Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city rich in history, culture, and beauty. Its winding cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. This detailed three-day itinerary in Prague will guide you through the most enchanting parts of the city, offering recommendations on attractions, accommodations, dining, nightlife, souvenir shopping, and tips on navigating the city safely.

Day 1: Historic Heart of Prague

Morning: Start with Old Town Square

Kick off your first day by visiting Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), the heart of Prague’s historical center. The square is surrounded by stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. Key attractions include:

Astronomical Clock (Orloj): Dating back to 1410, this medieval clock on the Old Town Hall is the oldest operational astronomical clock in the world. Every hour, crowds gather to watch the procession of the Twelve Apostles.
Church of Our Lady before Týn: Dominating the skyline, this Gothic church is an iconic part of the square. Step inside to admire its intricate interior and beautiful altar.
Old Town Hall Tower: For a panoramic view of the city, climb the Old Town Hall Tower. The view from the top, overlooking the square and Prague’s red rooftops, is breathtaking.

Lunch: Traditional Czech Meal at Lokal

For lunch, head to Lokál near Old Town Square. This restaurant serves traditional Czech cuisine in a modern setting. Try Czech classics like Svíčková (marinated beef sirloin in a creamy sauce), goulash, or Vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut). Don’t forget to sample a pint of Pilsner Urquell, the pride of Czech beer.

Afternoon: Explore Charles Bridge and Lesser Town

After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the Charles Bridge (Karlův most), one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. This historic bridge, adorned with 30 Baroque statues, offers stunning views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle. It’s a great spot for photos and a peaceful stroll.

Once across the bridge, you’ll find yourself in Lesser Town (Malá Strana), a charming district with narrow streets, baroque churches, and hidden gardens. Key attractions include:

St. Nicholas Church: A Baroque masterpiece with a stunning interior and an impressive dome.
Lennon Wall: A colorful wall filled with graffiti and Beatles lyrics, symbolizing peace and freedom. It’s a great place for a few pictures.

Evening: Dinner at Kampa Park

For dinner, treat yourself at Kampa Park, a riverside restaurant offering a fine dining experience with a view of the Charles Bridge. The menu is a mix of Czech and international cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood and gourmet dishes. The setting is perfect for a romantic evening or a special dinner.

Day 2: Prague Castle and Beyond

Morning: Prague Castle Complex

Start your second day by exploring the magnificent Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), the largest ancient castle in the world. This historic complex includes palaces, churches, gardens, and museums. Key sites within the castle grounds include:

St. Vitus Cathedral: The centerpiece of the castle complex, this Gothic cathedral is home to stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and the tomb of St. Wenceslas. Be sure to climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
Old Royal Palace: Explore the halls of this ancient palace, including the Vladislav Hall, where coronation banquets and royal events took place.
Golden Lane: A quaint street lined with colorful houses that once housed goldsmiths and castle guards. Today, the houses serve as small museums and souvenir shops.

Lunch: U Černého vola

After exploring the castle, walk down to U Černého vola, a traditional Czech pub located near the castle complex. This cozy spot is famous for its dark beer and hearty pub fare. Order the černé pivo (black beer) and pair it with a plate of pork schnitzel or grilled sausages.

Afternoon: Stroll through Petřín Hill

After lunch, head to Petřín Hill, a green oasis offering scenic walking paths, gardens, and panoramic views of Prague. Key attractions on Petřín Hill include:

Petřín Lookout Tower: Often referred to as Prague’s mini Eiffel Tower, this observation tower offers excellent views of the city. You can either climb the 299 steps or take an elevator to the top.
Mirror Maze: A fun attraction for both kids and adults, the mirror maze is a great stop for some light-hearted entertainment.

You can either walk up Petřín Hill or take the funicular railway from Újezd Station, which adds a bit of fun to the journey.

Evening: Vinohrady District and Dinner at Eska

For dinner, explore Prague’s Vinohrady district, known for its trendy restaurants and cafes. Book a table at Eska, a modern restaurant offering Czech cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their use of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients results in a unique dining experience. Try the fermented potato bread or beetroot tartare.

Day 3: Arts, Culture, and Modern Prague

Morning: Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Begin your last day with a visit to Prague’s Jewish Quarter (Josefov), one of the most important Jewish heritage sites in Europe. Key attractions include:

Old Jewish Cemetery: This hauntingly beautiful cemetery is one of the oldest in Europe, with over 12,000 tombstones dating back to the 15th century.
The Jewish Museum: Comprising six synagogues and other historical buildings, the museum offers a deep dive into the history of Jews in Prague and Europe.
Spanish Synagogue: Known for its stunning Moorish-style architecture, this synagogue is one of the most beautiful in Prague.

Lunch: Café Louvre

For lunch, head to Café Louvre, an elegant café that has been serving intellectuals and artists since 1902, including famous patrons like Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein. The menu offers a mix of Czech and international dishes, and it’s a great place to relax after a morning of sightseeing. Try their traditional Sacher Torte with a coffee.

Afternoon: Modern Art at DOX or National Gallery

Spend your afternoon exploring Prague’s contemporary art scene. Depending on your interests, choose between:

DOX Centre for Contemporary Art: Located in the Holešovice district, DOX is Prague’s leading gallery for contemporary art, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions, installations, and multimedia works.
National Gallery Prague: Spread across several buildings, the National Gallery houses an impressive collection of modern and classical art. The Trade Fair Palace branch is particularly worth visiting for its modern art collection, including works by Picasso and Klimt.

Evening: Nightlife in Prague

End your final day by experiencing Prague’s vibrant nightlife. For a more traditional vibe, check out:

Hemingway Bar: One of the best cocktail bars in Prague, offering a wide range of creative drinks in a sophisticated setting. Their absinthe cocktails are particularly popular.
Karlovy Lázně: If you’re in the mood to dance, this multi-level nightclub is the place to be. With five different floors, each playing different genres of music, it’s one of the largest clubs in Europe.
Cross Club: For an alternative night out, head to Cross Club, known for its eclectic mix of electronic music and its steampunk-inspired decor.

Where to Stay in Prague

Prague offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury: Stay at the Four Seasons Prague, located in the heart of Old Town, offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River.
Mid-Range: Hotel Pod Věží in Lesser Town is a great option for those seeking comfort and convenience. It’s located just steps away from the Charles Bridge.
Budget: Hostel One Prague in the Žižkov district is a popular choice for budget travelers. It offers a friendly atmosphere, clean rooms, and great social events.

Places to Eat in Prague

Breakfast: Café Savoy – A beautiful art nouveau café offering a lavish breakfast menu with a mix of Czech and European dishes.
Casual Dining: Maitrea – A vegetarian restaurant near Old Town Square, serving creative and delicious dishes with a Czech twist.
Street Food: Sisters Bistro – Known for its modern take on Chlebíčky, traditional Czech open-faced sandwiches.

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Prague

Old Town and Charles Bridge: You’ll find a wide range of souvenir shops selling classic Czech souvenirs such as Czech crystal glassware, garnet jewelry, and wooden toys.
Havel’s Market: Located near Wenceslas Square, this bustling market is a great place to shop for handmade crafts, leather goods, and traditional Czech marionettes.
Manufaktura: A chain store specializing in Czech-made products such as cosmetics, ceramics, and wooden toys.

Recommended Souvenirs:

Czech Garnet Jewelry: Garnet is a traditional gemstone of the Czech Republic, and you’ll find beautiful rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Bohemian Crystal: Czech glassware is world-renowned, and a set of crystal glasses or vases makes a beautiful gift.
Marionettes: Handcrafted marionettes are a unique Czech tradition and a whimsical souvenir to take home.

How to Navigate Prague

Prague’s public transportation system is efficient and easy to use. The metro, trams, and buses cover all the main areas of the city. You can purchase tickets at metro stations, ticket machines, or convenience stores. A single ticket allows you to use any combination of transportation within a time frame (30-minute, 90-minute, or 24-hour passes).

Walking: Many of Prague’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old Town, Lesser Town, and Castle District.
Trams: The tram system is extensive, and trams 22 and 23 are particularly useful for sightseeing as they pass many key attractions, including Prague Castle.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Avoid hailing taxis from the street as overcharging can be an issue. Instead, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt, which are widely available in Prague.

Personal Safety in Prague

Prague is generally a very safe city, but like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay alert, particularly in crowded areas. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Pickpocketing: Pickpocketing can be a problem in busy tourist areas such as Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and public transportation. Keep your belongings close, especially in crowds.
Currency Scams: Always exchange money at official exchange offices or withdraw from bank ATMs. Avoid street vendors offering “good rates” as these can be scams.
Emergency Numbers: The general emergency number is 112. For police, call 158, for medical emergencies 155, and for fire services 150.

General Tips for Visiting Prague

Currency: The local currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). While some places accept euros, it’s better to pay in koruna to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Language: Czech is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Czech phrases like “Dobrý den” (Hello) and “Děkuji” (Thank you) is always appreciated.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants (about 10%). However, some places may automatically include a service charge.
Weather: Prague has a temperate climate, so depending on the time of year, pack accordingly. Summers are warm, but winters can be cold, with snow occasionally falling in December and January.

Conclusion

Prague is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant, modern culture. Whether you’re wandering through medieval squares, dining in modern restaurants, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Prague offers something for every traveler. This three-day itinerary captures the best of the city’s attractions, activities, dining, and cultural experiences, ensuring that your visit to the “City of a Hundred Spires” will be memorable.