If you are looking for a capital in Europe to spend a few days, Prague, if you haven't been there yet, it should be your first choice: the magical city, gloomy and medieval, full of legends, from the headless templar to the Golem, to the stories of the Soviet period, Prague is one of the most fascinating cities in the world.
I have been to Prague 6 times, the first I was little, the second with my ex boyfriend and a friend born and raised there, the other with friends and now my husband. I've put together all the things I've seen and created an itinerary for you on what to see in Prague in 3 days!
I saw Prague change: from the first time I was there (but I was little and I hardly remember) to the last, what was by far my favorite city in Europe, unfortunately for me, has been transformed and now brings a dress not hers.
Having said that (which causes me a great regret) Prague remains the Queen of all: just strolling in the evening on the Charles Bridge with the illuminated castle dominating the landscape from the top of the hill, it's worth the whole trip.
I'll give you some advice: if you want to really love it and understand what I mean when I say that it has changed make an effort and try to get up at dawn: you will see the towers of the Charles Bridge and its statues emerge in the fog revealing all the magic and atmosphere of what it was once the most gothic, dark, medieval and fascinating capital in the whole world!
Ok I'll stop with my mental ruminations and take you to find out what to see in Prague in 3 days!
FREE TOUR IN PRAGA
Interested in getting to know Prague? Civitatis offers a FREE guided tour in ENGLISH -> Find out more about the tour HERE!
- 1 day
- 2 day
- 3 day
- More things to do in Prague
- 1 - Strahov Monastery
- 2 - Petrín Park
- 3 - Museum of the alchemists and magicians of ancient Prague
- 4 - Go to a concert at the National Theater
- Prague in 3 Days: Useful Information
- Map of the itinerary of Prague in 3 days
1 day
You will probably arrive at the international airport Vaclav Havel Airport Prague and from here you have various ways to reach the center or your hotel:
- by bus 119 o 100 (but then you have to take the metro)
- take a taxi (comfortable but more expensive)
- book a transfer service (best option - it's as comfortable as the taxi but It costs less)
Once you reach the hotel, get ready for your visit and your first day in Prague (legs on your shoulders, you walk a lot!)
Most of the itineraries start from the castle, because then the road to the old quarter is downhill ... but I suppose you have decided to sleeping in Prague right in old quarter so I will start my itinerary there (and then later on I will also tell you the second reason for doing the tour in this sense).
Don't worry, you can easily do it in reverse of my advice.
Most of Prague's most famous attractions are included in the Prague Card
-> See here what is included in the Prague Card
1 - Old Quarter of Prague
Whether you have just one day, two days or 3 days without a doubt the first thing you need to visit is the old quarter of Prague (Stare Mesto) that is the place where the heart of the Magic City.
Here you will find some of the Prague's most interesting attractions:
- Staromestske Namesti (Old Town Square): This is undoubtedly the most important and best known square. Here you can stop to observe the famous astronomic watch, the town hall (climb to the top of the tower from which you will have a wonderful view of the square), the Cathedral of St. Mary of Tyn, the statue of Jan Hus and baroque church of San Nicola
Enter the town hall it's always a chaos: the lines are endless to say the least so it's worth it buy your ticket in advance at this link. Inside you can also observe the crazy mechanisms of the astronomical clock!
- St. Gallen Church - Kostel sv. Havla where the largest open-air market in Prague has been held since the Middle Ages
- Klementinum inside which there is the national library. Some of the rooms are unfortunately closed to the public, but it is possible to participate in guided tours that include the Library room, la Chapel of Mirrors and Astronomical Tower from which you will have a breathtaking view over the whole city of Prague.
- Church of St. Nicholas within which gods are kept classical music concerts not to be missed
There are other things to look at in the old quarter: the architecture of the elegant and decorated houses, the shops that sell the famous Bohemian crystals and other souvenirs (very touristy to be honest), historic bars and breweries.
Visiting Prague's Old Quarter will likely take you all morning away, so take the opportunity to stop for a lunch with the typical dishes of Bohemian cuisine (absolutely try the roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut or the dumplings with plums)
After a hearty meal, continue your visit to Carlo bridge to cross it and reach the district of Little Country and, subsequently, the Prague Castle.
2 - Charles Bridge
Il Ponte Carlo (Charles Bridge) is the emblem of the city.
516 meters long and 10 meters wide, it connects two famous Prague districts, the Old Town and the Lesser Town separated by the Vltava.
The Charles Bridge is not only a tourist destination, but also the main connection for the locals between the two banks of the river: as you can imagine it is always full of people (do you remember that before I advised you to go there at dawn? )
The Charles Bridge is adorned with 30 beautiful Baroque statues (dating from a time after the bridge was built) located on the sides and depicting saints and patrons creating a fascinating open-air gallery.
Together with the ancient street lamps and medieval towers (City Bridge Tower e Tower of the Mala Strana Bridge - on which you can climb - the bridge has a unique atmosphere and offers its visitors an unforgettable experience.
Unfortunately, during the day the Charles Bridge is really crowded beyond belief: musicians, travelers, locals, souvenir stalls a little spoil the atmosphere.
In the evening, however, it transforms and the views you will have of the illuminated castle and the Mala Strana neighborhood will truly leave you breathless.
PRO TIP
The imposing and gothic Old Tower is the most popular one, as it overlooks Prague Castle, so you will probably have a prettier view, although the Lesser Town Bridge Tower (Malá Strana) it will be less crowded.
3 - Mala Strana
Malá Strana (also called the Lesser Town) is one of the historical districts of Prague and was founded in 1257 at the foot of the Castle District (Hradčany).
Here too you will be fascinated: the wonderful houses and homes of the neighborhood are in a perfect state of preservation, arriving here is like taking a dip in history.
There are a few things to see here, which you can't miss out on Lesser Town Square (Malostranské náměstí), the Church of San Nicola (not to be confused with that of the Old Town) and the Church of Our Lady of Victory (go and see the very famous statue of Banbin Jesus inside.
In Mala Strana (a bit secluded, you have to make a slight detour) there is also the very famous John Lennon wall which since the 80s has been filled with Beatles lyrics and Lennon-inspired quotes and graffiti. The colorful facade is constantly changing and represents ideas of global love and peace. An absolute must to visit on your 3 day Prague itinerary.
Mala Strana is also home to several significant museums, from Kafka Museum al KGB Museum.
Continuing to walk (along the streets Nerudova o Mostecka) you will come to another strong point: the Prague Castle!
4 - Prague Castle
The Prague Castle complex is the largest ancient castle in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records, so be sure to give yourself a couple of hours to explore it.
Prague Castle TOUR
Here you can find more information about the guided tour in ENGLISH offer to give to the state
You could actually easily spend half a day exploring the complex including the gardens and moat, St Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane. Try to stay and watch the changing of the guard.
You can visit the castle on your own: the only thing to watch out for is when you visit because the queues can be long then You should buy your skip-the-line priority ticket here in advance.
Find here the skip-the-line ticket for circuit A
Find the online skip-the-line ticket for Circuit B here
Having personally visited the Castle both on my own and on a tour, I highly recommend this second option - there are tons of interesting things you won't find on your own, and of course plenty of great stories to hear.
I also strongly recommend that you take a tour in English so you will understand everything well: this guided tour in English is a great choice.
The things not to be missed in Prague Castle are:
- Vitus Cathedral
- Treasure of San Vito: Incredible collection of jewelry. You pay a separate ticket.
- Ancient Royal Palace: in particular the Vladislaus room and the Scala dei Cavalieri
- Basilica of San Giorgio: small Romanesque jewel
- Vicolo d'Oro: picturesque alley with tiny colored houses. In one of these lived Kafka.
To visit the Castle there are two tickets: one for the short visit and one for the long one. Since two unmissable things, the Cathedral Treasury of San Vito and Tower of the Cathedral they are not included in either of them (but you will have to buy them separately) I suggest you buy the ticket for the short visit.
At first I advised you to visit Prague Castle in the afternoon and do you know why? Because after your visit from here you can enjoy a exceptional sunset over the roofs of Mala Strana.
Curiosity: the extraordinary lighting around the castle at night was funded by the Rolling Stones.
If you want to know more about the visit you can read my post on like visiting Prague Castle
5 - In the evening: Esoteric Prague!
Turin Lyon Prague ... three cities whose vertices form the triangle of white magic.
Three cities linked together by characters who belonged to Freemasonry, by esoteric symbols and magical energy flows.
I hope you don't want to miss this mysteriously tinged topic!
In case you like me are curious about legends, ghosts, esotericism and magic you can't miss a themed guided night tour!
The MYSTERIES and LEGENDS tour of Prague in ENGLISH is the most classic and best-selling tour ever, a true institution in Prague.
Simply UNMISSABLE
2 day
1 - Jewish quarter
The Jewish Quarter of Prague, known as the Jewish Ghetto or Josefov, it is located between the Old Town Square and the river. It dates back to the XNUMXth century, when Prague Jews were forced to move from their homes to a neighborhood.
There are six synagogues e one of the most important Jewish cemeteries in Europe. Over the centuries, Jews from Austria, Germany and Spain also joined them.
Many of the significant historic buildings remain, despite some demolitions in the area, and are the best-preserved complex of historic Jewish monuments and homes in Europe.
Hitler himself decided to keep the neighborhood to preserve it as a museum of an extinct race.
The cemetery is impressive. My friend from Prague told me that the tombstones are "crooked" because they were built one on top of the other. A must see!
Another thing: if you go to the Jewish ghetto, also find out about the mysterious one Golem legend, born right here.
In fact, according to Prague tradition, the Golem was created in the attic of the Old - New Synagogue. Here the rabbi would have shaped his Golems with the mud of the Vltava, combining the four elements: fire and water, air and earth.
2 - Wenceslas Square
Amo Wenceslas square. Not because of its shape: it is a long square full of shops that comes and goes, which tends to rise and with the National Museum.
Wenceslas Square is one of the main squares in Prague, the center of commercial and cultural activities in the Old Town.
I love Wenceslas Square for what it represents and unfortunately for this thing I have seen very little written on other blogs. Too bad because for me history represents one of the fundamental aspects for which to visit a city.
Almost at the top, in the central flowerbed, there is a small plaque almost always decorated with bunches of flowers.
This small plaque is the monument in remembrance of Jan Palach, a young man who set himself on fire exactly here in 1969 (he died shortly after 3 days of agony in hospital) to express his dissent to the communist regime.
Before there was only a small tombstone surrounded by candles that were always kept burning. The melted wax of the candles has formed a low wall. Today a stone wall has been built.
Wenceslas Square is the place where numerous political demonstrations have taken place over the years; not only Jan Palach but also the demonstrations during the 1989 Velvet Revolution.
3 - National Museum
For local culture and history, among the best museums in Prague, I highly recommend a stop at National Museum. If you are a museum lover, this is one of those must-do things to do in Prague, trust me!
Národní Muzeum is also known as the National Museum and the original intention was to contain and exhibit natural scientific and historical collections.
Today it houses up to 14 million objects from natural history, art, music and more!
NOTE: admission is free every first Monday of the month and the museum is closed every first Tuesday of the month.
4 - Dancing House
Ok, I add the dancing house because apparently it is one of the most visited things in Prague.
The Dancing House was highly controversial when it was built because its design clashes with the Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings that dominate the style of the city.
Perhaps this is why you should add it to your list of the best things to do in Prague! Honestly, I don't find it such a beautiful thing.
CURIOSITY: The building is also known as "Ginger and Fred" due to its resemblance to a pair of dancers (referring to Fellini's film); moreover, these names were famous in the Czech Republic at the time.
However, it seems that inside it is very beautiful: here you can find the Dancing House Hotel, Ginger & Fred Restaurant, the brilliant bar GLASS, un shop it's a galleria!
5 - Visit a brewery
The Czech Republic has the highest per capita consumption of beer in the world. The country has an absolute love affair with beer. Why not? They make damn good beers.
Prague offers so many opportunities to sit back and have a pivo (beer) cold and cheap that anyone visiting the city would be advised against not trying at least a pint.
Take the rest of the day to see other interesting things in Prague as one visit to a brewery.
I have been to the Staropramen factory (where, among other things, I bought two mugs that I jealously guard and take out only on special occasions) that you can visit either alone or with a tour
Are you a beer enthusiast? Why not spend a few hours in one SPA BEER with unlimited tasting?
6 - In the evening: medieval dinner with show
On the second night you could indulge in a medieval themed dinner. In addition to dinner, almost all of these places also offer fire-eating shows, belly dancers, inquisitors, jugglers.
Some of the places you might want to consider are there Medieval Krcma (Thunovská 198, 118 00 Malá Strana), In the Spider (Celetna 595/17) e Anno Domini 1471 (Chermakova 1314/7 Vinohrady - a 5 minutes from Francouzska street)
If you want you can also book your medieval dinner here (with unlimited drinks included)
3 day
Although there are other beautiful things to do in Prague, if I were you I would take one of my 3 days to do a tours nearby. First because there are really interesting things to see, second because you will have a glimpse of the Bohemian countryside that, listen to me, is really worth seeing.
Day trips from Prague are different from each other, it's up to you to choose which one you prefer (but Cesky Krumlov is a must).
1 - Cesky Krumlov
Do you want to dive into the past and see what a small medieval town really was?
This wonderful city is the first place I recommend to anyone thinking of taking a day trip outside of Prague.
Cesky Krumlov it had already conquered me the first time I set foot on its cobbled streets, but also the second time and the following ones have always left me enchanted.
I mean, look at the picture above! How can you not want to stroll through this living fairy tale?
Cesky Krumlov is beautiful all year round (in winter you may find snow), but in my opinion the season that takes your breath away is autumn when the leaves on the trees turn yellow, red and orange.
You have two ways to get there and back in the day.
The first, more comfortable is taking part in a guided tour like this.
If you want to visit it on your own (it's convenient) you can take a RegioJet bus from Prague to Cesky Krumlov. Tickets can be purchased at the station and the journey takes approximately 3 hours.
Buses to Cesky Krumlov from Prague leave from the station After Knížecí, which is easily accessible by public transport.
2 - Terezin concentration camp
I have been to Terezin many years ago and unfortunately I have few memories (except of the cemetery which is really impressive and impossible to forget).
Terezin is a Nazi-era concentration (not extermination) camp. From here the Jews were then moved to the Auschwitz concentration camps e Treblinka.
It's hard to feel intense excitement for a trip to Terezin concentration camp. Each visit to Terezin is bound to stir emotions as you relive the horrors of the Nazi occupation in the Czech Republic during World War II.
Founded in the late 18th century as a fortress to protect Prague, Hitler converted Terezin (Theresienstadt in German) into a Jewish ghetto. Over the course of its life, Terezin has hosted nearly two hundred thousand people, more than 50.000 at a time crammed into confined spaces.
Today, the Terezin concentration camp it houses a monument to all the victims of Nazi rule in the Czech Republic. A guided tour is intertwined with the stories of Terezin's former residents, a haunting experience that will forever be etched in your memory.
Buses to the city of Terezin depart from Prague Holesovice approximately every four hours. The journey takes just under an hour.
Take advantage of the day tour to Terezin concentration camp which includes all transport and entrance costs and you will truly discover the history of Terezin.
3 - Karlovy Vary
Also to Carlsbad I was many years ago, unfortunately I have the photos in analogue, but I have a good memory and in my opinion if you have time, it can be worth it.
Obviously I would say to you first “Go to Cecky Krumlov” because in my opinion it is more beautiful, but Karlovy Vary also has its reason.
For centuries people have flocked to Karlovy Vary for his spas And its healing mineral springs. Of course, attracting wealthy visitors means that Karlovy Vary enjoys a level of prosperity that is evident when admiring the city's grand architecture.
Positioned along a narrow valley surrounded by woods, the city is lined with beautiful buildings and classic parks.
Here and there you will find picturesque colonnades that house springs and fountains. Visitors often purchase a specially designed ceramic mug so they can drink the spring water, which it is said to have numerous health benefits: I've tried a few.
In each source water comes out at different temperatures ... and they are very salty!
Although Karlovy Vary has a train station, buses are much faster and cheaper. Buses from Prague Hradčanská depart every hour from 6am and take less than 45 hours to Karlovy Vary.
Alternatively you can also take a day tour from Prague.
4 - Kutná Hora / Ossario di Sedlec
Looking for a destination that combines beauty with a little restlessness?
See the city of Kutná Hora, east of Prague. Kutná Hora was once a mining town but was also home to the magnificent Jesuit College and Gothic church of Santa Barbara. Certainly a nice old town to explore on foot.
A church chapel made of bones qualifies as creepy, right?
Just outside Kutná Hora you will find theossario di Sedlec, a chapel with a macabre style of interior decoration.
In the XNUMXth century, the chapel was decorated with the skulls and bones of the local cemetery.
The creepy decorations include the coat of arms of the noble family that owned the church at the time.
Discover the city as efficiently as possible with a English tour to Kutna Hora from Prague! Includes visits to the Ossuary and Santa Barbara Cathedral (entrance fees included) with an expert tour guide.
5 - In the evening: Romantic dinner on a boat on the Vltava
Prague is gothic and medieval, but also very romantic!
On the second night it might be a good idea to do one romantic dinner on a boat on the Vltava River to observe Prague from a privileged point of view: the river.
You will be able to observe (and greet if it is your last day) the illuminated monuments, such as Prague Castle and the Dancing House on the riverside Rašínovo, and enjoy a buffet dinner of Czech and international dishes.
More things to do in Prague
There are so many things to do in Prague that I don't know if 3 days will be enough… in short, a good excuse to go back a second time.
Among the things that I like the most but that I have not included (I don't like to put too much meat on the fire) there are undoubtedly:
1 - Strahov Monastery
A few steps from the Prague Castle Hill lies the shining Strahov monastery. With a 17th century church and brewery, the monastery's real highlight is its own library incredibly beautiful.
2 - Petrín Park
Il Petrín Park it is the largest and most beautiful park in the city, with sweeping views of Prague.
You will find a garden, a labyrinth and a lookout tower that looks like the Eiffel Tower.
You can climb the 299 steps to the top of the tower and admire a fantastic view of Prague!
What I love about this vast park is how easy it is to get lost in the trees. Paths meander everywhere and it's a relaxing contrast to the crowds of the old town. Keep in mind that this park is located on a large hill and walking to the top can be tiring.
There is a funicular that can take you down (or up) the hill if you don't feel like walking too much.
3 - Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Ancient Prague (Muzeum alchymistů a mágů staré Prahy)
Il museum it is located in the house where the alchemist Edward Kelley lived near the Prague Castle, in the House with the Donkey in the Cradle (Dům U Osla v kolébce).
The exhibition reveals the mystery that has surrounded for some centuries not only the world of Rudolph II, but also that of other alchemists, of Doctor Faustus, of the magician Žito and others (they were some showmen but it was interesting to know a little more ).
What better way to remember and learn about their arcane history than with a little magical realism?
4 - Go to a concert at the National Theater
The building of the Teatro Nazionale it's an attraction in itself, but if you want to have a real experience then you might want to consider going to a show or concert.
Check the National Theater website and book tickets in advance, there are events practically every day.
Prague in 3 Days: Useful Information
1 - When to go to Prague
Il best time to visit Prague it is in late spring or early autumn, just before and after the peak summer tourist season.
Plan to arrive in May or September for comfortable temperatures around 18-20 ° C, ideal for sightseeing without having to contend with the large tourist crowds.
Lower airfares and reduced hotel rates can also be found.
2 - Getting around in Prague
Shooting in a new city can be a challenge, especially when you don't speak the language.
Fortunately for us many European cities have focused on promoting walking, cycling and public transport.
Consequently, cities like Prague are super accessible and offer some of the most efficient public transport and relatively cheap in the world. To make things even easier, Prague is also an extremely English-friendly city.
In short, between metro, bus and tram you will have no problem getting around Prague.
In general, it is possible to buy four ticket types: 30 minutes without transfers for 24 CZK, 90 minutes with transfers for 32 CZK, a day ticket for 110 CZK or a 3-day ticket for 310 CZK.
You can use any ticket for all means of transport within Prague: bus, tram and metro (and some trains to the outskirts of Prague).
3 – Prague card
La Prague Card includes admission to 60 attractions, a sightseeing bus tour, and a river cruise.
The main difference between this pass and the Prague Welcome Card is that they do not offer a 3 day public transport ticket.
In addition to all the attractions you can visit with the Prague Card, you will also receive discounts of up to 50% on other popular activities.
When you combine all the museums, tours and cruises that you can take for free with all the discounts they offer, they are there over 100 attractions included in this tourist pass and is therefore very affordable. For this reason, before buying it, try to plan well the things you want to see to understand if the Prague Card is right for you.
The Prague Card is available for 2, 3 or 4 days.
4 - Where to sleep in Prague
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is relatively small for a European capital. However, it has been a popular destination for travelers due to its budget prices, great atmosphere and wonderful architecture.
As things to see in Prague are all more or less close, you will be within walking distance by tram or metro of all major attractions, no matter which neighborhood you decide to stay in.
First-time visitors to the city will appreciate the charm and central location of the Old Quarter: Here you will find the most famous places in Prague such as the Square and the Astronomical Clock.
Across the Vltava River, Little Country, also known as the Lesser Town, offers a calmer atmosphere. It is great for families looking for a quieter environment while remaining in the heart of the city. Here are the Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge.
Despite being more than 700 years old, the area surrounding the Old City is called the Città Nuova. Being located a little further away from the main attractions, it offers cheaper accommodation and will be a perfect choice for backpackers and young travelers. It is also full of restaurants and cafes.
Finally, Vinohrady has recently become the trendiest district in Prague. It has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of dining options including restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to nightlife lovers.
Prague 3 Days Itinerary Map
Below you will find the map of what to do in Prague in 3 days. The same map you can see it here on Google Maps.
