Well, welcome to Prague, with its history flowing from nearly every nook and corner, and vibrancy pulsating in every street. The one that used to be considered the center of Europe definitely will be the future capital of the Czech Republic and of cultural heritage.
One should pay a visit to Prague during its mild spring, usually falling in April and May, and its scenic autumn between September and October. During these seasons, the crowds are less, and one can get to see the magical beauty of seasonal change in the city. The city of Prague is very well reached since Václav Havel Airport is situated only 17 km away from the center. A ride by taxi to downtown costs about $25 USD, or take an Airport Express for $2.30 USD.
Think of your accommodation in the historic center of the city, Old Town-Staré Město-, starting from $20 per night for lowly hostels and up to five-star hotels at $150-200 per night, where you will be having a feel of the local history and charm.
Your 3-day Prague itinerary includes:
Day 1: Get caught up in the hustle and bustle of New and Old Towns of Prague, with the great Central Station in Prague, continuing further to historic markets, charming squares, and cozy cafes.
Day 2: Visit to Mala Strana is an exceptionally fine area, comprising large estates of Prague Castle, fountains, bridges, gardens, and palaces.
Day 3: Contemplate the beauties of the arts and architecture in Vysehrad and beyond, from pioneering modern buildings across tranquil parks to animated quarters.
Get ready for the story across the city, where old and new are one whole in balance, with unlimited findings just waiting for their time. Let us unlock the magic of Prague together!
Day 1: Heart of Prague – Old Town and New Town Exploration
Morning: Arrival and Introduction to Art Nouveau Start your tour in architecturally exquisite Prague Central Station-Hlavni Nadrazi, just one example of Art Nouveau. The newly renovated transport center still had much elegance combined with historic atmosphere-something an architecture enthusiast should not miss.
Insider Tip: Come a bit earlier to avoid crowds that may happen and just cherish its beauty.
Breakfast at Café Louvre: This is a few minutes’ walk from the station and has a scrumptious, stylish breakfast costing about $12 USD. This highly historical café-used previously by such famous personalities like Einstein and Kafka-will offer the usual breakfast delicacy with freshly baked pastry, a selection of cheese and fruits, and coffee.
Around Mid-Morning: Wenceslas Square Next, pay a visit to Wenceslas Square, actually right in the middle of New Town in Prague. Actually lined with several charming Art Nouveau buildings, it has been a source of insight into the struggle for independence by the people of the Czech Republic. Note the creativity of the city’s well-known artist, David Černý, in the artistic sculptures which give it a modern character.
Hidden Passages and Local Markets: Wind your way through tight passages, like the Passage Te Ta, through small cafes and even the oldest cinema in town. Continue on to Havelské Tržiště, a functional marketplace in Old Town where local foods can be sampled and fresh fruits can be bought for about $1 USD each.
Afternoon: Architectural and Cultural Icons Visit Municipal House-the gorgeously ornate example of Art Nouveau that functions as both a concert hall and café. Lunch: Right in the heart of Old Town, make a reservation at Mincovna for a lunch of traditional Czech-get roast duck with red cabbage and dumplings for around $15 USD.
Old Town Square and its Timeless Charm A walk through Old Town Square is a feast for the eyes as one is bombarded with history in the form of the Jan Hus Monument, the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, and of course the Astronomical Clock. Insider
Tip: See the city from an unparalleled viewpoint by climbing Old Town Hall Tower for around 10USD.
Evening: Jewish Quarter and Convent of St. Agnes Spend the remainder of the day exploring the historic Jewish quarter, Josefov, including the Spanish Synagogue, home to one of the most spectacular Moorish interiors. Visit the Convent of St. Agnes to get a taste of some Gothic art and history. Dinner can be at the Hostaria U Supa near the Clementinum for classic beef goulash with dumplings for around $12 USD.
Day 2: A Royal Tour-Mala Strana and Prague Castle
Morning: Charles Bridge to Malá Strana This was well worth rising for early in the morning when the serenity and calmness of Charles Bridge at that time made it a haven of peace. This Gothic architectural masterpiece was lined with Baroque statues, and suddenly, like a stroke of magic, a glimpse is given of probably the most romantic neighborhood in Prague-Malá Strana. Stop for great views and statues in the early light.
Breakfast at Café Lounge: After crossing the bridge, stop at the Café Lounge just nearby. Try its “Prague Breakfast” for about $15; it will include a croissant with homemade preserves, ham, cheese, and a soft-boiled egg, with freshly brewed coffee. It was so inviting inside the cafe, and it would be just the right place to rest and think over a plan for the whole day.
Mid-morning: Wallenstein Garden and St. Nicholas Church A short walk from breakfast, the Wallenstein Garden hosts peacocks, fountains, and grand statues. Make your way to the stunning St. Nicholas Church, in the center of Mala Strana. The exceptional baroque offers great views from the interior and is also popular with its striking architecture, and occasional concerts-a great cultural treat.
Lunch at U Malého Glena: The restaurant is located behind Saint Nicholas Church and offers more intimate surroundings and food, with a more modern approach to traditional Czech cuisine. One can get its famous beef goulash with dumplings for about 15 dollars. Intimate settings and included live jazz sessions make for a very nice place to take a rest and take the middle of the day.
Afternoon: Strahov Monastery and Prague Castle Further on to the magnificent libraries and the cabinet of curiosities at the Strahov Monastery. The place offers great panorama views over Prague from the inner courtyards once the moment is quiet. A beer in the Strahov Monastery Brewery: $2.50 USD This is a very nice break with great views.
Head on to the Prague Castle, one of the biggest castle complexes in the world. Entry into the grounds is free; although entry into the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Golden Lane can be around $10. First courtyard in the castle and its guards in an apparently traditional uniform present a very photogenic image.
Evening: Letná Park and Metronom As evening approaches, go outside via the Royal Garden into Letná Park. Avoid all the tourists and walk further to the Metronom. Here there is a great, un-touristy view over the city. Now treat yourself to your well-earned beer at Letenský Zámeček for ~ $2 USD and take in the view over the Vltava River and City Skyline.
Dinner at St. Martin: Round off your evening with a leisurely walk back to St Martin, a romantically lit restaurant serving up modern versions of Czech staples. Try the roast duck with red cabbage and dumplings-one of the signature dishes that should calm your taste buds at around $15 USD.
Day 3: Island Getaways, Vysehrad Fortresses, Vinohrady Vibes, and Wonders of Zizkov
Morning: National Opera and Café Slavia Begin your last day in Prague by stopping in at the historic National Opera, which has become a symbol of the national pride of the Czech people and their great culture. It is representative of the grandeur found in both the architecture and artistry in the Czech Republic. Insider Tip: Sign up for a guided tour-only about $10 US-and truly appreciate its historical significance and stunning design.
Breakfast at Café Slavia: End the tour with breakfast opposite the National Theater at Café Slavia. Try the “Bohemian Breakfast” with all the trimmings-like local sausages, eggs, traditional Czech pastries, and a pot of freshly brewed coffee-all for about $14 USD. The interior in Art Deco and the riverside view in Café Slavia create a perfect setting to spend a lazy morning.
Islands of the Vltava and Dancing House Mid-Morning Take a stroll across to the bridge for views of the Dancing House, probably the most striking example of modern architecture in the city. The building takes an interesting shape, with a view to resemble two dancers. It is not only a wonder of modern architecture but also cultural. Insider Tip Go to the top-floor restaurant for a $6 cup of coffee; the views across the city are brilliant.
Vysehrad Castle: This is a very ancient fort and forms part of so many Czech legends and history. Rich in historic narrations and not missing scenic views over the Vltava River, it houses the Saint Peter and Paul Basilica, together with the Vysehrad Cemetery, where a lot of the Czech luminaries rest. Walking through Vysehrad actually means walking through centuries of history.
Lunch at Restaurant Na Hradbách: This is a real, traditional Czech meal just close to Vysehrad Castle, with great views at Na Hradbách serving dishes like Svíčková-tender beef sirloin in creamy sauce with dumplings and cranberries for about $15.
Afternoon: Delights of Vinohrady and vibrant energy of Zizkov – a lot to see and alive Vinohrady and Zizkov. These districts have a great reputation for a pulsing atmosphere of quiet coffee houses and restaurants, fashionable bars, and unusual shops. Vinohrady, centered around beautiful parks and Art Nouveau architecture, along with the formerly working-class quarter of Zizkov that is now abuzz with cultural life, offers an ideal mix of both Prague’s past and present.
Evening: Tower Views and Local Dining Let’s end the night with this panoramic look at Prague from above at Zizkov Tower. When the sun begins to set, that is a sight to see. For dinner across the street head to Potrefená Husa for some heavy Czech food-he recommends roast duck with dumplings and sauerkraut. Price: $15 USA.
Conclusion: Prague – the Eternal Pleasure City
While those three days of your stay in Prague have flown away, remember what moments you have lived and how manifold your experiences have been-from Gothic bridges across the Vltava to quiet courtyards and cobblestone lanes of Vysehrad, from pulsating scenes of culture in Vinohrady to historic opera houses, Prague has opened yet another window to its soul before you. This city has such rich history and art put together, combined with the vibrancy of modern life, which always impresses and enchants its guests. Every day in the city presents more aspects and thus promises repeat visits. This isn’t a place but rather an ongoing story for which you too have now become a part. Until next time, take with you the essence of Prague: its art, its history, and its indomitable spirit.