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Prague is one of Europe’s most visited cities, and it’s easy to see why. This Central European capital city is noted for its architecturally magnificent old core, excellent (and economical) beer, and Vltava River position.
In addition, Prague is a tiny city that can be explored in a few days, making it a popular tourist destination.
I went to Prague in 2013 while touring Europe (I was poor and unprepared). During that trip, Prague was beautiful but not my favorite. However, a second, lengthier vacation to Prague in 2023 worked better; I planned ahead and explored Prague’s history, gastronomy, and architecture. I now recommend Prague as a European must-see!
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If you’re considering visiting Prague, this 3-day itinerary will make you fall in love rather than merely like it.
When to visit Prague
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Prague is fantastic year-round, but there are better seasons to visit. Summer is Prague’s peak season, but it’s also the warmest and most expensive. Winter in Prague is low season, but if you wrap up, you may enjoy snow and a Christmas market in December.
Prague is best visited in spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) for its finest weather and less tourists.
I didn’t like Prague in August (high, hot season), but I liked it in May.
You need how many days in Prague?
Prague is a popular European city break destination since it’s doable for a long weekend. I’ll provide you a 3-day Prague schedule so you can explore the attractions without hurrying!
Can you visit Prague in two days or a week? Yes, absolutely! However, I recommend 3 days in Prague, particularly if you’re combining it with other Czech or European travel.
3-day Prague itinerary
This schedule is based on my previous Prague visits and is designed for first-timers!
A visit to Prague is best structured by spending one day in each of the three major areas: Old Town (Stare Město), Lesser Town (Malá Strana, home to Prague Castle), and New Town. This way, you’ll taste everything!
–Day 1: Prague Old Town
Today, we’ll explore Prague’s Old Town, known for its fairy-tale charm, with Gothic church spires, terracotta roofs, and vibrant buildings. The most touristic and congested portion of Prague is here, so start early today!
Morning: Charles Bridge/Old Town Bridge Tower
Start your day with the Charles Bridge, which connects the Old Town to Malá Strana over the Vltava River. King Charles IV began building the Charles Bridge in 1357. It replaced the 1100s Judith Bridge, which was devastated by a 1342 flood.
Prague’s Charles Bridge is a popular tourist attraction. The statue-lined bridge attracts merchants and street musicians. You may avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning. (Though the bridge is 1,693 feet long and 33 feet wide, so you can find room even when congested.)
At the Old Town end of the Charles Bridge, ascend the 138 steps to the Old Town Bridge Tower for even better views of Prague Castle.
To ascend to the top, you must pay 190 CZK, or $8 USD, at the tower before climbing. The 360-degree views are worth it! There are great views of the Charles Bridge, Vltava River, Old Town, Lesser Town, and Prague Castle from above.
The Old Town Bridge Tower opens at 9 or 10 a.m., depending on the season. Climb it in the first hour to save 50% on admission!
Bridge Tower views of Old Town
You may also visit St. Francis of Assisi Church beside the tower.
Late morning/early afternoon: Old Town tour
Enter Old Town after the Charles Bridge and tower climb. The simplest route is the cobblestone, meandering, pedestrian-only Karlova Street, although it might be congested! This street has confectionery shops (they love pirate- and mining-themed ones), chimney cake sellers, jewelry stores, gelato cafés, and more.
Follow this through various twists and turns to reach Old Town Square. Boasting Gothic spires and structures, this is Prague’s most renowned plaza.
Old Town Square, Prague
The medieval Astronomical Clock, which chimes and moves figures every hour, located here. I don’t see the excitement surrounding this one (except how wonderful it is that it still works). Don’t worry if you miss it on the hour. If you do, expect to stand in a massive throng.
Prague crowds gathered underneath the Astronomical Clock.
Average attendance for Astronomical Clock “show”
Astronomical Clock in Prague
Close-up of the clock
I suggest touring Old Town from here. It’s tiny and walkable, with much to see.
Possible actions include:
The Basilica of St. James features a gorgeous interior with a macabre decoration: a mummified arm and hand on a chain, supposedly from a robber.
Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish ghetto, is worth exploring. Visit the Spanish Synagogue, the Old-New Synagogue (Europe’s oldest), and the amazing Old Jewish Cemetery. Entry to all key sites requires a ticket. Buy at Klaus, Pinkas, or Spanish Synagogue.
The Beer Museum offers a self-guided tour of Czech beer history and a beer tasting.
See the Old Town and Jewish Quarter Guided Walking Tour for a guided tour.
Rainy Prague Old Town
There are several lunch alternatives in Old Town. FAT CAT Beerhouse & Restaurant serves huge gourmet hot dogs and burgers quickly and well. Lokál (Lokál Dlouhááá is the Old Town location) provides great traditional Czech cuisine and drink, so you can never go wrong.
Personally, I can’t imagine a day in Prague without a chimney cake (Trdelník). Trdelník, meaning “hollowed out log,” are spit-cooked pastries with additions of whipped cream, fruit, or ice cream. These Hungarian desserts are popular in Prague.
