How to spend 3 days in Prague if you’re visiting this gorgeous city for the first time? Oh, there are so many options.
How to spend 3 days in Prague if you’re visiting this gorgeous city for the first time?
Oh, there are so many options, it will be hard to narrow it down to just a few days in Prague.
I’ve been to Prague for more than one month in total over the past year, and I have just realised that I haven’t published anything about it on my blog. Why is this? Each time I go, I visit something new, check out new restaurants and then feel like there’s so much more to discover. The thing is, Prague will never let you get bored. So, for me, the more I visit, the more I feel that there’s so much more to explore. And then I never get to share some of my favourite spots in Prague because I feel like I haven’t seen it all.
So one of my first tips is to not try to do it all in just 2 or 3 days in Prague because it’s impossible.
Is Prague worth visiting?
Yes. Prague is probably one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Despite being quite busy, it is still worth a visit if you’re doing a Europe trip. There’s so much to see, you will not have time to get bored even if you’re staying for 3 days in Prague (or more).
Money in Prague, Czech Republic
Although the Czech Republic is right in the middle of the EU, they are not using the Euro. The national currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK).
Where to stay in Prague?
€€€ – Pytloun Boutique Hotel Prague
€€ – Hotel CUBE Prague
€ – Gregory House
Parking is an issue in Prague, so make sure to book a hotel with parking available for guests if you’re driving to Prague.
10 top things to do in Prague
Prague is a city filled with historical charm, artistic treasures, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a list of 10 top things you must do when visiting the Czech capital:
- Explore Charles Bridge. No visit to Prague would be complete without walking across this 14th-century stone bridge, teeming with artists, musicians, and souvenir vendors.
- Visit Prague Castle. As the largest ancient castle in the world, this fortress offers a glimpse into the Czech Republic’s rich history and provides panoramic views of the city.
- Stroll Through Old Town. Get lost in the cobblestone streets, where you can admire the historical architecture, discover quaint cafes, and find the famous Astronomical Clock.
- Experience the Nightlife. With a plethora of bars, clubs, and breweries, Prague is known for its lively after-dark scenes. Don’t forget to try a pint of Czech beer!
- Relax in Letná Park. For a break from the bustling city, head to this elevated park that offers stunning views of Prague and the Vltava River.
- Tour the Jewish Quarter. Known as Josefov, this area houses some of Europe’s most well-preserved Jewish historical landmarks, including synagogues and a cemetery.
- Take a Vltava River Cruise. A boat ride on the Vltava River offers a unique perspective of Prague’s landmarks, like the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.
- Visit Wenceslas Square. This vibrant square is the commercial and administrative centre of Prague, brimming with shops, restaurants, and historical monuments.
- Admire the John Lennon Wall. Once a normal wall, it’s now an ever-changing canvas of graffiti and art dedicated to the legendary musician and peace activist.
- Taste Czech Cuisine. Lastly, don’t leave Prague without sampling traditional dishes like goulash, fried cheese, and Trdelník, a delicious pastry.
How many days in Prague?
For first-time travellers, 3 days in Prague is often considered the sweet spot for experiencing the city’s highlights.
This 3-day Prague itinerary allows you to explore the 10 top things to do in Prague, from the iconic Charles Bridge to the historic Prague Castle.
If you’re pressed for time, a weekend in Prague or 2 days in Prague can still offer a fulfilling experience, covering key attractions like Old Town and the Astronomical Clock.
On the other hand, if you have more time, 4 days or 5 days in Prague will give you a chance to delve deeper into the local culture and explore lesser-known spots. So, depending on your interests and time, anywhere from 2 to 5 days can make for a worthwhile visit to this enchanting city.
3-day itinerary Prague
What to do in Prague in 3 days? Oh, there’s so much I wanna add to this itinerary, but I will try my best to add the absolute most important spots and some tips on what to see if you have more time.
In the end, let’s not forget that Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and is a city steeped in history, culture, and unparalleled beauty.
You’ll soon discover its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and gastronomic delights, so this is a European destination that can fit many types of travellers.
That’s why, with so much to see and do, planning a trip to Prague can be overwhelming. Luckily, this comprehensive itinerary is designed to help you experience the city’s must-see attractions and hidden gems, all within a manageable time frame of three days.
Day 1 in Prague: Exploring the Historic Core
9:00 AM – Charles Bridge
Cost: Free
Let’s start early morning with one of the must-see spots in Prague – The Prague Astronomical Clock!
This is not just a timekeeper but also a fascinating spectacle for which huge crowds gather every hour (from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm) every day.
Here you can enjoy the hourly show featuring figures of the Apostles for free. However, if you wish for a more intimate view of the Apostles, purchasing a ticket to the Old Town Hall and Tower will let you see them up close.
This iconic clock offers both a glimpse into history and a unique form of entertainment that captures the attention of visitors at all hours.
Going early in the day will make the experience a bit more pleasant, as the crowds tend to grow exponentially during the day.
9:30 AM – Old Town Bridge Tower (Staroměstská mostecká věž)
Cost: 190 CZK (But you get 50% off if you visit between 9 and 10 AM)
The Old Town Bridge Tower is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is considered one of the most gorgeous gateways globally.
Built in the mid-14th century by Emperor Charles IV and designed by Petr Parléř, it’s more than just a tower—it served as a ceremonial arch for Czech kings during their crowning parades.
If you’re up for a little exercise, climbing the 138 steps to the top will reward you with an incredible view of the city and the Prague castle.
10:15 AM – Charles Bridge
Cost: Free
Start your day early to avoid the crowds at Charles Bridge, a 14th-century stone bridge lined with statues and artists. The serene atmosphere in the morning makes it a perfect time for photos and leisurely strolls.
11:15 AM – Prague Castle
Cost: Free to walk in the inner yard. €10 ticket for seeing Old Royal Palace, St. George‘s Basilica, Golden Lane, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Can’t buy a single ticket.
Head to the nearby Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle.
The complex houses the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and Golden Lane. Expect to spend about 2 hours here.
If you don’t feel like visiting all of that, then feel free to walk around the castle’s streets, because it’s free.
However, I’d recommend visiting the Lobkowicz Palace (290 CZK), which is one of the buildings inside the castle’s walls. The palace is now an amazing art gallery, which belongs to a private family and you’ll also get access to the famous Prague balcony, with the best views over Charles Bridge. Given that you need to pay to get here, it will not be crowded.
2:30 PM – Lunch at Kuchyň
Cost: Around €10-20 per person
Book a table here https://kuchyn.ambi.cz/en
Enjoy a hearty Czech meal near the castle district. This restaurant offers both traditional and international dishes. The views are some of the best in Prague.
4:00 PM – Letná Park
Cost: Free
Take a tram to Letná Park.
This elevated park offers amazing panoramic views of Prague and the Vltava River, as well as multiple beer gardens. On top of the park, you’ll see the famous Metronome monument.
The large, functional metronome replaced a colossal statue of Joseph Stalin that was demolished in 1962. The metronome is more than just a timekeeping device; it symbolises the changing times and political shifts that the Czech Republic has gone through, especially the transition from communist rule to democracy.
The area around the Metronome monument is also a popular spot for skateboarding. The monument and its surrounding area have become a sort of unofficial gathering place for the city’s youth and skateboard enthusiasts. It’s also a cool place for enjoying your afternoon while drinking a Czech beer.
Inside the park, you’ll also find Letná Lookout Beer Garden, which offers the same great views.
5:00 PM – Speculum Alchemiae
Cost: 200 CZK
I discovered this small museum in 2020, and I was pleasantly surprised.
The Speculum Alchemiae is a fascinating museum located in the heart of Prague, dedicated to alchemy and its mysterious history.
Hidden away for centuries and only discovered in 2002 during a flood, the museum claims to house an authentic alchemical laboratory that dates back to the 16th century. Here, I found a glimpse into the secretive world of alchemy, a blend of science, philosophy, and mysticism that captivated scholars and occultists alike. Now that I talk about it, it seems unreal, but trust me, this place exists.
The museum is set in a historical building that has preserved its Renaissance atmosphere, complete with wooden furniture, ancient manuscripts, and alchemical tools like alembics and retorts. Back in the day, alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold, discover the philosopher’s stone, and unlock the secrets of eternal life.
To visit the museum, you’ll need the next guided tour to start. You can’t visit it on your own. A tour takes about 45 minutes or so. A tour of the museum typically takes you through various rooms, each one thematically organised to showcase different aspects of alchemy, from its origins and famous practitioners like Edward Kelley and John Dee to its influence on modern science.
The guides often dress in period costumes. My guide told us a lot of info and short anecdotes about the history and folklore surrounding alchemy.
7:00 PM – Explore the Stinadel neighbourhood
Cost: Free
Stínadla is a fictional neighbourhood created by writer Jaroslav Foglar in his books. It is actually an unspecified rundown historic district with narrow and winding streets. The prototype was likely in Prague. The boys from Stínadla created a sort of ‘organization’ and called themselves Vonts (after Vojtěch Vonta, who was the first to unite the gangs of boys from Stínadla).
Their emblem was a yellow pin worn on the lapel of their clothes. The Vonts were led by Velký Vont, and the symbol of their leader was a puzzle called a hedgehog in a cage. By the way, the name was probably derived from the gallows that used to stand here (Stínadla = to shave the head). Anyway, this is a quieter part of the city, which is not visited by as many tourists. Instead of graffiti, there are messages written in chalk on the street wall (which is certainly cute).
Some of the main attractions in the Stínadla neighbourhood are:
- The smallest house in Prague (a unique structure that measures just 2.25 meters in width and was built in 1853, situated between the former alleys of Řásnovka and the St. Agnes Monastery palace. Originally a two-room house with a third space added in 1862, it’s no longer a house but rather a narrow passage with a door leading to a small courtyard, and nothing of the original structure remains; it even served as a brothel run by a certain lady until 1922.)
- National Gallery Prague – Convent of St. Agnes
- Řásnovka (one of the prettiest cobbled stone streets in Prague)
- National Gallery Prague – Convent of St. Agnes
Vltava River Cruise
If you have the time, or only have this one day in Prague, make sure to cut some of the time from the attractions mentioned and book a Vltava river cruise.
There’s one cruise departing every hour and it offers lovely views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. The most crowded tiem for the cruise is at sunset, but it’s worth it.
Also, they serve alcohol on the cruise, so it’s a nice Prague activity to relax if you’re feeling tired after a long day of walking around.
If you want to combine this experience with a dinner, then book a dinner cruise.
7:00 PM – Dinner at Lokál Dlouhááá
Cost: Around €10-20 per person
End your day with traditional Czech fare like goulash and Pilsner Urquell beer.
Day 2: Old Town & Jewish Quarter
9:00 AM – Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
Cost: Free
Begin your day at Old Town Square to see the famous Astronomical Clock. If you’ve already done this the day before, you can use this time to get a coffee in the area and spend a bit of time admiring all the buildings around.
The old town square is home to beautiful baroque buildings and the stunning Týn Cathedral (the cathedral surrounded by the houses).
Don’t miss the The House at the Stone Virgin Mary (Storch’s House) at Staroměstské nám. 16, which has one of the most beautiful painted facades of Prague’s medieval buildings.
The medieval house probably originated from the 15th century and was reconstructed in Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Gothic style in 1896-1897 when bookseller and publisher Alexander Storch took over the house.
Today you still can admire the murals, which are divided into 4 sections. The bottom part shows scientific and astronomical study, the middle parts contain the seal of the City of Prague squeezed between four windows and Saint Wenceslas on horseback, while the top part shows the Three Wise Men.
11:00 AM – Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Cost: CZK 550 (€22.50) for a ticket to six sites
Explore the historic Jewish Quarter, home to well-preserved synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
With this ticket, you can explore all these sites in the Jewish Quarter:
- Old Jewish Cemetery
- Old-New Synagogue
- Spanish Synagogue
- Maisel Synagogue
- Pinkas Synagogue
- Klausen Synagogue
- Ceremonial Hall
- temporary exhibitons in the Robert Guttmann Gallery
Individual and family tickets are valid for 7 days. Group tickets (six or more people) are valid on the day of issue only. Each site can be visited only once.
2:00 PM – Lunch in the Jewish Quarter
Cost: Around €10-15 per person
Here are some cafes and restaurants in the area:
- Sisters Bistro v Dlouhé
- Lokál Dlouhááá
- The Spot
- Pepenero Pizza & Pasta
4:30 PM – Wenceslas Square
Cost: Free
Head to Wenceslas Square, a commercial hub full of shops and historical monuments.
This is the place to go shopping or to explore a bit of Prague’s more modern culture.
If you’re not into shopping, I’d recommend checking out these spots in and around Wenceslas Square, in this order:
- Franz Kafka – Rotating Head by David Cerny (rotates every hour for 15 minutes)
- Palace Lucerna in Lucerna Passage
- Statue of Saint Wenceslas
- The National Museum (closes at 6 pm)
7:00 PM – Dinner at Terasa U Prince
Cost: Around €30 per person
For dinner, enjoy the best views over the old town square in Prague. Make sure to reserve a spot at least a few days in advance, as this is one of the most popular spots in Prague.
Day 3: Arts and Culture
9:00 AM – Vyšehrad Fortress
Cost: Free (130 CZK to visit the Basilica
Start your day with a tour of the city’s fortress. Many tourists skip this place, but the views are amazing and there’s so much to see:
- Saints Peter and Paul Basilica
- Vyšehrad Cemetery
- Vyšehradské hradby (viewpoint)
- Gothic Cellar
- Staré Purkrabství (viewpoint)
- Rotunda of St. Martin
- Leopold Gate
- The Casemates and the Gorlice Hall (Gorlice) – Open daily 10 am — 6 pm, last tour starts at 17.00, tickets at the Brick Gate
Vyšehrad Fortress is a historic fort located on a hill over the Vltava River in Prague. It’s a place steeped in myths and legends, often said to be the birthplace of the Czech nation.
Founded in the 10th century, Vyšehrad has seen various phases of construction and reconstruction, contributing to its complex blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic to Baroque.
One of the standout features is the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, a neo-Gothic church with striking Art Nouveau interiors and a cemetery where many famous Czech personalities are buried.
Another highlight is the Rotunda of St. Martin, the oldest surviving building in Prague, dating back to the 11th century. This rotunda is one of the few remaining examples of Romanesque architecture in the city.
The fortress also offers panoramic views of Prague, including vistas of the Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River, making it a popular spot for photography. You’ll also find walking paths, gardens, and sculptures that provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city center.
Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Vyšehrad is a cultural landmark. The fortress often hosts events, exhibitions, and concerts, making it a dynamic part of Prague’s contemporary cultural landscape.
1:00 PM – Lunch
Cost: Up to 500 CZK (Around €10-20 per person)
Most Czech restaurants have affordable lunch menus, because most people tend to eat out in the Czech Republic. Around the Vyšehrad Fortress, you will find many local restaurants and pubs with good options for lunch. But remember to always check the reviews of the restaurant on Google. Reviews almost never lie.
I’ll list some really good cafes and restaurants under the practical tips section at the end of this post.
3:00 PM – Petrin Park
Cost: Free to visit the park (About 10 EUR if you go up the tower)
Book here your ticket for the Petrin Tower. (it also includes the mirror maze, which is small but super fun.)
How to get to Petrin
If you feel up to up, I’d recommend walking from the fortress to the river and then up to Petrin Park.
This walk along the river, cross the river on Palackého Most to see Prague’s swans, and then continue along the river up to Legion Bridge, then turn left tower Petrin).
This is my favourite walk in Prague. It will take longer, but it will be worth it if the weather is nice.
What to visit in Petrin Park
Petrin Park is a sprawling green space located on Petrin Hill in Prague, offering a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking trails, and even a maze, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. One of the main attractions in the park is the Petrin Tower, often referred to as Prague’s “mini Eiffel Tower.”
The Petrin Tower was built in 1891 and stands at 63.5 meters tall, which may seem modest until you realize it’s perched atop Petrin Hill, effectively raising its height to about 318 meters above sea level.
This vantage point offers incredible panoramic views of Prague, making it a must-visit for photographers and sightseers alike.
To reach the viewing platform, you can either take a leisurely walk up the hill, which is a pleasant experience in itself, or opt for the funicular (Újezd) if you’re looking to save time and energy. The funicular is at the bottom of the hill, close to the main boulevard.
Once at the tower, you have the option to climb its 299 steps to the top.
While it may sound like a bit of a workout, the breathtaking views of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River make it well worth the effort. However, if you don’t feel like taking the stairs, you can pay extra for the elevator.
The tower also features a café where you can enjoy a coffee or a snack while soaking in the vistas.
5:30 PM – Explore Malá Strana
Cost: Free
Malá Strana, also known as the Lesser Town, is one of Prague’s most historic and charming districts.
Nestled between Prague Castle and the Vltava River, this area is a maze of cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and Baroque and Renaissance architecture.
It’s a tranquil part of the city, known for its cosy cafes, unique shops, and beautiful gardens, making it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a more laid-back yet culturally rich experience in Prague.
Itinerary for Malá Strana in Prague
After Petrin, go down the hill the same way you got up, and then continue towards Kampa Park.
Check out the statues of the giant babies, be shocked, and then admire the Werichova villa, which now houses a lovely cafe, perfect for late brunches or an afternoon cake. I went there with a couple of friends for a quick coffee and left 3 hours later.
Walk towards Mlýn Huť (Water Mill with Gremlin) for a lovely photo spot, and then head over to the famous John Lennon Wall. It’s crowded, but it’s a spot to admire mostly. Enter the small garden behind it and check out the cute souvenir shop inside (Artisème).
Admire the Gothic and Baroque churches and then walk towards The Vrtba Garden (entrance 120 CZK, open 10 am – 7 pm), a lovely Italian-style baroque garden.
And if you want to discover another cool place, I recommend checking out the Waldstein Garden (7 am – 7 pm), which are the Senate’s gardens, free to visit and open April to October. I personaly loved this place, and it’s worth visiting. Make sure to check out all corners of it, including the Dripstone wall, which is impressive.
7:30 PM – Vltava River Cruise
Cost: Around €20. Book here.
End this majestic day in Prague with the best view while enjoying a glass of wine or a Czech beer. This relaxing boat cruise on the Vltava River offers a different view of Prague and takes about an hour.
If you want, go for the buffet dinner, so you can enjoy dinner while cruising around Prague.
If I’m in Prague even for one day, this is my favourite thing to do, because you can just feel lazy and still be in the city, exploring. The photos will be fabulous, and they serve alcohol.
What a way to end these crazy 3 days in Prague, isn’t it? I bet you’ll be back in this gorgeous city after all of this. I have no doubts about it.
Practical Prague travel tips
Public transport
All public transport in Prague uses the same ticketing system; you can easily buy a single ticket for 30 or 90 minutes from the machines or using the Lítačka app (Android app or iOS app). 24 hours and 72 hours transport passes are also available.
This 3 days itinerary in Prague is created to make you walk more than take public transport, because that’s the best way to experience Prague, but you’ll also need to get from your hotel to the centre of the city.
In this case, if you’re hotel is a bit further away, consider getting the 72-hour card for public transport, and you can then travel stress-free by bus, tram or metro. Unlike single tickets the 24 hours and 72 hours passes are also valid for the Petrin funicular (I just hope it works at the time of your visit).
Restaurants in Prague
A meal in a normal restaurant in Prague will cost you about €10 to €20 (drinks included), per person. Note that restaurants near tourist attractions might be a bit pricier or require a reservation.
One extremely popular location in Prague is the U Prince rooftop restaurant, which is a great spot to photograph the entire square where the Astronomical Clock is located. However, if you want access to the terrace, you have to book your table in advance.
While I haven’t been able to book a table for myself, my friends said that the food was pricey and mediocre, and everyone goes there exclusively for the view, which is only from one corner.
Tipping is also appreciated in Prague, and customers usually leave about 10%. Usually, when you pay for your part, you can ask the waiter to round up (you tell them the total sum to pay), and they will enter that on the POS, so you can pay for your meal and the tip by card.
Also, it’s quite common for a group of people to pay separately. This means that if you’re a group of 2 or more (it can be 10, it doesn’t matter), the waiter will ask if you pay together or separately, and then it will tell you each how much to pay based on your individual order. Also, in a lot of restaurants in Prague, you pay at the counter, not at the table. So you get up from the table, and before you leave, you go to pay.
Popular food in Prague
- Trdelník – A sweet pastry made by wrapping dough around a stick and roasting it over an open flame. Often coated with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes filled with ice cream or Nutella. You’ll find it everywhere.
- Svíčková – A Czech pot roast served with dumplings and topped with a creamy vegetable sauce, usually garnished with a slice of lemon and cranberry sauce.
- Smazeny Syr – Deep-fried cheese usually made from Edam or Gouda, served with tartar sauce and a side of fries or bread.
- Goulash – A hearty stew made from meat, usually beef, with onions and spices, often served with Czech dumplings.
- Palačinky – Thin Czech pancakes, similar to French crêpes, typically filled with jam, fruit, or sweet cheese.
- Roast Pork with Dumplings and Sauerkraut – A classic Czech dish featuring tender roast pork, fluffy dumplings, and tangy sauerkraut.
- Chlebíčky – Open-faced sandwiches topped with various ingredients like ham, egg, and pickles, popular as a quick snack or appetizer.
- Knedlíky – Czech dumplings, usually served as a side dish, made from either bread or potatoes.
- Kolache – Sweet pastries filled with fruit jams, poppy seed paste, or sweet cheese, often enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast item.
- Smažený Kapr – Fried carp, traditionally eaten during Christmas, usually served with a side of potato salad.
Tell me what you think!