I just got back from an incredible two days in Prague, and let me tell you, it was a whirlwind of charm and history. I can’t wait to share all the highlights with you! Now, I’ll be honest—two days is nowhere near enough to see everything this city has to offer. I’m already planning my next trip back because there’s just so much more to explore. But for now, let me take you through the must-sees and must-dos that made my short stay absolutely unforgettable. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Prague is the capital and largest city in the Czech Republic, with a population of over 1.3 million residents within the city limits. Situated on the Vltava River, city is located in central Bohemia and has served as the political, cultural, and economic center of the region for over 1,100 years.
The area was settled as early as the 5th century, growing into an important trade hub within the Holy Roman Empire. Prague began to flourish during the 14th-century reign of Charles IV, who transformed the city into the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire. Many of city’s most iconic landmarks, including Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square, were established during this golden age.
Throughout its history, Prague emerged relatively unscathed from wars and invasions, allowing it to preserve its medieval core and architecture. As a result, the historic center of Prague was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The city is renowned for its Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, stunning castles, concert halls, gardens, and uniquely preserved old-world charm.
In addition to its well-preserved architecture, city is also known for its cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, beer culture, and status as a major European city. It has produced famous writers Franz Kafka and Milan Kundera and composers like Smetana, Dvořák and Janáček. Prague offers a lively mix of history, culture, cuisine, and entertainment drawing over 8 million visitors per year.
Getting To/Around Prague
Prague is easy to navigate as a tourist. The main airport is Václav Havel Airport, located just outside the city center. It’s a hub for many European carriers. You can take a bus, train, taxi, or rideshare into the city from the airport.
Public transportation in Prague consists of buses, trams, the metro, and commuter rail. An integrated system of subway, trams, and buses can get you pretty much anywhere you want to go. Buy tickets at metro stations, tobacco kiosks, or via SMS. Validate tickets onboard vehicles or at metro entrances.
Taxis are affordable, especially for shorter rides. Look for official taxis with visible registration and pricing. It’s easy to walk between sights in compact districts like Prague 1 and Malá Strana. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be hard on your feet. Just beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
Where to Stay in Prague
During our stay in Prague, we enjoyed the comfort of the Sheraton using our points, which was a fantastic experience. However, Prague offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a neighborhood guide with recommendations for hotels, Airbnbs, hostels, and more.
Old Town
The historic heart of Prague, Old Town is centrally located making it a convenient base. Accommodation tends to be more expensive here, but you’ll be steps away from Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and other top attractions. Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Kings Court – Luxurious 5-star hotel in a heritage building overlooking the river. Offers fine dining and a spa.
- Old Town Square Hotel – 4-star boutique hotel right on Old Town Square. Elegant rooms with views of the astronomical clock.
Great for Airbnb apartments overlooking the square or nestled in the winding cobblestone streets.
Hostel: Madhouse Prague for its social atmosphere.
New Town
Slightly quieter than Old Town but still very central, with Wenceslas Square and the National Museum. More local neighborhood feel. Good mix of accommodation options. Recommended Hotels:
- Art Deco Imperial Hotel – Historic 5-star hotel near the National Museum.
- Hotel Yasmin – Affordable 4-star hotel in a great location. Stylish rooms and decor.
Airbnb is a great option to stay in the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings.
Hostel: Sophie’s Hostel for location, amenities and friendly vibe.
Lesser Town
Just across the river from Old Town, Lesser Town (Mala Strana) is charming and peaceful. Close to the castle while being less touristy. Limited hotel options but lots of Airbnb rentals. Recommended Hotel:
- Hotel Savoy – Small boutique hotel in a 14th-century building. Rooftop lounge with castle views.
AirBnb is ideal for staying in Baroque-style apartments with river views.
Hostel: Little Quarter Hostel for its cozy communal areas.
Holešovice & Vinohrady
For a more local neighborhood vibe, consider staying in Holešovice north of the river or Vinohrady to the east. Fewer tourist crowds, better prices, and close to cafes and restaurants. Easy metro access to the sights.Great area for Airbnb rentals.
Hostels: Sir Toby’s Hostel in Holešovice or Czech Inn in Vinohrady.
Top Things To Do
Prague’s Old Town Square is a must-see for any first-time visitor. This historic square contains many of Prague’s most popular attractions, including the Old Town Hall with its famous astronomical clock, the imposing Týn Church, and dozens of colorful baroque buildings. Don’t miss watching the astronomical clock chime on the hour – it’s quite a spectacle!
No trip to Prague is complete without visiting the sprawling Prague Castle complex. Dating back to the 9th century, this is the largest ancient castle in the world. Be sure to explore St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and Golden Lane. Try to catch the changing of the guard ceremony for great photos.
Crossing the iconic Charles Bridge is a quintessential Prague experience. This 14th-century stone bridge features 30 Baroque statues of saints and provides picture-perfect views of Prague Castle. Browse the artisans and buskers as you stroll across. Be sure to make a wish at the John of Nepomuk statue!
Prague’s Jewish Quarter in Josefov is a must-visit. This historic area includes six synagogues, a Jewish cemetery, and the sobering Pinkas Synagogue memorial. Don’t miss the striking Spanish Synagogue and the medieval Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the most remarkable sights in Europe.
Lesser-Known Gems
Prague is filled with popular tourist attractions like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. But if you want to get off the beaten path, here are some lesser-known gems to check out:
Vyšehrad
Vyšehrad is a historic fort located on the banks of the Vltava River just south of Old Town. It contains the Vyšehrad Cemetery where many famous Czech composers, artists, and writers are buried. Be sure to see the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul and take in the views of the Prague skyline from the fortress walls. The beautiful, quiet setting makes it feel like a world away from the bustling city center.
Petřín Lookout Tower
For amazing city views without the crowds of the Eiffel Tower-like Petřín Tower, head to the nearby Petřín Lookout Tower. This skeletal metal tower looks like a mini Eiffel Tower and offers panoramic views over Prague from its top. Entrance is free and it’s much quieter than Petřín Tower.
John Lennon Wall
This colorful graffiti-filled wall in Malá Strana started as a tribute to John Lennon but has evolved to represent peace and free speech. Today the wall is filled with inspiring lyrics, drawings, and messages painted over in bright colors. It’s a fun, quirky place to visit and feel the energy of the city’s youth and art scene. Bring some spray paint and leave your own mark!
Museums & Galleries
Prague has a thriving museum and gallery scene with something for all interests. Three of the top museums to visit are:
National Museum
The National Museum in Prague is a must-see located on the upper part of Wenceslas Square. This museum houses collections covering mineralogy, paleontology, mycology, entomology, botany, zoology, anthropology, and archaeology. Some of the highlights include the Czech crown jewels, an extensive mineralogy exhibit with meteorites and gems, and a large paleontology section with dinosaur skeletons. Don’t miss the pantheon, a beautiful domed space with paintings of famous Czech scholars and scientists.
Mucha Museum
Dedicated to the life and work of the Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha, this museum is a treat for art lovers. See a comprehensive collection of Mucha’s paintings, illustrations, advertisements, and photographs. Standouts include his famous “Four Seasons” paintings and iconic JOB cigarette advertisements. The museum is located near Wenceslas Square and provides a fascinating look at Mucha’s career.
Kafka Museum
For literature buffs, the Kafka Museum in Malá Strana is a must-see. This exhibit covers the life and work of famous Prague author Franz Kafka through documents, photographs, and illustrations. See handwritten excerpts from his novels and letters to family and friends. There are also multimedia displays and visual representations of Kafka’s writings. It’s a great way to learn more about one of Prague’s most influential authors.
With world-class museums and galleries, Prague offers something to pique any interest. Don’t miss these top three destinations covering Czech culture, history, art, and literature.
Eating & Drinking in Prague
Prague’s culinary scene reflects both traditional Czech fare and contemporary cuisine.
Czech Cuisine
Czech cuisine showcases meat, potatoes, and root vegetables. Popular dishes include:
- Svíčková – Sirloin beef braised in sauce with dumplings, carrots, and cream.
- Vepřo knedlo zelo – Roast pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut.
- Bramboráky – Potato pancakes, often served as a side or snack.
- Guláš – A stew with beef or pork and vegetables like carrots and parsley.
While Czech cuisine may seem heavy, many restaurants in Prague put modern twists on classics. New influences include lighter ingredients and global flavors.
Restaurant Recommendations
Prague offers excellent dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Top picks include:
- Cafe Imperial – Elegant art nouveau restaurant featuring gourmet Czech cuisine.
- Field – Farm-to-table restaurant with a seasonal menu and relaxed vibe.
- Sansho – Highly-rated Asian fusion restaurant led by chef Paul Day.
- Maso A Kobliha – Casual eatery specializing in burgers and doughnuts.
- Dish {fine burger bistro} – Gourmet burgers made from locally sourced ingredients.
Prague Beer Guide
As the birthplace of Pilsner, Prague takes its beer seriously. Top beers to try include:
- Pilsner Urquell – The original pilsner lager, brewed in Plzeň. Crisp, refreshing, and hoppy.
- Budvar – Smooth Czech lager with mild sweetness.
- Staropramen – Prague’s most popular beer, clean-tasting with citrus notes.
- Kozel – A flavorful, medium-bodied Czech dark lager.
Beer halls like U Fleků serve beer straight from the barrel, accompanied by hearty Czech fare. Microbreweries are also popular, offering small-batch brews and taprooms.
Nightlife in Prague
Prague’s nightlife is legendary, with a lively mix of trendy cocktail bars, traditional Czech pubs, and pumping nightclubs. The city comes alive at night, with no shortage of options to drink, dance, and have fun into the early hours.
Best areas for nightlife
Some of the top areas for nightlife in Prague include:
- Old Town (Staré Město) – The historic heart of Prague, centered around Old Town Square, has a buzzing bar scene along its winding cobblestone lanes. Head to bars like Hemingway Bar for delicious cocktails.
- Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) – Prague’s main square offers a mix of pubs, lounges and late-night clubs, drawing a young crowd. Must-visit spots include Lucerna Music Bar and Retro Music Hall.
- Karlin – An up-and-coming district just northwest of the city center, Karlin has trendy warehouse-style bars and clubs along Křižíkova street. Try popular spots like Klarov and Mecca.
- Letná Park – On the hill above the river, this large green space has beer gardens with stunning city views that get lively at night. Check out Letenský zámeček Beer Garden.
Bar and club recommendations
Some top picks for nightlife in Prague include:
- Hemingway Bar – Intimate, sophisticated cocktail bar serving hand-crafted drinks in a wood-lined space.
- Cross Club – Multi-level industrial-chic club hosting DJs and live music across different spaces and an outdoor garden.
- Ankali – Minimalist nightclub with a focus on techno, house, and experimental electronic music in a huge warehouse interior.
- U Sudu – Lively pub with nightly live music, cheap beer, and a fun local crowd, popular with students and backpackers.
- Roxy – Legendary club located in a converted movie theater, renowned for electronic dance music and impressive light shows.
- James Dean – Cool retro-themed rock bar with delicious burgers and regular live rock and blues bands.
No matter your taste, Prague promises an unforgettable night out for party-goers. Don’t miss experiencing the city after dark.
Day Trip Ideas from Prague
One of the best parts of visiting Prague is taking day trips to see incredible nearby sights. Here are some top day trip options to consider from Prague:
Kutná Hora
Kutná Hora is a medieval town about an hour outside of Prague by train. It was an important silver mining center in the 14th century and has a fascinating history. The main attraction is the eerie Sedlec Ossuary, decorated with human bones. Other highlights include St. Barbara’s Cathedral, the Italian Court, and the Stone House. Kutná Hora makes for an easy and rewarding day trip from Prague.
Karlštejn Castle
Karlštejn Castle is a Gothic castle built in the 14th century by Charles IV. It’s located about 30 km from Prague and can be reached by train and bus. This fairy-tale castle is perched on a hilltop surrounded by forests and boasts impressive architecture like the Marian Tower and the Great Hall. Walking tours of the castle are available. The peaceful surrounding village is also fun to explore.
Český Krumlov
Český Krumlov is often called the medieval jewel of Bohemia. This remarkably preserved town is situated on the Vltava River and has a stunning castle complex. It’s about a 3 hour bus ride from Prague. Key sights include the Old Town, Castle Museum, Tower, and Gardens. Meander the charming streets, shop for crafts, and dine at riverside restaurants. Český Krumlov is a can’t-miss day trip for history and architecture lovers.
Itinerary Ideas
Prague is a very walkable city, making it easy to see the top sights in just 2 days. Here’s a suggested 2 day itinerary to maximize your time:
Day 1
Spend your first day exploring Old Town, Malá Strana, and Prague Castle. Start your morning at Old Town Square to see the Astronomical Clock Tower and gothic Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. From there, walk across the iconic Charles Bridge into Malá Strana. Admire the architecture and stop to listen to the classical musicians that line the bridge.
In Malá Strana, wander the quaint streets up to Prague Castle. Be sure to allot 2-3 hours to tour the castle complex. Highlights include St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and Golden Lane.
Afterward, walk back over the Charles Bridge around sunset for magical views. Spend your evening in Old Town dining at one of the many delicious restaurants and checking out the nightlife.
Day 2
On your second day, explore the neighborhoods of New Town and Vyšehrad. Start at Wenceslas Square in New Town, the site of the Velvet Revolution. From there, walk through tree-lined streets like Vinohradská Avenue to the main train station.
Make your way south to Vyšehrad Park and fortress along the Vltava River. Tour the grounds and take in panoramic views of the city. Spend the rest of your afternoon wandering through the Jewish Quarter. Don’t miss highlights like the Old Jewish Cemetery and Spanish Synagogue. Finish up your stay with a final Czech meal and beer in Old Town!
Conclusion
As our time in Prague comes to a close, we are left with a bittersweet feeling. Two days simply flew by, and yet, I know there’s still so much left to discover in this captivating city. Prague has a way of enchanting you with its history, architecture, and warm hospitality, leaving you eager for more.
Although our visit was short, we managed to experience some of Prague’s iconic sights and flavors, and it only fueled my desire to return. From strolling across Charles Bridge to savoring hearty Czech cuisine, every moment was filled with joy and wonder.
So, here’s to the promise of another visit—where we’ll delve deeper into Prague’s hidden gems, uncover more of its stories, and create new memories. Until next time, Prague! We’ll be back soon for more adventures.
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