add to your itinerary as you explore Europe.

Best Theme Parks in Europe: Barcelona, Spain

• Sunny weather
• Good public transportation system
• Pricier than other destinations

Why we chose it : Barcelona has multiple amusement parks including the famous Tibidabo Amusement Park, one of the oldest theme parks in the world.

Barcelona, Spain is a bustling cultural center in Europe with plenty of attractions, including ancient architecture and world-class food. But the city’s whimsical side is also displayed in its variety of theme parks, water parks and rides.

Tibidabo Amusement Park is the oldest amusement park in Spain (and one of the oldest in the world). It’s situated on Tibidabo — the tallest hill in the area — with views of the surrounding city and ocean below. While there, you can ride the Ferris wheel and roller coaster or enjoy seasonal entertainment around Halloween and Christmas. Tickets cost €35 with the train ride up Tibidabo or €14 separately.

PortAventura Park, located about an hour outside of Barcelona, is another popular amusement park with rides, shows, restaurants and bars. It offers three hotel complexes, with one located inside the park — a fun option if you’re traveling with kids. Ticket costs vary by season but you can save money by buying them online before your trip.

Aside from theme parks, you’ll also find plenty of public parks, green spaces and sunny beaches in Barcelona. You should also be aware that, as part of the autonomous community of Catalunya, Barcelona stands out from the rest of Spain — residents speak Catalan as well as Spanish, the cuisine is unique to the region and prices are higher than in other smaller Spanish cities.

Best Historical Place in Europe: Gdansk, Poland

• Affordable destination
• Lively street markets
• Relatively cold, even in the summer

Why we chose it : In Gdansk, you can visit historical sites relevant to maritime history, World War II, the Solidarity movement and even medieval times.

Gdansk, Poland is a port city and historical merchant town on the northern coast of Poland. Although much of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, it has been rebuilt to match its original charm. The city’s Old Town maintains its Renaissance-style architecture, colorful buildings and street markets.

Along with Old Town, you can also visit Gdank’s many museums to learn about local history, including:

• Museum of the Second World War : Here, you’ll learn about the events of World War II from the perspective of Polish citizens.
• Museum of Gdansk : A Gothic/Renaissance-style building with modern and local art.
• Museum of Amber : Learn about the amber trade and its role in making Gdansk a thriving merchant town.
• Europejskie Centrum Solidarności : Roughly translated as the “European Center of Solidarity”, the museum is devoted to the history of Solidarity movement during Soviet rule in Poland.

Ticket costs to Gdansk’s museums vary by season but are generally less than $10 per person. Poland is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe and has its own currency — you’ll pay less for attractions, food and lodging in Gdansk than in bigger cities like London, Berlin or Barcelona. However, that means you’ll have to exchange currency when you get there.

The weather also rarely gets warm, with average highs of only 63 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. You also might encounter a language barrier in Gdansk as English isn’t as prevalent as in other major cities.

Best Architecture in Europe: Prague, Czech Republic

• Renowned Christmas markets
• Historical old town
• Cold and dark in the winter months

Why we chose it : Prague, Czech Republic is one of the few major Central European cities to make it through the 20th century with their historic architecture mostly intact, including its stunning Gothic and Romanesque buildings.

If you’re a fan of Gothic architecture, you’ll love walking the streets of Prague. The city’s Old Town is well-preserved from medieval times, with cobbled streets, winding alleyways and tall spires. Prague has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, so you can quickly get around the city without a rental car or taxi.

Some of Prague’s most notable architectural sites include:

• Charles Bridge : A medieval stone bridge spanning the Vltava River flanked by religious statues.
• Old Town Hall : Prague’s ancient city center with one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world.
• Church of Our Lady Before Týn : An 11th-century Gothic-style church, open to public visitors.
• Schwarzenberg Palace : A Renaissance-era palace and current museum with Czech Baroque paintings.

There is no charge to walk around some of Prague’s most famous historical sites and take in the architecture, but you can pay for a guided walking tour to learn more about the history behind each building.

As beautiful as it is, Prague is also a very old city — you can see the impact of decades of pollution on the buildings, and the ancient, narrow alleyways can collect some litter. Prague can also be very cold in the winter months, making walking around and viewing the architecture less enjoyable.

Prague is more affordable than some Western European cities, so it’s a good destination if you want to visit Europe on a budget, even during the pricier summer months.

Best Beach in Europe: Chania, Greece

• Off the beaten path (compared to other destinations in Greece)
• Sunny weather even in the off-season
• Small streets can get crowded

Why we chose it : If you want to visit Greece’s crystal clear beaches without the crowds and high costs of other beach resort towns, try Chania, a harbor city on the island of Crete that offers beach weather even in late fall.

Chania, Greece — the second-largest city on the island of Crete — offers warm, sunny climate and hidden bays, making it a great destination if you’re looking for the best beaches in Europe. Unlike Mykonos and other popular Greek beach communities, Chania is off the beaten path for most tourists. Pleasant weather extends until late November, so you can beat the crowds and still enjoy plenty of warmth and sunshine.

While Chania itself is a port town with cobbled streets and wooden docks, there are plenty of sandy beaches within a short drive or boat ride from the city. The most popular beaches include:

• Elafonisi Beach : A white-sand islet, easiest to reach by boat.
• Balos Beach : A secluded beach accessible by road or boat.
• Falassarna Beach : A family-friendly resort area with a long, sandy beach surrounded by olive groves.

Chania offers affordable accommodations, diverse food options — including Jewish, Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisines — and fresh seafood. There is some nightlife, but the town is quieter than other destinations in Greece. You should also be aware that Chania doesn’t have the whitewashed, domed buildings or high cliffs other Greek towns are known for.

Other Places to Visit in Europe We Considered

Utrecht, netherlands.

• Less crowded alternative to Amsterdam
• Close to the Amsterdam airport
• Can be expensive

Utrecht, Netherlands has the cafés and canals of Amsterdam, minus the crowds and higher prices. It’s a quick train ride from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and can be a stop on your Netherlands trip or a destination of its own. Although it isn’t quite as pricey as Amsterdam, the cost of food and lodging in Utrecht is still relatively high compared to other European cities.

Lisbon, Portugal

• Colorful architecture
• Great food options
• Crowded year-round

Lisbon, Portugal is one of Western Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. It is generally considered to have a laid-back vibe with charming cobbled streets, colorful buildings and spectacular coastal views. However, because it’s so popular, this city is crowded with tourists year-round.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Abundance of natural wonders
• Vibrant nightlife
• Far from the rest of Europe

Reykjavik, Iceland is home to natural wonders like waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes and even the Aurora Borealis. This is a great destination for nature-lovers but, if you’re planning on visiting multiple European cities on your trip, it might be challenging to work Iceland into your itinerary due to its distance from other European countries. Reykjavik might be best for a single-destination trip.

Places to Visit in Europe Guide

If you’re looking for the best international places to travel , you’ll find no shortage of bucket list destinations in Europe. Although it’s difficult to definitively rank the best cities to visit in Europe — or even the best countries to visit in Europe — we’ve compiled this quick European travel guide to help you plan your trip. Remember that the ideal destinations will depend on your priorities and when you’re traveling.

The basics of Europe

Before you start comparing the best airlines or best hotels for your trip, you’ll want to establish your priorities. It’s impossible to see every tourist destination in one trip but focusing on what you want to do and what your ultimate goals are for your trip.

Here are some things to consider to help you decide which European destination works best for your trip.

Europe has distinct regions based on culture, geography and language. The main generalized geographical areas of Europe are:

• Western Europe – This is where you’ll find some of the most popular European destinations including France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. These countries are often expensive to visit and can get cold in winter, but they also contain several global cities and important historical sites.
• Southern Europe – Spain, Italy and Portugal are all Southern European countries with typically sunny climates, Mediterranean cuisine and historic architecture.
• Central Europe – When visiting Germany, Poland or the Czech Republic you’ll find colder climates, as well as cultural and historic attractions.
• Eastern Europe – Estonia, Georgia and Croatia are examples of Eastern European destinations you might not have considered traveling to but that offer unique cultural experiences at an affordable cost.

Depending on the time of year you’re traveling, weather can make or break your trip. Western and Central European countries experience dark, freezing winters, making sightseeing challenging.

Despite being a relatively small geographical area, Europe contains hundreds of diverse cultures. You should expect different cultural norms regarding dining, public transportation and conversations everywhere you go. As a traveler, it’s always important to understand and respect the culture of the country you’re visiting.

Best time to visit Europe

Here are a few examples of seasons when you can make the most of your European vacation.

The best time to enjoy the weather in Europe

Weather in Europe varies drastically depending on the region you’re visiting. If you want the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, you’ll enjoy the best weather between early spring and summer while late summer and fall bring higher temperatures and humidity.

The best time to backpack in Europe

If you plan to backpack and camp in Europe, you’ll want to travel in early or late summer. Pay attention to the rainy seasons! The United Kingdom, for example, is rainiest in spring.

The best time to cruise in Europe

Flying between European countries is fast and generally affordable, especially if you take advantage of some of the best airline rewards programs . But if you’re not in a hurry, a cruise can be a pleasant way to get to your next destination and do some sightseeing along the way.

Some of the best river cruises in Europe can take you through France, Italy or into Central Europe, with the best weather occurring during spring and summer. On the other hand, you might find discounted tickets for a cruise during colder seasons. If you don’t mind a little inclement weather, a cruise in the off-season can be an excellent way to save.

The best time to ski in Europe

For ski resorts, you’ll want to travel during winter or spring. Remember that mid-winter in Northern Europe means short days and long nights — you’ll enjoy more daylight if you travel in late winter or spring, toward the end of the ski season.

Best ways to travel Europe

One of the main differences between Europe and the U.S. is accessible public transportation in and between major cities. Train travel, boats and buses make it easy to get around without renting a car.

Budget airlines can be a good option if you’re visiting multiple countries. You might also get a good deal with the best airline credit cards .

Travel Europe by train

Train travel in Europe can be slow and luxurious or fast and efficient. For example, the Paris to Barcelona train is a direct route that takes less than a day and costs around €30. Many train routes in Europe are very scenic — plus, it’s a more environmentally friendly form of travel than airplanes.

Travel Europe by ferry

Ferries are an affordable option if you’re traveling around the Mediterranean or Baltic seas. You can find overnight ferries (for example, Helsinki to Stockholm) or quick trips, such as between Greek islands. If you plan on taking an overnight or multi-day ferry, book your ticket in advance and use the best travel credit cards to save money.

Travel Europe in group tours

All-inclusive European vacations can make it easier to plan your trip. Instead of booking multiple trips separately, you can book a group tour to see multiple countries with an organized schedule. Travel packages to Europe might be a little more expensive than an unstructured trip, but they remove the stress of planning and can be a comfortable option for an inexperienced traveler.

Things to consider when you travel to Europe

Here are a few more things to remember as you plan your European vacation.

Currency exchange

Many European countries use the euro, but not all of them do. Be sure to research the local currency in each destination country and be prepared to exchange cash. Remember that exchange rates are generally highest at airports and busy tourist areas.

Power adapters

Most of Europe uses a Type C outlet, and the United Kingdom uses Type G. A universal power adapter is a necessary purchase before any international trip.

Busy seasons

Most European destinations are busiest in summer when the weather is warm and kids are off from school. Travel during the busy season is fine, but you should know that attractions will be more crowded and potentially more expensive. If you can travel in the off-season, you might find better deals.

Conservation efforts

When traveling to a country known for its national parks, like Iceland, you’ll want to pay attention to local conservation efforts. National parks are periodically closed to protect sensitive wildlife.

This doesn’t just apply to natural scenery — museums and historical sites can also be closed for maintenance from time to time. Big Ben in London, for example, was closed to visitors between 2017 and 2023 to prevent it from wearing down.

Places to Visit in Europe FAQs

How do i plan a trip to europe, how much does a trip to europe cost, how many countries are in europe, how do i travel to europe on a budget, is it safe to travel to europe now, how we chose the best places to visit in europe.

To chose the European destinations covered in this article, we compared locations based on a few important factors, including:

• Safety : All destinations in this review have low crime rates and are safe to travel to.
• Reputation : We looked into the reputation of each of these cities based on reviews (and the author’s personal experience).
• Accessibility : You can reach these cities directly from the U.S. or major European cities.
• Things to do : We looked for cities that offer a wide variety of things to do, whether you’re traveling solo, as a group or with family.

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Visit in Europe

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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These are seven of the world’s greatest railway stations

In his new book, christopher beanland writes about some of the world’s coolest railway terminals — here are some of his favourites from the czech republic to china.

T rains are like the England football team. Everyone’s got an opinion on them. And like the England football team, they’ve been through some highs and more lows. For harried commuters and grumpy drivers, trains are late, stressful and expensive. For trainspotters and environmentalists, trains are joyous and green, at least when they’re not burning coal on the Severn Valley Railway. Trains are a glorious innovation that look cool and shrink distances — especially if you make use of the new sleeper trains popping up again across Europe.

The way we run railways and build stations around the world is fascinating. Interrailing odysseys shape youth, whether you take a classic trip through Switzerland or a less obvious jaunt from Mostar to Sarajevo across Bosnia’s mountains and valleys; traverse New Zealand’s North Island from Wellington to Auckland or zoom down Taiwan’s west coast on kitsch bullet trains that once seemed futuristic. But don’t forget to look at the stations too because station architecture expresses how a society sees its trains. Asia’s over-the-top stations depict a rail boom; Argentina’s a decline. Nowhere is this contrast more intriguing than in the US, which has some of the world’s greatest stations and some of its worst. In the rail heyday of the early 20th century, incredibly grandiose stations were built in Detroit, Cincinnati, Los Angeles and Washington DC. Then along came the automobile age and woeful termini such as the underground tracks at New York’s Penn station, whose grand station hall had been demolished. Now Penn station has risen again, with the new Moynihan Train Hall. After a long decline, trains and stations are (mostly) great again — and we can all enjoy this new era.

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1. Helsinki Central station, Finland

Helsinki Central station, built in 1919, is older than a lot of my modern favourites. But it sneaks in because its form is future-facing. The wild detailing — statues by Emil Wikstrom on the front, and the architecture by Eliel Saarinen (father of Eero — who designed such transport marvels as the TWA Flight Center in New York and Dulles International Airport in Washington DC) combine to make something very special — one of Europe’s greatest 20th-century stations. It has a style that sits between art nouveau and deco, yet it is fresh and daring. The use of green copper to top off the sandy stone is lively and it’s the perfect entrance to or exit from the Finnish capital. Where to stay The art nouveau Scandic Grand Central hotel is right next to the station. B&B doubles from £118 (scandichotels.com)

2. Hlavni Nadrazi, Prague, Czech Republic

In many ways an archetypal eastern bloc metro system as Soviet as queues, boredom and bad hair days, Prague’s three lines are depicted in yellow, green and red. Nevertheless, Prague’s 1974 system and stations have a special quality. The walls of the metro stations in the initial section have a repetitive circular detailing that makes you feel like a chocolate inside a wrapper, or a Lego brick on a bad trip. The metro’s focus is the Hlavni Nadrazi. It’s not a lesson in urban planning we’d go for today — they put a motorway on its roof — but perhaps it does have a redeeming feature, providing a dry, warm, waiting space. And at least they didn’t demolish the old station. Where to stay The Grandium Hotel has a huge breakfast buffet and is a five-minute walk from Prague’s central station. B&B doubles from £100 (hotel-grandium.cz)

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3. st pancras, london, uk.

The renovated St Pancras heralded a new railway age in Britain. Many of the other new stations we’ve built since the millennium have been cheap and not always cheerful — Leeds is a bit of a car crash and Coventry has erased the good work of the 1960s. St Pancras was a corker, complete with a champagne bar, and art by Tracey Emin that mixes cool with classy. The restoration would have made John Betjeman proud — he saved it from demolition and his lovely statue is given pride of place. The Spice Girls sang on the stairs of the hotel there and from the front you get a great view of the reimagined Camden Town Hall Annex, now a Standard Hotel. The upper level is quiet, the lower one rings out with pianos playing and is a proper gateway to Belgium and France, as Blackfriars and Victoria were in the boat-train days. Where to stay It has to be the grand St Pancras Renaissance Hotel just yards from the concourse. Room-only doubles from £279 (marriott.com)

• 24 of the best rail journeys in Europe

4. Ivanovo station, Russia

The first time I saw a picture of this station, in the Russian city of Ivanovo some 150 miles northeast of Moscow, it leapt out at me and screamed. This is the one we all have to visit — one day. Some say it’s Russia’s only remaining large constructivist station. The curves and streamed lines and glass look even more amazing because it was restored to its former 1930s glory during the Covid pandemic. It is the epitome of modern style, speed and pizzazz. Inside, the wooden benches have been rehabilitated (they now come with plug sockets). The hammer-and-sickle murals and mosaics and the blue-and-white painted waiting hall have all been brought back to life. It’s a testament to Russia’s love of railways — the country depends on its trains.

5. Union station, Los Angeles, USA

It’s Hollywood, baby — why wouldn’t you get a glamorous station? Los Angeles’s main rail terminal is a bubbly exercise in glitz. The unique orange arch you walk through on your way to the Amtrak trains makes it seem like you’re walking on stage at the Oscars. The rows of leather seats are sumptuous. From outside, the long-forgotten Pueblo white façade with palm trees swaying in front is pure So-Cal cool. LA’s rail renaissance has its heart here on the fringes of Downtown. The idea of taking a train to New York seems appealing again (though that is easier said than done) and train trips around California are possible. Where to stay You’re better off staying in Downtown than right by the station; the cool Freehand is a ten-minute drive from the station. Room-only doubles from £140 (freehandhotels.com)

6. Shibuya station, Tokyo, Japan

Shibuya is a key experience in understanding modern Tokyo and how it came to be so reliant on the rails. Shibuya station is that chaotic first crush: you don’t know why you like them and you can’t understand them, but you always end up going back. The first time I was here I puzzled at how the motorway, the pedestrian layers, the tracks, the platforms, the bridges, the concourses, all seemed to fit together like a puzzle. The statue of the dog Hachiko, who kept waiting here for nine years after his owner’s death, is a tourist attraction, as is the head-spinning Shibuya Crossing outside. Where to stay A five-minute walk from Shibuya, the Cerulean Tower Tokyu has great city views. B&B doubles from £332 (tokyuhotelsjapan.com)

7. Line 9, Chengdu, China

Silkworm cocoons and lotus flowers are some of the inspirations for the flashy designs of the new Line 9 stations on the Chengdu metro. A bright white palette is accentuated by colour coding of individual stations in this design by China’s J&A and the UK’s Sepanta Design. The 13-mile metro line stretches through the city of Chengdu, its stations echoing the Chinese style of white modernism you can see at Shenzhen airport and the natural-world-influenced wavy lines epitomised by MAD’s Harbin Opera House. Where to stay The Renaissance Chengdu Hotel is a short stroll from the metro line. Room-only doubles from £67 (marriott.com)

With additional reporting by Claudia Rowan

Station by Christopher Beanland is published on April 11 (Batsford £25). To order a copy go to timesbookshop.co.uk or call 020 3176 2935. Free UK standard P&P on orders over £25. Special discount available for Times+ members.

What is your favourite station around the world? Let us know in the comments below

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When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
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• Burlington, Vermont
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• Caribou, Maine
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This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

Prague Subway Map 4+

Prague metro map, yaroslav mykolaienko, designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

Effortlessly navigate Prague's metro: Get quick route planning, station details, and fare information all in one convenient app Effortlessly navigate Prague's metro: Get quick route planning, station details, and fare information all in one convenient app Introducing the innovative "Explore Prague Metro" app, your indispensable companion for navigating Prague's public transportation system. This app is thoughtfully crafted to meet the needs of both locals and tourists, offering a comprehensive suite of features for convenient and enjoyable travel in the historic city of Prague. We recognize that both residents and visitors have distinct requirements when it comes to public transit, and our app addresses these differences. For locals, it provides a dependable source of real-time information, enhancing daily commutes and saving valuable time. For tourists, it boasts a tourist-friendly interface, spotlighting nearby attractions and ensuring that your experience in Prague is memorable. "Explore Prague Metro" is more than just an app; it's your dedicated guide to the city's metro network, ensuring that your travels are smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring Prague's rich cultural heritage, or meeting friends, our app will be your reliable guide. Key Features: Detailed Station Information: Access comprehensive details about metro stations, including amenities like elevators, nearby points of interest, and more. This feature benefits both Prague's residents and its visitors. Schedules and Fares: View the complete metro schedule and current fare information. Find out the cost of your journey and the precise train departure times. City Map Integration: Effortlessly toggle between the metro map and the city map. See how the metro lines intersect with Prague's streets and neighborhoods, making it easier to plan your journey and explore the city. Tourist-Friendly Interface: Tourists will appreciate the app's special features, including quick access to popular attractions and interesting sites near metro stations. Why Choose "Explore Prague Metro"? User-Friendly: Enjoy an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, accessible to all users. Reliable and Accurate: We provide current and trustworthy data, keeping you well-informed. Universal Appeal: Whether you're a Prague local or a visitor, our app delivers the information you need for hassle-free travel. Offline Functionality: Once data is downloaded, the app works offline, ensuring availability at any time and place. Save Time and Money: Navigate more efficiently and manage your travel budget effectively.

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The developer, Yaroslav Mykolaienko , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

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China finds ‘useful idiot’ with ma visit, ex-general says.

• By Yang Yao-ju and Kayleigh Madjar / Staff reporter, with staff writer

Beijing finds “useful idiots” in every country as a means of confronting the West, an analyst said yesterday when commenting on a rumored meeting between former president Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) and Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平) tomorrow.

The meeting in Beijing would coincide with US President Joe Biden’s summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Washington.

Ma is being used as a pawn to arouse anti-Japan sentiment and advocate for unification with Taiwan, and could be discarded by the Chinese Communist Party at any time, said retired major general Yu Tsung-chi (余宗基), who served as the dean of the National Defense University’s Fu Hsing Kang College.

Former president Ma Ying-jeou, front, center, walks with 93-year-old Zheng Fulai, front, left, as Zheng shares his account of the 1937 Marco Polo Bridge Incident during Ma’s visit to the bridge in Beijing yesterday.

Photo courtesy of the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation

Beijing is attempting to arouse memories of the Chinese Nationalist Party’s (KMT) eight-year war of resistance against Japan in the first half of the 20th century, to elicit a sense of solidarity with the modern KMT and erode Taiwan’s relationship with Japan and the US, Yu told a radio talk show.

If Ma and Xi meet tomorrow, it would directly precede the Biden-Kishida summit, he said, adding that China always finds “useful idiots” in other countries to further its goals.

Not only Taiwanese, but also Chinese do not want to talk about Ma, fearing an association with “Chinese independence,” with “even Chinese companies shunning him,” Yu said.

Xi is using Ma as a pawn to present Japan as the common enemy of both sides of the Taiwan Strait, he said.

Xi knows it would be difficult to act against Taiwan militarily with Taipei’s defenses and the backing of its partners, which makes unification Beijing’s preferred option, he said.

The timing of the proposed meeting also coincides with the 45th anniversary of the US’ Taiwan Relations Act, Yu said.

The US is seeking to pull Japan into its plans to ensure stability in the Strait, with rumors that Washington is to appoint a four-star general in Japan to lead joint operations between the countries, he said.

This is a clear message to China that if it uses force against Taiwan, it would have to deal with the US and Japan, as well as US forces in the Philippines and South Korea, he added.

Meanwhile, the KMT is attempting to show it has open channels of communication with Beijing and Washington by sending KMT Vice Chairman Andrew Hsia (夏立言) to the US at the same time as Ma is in China, he said.

The Democratic Progressive Party has not done this, but “everyone knows” it is because China has chosen to give the KMT this platform, he added.

A second Ma-Xi meeting following their first in 2015 would be a major blow to Ma and the KMT, Yu said.

The party rarely criticizes Ma’s hypocrisy, “making it clear who is the one really defending the nation’s sovereignty,” he said.

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