In my opinion, Prague is one of the most charming cities I’ve ever visited, and that’s saying something! Prague, the capital of Czechia, is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires” for its skyline of Gothic churches, Baroque domes, and medieval towers. It’s seen empires rise and fall, and holds a lot of old-world charm thanks to the fact that it was mostly spared during World War II.
Today, Prague is one of the most visited cities on the continent, drawing travelers for its fairy-tale Old Town, iconic Charles Bridge, and the massive Prague Castle complex. I myself have been here multiple times and I fall in love with the storybook aesthetic of the city every time! I put together this Prague travel guide for first-time visitors to cover everything you might need to know to visit Prague. Like where to stay in the Prague city center, how to get around Prague with public transport, and day trips from Prague. Though, you could honestly use this Prague travel guide for a second, third, or fourth trip to make sure you see and try everything!
I promise that this Prague travel guide is all you’ll ever need to visit the Czech capital, including lots of secret information like how to get access to the coveted Klementinum Library, a hidden local park designed to feel like you’re climbing through a coral reef, and more. So let’s get started!
The Best Time to Visit Prague
The best time to visit Prague depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Spring (April–June) is beautiful, with mild weather and blooming gardens—perfect for walking across Charles Bridge without the summer crowds. Fall (September–October) is another great time, with crisp air and colorful foliage around Prague Castle.
Summer is the busiest and the Old Town area definitely gets crowded, but the city has an incredible energy with festivals and long daylight hours. I’ve been to Prague multiple times and have always been here in the summer. There’s no bad or best time to visit Prague; it’s completely up to preference.
Is the Prague Card Worth It?
The Prague Card is a tourist pass that includes entry to major attractions like Prague Castle, the Jewish Museum, and public transportation. Whether it’s worth it depends on how many sights you plan to visit. If you want to pack your Prague itinerary with museums and historic landmarks, the card can save money and time.
I recommend calculating out the value of all the things you want to do and seeing if you can fit those into the allocated time frame of the card. My favorite parts are the unlimited public transport (which saves a lot of hassle) and the fact that you can make guaranteed “reservations” at some popular sights with very limited spots, like the Klementinum Library. If the cost of the Prague Card comes out similarly to or better than all your calculations combined, I would recommend getting it! You can read more specifically about my thoughts on if the Prague Card is worth it and which attractions on the card are worth visiting or not. Purchase the Prague Card here.
🎟️ Read more: The Prague Card: Is It Worth It?
How to Get to Prague & Get Around the City
Prague is well connected by air and rail. The Václav Havel Airport is just 30 minutes from the city center, and there are direct trains from major European cities like Vienna, Berlin, and Budapest.
Once you’re in Prague, getting around is super easy. The city’s public transport system includes trams, buses, and the metro, and tickets are affordable and easy to buy at machines. I found the trams especially convenient—they run often and are an iconic and scenic way to see the city. (Seriously, I couldn’t stop taking photos of every single tram I saw…)
Most of the best things to see in Prague are concentrated in two walkable areas and very close together. You definitely won’t need a car in Prague, trust me!
Where to Stay in Prague
Prague is super centrally located and choosing where to stay really boils down to only a couple of options. Accommodation here is quite affordable, even in the center of touristic areas, and plentiful. The Old Town (Staré Město) puts you right in the heart of the action, with easy access to sights like the Astronomical Clock. Across the Charles Bridge, the Malá Strana is quieter, with charming streets beneath Prague Castle, but still full of sightseeing options.
For something trendy and a little more local, consider Vinohrady, where I like to stay—it has more local food options, is a little quieter and less crowded, has cafes and leafy parks, and has excellent links to the tram and subway system.
If you’re visiting for the first time and only have a few days, I’d recommend Old Town for convenience, but if you prefer a more authentic feel, Vinohrady is a great choice.
Best Accommodation in Old Town Prague (Staré Město)
- Luxury – Fairmont Golden Prague: A heritage-listed, ultra-stylish 5-star hotel located at the entrance to Parizska Boulevard, overlooking the Vltava River.
- Mid-Range – Charles Bridge Palace: A 4-star boutique hotel just steps from Charles Bridge and within easy walking distance to Old Town Square.
- Budget – Old Prague Hotel: Located in an 1895 historic building in the heart of Old Town, offering private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a courtyard or street view.
Best Accommodation in Malá Strana
- Luxury – Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague: A luxe boutique favorite with a stellar (9.0) rating, located right next to Old Town Square and close to Malá Strana’s attractions.
- Mid-Range – MOODs Charles Bridge: A chic 4-star hotel just 300 m from Charles Bridge, offering clean, beautifully furnished rooms and excellent service.
- Budget – Josephine Old Town Square Hotel: This charming option in a historic building is just a minute from Old Town Square and great value.
Best Accommodation in Vinohrady
- Luxury – Le Palais Art Hotel Prague: A refined 5-star boutique hotel housed in a Belle Époque-style palace.
- Mid-Range – Czech Inn: Located in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building roughly 1.5 km from the city center.
- Budget – Hotel Luník: A traditional family-run hotel in a quiet part of the historic center, just 100 m from metro lines and trams. I know the owners and they are so nice!
Where and What to Eat in Prague
I strongly believe that dining is an essential aspect of experiencing travel and a country’s culture. Between aesthetic, historic, and delicious places to eat and drink, there are so many choices in this Prague travel guide!
Cafe Louvre
Cafe Louvre is one of the most historic cafes in the city and a must-visit on any Prague travel guide. It has been frequented by famous historic figures like Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka, and Max Brod, and still carries an old-world charm. I love how they continue the tradition of Czech coffeehouses, offering magazines, books, notepads, chessboards, and more. Plus, it’s still fairly affordable given how famous it is!
Cafe Mozart
If you want to know what to eat in Prague while also having a perfect view of the Astronomical Clock, head to Cafe Mozart right across the plaza. It’s expensive and, honestly, the food isn’t particularly impressive by Prague standards, but you’re paying for the view.
The staff usually won’t let you take a window seat unless you’re a guest at the hotel, but at breakfast time it’s not too crowded. We were able to sit at the window for a while since there weren’t any other guests there! Make sure to be here a few minutes before the hour strikes because that’s when the Astronomical Clock comes to life.
(A)void Cafe
For a more modern vibe, (A)void Cafe sits right on the river with huge circular glass windows that flood the space with natural light. It’s perfect for sipping an aesthetic and delicious minty fruit lemonade while enjoying the view of the Vltava River. The cafe opens at 11:30 AM and fills up quickly, so I’d recommend arriving early if you want a window seat.
Cafe Imperial
Another must on the list of things to do in Prague for food lovers is Cafe Imperial, a stunning Art Nouveau cafe. The interior alone makes it worth a stop, with its tiled walls and vaulted ceilings, and the menu features hearty Czech classics.
🎨 Love Art Nouveau? Me too! I really recommend checking out the Art Nouveau scene in Barcelona, where Antoni Gaudí had a huge influence on the movement. Read my article on how to discover Antoni Gaudí with this Barcelona Art Nouveau route here.
Lore MalaStrana
If you’re craving Italian food in Prague, Lore MalaStrana is a hidden gem. This authentic restaurant in Malá Strana serves fresh pasta and tasty Italian dishes in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels like a nice break from heavy Czech meals. The staff is really nice, the ambiance is great, and the food is absolutely delicious! I scarfed down that seared tuna salad faster than any other meal we had on our trip.
Where to Find the Best Views in Prague
It wouldn’t be the City of a Thousand Spires if you didn’t climb a few to get the view! Whether it’s for sunset or just to appreciate the sweeping sights of the city, this Prague travel guide covers the best places to find a view in Prague.
Terasa U Prince
If you’re looking for the best views in Prague, the rooftop bar Terasa U Prince is the first place you need to go. The rooftop is so pretty and has the best views of the Astronomical Clock tower, Prague Castle, and more. It’s definitely expensive by Prague standards, but the views are worth it! I recommend just getting a drink and taking pictures at the photo corner because dinner here is pretty expensive.
Old Town Hall Tower
The Old Town Hall Tower is one of the most popular spots for sweeping views over Prague. It’s located right in the central square and stands 70 meters tall, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Prague’s endless red rooftops and little alleyways. I definitely recommend it as a viewpoint because it’s so easy to add to your Prague itinerary, and the view is gorgeous!
Entry costs 250 CZK (around $10), but it’s included with the Prague Card, which makes it a convenient stop if you already have the pass.
Petřín Hill and Petřín Tower
For another vantage point, take the funicular up Petřín Hill for the same price as a tram ticket. At the top, you’ll find the Petřín Tower, which looks like a mini Eiffel Tower. Climbing it gives you panoramic views over the city! In the summer, the tower will close before sunset, but you can easily watch the colors change from the top of Petřín Hill. Admission to Petřín Tower is also included in the Prague Card.
🎟️ Read more: The Prague Card: Is It Worth It?
Charles Bridge
Walking across Charles Bridge is a classic Prague travel guide recommendation for good reason. The bridge offers beautiful views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River, especially at sunrise or sunset. Also, it’s completely free!
Since you have to cross the Charles Bridge to get from the Old Town to Malá Strana or vice versa, I recommend walking it a few times. There are so many street musicians, statues, and good photo opportunities!
Where to See Historic Sights in Prague
Prague is so full of ancient history and beautiful old architecture. Because I love classical architecture and old towns, this Prague travel guide is full of wonderful and breathtaking historic sights.
Prague Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is one of the most visited attractions in Prague. Every hour between 9 AM and 11 PM, the clock puts on a short show. I’ll be honest—the show itself isn’t at all impressive, but considering it’s a 15th-century mechanism, I’m more impressed that it still works at all. If you want to take pictures in front of the clock, I recommend avoiding the top of the hour since that’s when it gets the most crowded.
If you want to have a perfect view of the clock but don’t want to deal with standing in the crowd, Cafe Mozart (which I also listed under Where and What to Eat in Prague) is right across the square!
Prague Castle (Pražský Hrad)
No Prague travel guide would be complete without Prague Castle. It’s not actually a singular castle but rather a castle complex, spanning nearly 70,000 square meters and making it the world’s largest ancient castle complex!
The most famous highlight is the St. Vitus Cathedral, the huge soaring church that is Prague Castle’s centerpiece and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Beyond the cathedral, the castle grounds include the Royal Garden, which is free to visit and a good way to see the St. Vitus Cathedral from afar. I also recommend checking out the Gardens Below Prague Castle, which is actually not part of the castle itself and costs an additional small fee of 130 CZK.
Entry to Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral is included in the Prague Card, though you still need to go to the ticket office to claim a physical ticket.
Malá Strana
Known as the “lesser town,” Malá Strana is one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods in Prague. I’m not really sure where the name comes from, as Malá Strana is just as charming and pretty as the Old Town across the river! Its narrow cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and old architecture give it that classic European vibe.
Make sure to walk past the famous John Lennon Wall, where graffiti is not only legal but encouraged, and the Mlyn Hut, a small dock on the water with an ancient water wheel and quirky dwarf statue. You can also explore the “Little Venice” area of Malá Strana and even take a boat tour!
Klementinum Library
One of the most breathtaking historic sights is the Klementinum Library, often called one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe. It’s also one of the oldest, with a dark wood interior, gorgeous frescoed ceilings, and endless Harry Potter vibes. This is hands down one of my favorite places in Prague and I believe everyone should include it on their Prague itinerary! Aside from the library room itself, you’ll also see the room that’s been converted into a camera obscura and views over Prague from the top of the astronomical tower (not to be confused with the Astronomical Clock).
To visit the Klementinum Library, you need to book a full guided tour, limited to 20 people each. I highly recommend booking this online as far in advance as possible because they are extremely limited in quantity. I tried booking around a week in advance and they were already sold out. Alternatively, if you have the Prague Card, you can get a guaranteed timeslot. We would not have been able to visit the Klementinum Library without the Prague Card, which alone made the card worth it for me! If you don’t want to get the card but still want to see the Klementinum Library, you might also be able to get it through a third-party tour like this one with GetYourGuide.
Where to See Contemporary Prague
Prague is more than just history and old cobblestones. Seeing the contemporary and avant-garde side of the city is a must for any Prague travel guide.
Kafka Museum and Peeing Statue
Prague isn’t just about history; it has a playful contemporary side too. The Kafka Museum, though small, has some interesting exhibits on the famous writer, and there’s a very strange statue in the courtyard to boot. It’s a quirky moving statue of two men peeing on a map of the Czech Republic, which I’m always confused by, made by artist David Černý. I recommend coming by to see the Kafka Museum if you like Kafka’s work, and you can always see the “peeing statue” for free outside.
Prague Municipal Library Infinity Book Tower
Located inside the Municipal Library, the Infinity Book Tower is one of the most Instagram-famous sights in Prague. I’m not sure how it became so popular, but there’s always a queue out the door! It’s free to visit and still a really cool optical illusion, however. I recommend going around opening or closing to avoid standing in line too long, though it normally moves pretty quickly.
Dancing House
The Dancing House is one of Prague’s most famous modern buildings, designed to look like two figures dancing. While there’s a glass cafe and a small gallery inside, I found it more worthwhile to just admire the unique curved architecture from outside and take photos from across the street. However, entry is also included in the Prague Card if you’re trying to maximize value.
Rotating Kafka Head and Umbrella Man
For more outdoor contemporary art, the rotating Franz Kafka Head and the Umbrella Man sculpture are both within walking distance of one another. The rotating Franz Kafka Head puts on a 15-minute show every hour, so I recommend trying to time your visit to arrive right before the top of the hour! As for the Umbrella Man, there are actually a couple of dangling umbrella figures sprinkled around the area—see if you can spot them all. These two art pieces are close to one another and show off Prague’s creative side.
Where to Find Hidden Gems in Prague
I love taking a moment to explore more than just the touristy parts of a city. As someone who’s had the privilege of visiting Prague more than once, I’ve been able to explore lots of the hidden gems in the city to add to this Prague travel guide.
Strahov Monastery
If you love historic libraries, Strahov Monastery is a hidden gem that rivals the Klementinum. The monastery has two beautiful library halls and plenty of curious exhibits showing off shells, plants, and more.
The Theological Hall is the most famous room, decorated with stunning frescoes. While you can’t actually enter the halls, you can admire them from the viewing area. Tickets are only sold online, and when I went near closing, it was almost empty—a nice break from the crowds.
Vrtba Garden
Vrtba Garden is a beautiful Baroque garden tucked into the city near the foot of Prague Castle. I’m not sure why it’s such a hidden gem considering it’s smack in the middle of all the best things to see in Prague, but not many people seem to know about this place!
It’s one of the most peaceful hidden gems in Prague and a great place to relax and enjoy manicured greenery. You can also get lovely views over the rest of the town from certain viewpoints.
Havlíčkovy Sady
Located a bit outside the city center, Havlíčkovy Sady is a free park with beautiful fountains, high on a hilltop over Prague. It’s actually pretty popular despite it being a bit further from the touristic center of Prague because a lot of locals come here to hang out and take pictures.
The central fountain and courtyard are a masterpiece of design and the park has an authentic, laid-back vibe. I also recommend stopping by Corner Stories, a nearby cafe, to have a fantastic homemade lemonade and even send yourself a letter—a charming touch you won’t find in most Prague travel guidebooks!
Best Day Trips from Prague
Prague makes a great base for exploring the Czech Republic. Some of the best day trips from Prague include:
- Kutná Hora – Famous for the Sedlec Ossuary (the “bone church”) and its medieval history.
- Český Krumlov – A fairy-tale town with a castle and winding streets; it feels like stepping back in time.
- Karlovy Vary – Known for its spa culture and colorful riverside architecture.
- Terezín – A former fortress and WWII memorial site, deeply moving and historically significant.
I personally loved Český Krumlov—it’s still one of the most touristy places in Czechia, but the charm is undeniable. If you have more than 3 days in Prague, adding a day trip is well worth it.
Prague Travel Tips & FAQs
- How many days in Prague is enough? Three days in Prague is enough for first-time visitors to see the highlights. If you want to dive deeper, four or five days lets you add a day trip or explore neighborhoods beyond the center, which I can’t recommend enough!
- What is the best way to spend 3 days in Prague? A Prague itinerary for 3 days should cover the essentials: day 1 in the Old Town, day 2 at Prague Castle and the Malá Strana, and day 3 exploring contemporary Prague and hidden gems! I recommend leaving time for wandering—the city is full of surprises off the main tourist routes.
- What to eat and drink in Prague? Traditional Czech food is hearty. Dishes like goulash, svíčková (beef with creamy sauce), and the famous trdelník (chimney cake) are everywhere. I would like to specify, however, that trdelník is a tourist food and Czechs do not eat it! Czech lemonades are made with fruit and fresh mint and are offered everywhere—one of my favorite refreshments in the world.
- Do people speak English in Prague? Yes, almost everyone in Prague speaks fluent English! You won’t need to learn any Czech if you don’t want to, though learning a few Czech phrases is always appreciated (and I personally think that’s the least you can do as a visitor to their country!)
- Is Prague expensive? It’s definitely gotten pricier in recent years, but compared to western Europe, Prague is super affordable. A good rule of thumb is that the closer you are to the center of the Old Town, the more expensive everything will be.
- Do you need cash in Prague? While most places take credit card now, I still recommend carrying some local currency (Czech crowns). Smaller shops still might not take card and sometimes the hotel city tax needs to be paid in cash as well. But don’t feel like you need to exchange a large amount!
