Prague is one of Europe's best-preserved old cities, and it looks it. Medieval lanes, baroque churches and a castle on a hill make a walk through the centre feel like a film set. It was largely spared in the twentieth century, which is why so much has survived.
That also means it is crowded. The main sights are busiest in the middle of the day, so early mornings and evenings are the best times to see them. The city is compact, walkable and easy to enjoy.
How many days: 2 to 4
Two days covers the Old Town, the bridge and the castle. Three or four lets you see the Jewish Quarter, take a river cruise and spend an evening at a beer hall.
If you want a day trip, the town of Kutná Hora and the castle at Karlštejn are both reachable by train from the city.
What to do in Prague
- See Old Town Square
- The square is the heart of the old city, with the astronomical clock on the town hall. The clock puts on a short show on the hour, and a crowd gathers.
- Cross Charles Bridge early
- The stone bridge is lined with statues and is packed by mid-morning. Go at sunrise or late in the evening for a calmer walk.
- Visit Prague Castle
- A large complex of palaces, courtyards and a cathedral above the river. Plan half a day and check the official site for what the tickets cover.
- Walk through Malá Strana
- The Lesser Town below the castle is a quieter district of baroque streets, gardens and small squares.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter
- A small district with a well-known cluster of synagogues and a historic cemetery. Check the official site for visiting arrangements.
- Climb Petřín Hill
- A green hill with a small lookout tower and good views over the city. Walk up through the park, or take the funicular.
- Take a boat on the Vltava
- A short river trip gives you a different view of the bridges and the castle. You can also rent a small rowing boat on the river on warm days.
- Catch some live music
- Prague has a long musical tradition, with classical concerts in historic halls and a lively jazz scene. Check programmes in advance and choose venues with care.
What to eat and drink
- Goulash and dumplings
- A rich beef stew served with sliced bread dumplings. A heavy, filling Czech staple.
- Svíčková
- Slow-cooked beef in a creamy vegetable sauce, with cranberries and dumplings. One of the best-known Czech dishes.
- Czech beer
- Pilsner-style lager is the national drink and is usually served fresh and cold. Locals drink it with almost every meal.
- Smažený sýr
- Fried cheese in breadcrumbs, served with tartar sauce. A common pub dish.
- Trdelník
- A rolled pastry sold from stalls in the centre. It is sold mainly to visitors and is not a traditional Czech dish, though many people enjoy it.
- Traditional pubs
- A pub meal is usually the best way to eat local food. Look for places with a menu in Czech and a crowd of locals.
Getting around
The historic centre is compact and best seen on foot, but the cobbles are hard on feet. Trams run along the river and up to the castle.
The metro is simple and quick for longer trips. Check the transport operator's website for current tickets and passes.
From the airport, a bus connects to the metro, and there are also taxis. Use a licensed taxi or a ride-hailing app, and confirm the fare before you start.
Good to know
- The Czech Republic uses the koruna, not the euro. Cards are widely accepted, but small places may want cash.
- Exchange booths in the centre often have poor rates. Withdrawing from a bank ATM is usually better; decline any offer to be charged in your home currency.
- Pickpockets work the main square, the bridge and the trams. Keep valuables close.
- The old town is busiest in summer and at Christmas. Early mornings are much calmer.
- The city has a lot of tourist-focused restaurants around the main square. Walking a few streets away usually gives you better food and lower prices.