places to visit in prague in 1 day

One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Prague: What to See if Short on Time

November 11, 2023 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

What to See, Do & Eat & Pack with Just 24 Hours in Prague

Prague has quickly grown from being a little-known Europe city to one of the biggest hot-spots in Europe, atop many a traveler’s must-see list. It’s easy to see why, with a rich history that was battle-strewn and full of conflicts through the 20th century and an old town area that is a Gothic and Baroque beauty.

Then there’s the Czech cuisine…and the beer…and that impressive castle. All this makes the idea of figuring out what to see when you have just one day in Prague a daunting experience. But with some determination, you can see a lot of the city and get a feel for the culture even when short on time, and you’re in the right place to figure out exactly how to put together the 1-day in Prague itinerary that’s ideal for you!

Table of Contents T op 10 Experiences in Prague One Day in Prague Recommended Itinerary Alternate Ideas: More to Do Prague Dining Prague Nightlife Where to Stay in Prague Getting to Prague Prague Transportation

Top 10 Experiences in Prague

• Prague Castle

St. Vitus Cathedral

• Petrin Lookout Tower
• St. Lawrence Cathedral
• Old Town Square
• Old Jewish Cemetery
• Pinkas Synagogue

Infant Jesus of Prague

Charles bridge, lennon wall.

One Day in Prague Recommended Itinerary

For the optimal itinerary to experience a wide range of Prague in a short amount of time – and especially for those who are visiting Prague for the first time, here is how you should spend your day in Prague, starting at one of my favorite places: Prague Castle.

Psst…additional things to do depending on special interests you may have are listed after the recommended itinerary so you can create a 1-day in Prague itinerary that’s perfect for you !

What to See at Prague Castle

Visiting Prague Castle isn’t just touring the remains of an actual castle. Prague Castle actually refers to the components of a walled compound located high on a hill above Prague’s old town area, and is the largest castle complex in the world. Within the walls are cathedrals and chapels, old government buildings, a former residential area, and a palace. Prague Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and construction on Prague Castle is believed to have been started around 880 by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty. From the 10 th century onward, Prague Castle served as the seat of the ruler plus the archbishop of Prague.

Here’s what you’ll see when touring the Prague Castle area:

St. George’s Basilica

St. George’s Basilica is the oldest church still standing in Prague Castle and was founded by Prince Vratislav I at the beginning of the 10 th century. St. George’s Basilica houses the tombs of the basilica’s builder and many monarchs and has walls featuring fading frescoes that are still beautiful to behold.

• Crypt – Head down the stairs behind the altar to enter a 12 th century crypt with a Baroque grill and Romanesque columns; plus look for the eerie statue of a decomposing body that will be to your right and which was put there to remind how transient life is.
• Frescoes – While touring St. George’s Basilica, take note of the old fading frescoes on the walls and ceiling.
• The Altar of St. George’s Basilica – Unlike many places of worship, at Basilica of St. George, you can go up on the altar and look out at the pews.
• St. John Altar – The St. John Altar is also an interesting room to visit in the Basilica St. George, as it has an array of paintings telling the story of St. John and also has a box with the remains of a nun.

St. Vitus Cathedralis notable for being the largest church in the Czech Republic. It is of Roman Catholic faith and is the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. Inside the Gothic architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral are the tombs of past Bohemian kings plus St. John of Nepomuk. Peter Parler, a renowned Gothic architect, was commissioned to create much of the cathedral’s design and his designs made the cathedral an important part of today’s historic Gothic buildings. While touring St. Vitus Cathedral, you’ll also see amazing sculptures, artwork, and an ancient chapel, including:

• Wooden Altar – Located on the left side of the cathedral is a large wooden altar created by sculptor František Bílek and which features a relief of the crucifixion.
• East End of S. Vitus – This eastern end of St. Vitus cathedral is located behind the main altar and consists of royal tombs of the Hapsburg dynasty. The east end of St. Vitus Cathedral is also the more gothic part of the building. The cathedral was damaged by fire and looted in the 1500s and 1600s; as a result, another notable aspect of the east end is seeing one of the cannons that hit the castle hanging from a pillar.
• Silver Tomb of St. John of Nepomuk – The burial place of St. John of Nepomuk is located in St. Vitus Cathedral. St. John of Nepomuk is a national saint of the Czech Republic and was was killed via drowning in 1393 under the order of King Wenceslas due to St. John’s failure to divulge the confessions of the queen. Due to how he died, St. John of Nepomuk is considered to be a protector against floods.
• St. Wenceslas Chapel – This chapel of the cathedral has exceptional spiritual importance. It was on this site Charles IV started building the St. Vitus Cathedral, making it the oldest part of the cathedral. The frescoes date back to the 1300s. Make sure you turn left when passing the chapel for a frontal view of St. Wenceslas Chapel. 
• Stained Glass Murals – When leaving St. Vitus Cathedral, look for the last stained glass picture, which depicts the descent of the Holy Spirit. 

Old Royal Palace

This stone Romanesque Palace served as the seat of rulers of Bohemia from the 12 th century until the Czech independence, as well as the place of residence for kings for many of those centuries. The Habsburgs were last rulers who were seated here. Top aspects of the Old Royal Palace include:

• Vladislav Hall – This magnificent hall was used for banquets, royal meetings, and even jousting tournaments conducted indoors – which gives you an idea just how large the hall is. Vladislav Hall also features an impressive late-Gothic vaulted ceiling. In Vladislav Hall, also be sure to veer to the right out onto the balcony at the end of the hall for a great view of Prague. 
• The Riders Staircase – The exit from Vladislav Hall takes you down the Riders Staircase, which still features the wide, much worn down stairs that were used as the entrance for knights to enter Vladislav Hall on horseback for jousting tournaments.
• Ludwig Wing – Built in the early 1500s, the Ludwig Wing is the oldest building in Bohemia that has a completely Renaissance façade and it consists of two rooms.
• Chapel of All Saints – Built onto the eastern side of the Old Royal Palace is the Chapel of All Saints, a palace chapel consecrated in 1185. The tomb of St. Procopius is housed in the chapel and paintings depicting his life decorate the walls.

Golden Lane

Originally part of the defensive walls of Prague Castle, Golden Lane became a home for citizens of Prague beginning in the 16 h century. The first inhabitants of the rooms in the wall are believed to have been goldsmiths, and the lane was called Zlatnická ulička, meaning Goldsmith’s Lane.

In the late 1500s, the wall was remodeled, turning the rooms into today’s structure and the street into “Golden Lane”. The homes, as you’ll see, are incredibly small. These tiny – often just one room – houses were lived in by citizens, including famed writer Frank Kafka, until after World War II, when the Office of the Czechoslovak President appropriated the homes from their owners.

Today, Golden Lane can be visited as part of the ticket to see Prague Castle. It’s a colorful street and is fun to walk along and poke your head into the tiny houses and marvel at how cramped they must have been to live in. Many of the houses are home to shops that you can get a souvenir in, including a copy of the book Frank Kafka wrote while living in House #22 from 1916 to 1917. Other notable houses and sights of Golden Lane include:

• House #13 – Residence of the Red Artilleryman: This house on Golden Lane reflects a time during the late Renaissance when the defense of Prague Castle was in the hands of the guards, who were called “the Red Artillerymen” due to the red color of their uniforms. This house is set up to show what their accommodations would have liked like, plus examples of their uniform, and is worth stepping into to see.
• House #14 – This was the home of fortune-teller Madame de Thebes, who lived in the house from 1918 until her death after World War II, when it is said she was executed for predicting the death of Hitler. 
• Armor and Torture – After exploring the houses, don’t miss walking all the way to the far end of Golden Lane (follow the numbers up) where you’ll see a small courtyard with old artillery in it where kids will enjoy playing on the equipment. After looking at the artillery, enter the door to the right of the courtyard and head up the stairs of Daliborka Tower toward the Torture Chamber, which houses medieval methods of torture and is not for the faint of heart. Along these stairs, you’ll also have the chance to see swords, coat of arms, and armor from past centuries, including children armor.

Petrin Tower

The Petrin Lookout Tower resembles a miniature Eiffel Tower, though one that is still high enough you can go up in it for fantastic views of Prague. Located atop Petrin Hill, the Petrin Lookout Tower is also scenic to get to.

Take the 20 minute walk there from Prague Castle or maneuver yourself over to Újezd Street and take the funicular to the top of the hill. The funicular only takes a few minutes and you can use the same day ticket or pass you have for the Prague metro.

From the top of Petrin Lookout Tower, you can see an aerial view of nearby Lawrence Cathedral plus the Charles Bridge.

Cathedral of St. Lawrence

Located on Petrin Hill by Petrin Lookout Tower, the Cathedral of St. Lawrence is small in scale, yet impressive in history and is the principle church of the Czech Old Catholic Church in the Czech Republic. The inside of the cathedral can be viewed through a gated door. It has white washed walls and simple pews. The altar is adorned with unassuming jars and a simple cross.

Though this may not sound grand compared to other sights in Prague, the church stands out due to its difference in opulence compared to most European churches. The exterior has a terracotta color to the walls with a few statues proudly erected next to the church. The lookout tower is 299 stairs – the lift is extra.

The Cathedral of St. Lawrence has a rich history as well as the church is said to be built on the ground where Pagan ceremonies took place and fire burned there was said to have images and faces the flames. The original church was built in 1135 and then remodeled into the Baroque church it is today in the 1700s.

Located in Prague’s Our Lady of Victorious Church is the famous statue, the Infant Jesus of Prague. The statue is believed to have been created by a monk after the infant Jesus appeared to him and the Infant Jesus of Prague was carved based on the likeness of the apparition the monk saw. It is believed that after the Infant Jesus of Prague was repaired in the 1600s (after being damaged in the Thirty Years War) that the statue brought prosperity and protection to Prague and its people as well as having been said to conduct miracles.

When viewing the Infant Jesus of Prague, you’ll see it adorned in a robe and crown – the robes and crowns are often changed so that the Infant Jesus of Prague is wearing colors that correlate to the liturgical season. Take time to head up the stairs to the museum of the church, which showcases the Infant Jesus statue’s different elaborate robes and crowns, which were gifts bestowed upon the statue, such as a beautiful oriental robe from Vietnam gifted in the 1900s.

Do you like the Beatles? (Ok, really, who doesn’t like the Beatles?) Then stop by Lennon Wall in the Lesser Quarter before crossing the river to Old Town. During the communist era in the 1980s, the Lennon Wall served as a place for political propaganda as the original painting to be applied to the wall depicted John Lennon along with lyrics from the Beatles’ songs.

Western pop music was banned in Prague and though police continued to cover up the painting, those who longed for political change in Prague continued to paint the wall to get their message out. Today, the Lennon Wall is constantly changing as artists and visitors to the wall add their special touch. Images and words promoting peace and harmony decorate the wall in a fluid and colorful manner.

After visiting the Lennon Wall, it’s time to head across the river to the other side of Prague, which you should do via Charles Bridge, a Prague landmark in and of itself.

You won’t find cars on the Charles Bridge. Instead what you’ll find is a gorgeous pedestrian bridge that was built in the 14 th century and features bronze statues and spectacular views to witness during the walk across it. The Charles Bridge was built in 1357 after being commissioned by King Charles IV. The bridge was designed by Peter Parler, the famous architect who also designed St. Vitus Cathedral; however, the statues weren’t part of the original design and were added a few centuries later to make the bridge more ornamental.

Just as when it was originally built, the Charles Bridge’s main purpose today is to connect the two sides of Prague bordering the Vlatva River. When crossing the Charles Bridge, keep an eye out for the famous St. John of Nepomuk statue, which you’ll notice due to the ring of stars surrounding the head of the statue. This statue is also frequently touched by visitors as it is said to bring you good luck and a return visit to Prague someday. 

Old Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum is made up of six different sites in the Jewish Quarter of Prague. 

The Maisel Synagogue – Built in 1590, the Maisel Synagogue originally reflected Renaissance architecture, but after a devastating fire in 1689, the synagogue was rebuilt in the Baroque style. Today, visitors can appreciate the look and style of Maisel Synagogue while touring the History of the Jews of Bohemia and Moravia exhibit housed in it. The exhibit includes information and artifacts from the 10th through 18th centuries. In addition to exhibitions, the Maisel Synagogue is also used as a depository. 

The Spanish Synagogue – Inside the Moorish-style Spanish Synagogue, you’ll find the second part of the History of the Jews of Bohemia and Moravia exhibit, now focusing on the history of the emancipation to present time. Documents, books, and portraits help explain history, including the emancipation process, Zionism, and prominent figures of the Jewish community in Prague from the 18th century through today. A section of the exhibit also focuses on the Holocaust of Bohemian and Moravian Jews. The Spanish Synagogue itself is very historic as it was built in 1868 on the site of the oldest Jewish house of prayer in Prague. 

The Pinkas Synagogue – The 16th century built Pinkas Synagogue was turned into a memorial after World War II and lists the names of all Bohemian and Moravian Jews killed during the Holocaust. It is a haunting and moving walk through the memorial. At the end, another room in the Pinkas Synagogue houses the heart-wrenching exhibit of Children’s Drawings from Terezin. The exhibit features paintings drawn by children living in the Terezin ghetto before being transferred to concentration camps between 1942-1944. The paintings were the result of a secret education system for children at Terezin and the art method was used for children to express themselves as a form of therapy to help them deal with the harsh conditions of life in the ghetto. The paintings were saved by being stowed away in a hidden briefcase that was retrieved after the war ended. Sadly, many of the young artists of the paintings died in Auschwitz. The paintings of their feelings before being shipped to the concentration camp reflect pain, fear, confusion, and even signs of hope and happiness. 

Short on Time Tip: Even if you have to skip other parts, The Pinkas Synagogue is a part of the Jewish museum that should not be missed. 

The Old Cemetery – The Old Cemetery is a massive graveyard of teetering, toppled over, and stacked grave stones – many of which are unmarked. One tombstone that is known is that of Avigdor Karo, a scholar and poet buried in the Old Cemetery whose tombstone dates back to 1439. A path winds you along the perimeter of the curving graveyard that gets its chaotic appearance from the upward expansion of the graveyard. Since expanding outward was not an option, new layers of earth would be added on top of the existing graveyard. This process was done multiple times and over the years the older gravestones have pushed up to the new layers. The result is a mystifying display of tombstones pointing in every direction, many right next to each other or on top of each other. Burials stopped being performed in 1787, but before that occurred, over 12,000 people were buried there including scholar and teacher Judah Loew ben Bezalel, 16 th century mayor of the Prague Jewish community Mordechai Maisel, rabbi David Oppenheim, historian Joseph Solomon Delmedigo, and mathematician and astronomer David Gans.

The Klausen Synagogue – The Klausen Synagogue is a small synagogue built in 1604 housing an exhibition on Jewish customs and traditions. The exhibit has artifacts and objects so visitors learn more on the Jewish way of life, including weddings, births, bar mitzvahs, and more.  The Ceremonial Hall – This Romanesque-style hall is a newer addition to the buildings that make up the Jewish Museum. Built in 1911 to house the Ceremonial Hall and mortuary of the Old Jewish Ceremony, today the building is used as an exhibit hall for the second part of the Jewish Customs and Tradition exhibit (continued on from the Klausen Synagogue). 

Old Town Prague

Old Town Square is the main square of Prague and home to some of the city’s most iconic sites. To access the square, get off at the Staromětská metro stop and head southeast along Kaprova Street to get to the square.

The main thing to see in the square is the Astronomical Clock on Old Town City Hall.

Old Town City Hall and Astronomical Clock

You can’t miss the impressive astronomical clock on the side of Old Town City Hall during your one day in Prague.

This Gothic building dates back to the 13 th century and is one of Prague’s most recognizable landmarks, mostly know for the impressive astronomical clock on the side of its tower. The clock is the oldest of its kind in Europe, having been built in 1410. Each hour on the hour, the clock marks the time with a figurine procession. Old Town City Hall also has a tower you can climb up for a view of the square.

Short on Time Tip: Skip the tower and get to the clock watching 10-15 minutes early so you get a good spot as the square gets pretty crowded for the clock display.  

Other neat things to see in the square include:

Rococo Kinsky Palace – This beautiful Rococo building has a historic past – its balcony was where communist leader Klement Gottwald gave a speech in 1948 proclaiming the dawn of a communist state.

Tyn Cathedral – This Gothic cathedral stands out in Old Town Square thanks to the dark spires coming out of its towers.

Baroque St. Nicholas Church – This church was created in a beautiful Baroque architecture style with frescoes decorating the stucco inside.

More Things to Do During Your Day in Prague

Visiting the above recommended sites will give you a great feel for the history and culture of Prague in just one day. Adding more into the day would really rush things, and you want to enjoy your time at each site. However, since not everyone places similar value on the same types of attractions when traveling, here are some additional suggestions of some of the other top sites in Prague you may enjoy substituting into your day. Or, if you find yourself with extra time to spend in Prague, these can be done on a second or third day spent in the city.

National Monument in Vitkov

The National Monument in Vitkov is part of the National Museum of Prague and is located on top of Vitkov Hill, a beautiful area of Prague that has been documented in Prague’s history since the 1400s. After the independent Czechoslovak state was declared in 1918, the state wanted to build monuments and memorials in commemoration of the event. The National Monument in Vitkov was one such project and began being built in the 1920s after a contest for the design of the monument was conducted. The main components of the monument include:

• Ceremonial Hall – This hall features historical emblems and mosaics. It was originally crafted to be used for celebrations and thus has a podium at one end.
• Statue of Jan Zizka of Trocnov on Horseback – This impressive statue was unveiled in 1950 – the anniversary of the Battle of Vitkov – after being crafted for 10 years.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – Placed in the monument in 1949, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is of both historical and symbolic importance to Prague and is located underneath the Jan Zizka of Trocnov statue.
• Chapel of the Fallen – This chapel features wall mosaics detailing some of Prague’s history plus other artwork and relics from Prague’s past.
• Columbarian – This hall is used to commemorate individuals who influenced Czech and Czechoslovak history during the 20 th century.

Museum of Communism

Learn about the communist era in the Czech Republic during the 20 th century at the Museum of Communism in Prague. Hear about stories of citizens in Prague at that time and watch propaganda videos and view photos from the Communist era. You’ll also learn about the Velvet Revolution, which ended communism in the Czech Republic.

National Theatre

The National Theatre has had the tradition of helping to conserve Czech music, drama, and language since the mid-1800s. The National Theatre hosts performances of operas, ballets, and musicals inside the grand building that visitors to the city can attend.

Old-New Synagogue

This synagogue is still used for services and is located by the Jewish Museum; however, entrance to the Old-New Synagogue is a separate ticket. The Old-New Synagogue was built in the 13th century and its Gothic architecture style also features a medieval hall inside. r

Jan Palach Square

Jan Palach Square is a stately square in Prague’s Old Town. The focal point of the square is the Rudolfinum Concert Hall, a beautiful building in the late-Renaissance architecture style. Wander the square and look for the statue of Antonin Dvorak, a haphazardly lain metal cross, and a plaque motif of the square’s namesake Jan Palach. The square also has great views of the Prague Castle across the river.

Church of St. Ludmila r

This is a newer church, built at the end of the 19th century, though that doesn’t take away from any of its splendor. The Gothic Revival architecture showcases two symmetrical steeples, each housing two bells. The church is surrounded by light inlaid stones and bright green grass, giving a peaceful vibe to this church located in the middle of the city. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and stained glass

Prague Nightlife

When the sun goes down, more fun begins in Prague with nightlife entertainment befitting a large European city, ranging from breweries to dance clubs. Here are some top picks for how to spend your night in Prague.

Bunkr Parukarka – This nightclub is not housed in a typical building. Instead, visitors to Bunkr Parukarka will head underground into what used to be a 1950s nuclear bunker. This nightclub may be a remnant from the cold war, but the action heats up at night with pulsating music and stiff drinks. Address: Parukarka Park

Lucerna Music Bar – As one of the largest and most popular music clubs in Prague, Lucerna Music Bar gets some excellent bands and music acts to visit its stage. On Friday and Saturday nights, the club also has its popular “Pop 80’s and 90’s Video Party” entertainment. Address: Štěpánská 61

U Medvidku – Prague is known for its beers and no visit to Prague would be complete without a stop at one of Prague’s craft breweries, which are increasing in popularity at a rapid rate. Of these micro-breweries, U Medvidku is a can’t-miss. Drink one of their strong brews (including the X-BEER 33, considered to be the strongest beers in the world) while watching the fermentation process take place through windows in the brewery. Address: Na Perštýně 7

Where to Eat in Prague

Prague has a wide range of restaurants to satisfy every taste bud – especially if you’re looking for hearty Czech cuisine. Here are some delicious places to dine at while in Prague.   

Prague’s rooftops have a variety of terracota colors with oxidized copper green spires and domes; it’s a striking combination to behold and one that can be viewed easily from the rooftop garden terrace dining area of Coda restaurant. Coda also has a luxurious inside dining area, but the magic of this restaurant happens on the rooftop. Being at roof level makes you feel like you’re experiencing a different side of Prague. You’ll also experience excellent dining. Try the degustation menu, which pairs courses with wine. Or do a la carte and try a Czech specialty like the tasty goulash. Take note of the fun plates you’ll be eating on – Coda is located in the music-inspired Aria Hotel and the plates have caricatures of famous musicians drawn on them. Keep in mind that the rooftop often books up for dinner so make a reservation; however, Coda also makes an excellent place to drop in for lunch in the afternoon sunshine.

Address: Tržiště 368/9

Phone: 420 225 334 761

Kampa Park offers gourmet cuisines and has an excellent view of the Charles Bridge with multiple levels of dining rooms depending on your preference. There is an upstairs terrace or a downstairs room with open windows that still lets you take in the riverside atmosphere of the restaurant. Kampa Park offers a daily menu of three courses for the set price of 999 CZK. In addition to the multi-course menu, there are also a la carte menu options ranging from fish to steak to lobster. There is also a good selection of wine by the glass for those not wanting a full bottle.

Address: Na Kampě 8b

Phone: 420 296 826 112

Where to Stay Overnight in Prague

At night, lie your head on the pillows in the luxurious palace-type accommodations of Le Palais.

• For prices and pictures of Le Palais, click here .

Music lovers will enjoy the music-inspired Aria Hotel, which has rooms named after – and inspired by – composers and rockers.

• For prices and pictures of Aria Hotel, click here .

To browse more accommodation options in Prague, click here to see listings on Booking.com , my favorite hotel booking site!

Getting to Prague

A key to making the most of your day in Prague is getting into the city center as quickly as possible. Most people arrive to Prague via three different methods:

By Air: The Prague Airport is located roughly 10 miles (about 30 minutes by car) from Prague’s city center and is served by most major airlines operating domestic and international flights. Options for getting into the city center from the airport include:

By Shuttle Bus: The Cedaz Airport Bus leaves the airport every 30 minutes between 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. and drops you off in the city center about 50 meters from Republic Square (Old Town Square). Cost: 150 CZK; children under the age of six are free when accompanied by an adult.

By Metro: Take the Airport Express bus to metro line C and then take line C to the appropriate metro stop for your hotel or first attraction. Cost: 32 CZK for a one-way ticket or 110 CZK for a one-day pass.

By Taxi: A taxi is often the most convenient way  to get into the city quickly, particularly if you need to stop at a hotel to drop off your bags, as it takes you straight to your first destination point. Be sure to get a taxi at one of the airport’s official taxi stations and ensure that it charges you by kilometer. Taxis cost around 450 CZK to 550 CZK to get into Prague’s center.

By Train: Prague’s train station is conveniently located just outside the city’s historic center and is called Praha Hlavni Nadrazi (Praha is the spelling for Prague in Czech). A convenient aspect of the Praha Hlavni Nadrazi Station is that it’s adjacent to the metro so as soon as you arrive, you’re set to immediately begin exploring Prague. Praha Hlavni Nadrazi Station has multiple connections from large European cities such as Berlin and Vienna.

Short on Time Tip: A taxi is the fastest way to get into the city center from the train station, particularly if going to a hotel to drop off your luggage first; however, be aware that most taxi drivers won’t use the meter and as such, will overcharge to get into the city.

By Car: Prague is easy to get to by car and many hotels in the city have parking lots, though you may have to pay extra to park your car in them. Driving around the city center is more of a hassle than it’s worth since you’ll have to pay for parking – if you can find some – and walking or using the metro can easily get you most everywhere you want to go.

Prague Transportation

Metro: Prague’s underground metro is cheap and convenient to use. A one-way ticket for one zone costs 24 CZK for a one-way ticket if traveling less than 30 minutes and 32 CZK if traveling between 30 to 90 minutes one way or 110 CZK for a one-day pass.

Walking: Most of Prague’s main attractions are walkable when staying in the city center, though expect a long walk if traveling from one side of the Vltava River to the other side.

Taxi: If planning on taking a cab somewhere, ask your hotel to call one for you to ensure you get a reputable one that charges by the km, and not an inflated set price. Then, if pleased with the service, ask for the taxi driver’s card so you can call him when you need a ride back to the hotel.

Short on Time Tip: Take public transportation as opposed to walking to get to your starting point for the day in order to save time – the metro is easy and inexpensive to use. Be sure to stamp your ticket before getting on; it’s a hefty fine if patrol checks your ticket and it’s not stamped.

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

August 9, 2017 at

Thanks for sharing a Prague one day list.

It makes me want to go back to the past.

June 17, 2017 at

Thanks a lot. We came to the city today , only have a day. Your post is a big help and i aggree its a beautiful city.

March 14, 2014 at

Thanks Miruna! 🙂

February 20, 2014 at

Excellent idea for a post! Thanks for the tips!

February 5, 2014 at

Winter was pretty darn beautiful! Spring or summer would however be a whole new experience.

You should! Although, I wouldn’t mind visiting in winter either. 🙂 Love Prague!

I just love Prague…one of favorite cities in the world! I was there in the winter…I need to go back to see it in the spring or summer.

Search for a Destination…

1 Day in Prague Itinerary: Best of Prague in 24 Hours (by Locals)

Written by local experts Adriana & Matěj

Adriana and Matěj Halouskovi are travel bloggers behind the successful blog Czech the World .

Matěj was born in Prague and has lived here his entire life and Adriana moved here 6 years ago.

We have traveled to more than 60 countries, but if we could tell you what  place we know the most, it is our city . 

Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to experience the best of Prague in just 24 hours!

Unlike typical travel bloggers who pass through the city for a brief visit, we are locals who have explored every nook and cranny of this enchanting city .

We’ve walked these streets countless times with our international friends, and we know exactly what makes Prague special. In this guide, we’re not just going to show you the must-see spots ; we’re also going to share some secret tips that only locals know .

From good and affordable restaurants with typical Czech dishes to less crowded viewpoints, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re looking to see Prague through the eyes of those who know it best, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into a day you’ll never forget in the city of a Hundred Spires!

Quick Note: For each monument/sight, I also include details about admission (opening hours, price), but you’ll likely manage to visit just a few of them. Our recommendations are Petřín, Klementinum, and Old Town Hall.

1 Day in Prague Itinerary Map – The Best of Prague in 24 Hours

We have prepared for you 3 different routes for your 24 hours in Prague:

A) The laidback route (red color)

• The straight route without any detours.
• Choose this route if you don’t want to rush or are a slow-walker

B) Route with Petřín Hill detour (blue color)

• The longer route, where you will visit Petřín hill with a lookout tower.
• Choose this route if you like walking in the green park and want to see views from the lookout tower.

C) Route with Jewish Quarter detour (yellow color)

• The longer route, where you will visit the Jewish Quarter.
• Choose this route if you are into history and want to visit many significant Jewish landmarks.

B+C) Route with both detours

• If you are very fit and like walking, you can manage to visit both Petřín Hill and the Jewish Quarter, but it will be a very long day.

Here we have prepared for you a  detailed map of one day in Prague itinerary .

Why should you follow the suggested route?

This route through Prague is designed so that you can see as much as possible in one day and also to save you even in terms of elevation, as it starts up at the Castle and you will gradually descend to the river and into the Old Town. Moreover, it ends at Wenceslas Square, from where it is one metro stop to the Main Station, or you can directly board the green metro line and head to the airport.

Practical tip from locals: Don’t go to Letná park or Vyšehrad

Many 1-day Prague itineraries suggest going to these two places. Don’t get me wrong, they are beautiful. However, they are far from the main walking route and if you have only 24 hours, there is not enough time to visit them . I would recommend skipping them and enjoying fully the most important sights without rushing.

Letná and Vyšehrad are great places to visit if you have more than one day in Prague.

1) Start Your Day at the Prague Castle

You have two options, where to start:

A) Malostranská metro and tram station

• It’s closer from the the city center and directly from the subway.
• You need to climb a lot of stairs.

B) Pražský Hrad tram station

• It’s a little further away (but still just a few minutes tram ride).
• You don’t need to climb stairs.

Tickets and opening hours

Entrance to the Prague Castle Complex is free. In case you wish to visit also interiors you will need a ticket. The basic ticket for the Castle is around 250 CZK, all the information regarding tickets can be found here . 

The Castle area is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, but the historical buildings open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Here’s your Prague Castle Bucket List:

• Svatovítská Katedrála (St. Vitus Cathedral): This iconic cathedral is a must-see. It’s an architectural marvel captivating from both the outside and inside with its stunning Gothic design. While you can enter the initial part of the cathedral for free, a more comprehensive tour requires a ticket.
• Bazilika sv. Jiří (St. George’s Basilica) : A Romanesque church with stunning interiors. Entry is included in the Castle ticket.
• Zlatá Ulička (Golden Lane): Known for its colorful houses and cobblestone streets. Morning is the best to avoid crowds.
• Watch Changing of the Guard: This takes place every hour. The grand ceremony is at noon.
• There is a panoramic view of Prague from Hradčanské Square : The last thing you want to do in this area is to snap pictures from the gorgeous view at the end of Hradčanské Náměstí.

2) (Optional Detour) Head to Petřín Lookout Tower

This is a beautiful but optional detour from the standard route. We highly recommend it if you are “the walking person”. If you prefer a more relaxed day with some café or people-watching stops, you can continue by the Castle Staircase down to the heart of Lesser Town.

If you opt for this picturesque detour, head from Hradčanské náměstí by Úvoz Street towards Strahov Monastery.

Strahov Monastery

Strahovský klášter is the oldest Premonstratensian monastery in Bohemia, founded in 1143. It has a beautiful library, but for such a short visit to Prague, enjoy at least its exteriors and several viewpoints of Prague. From Strahov Monastery continue to Petřín Observation Tower.

Our TIP: If you want a viewpoint where you might be even alone, it’s this one .

Petřín Tower

The Petřín Tower is an iconic landmark of Prague, built as part of the Jubilee Exhibition in 1891. It is a free scaled-down replica of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, with a ratio of 1:5. Standing at a height of 58.70 meters, the tower features 299 steps that lead to its peak, which is at the same altitude as the actual Eiffel Tower. The view from the top offers a panoramic outlook of Prague.

You can visit it every day for a fee of around 220 CZK (there is an extra fee in case you want to use the elevator). I think that once you are at the base of Petřín Tower, the entry fee is worth the views!

Petřín Hill Orchards or Petřín Funicular

After you enjoy views from Petřín Tower, walk down the Petřín orchards all the way to Újezd Street. The walk itself is beautiful with more stunning views of Prague.

It’s pretty steep though. If you don’t want to walk, you can ride down the Petřín funicular (one ride costs 60 CZK).

The Infant Jesus of Prague

Continue Újezd Street to the north (left) and you will pass around the Church of Our Lady Victorious, where is the famous Infant Jesus of Prague.

After that, continue further north to Malostranské náměstí (Lesser Town Square).

3) Exploring Lesser Town

By walking from Petřín Hill or down the stairs directly from Prague Castle, you will arrive at Malostranské náměstí (Lesser Town Square). The dominant building of this square is the St. Nicholas Church.

Kostel sv. Mikuláše (St. Nicholas Church)

Kostel sv. Mikuláše is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. The church is renowned for its intricate interior, which includes a 70-meter-high dome (20 meters in diameter) and stunning frescoes. The interior height to the top of the lantern is over 49 m, making it Prague’s tallest interior. The main altar, pulpit, and organ are also elaborately decorated.

Guided tours cost around 200 CZK, entry without a guided tour is cheaper. But you won’t probably have time for it anyway. But if you want to come back one day – nice concerts take place there.

Feeling hungry?

If you feel hungry, there is a first option to have lunch – U Glaubiců , where you can find typical Czech dishes. I can highly recommend their Roast duck with red cabbage and dumplings. The second option is Restaurant U Mecenáše .

Lesser Town Bridge Tower

Before we turn to Lázeňská Street to find the Lennon Wall, you can take pictures of Lesser Town Bridge Towers. Later you will have a chance to take pictures of it from Charles Bridge too. If you have enough time, you can even walk up the tower for a beautiful view of Charles Bridge. The price is 190 CZK (95 CZK in the first opening hour)

Secret Tip: If you are here early enough, you can have a 50 % discount if you come during the first opening hour .

John Lennon Wall

This is a place for street art lovers. Hidden by the side of the royal road at Velkopřevorské náměstí, The John Lennon Wall, is a symbol of peace, love, and artistic freedom. Originally a regular wall, it became a canvas for political dissent during the Communist era in Czechoslovakia.

After the assassination of John Lennon in 1980, the wall was transformed into a tribute to him and his ideals. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant collage of graffiti, lyrics, and messages from people around the world.

The wall is continually changing, with new layers of paint and messages appearing regularly.

Velkopřevorský mlýn (Grand Priory Mill)

As you continue to Kampa island, you will encounter Velkopřevorský mlýn at the Čertovka Canal. The Mill is one of the last remaining functional water mills in Prague. It dates back to the medieval period and has undergone various transformations over the years. The most interesting is the mill wheel, which you can see from the bridge.

4) Charles Bridge, Klementinum

As you continue to Kampa Island, soon you will finally encounter the Charles Bridge ! Climb up several ancient stairs to the bridge from the nice little square “Na Kampě”. Here you are at probably the most famous sight of Prague.

Charles Bridge

Now let’s find out something about the bridge. But first, there is an important question:

Who was Charles?

Charles IV (1316-1378) was the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, one of the most powerful rulers in European history. He founded Charles University in Prague, the first university in Central Europe, and was a patron of the arts and architecture. His reign was marked by diplomatic success and the expansion of his territories, thanks in part to his skillful marriage alliances.

About the Bridge

• Charles Bridge is a stone Gothic bridge that spans the Vltava River. It’s a masterpiece of medieval engineering, featuring 16 arches and 30 statues of saints.
• According to legend, the foundation stone was laid by Emperor Charles IV at 5:31 a.m. on July 9, 1357. The timing, forming a palindrome (1357 9, 7 5:31), was believed to give the structure additional strength.
• The bridge has been the subject of numerous artworks and is a symbol of Prague. It’s a hub for local artists, musicians, and vendors.
• For several centuries, Charles Bridge was the only means of crossing the Vltava River in Prague, making it a critical passage for trade and military movements.

Cool superstition you can try

If you like those city legends, try this. Find the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, located here . The statue has a bronze plaque depicting St. John being thrown off the bridge. Rub the plaque to bring yourself good luck and ensure that you will return to Prague.

If you want to learn more, visit our article about the Charles Bridge .

The Most Famous View of Prague Castle (Most tourists miss this!)

One more place I don’t want you to miss is the famous view from the Bedřich Smetana statue, located here . Most tourists continue straight from Charles Bridge and miss this amazing place.

When leaving Charles Bridge, turn 2x to your right and you are there. It can be easily called one of the best Instagram spots.

Klementinum Library

If you’re a lover of old books and globes, this is a place you simply must visit! The Klementinum is a historic complex located in the heart of Prague. This architectural marvel is known for its Baroque library, astronomical tower, and stunning chapels.

The Baroque library is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, it houses a collection of antique books, globes, and astronomical instruments.

There is also the longest continuously measuring meteorological station in the Czech lands.

From Klementinum follow Karlova Street, which will take you to Malé Náměstí, from where you can already see the Old Town Square.

By this time, you might be already hungry, so here are our tips, on where to eat some typical Czech food for great prices:

• Mincovna – restaurant directly at the Old Town Square. They have great prices for daily menus (lunch). In case you want to order something else from the cart, it is a little bit more expensive
• U Červeného Páva – another great restaurant with typical Czech food.
• Střídačka (The Hockey Bench) – a restaurant owned by two Czech famous ice hockey players. They offer only two meal options every day and that means the best quality and freshness.

5) Old Town Square

Welcome to the Old Town Square, the historical heart of Prague! There are so many things to discover just in one Square:

Astronomical clock (the show is every full hour 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.)

The Prague Astronomical Clock is a true masterpiece of medieval engineering and artistry. Dating back to 1410, it is the oldest astronomical clock in the world still in operation. The main highlight is the hourly show, where the clock comes to life as the Apostles make their appearance in the windows above the clock face, accompanied by the ringing of the bell.

What makes the Orloj clock truly unique is a display of astronomical information such as moon phases, zodiac signs, and mainly the animated procession known as „The Walk of the Apostles. “You can also spot a skeleton figure, symbolizing the passing of time, which rings a bell at the top of the hour. The hourly show is brief but enchanting, so don’t be late.

Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall is the building where the Astronomical Clock is. But it offers more than just the clock. You can explore the historical halls, the chapel, the underground areas and most importantly, you can go to the tower, from which the views are incredible.

The entrance fee is 300 CZK, but it’s definitely worth it.

Look at 27 crosses (on the ground) in front of the Old Town Hall

Here is a quick story about the crosses. On June 21, 1621, following the Battle of Bílá Hora, 27 leaders of the rebellion were executed in the square in front of the City Hall. These crosses serve as a memorial to those who were decapitated on that day, reminding visitors of the city’s turbulent past and the struggle for freedom and rights.

St. Nicholas Church (Kostel sv. Mikuláše)

Another St. Nicholas Church (not to be confused with the more famous one in Lesser Town). A Baroque church, known for its intricate interiors, impressive frescoes, and distinctive green dome. The church houses a historic organ, played by Mozart, and offers concerts showcasing its rich acoustics. You can find it in the South-West corner of Old Town Square.

Marian Column (Mariánský sloup)

If you have already visited Prague pre-covid, you will be surprised (like I was) to find and new monument in the Old Town Square. The Mariánský Sloup, or Marian Column was originally erected in 1650 as a symbol of gratitude for the city’s defense during the Battle of Prague. However, it was demolished in 1918 due to its association with monarchy and Catholicism. After facing numerous challenges, the column was successfully reconstructed and re-erected in 2020.

Church of Our Lady before Týn (Týnský chrám)

Týnský Chrám, also known as the Church of Our Lady before Týn, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague’s Old Town Square. Dating back to the 14th century, this Gothic masterpiece is easily recognizable by its twin spires reaching 80 meters into the sky.

The interior is equally impressive, housing a stunning altarpiece and the tomb of the famous Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe. I can be visited every day, except for Monday during opening hours for a voluntary fee.

Pařížská Street

The next location is Pařížská (Paris Street), which begins at the St. Nicholas Church and is the city’s most prestigious and luxurious shopping boulevard. Lined with beautifully preserved Art Nouveau buildings, you can go window-shopping high-end boutiques, designer stores, and exclusive brands.

When you finish admiring the Old Town Square, head towards Celetná Street, one of the oldest and most significant streets in Prague. Celetná will lead you directly to the Powder Tower.

6) (Optional Detour 2) – Jewish Quarter

If you are not tired yet and still thrilled to discover as much as you can, you can head to the Jewish Quarter.

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, is located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River, this district is home to some of the most well-preserved Jewish historical monuments in Europe.

Must-Visit Sites of the Jewish Quarter

Although you might not have time to enter all the sites. It is really lovely to stroll at least around those sites and buildings:

• Old-New Synagogue: The Old-New Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue in Europe, dating back to the 13th century.
• Old Jewish Cemetery : One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, with tombstones dating back to the 15th century.
• Jewish Museum: Comprises several buildings including the Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, and the Ceremonial Hall.
• Klausen Synagogue: Houses an exhibition on Jewish customs and traditions.
• Spanish Synagogue: Known for its Moorish interior and a museum on the history of Jews in Bohemia.

7) Powder Tower, Municipal House

Celetná Street will lead you directly to the Gothic gate which once served as a gunpowder storage facility. It marks the boundary between Old Town and New Town.

Powder Tower (Prašná brána)

The Powder Tower, or Prašná brána, is one of the original city gates of Prague which was initially built in the 11th century and was later reconstructed in the 15th century. It served various purposes over the years, including being a ceremonial entrance for Czech kings and a gunpowder storage facility, which is how it got its current name.

Municipal House (Obecní dům)

Next to the Powder Tower, there is a Municipal House, one of Prague’s most stunning examples of Art Nouveau architecture. This grand building serves as a cultural and social hub for the city. It was inaugurated in 1912 and has since been a significant venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events.

A guided tour is well worth it. You marvel at the intricate mosaics, stained glass, and elaborate chandeliers that adorn the interior. The Smetana Hall, the main concert venue within the Municipal House, is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and opulent decor. The building also houses several cafes and restaurants, offering a blend of Czech and international cuisines.

Building of Czech National Bank

Just opposite the Municipal House, there is the building of the Czech National Bank. While the building itself is not typically open to the public due to its function as a financial institution, its exterior is worth admiring for its intricate details and grandeur. It combines elements of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque architectural styles.

Once you finish admiring more historic buildings, Na Příkopě Street will take you to Wenceslas Square.

8) Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)

Welcome to Wenceslas Square, a square where history was written. In 1918, the independence of Czechoslovakia was declared here. On January 19, 1969, student Jan Palach self-immolated here in protest against the Soviet Union invasion to Czechoslovakia in August 1968.

During the Velvet Revolution in 1989, “Václavák” became a key location where mass demonstrations took place. Václav Havel and other notable personalities addressed the people from the balcony of the Melantrich publishing house.

Today, Wenceslas Square is the commercial center of Prague. It is home to the most famous hotels, shops, and luxury restaurants.

Rotating Head of Franz Kafka

First, head to rotating head of Franz Kafka, an 11-meter tall kinetic sculpture by Czech artist David Černý. The sculpture consists of 42 independently rotating layers of stainless steel that form Kafka’s face. The artwork serves as both a tribute to the iconic writer and a visual metaphor for the complex themes in his works, becoming a notable landmark in the city.

Franciscan Garden

Františkánská Zahrada is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Prague. This peaceful oasis offers a respite from the city’s bustling streets, with shaded pathways, colorful flowers, and a serene atmosphere.

The garden is open every day year-round, but it’s particularly beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

Upside-down horse

Continue to another David Černý’s curiosity. Upside-down Horse sculpture symbolizes rebellion and social commentary, depicting Saint Wenceslas riding an upside-down dead horse. Unveiled by Černý, it has become an integral part of Prague’s art scene, serving as a reminder to question established narratives and engage with Czech history.

The sculpture can be found at Pasáž Lucerna, in Vodičkova Street.

St. Wenceslas Statue

The St. Wenceslas Statue, located in the iconic Wenceslas Square, is a striking equestrian monument dedicated to the patron saint of the Czech Republic. The majestic statue is a symbol of Czech identity and national pride. Standing at the top of Wenceslas Square, the statue is a focal point of this bustling urban space.

National Museum

At the top of Wenceslas Square, there is one of the oldest and most significant museums in the Czech Republic – the National Museum. It’s a beautiful building, so the photo is worth it. Founded in 1818, the museum houses extensive collections across various fields, including natural history, history, art, and music. You can explore millions of items and discover the rich history of the Czech Republic.

The strategic location of your 1 Day in Prague trip

Václavské náměstí is a strategic point where you can end your day tour to continue anywhere you need to. At “Muzeum” metro station, you are just 1 metro stop from Prague Main Train Station (Hlavní nádraží) and 2 stops from Bus Station “Florenc”.

You can also continue by green metro to “Nádraží Veleslavín”, where it is just a few minutes by bus 119 to the airport.

“Secret” Tips

• Tower Entry Discounts: In Prague, the first hour of entry to many of the towers comes with a 50% discount. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city while saving some money.
• Trdelník vs. Poppy Seed Cakes: While Trdelník with ice cream has become a popular treat among tourists, it’s not originally a Czech dessert, although it arrived in Czech lands in 17th century. And especially, it’s not traditional at all with ice cream! Instead, try the authentic and delicious poppy seed cakes , which are a true representation of Czech culinary heritage. These cakes are flavorful, rich, and a delightful experience for anyone looking to taste local cuisine.
• Mapy.cz: When navigating through the Czech Republic, consider using Mapy.cz , a Czech map (in English) service that offers detailed maps of the city, including public transport routes, points of interest, and walking paths. It’s a reliable and handy tool for exploring Prague like a local, helping you discover hidden gems and efficiently plan your route around the city (and you can use them worldwide). We personally think that these maps together with Locus are the best outdoor maps in the world! We are not their affiliates, but they are simply the best.
• Don’t use Euronet ATMs : These are just scam ATMs, avoid them at all costs! Here you can watch the video, explaining why it is a bad idea to use them:

Where to stay in Prague

Budget private –   pension akát.

• Family-Run Atmosphere : You’ll experience the warmth and personalized service that comes with staying in a family-run establishment.
• Suburban Setting : Located in a quieter suburb, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center, ideal for couples seeking tranquility.
• Public Transport : The pension is close to public transport, so you can still easily access Prague’s main attractions when you want to explore.

Budget hostel –   Bunker Factory

• The Cheapest Accommodation Option: The pricing is budget-friendly, making it a cost-effective option for solo travelers who want a unique experience without a hefty price tag.
• Community Vibe : The venue often hosts events and activities, creating a social atmosphere that’s ideal for meeting like-minded travelers.
• Central Location : The hostel is located directly on Wenceslas Square, making it convenient for you to explore Prague’s key attractions.

Midrange – Metropolitan Old Town Hotel

• Location : You’ll find yourself in a quieter part of Prague’s Old Town, offering a peaceful retreat while still being close to the action.
• Rooftop : Metropolitan offers rooftop bar with perfect view Prague historical sights.
• Accessibility : With easy access to public transportation, you can conveniently explore both the historic and modern parts of Prague. It’s also located close to two of the main train stations, therefore it’s great for day trips from Prague.

Luxury –  Grand Hotel Bohemia

• Luxurious Experience : You’ll be enveloped in luxury from the moment you step in, with elegant interiors and top-notch service setting the stage for a romantic stay.
• Prime Location : Situated in Prague’s Old Town, you’re just a short walk away from iconic landmarks like the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge.
• Fine Dining : The hotel’s restaurant offers gourmet cuisine, providing an exquisite dining experience without having to leave the premises.
• Live Music : The hotel often features live music performances, adding an extra layer of sophistication and romance to your experience.

Foods to try in Prague

1) svíčková.

Svíčková is the most typical Czech dish that is beloved staple in households and restaurants, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings.

It consists of beef sirloin marinated and slow-cooked in a rich sauce made from root vegetables, spices, and often a touch of cream. The meat becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, which is typically thickened and served alongside the beef.

The dish is commonly garnished with a dollop of cranberry compote and a slice of lemon, adding a tangy contrast to the savory flavors. Served with bread dumplings that soak up the sauce.

2) Vepřo – knedlo – zelo

Vepřo – knedlo – zelo is a classic Czech dish that captures the essence of the country’s culinary traditions, offering a balanced trio of flavors and textures.

The dish consists of three main components: roasted pork (vepřo), bread dumplings (knedlo), and sauerkraut or stewed cabbage (zelo) .

Together, these elements create a satisfying and well-rounded meal that is deeply rooted in Czech culture, often enjoyed on Sundays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a hearty feast.

3) Smažený sýr (fried cheese)

Smažený sýr, or fried cheese, is a popular Czech dish that offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, serving as a staple in both restaurants and street food stalls.

While not a traditional Czech dish in the historical sense, it has become an integral part of modern Czech cuisine and is particularly popular among younger generations and tourists seeking a quick, indulgent meal.

How to get around Prague

Prague has a huge advantage in that it has a historical center and most of the points of interest are very compact, which makes it easy to explore. You basically need to get to the starting point and then you only need your legs as a primary means of transport.

By Public Transportation

Prague boasts one of the best local transport systems in the world. You can travel around the city and visit its top attractions by metro, bus, tram, or even train. The metro system consists of three lines (Line A: green, Line B: yellow, Line C: red), all of which pass through the most popular destinations for visitors. Transferring between lines is straightforward, with transfer points clearly marked in the underground stations. Tickets for public transportation are readily available, and the system is known for being simple, safe, and one of the best in Europe.

Read our whole article: Prague Public Transport from A to Z: All You Need to Know!

By Taxi/ Uber

Taxis and Uber are also available for those who prefer a more private mode of transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street, but it’s advisable to use reputable companies or have your accommodation arranged for you to avoid overcharging.

Uber operates in Prague and can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you are familiar with the app. They made Uber to be the official taxi company for Prague airport because there were tons of taxi scammers who were overcharging tourists.

What to pack for such a day trip?

• A little day-pack Backpack
• Bottle of water (remember you can fill it anywhere; our tap water is perfectly fine to drink anywhere in the Czech Republic)
• Comfortable shoes (forget the heels, the beautiful cobblestone streets aren’t heels-friendly)
• Clothes according to the weather forecast

Pin 24 hours in Prague for later or for your friends:

Did this 1 Day in Prague itinerary help you? Share it with your friends! It can help the

Check also these other practical tips:

• 117 Best Things to Do in Prague: Ultimate Guide (from Locals)
• 35 Best Day Trips from Prague - Ultimate Local's Guide (2024)
• 65 Amazing FREE Things to Do in Prague (Local's Guide)
• 59 Prague Hidden Gems & Non-touristy Things to Do

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

One day in prague itinerary: how to spend the perfect 24 hours in prague, czech republic.

Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by gregor

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the perfect one-day Prague itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your short visit.

Welcome to Prague , the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic! With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Prague is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. So let’s dive in and discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions in One Day that await you in this magical city of Prague.

Prague in One Day – What to See and Do in Prague in 24 Hours

Why visit prague in the czech republic.

• Immerse yourself in history: Prague boasts a fascinating history spanning over a thousand years, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
• Architectural marvels: From the iconic Prague Castle to the astronomical clock in the Old Town Square, Prague is a treasure trove of architectural wonders.
• Cultural delights: Experience the thriving arts and cultural scene, including classical music concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions.
• Delicious Czech cuisine: Indulge in hearty Czech dishes like goulash, and trdelník (a traditional pastry), and sip on world-renowned Czech beer.
• Affordable destination: Compared to other European cities, Prague offers excellent value for money, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Where is Prague Located?

Chapter: where is prague located.

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, lies at the heart of Europe. It rests on the banks of the Vltava River, nestled amidst rolling hills and lush landscapes. This central location makes Prague a crossroads for various European cultures and histories.

Situated in Central Europe , Prague is bordered by Germany to the west, Austria to the south, Slovakia to the east, and Poland to the north. This prime positioning means that Prague is within easy reach of many European cities, either by road, rail, or air, making it a popular and accessible destination for travelers looking to explore the rich tapestry of European heritage.

The city’s geographic coordinates are 50.0755° N latitude and 14.4378° E longitude, placing it in a temperate continental climate zone. This gives Prague its distinct seasonal changes, from warm summers to chilly winters, each adding its own flavor to the city’s charm.

Prague’s central location in Europe is not just a matter of geography; it’s a gateway to a realm where history, culture, and modernity intertwine, offering visitors a unique experience that captures the essence of the continent.

Plan your Trip to Prague?

• 🏨 Find the perfect accommodation on  Booking.com
• 🎡 Book the Best Guided Tour on  GetYourGuide
• 😍 Get more emotions from your trip with  Tripadvisor
• 🚘 Rent a car on  Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy the cheapest flight tickets with  WayAway
• 🚂 🚌 ✈️ Best prices for Train, Buses, Cars, Ferries, and flights Omio

The Best Time to Visit Prague:

Prague is a charming destination throughout the year, each season offering something special:

• Spring (April to June): The Ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Fall (September to October): Similar to spring, with comfortable temperatures and not as many visitors.
• Summer (July and August): The city becomes busier with tourists.
• Winter (December to February): Though chilly, Prague turns magical with Christmas markets and streets blanketed in snow.

Tips for Visiting Prague for One Day – Prague Travel Tips

• Plan ahead: Research and create a detailed itinerary to make the most of your limited time.
• Start early: Begin your day early to avoid crowds and experience popular attractions without the rush.
• Dress comfortably: Prague involves plenty of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to adapt to changing weather.
• Learn basic Czech phrases: Locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak a few words of their language, such as “hello” (ahoj) and “thank you” (děkuji).
• Respect local customs: Familiarize yourself with Czech etiquettes, such as greeting with a handshake and removing your shoes when entering someone’s home.

How to Get to Prague?

Whether you’re coming from afar or hopping over from a neighboring European country, getting to Prague is straightforward. Here’s your comprehensive guide to reaching this enchanting city.

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) is the primary gateway for international travelers. Located about 20 kilometers west of the city center, it hosts a wide range of airlines offering direct and connecting flights from across the globe. Upon arrival, you can reach downtown Prague by taxi, airport shuttle services, or public transportation. The most economical option is the bus, with routes connecting to various metro stations, making it easy to get to your final destination in the city.

Traveling to Prague by train is not just convenient but also an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Europe. Prague Main Railway Station (Hlavní nádraží) is the central hub, welcoming trains from major European cities like Berlin, Vienna, and Budapest. The station itself is a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities, located conveniently in the city center. Train travel offers a comfortable and eco-friendly alternative, with services ranging from high-speed connections to overnight sleeper cars.

For budget-conscious travelers, buses present an economical and efficient way to reach Prague. The city’s main bus terminal, Florenc Bus Station , serves both international and domestic routes. Operators like FlixBus and RegioJet offer regular services from numerous European cities. Buses are equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets, ensuring a comfortable journey.

If you prefer the flexibility of road travel, driving to Prague is a viable option. The city is well-connected by a network of highways leading to and from neighboring countries. Remember to purchase a vignette (toll sticker) if you’re driving on Czech highways. While the city welcomes visitors with ample parking spaces and navigable roads, be mindful of the busy traffic and parking regulations in the city center.

The Best Things To Do in Prague:

Explore Prague Castle: Start your day with a visit to Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Admire the stunning architecture, visit the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the castle’s vantage points.

Wander through the Old Town: Lose yourself in the narrow, picturesque streets of the Old Town. Visit the Old Town Square, marvel at the intricate details of the astronomical clock, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Cross Charles Bridge: Take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with statues and offering breathtaking views of the Vltava River. Pause to admire the talented street performers and artists who line the bridge, adding to its vibrant ambiance.

Visit the Jewish Quarter: Delve into Prague’s Jewish history by exploring the Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov. Visit the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery, the Jewish Museum, and the magnificent Spanish Synagogue.

Enjoy Prague’s Parks: Take a break from the city’s bustling streets and relax in one of Prague’s scenic parks. Letna Park and Petrin Hill offer stunning city views, while the enchanting Vrtba Garden is a hidden gem with its Baroque terraced layout.

Indulge in Czech Cuisine: Treat yourself to traditional Czech dishes during your visit. Head to a local restaurant and savor dishes like svíčková (marinated beef with a creamy sauce), smažený sýr (fried cheese), and of course, a pint of Czech beer.

Experience Prague’s Music Scene: Prague has a rich musical heritage, and attending a classical concert is necessary. The city boasts numerous concert halls and churches where you can enjoy performances by talented musicians.

Read more about the Best Activities and Attractions in Prague here: 👇

35 BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC, MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

TOP 10 BEST ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS IN PRAGUE FOR (TOURISTS)

One Day Prague Itinerary – 24 Hours in Prague

Are you ready to make the most of your one day in Prague? Follow this detailed itinerary to ensure you experience the highlights of this magnificent city.

Morning – Prague Castle + Charles Bridge + Wenceslas Square

Morning: 8:00 AM – Start your day bright and early with a visit to Prague Castle. Begin at the iconic St. Vitus Cathedral, where you can admire the intricate Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Take your time to explore the interior of the cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

9:00 AM – Continue your exploration of Prague Castle by wandering through the castle complex. Explore the Old Royal Palace, Vladislav Hall, and the Golden Lane, where you can peek into the tiny colorful houses that once housed castle guards and artisans.

10:00 AM – Make your way down from the castle and head towards the Charles Bridge. As you cross the bridge, take in the breathtaking views of the Vltava River and the surrounding architecture. Be sure to stop and admire the statues that line the bridge and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Mid-Morning: Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock

10:30 AM – Arrive in the Old Town Square, the heart of Prague’s historic center. Marvel at the magnificent Prague Astronomical Clock and be there on the hour to witness the fascinating mechanical show as the clock strikes. Take some time to explore the square and admire the stunning facades of the surrounding buildings.

11:00 AM – Walk a short distance to the Church of Our Lady before Týn, an impressive Gothic church with its distinctive twin spires. Step inside to appreciate the grandeur of the interior and admire the beautiful altars and stained glass windows.

11:30 AM – Treat yourself to a quick snack or coffee at one of the charming cafes nearby. Try a traditional Czech pastry like trdelník or indulge in a delicious cup of Czech coffee.

Lunchtime: traditional Czech restaurant and sample some local cuisine

Lunchtime: 12:00 PM – For lunch, venture to a traditional Czech restaurant and sample some local cuisine. Head to U Medvídků or Lokál Dlouhááá for authentic Czech dishes such as goulash, svíčková, or a hearty plate of pork knee. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Czech beer.

Afternoon: Jewish Quarter

1:30 PM – After lunch, make your way to the Jewish Quarter (Josefov). Explore the rich history of the area by visiting the Jewish Museum, which includes synagogues, a cemetery, and exhibits detailing the Jewish heritage in Prague.

3:00 PM – Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the Jewish Quarter and appreciate the unique architecture and atmosphere of this historic neighborhood. Don’t miss the beautiful Spanish Synagogue, known for its stunning Moorish interior.

Late Afternoon: Letna Park

3:30 PM – Make your way to Letna Park, a peaceful green oasis overlooking the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park, taking in the scenic views of Prague’s rooftops and the Vltava River. Climb to the top of the Letna Beer Garden to enjoy a refreshing Czech beer while enjoying the panoramic vistas.

4:30 PM – From Letna Park, take a pleasant downhill walk to the enchanting Kampa Island. Stroll along the picturesque Kampa Park, explore the charming streets, and discover hidden art installations.

Evening: Prague Old Town

6:00 PM – As the day winds down, head back towards the Old Town and find a cozy restaurant for dinner. Indulge in a delicious Czech meal and savor the flavors of the local cuisine. Consider dining at a rooftop restaurant for a romantic view of Prague at dusk.

Classical Music Concert or Vltava River Cruise

8:00 PM – Wrap up your day with a memorable evening activity. Choose between attending a classical music concert in one of Prague’s historic churches or enjoying a nighttime river cruise along the Vltava River, where you can admire the illuminated landmarks of Prague from a different perspective.

10:00 PM – End your day with a visit to one of Prague’s lively beer halls or cocktail bars. Join the locals in celebrating the city’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy a refreshing Czech beer or try a signature cocktail.

Of course, this itinerary provides a condensed glimpse of Prague’s beauty and attractions in just 24 hours. If you have more time, we highly recommend extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the city’s charm, explore additional neighborhoods, and take day trips to nearby destinations.

Remember, flexibility is key, and feel free to adjust this itinerary based on your personal interests and preferences. Allow yourself to get lost in the enchanting streets, discover hidden gems, and create unique experiences in this captivating city.

Map of One Day in Prague Itinerary:

To help you navigate your way through Prague’s attractions, here’s a map showcasing the key locations mentioned in our one-day itinerary:

Getting Around Prague for One Day?

Prague has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Purchase a day pass or individual tickets to travel conveniently between attractions. Many of the main sights are within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy the city’s charm while exploring on foot.

What to Eat in Prague?

When it comes to Czech cuisine, there are several must-try dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Some popular choices include:

• Trdelník: This sweet pastry is made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, grilled, and coated in sugar. It’s a delightful treat often filled with ice cream or Nutella.
• Goulash: A hearty stew made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s typically served with bread or dumplings.
• Smažený sýr: This dish features deep-fried cheese, usually Edam or Hermelín, served with fries or a side salad. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Svíčková: This classic Czech dish consists of marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy sauce, bread dumplings, cranberry sauce, and a slice of lemon. It’s a comforting and flavorful choice.
• Czech Beer : Prague is renowned for its excellent beer culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local brews such as Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar, or Staropramen. Pair your beer with traditional Czech snacks like nakládaný hermelín (pickled cheese) or utopenci (pickled sausages).

Where to Stay in Prague for One Night:

Prague offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget. Here are a few popular neighborhoods to consider:

• Old Town (Staré Město): Staying in the heart of the city allows you to be within walking distance of major attractions and soak up the historic ambiance of Prague. You’ll find a variety of hotels, hostels, and boutique accommodations in this area.
• Lesser Town (Malá Strana): Nestled beneath Prague Castle, Lesser Town offers a quieter and more residential atmosphere. It features charming cobblestone streets, beautiful Baroque architecture, and a selection of upscale hotels and guesthouses.
• Vinohrady: Located just outside the city center, Vinohrady is a trendy neighborhood known for its art nouveau buildings, stylish cafes, and lively nightlife. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of accommodation options.
• Žižkov: This bohemian district east of the city center is known for its alternative vibe, quirky bars, and affordable accommodations. Žižkov offers a unique and authentic Prague experience away from the tourist crowds.

Is Prague Cheap or Expensive?

Prague is generally considered an affordable destination compared to other major European cities. While prices have risen slightly in recent years, you can still find reasonably priced accommodation, dining options, and attractions. However, keep in mind that some touristy areas may have higher prices . By exploring local neighborhoods and dining at local eateries, you can enjoy Prague on a budget.

How Much Do I Need Per Day in Prague?

On average,

Budget travelers can expect to spend around €50-€70 per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and attractions.

Mid-range travelers can expect to spend €80-€120 per day

Luxury travelers may spend €150 or more.

These estimates can vary based on personal preferences, the type of accommodation chosen, and the activities you plan to indulge in.

Is One Day in Prague Enough?

While one day in Prague will allow you to catch a glimpse of its beauty and experience some of its highlights, it’s worth noting that the city has much more to offer. If time permits, we highly recommend extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and unique charm of Prague. However, if you’re on a tight schedule, a well-planned one-day itinerary will still provide you with a memorable experience.

How Long Do You Need in Prague?

To truly explore and appreciate Prague, we recommend spending at least three to four days in the city. This will allow you to visit major attractions, discover hidden gems, and have the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and local cuisine. Prague’s captivating atmosphere and endless things to see and do make it a destination worthy of a longer stay.

If You Have Two Days in Prague or More:

If you have the luxury of spending two days or more in Prague, you can expand your itinerary to include additional attractions and experiences. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your visit:

Read more: 👇 3 DAYS IN PRAGUE: THE PERFECT ITINERARY FOR FIRST-TIMERS 👇

3 DAYS IN PRAGUE: THE PERFECT ITINERARY FOR FIRST-TIMERS

Prague Castle Complex: Explore more areas within the castle complex, such as the Royal Gardens, Golden Lane, and the Basilica of St. George.

Vyšehrad Fortress: Venture to Vyšehrad Fortress: Venture to Vyšehrad, a historic fortress overlooking the Vltava River. Explore the ancient walls, visit the beautiful Vyšehrad Cemetery, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Museum Hopping: Prague is home to a wide range of museums that cater to various interests. Consider visiting the National Museum, the Museum of Communism, or the Kafka Museum to delve deeper into the city’s history and culture.

Prague’s Gardens and Parks: Spend time exploring Prague’s green spaces and parks, such as the peaceful Wallenstein Garden, the picturesque Kampa Park, or the charming Riegrovy Sady with its stunning views of the city.

Prague’s Neighborhoods: Venture beyond the city center to discover the unique character of Prague’s different neighborhoods. Explore the artistic vibes of Žižkov, the trendy shops and cafes of Letná, or the historic charm of Hradčany.

Day Trips from Prague:

If you have additional days to spare, Prague serves as a perfect base for day trips to nearby destinations. Here are a few popular options:

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kutná Hora, known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the famous Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and the Cathedral of St. Barbara.

Český Krumlov

Journey to the fairytale-like town of Český Krumlov, featuring a beautifully preserved medieval center, a majestic castle, and winding cobblestone streets.

Read more: EXPLORE ČESKÝ KRUMLOV ON A DAY TRIP FROM VIENNA

Karlštejn Castle

Embark on a trip to Karlštejn Castle, a magnificent fortress nestled in the picturesque Czech countryside. Take a guided tour of the castle and enjoy the surrounding nature.

Terezín Concentration Camp

Pay respects to history by visiting Terezín, a former concentration camp during World War II. Explore the museum and memorial sites to gain a deeper understanding of this tragic period.

Best Prague Tours:

To enhance your experience in Prague, consider joining guided tours led by knowledgeable local guides. Some popular tours include:

Prague Walking Tour: Explore the city’s major attractions and hidden gems on a guided walking tour, learning about Prague’s history, architecture, and culture along the way.

Prague Castle Tour: Dive deeper into the history of Prague Castle with a guided tour, gaining insights into its fascinating past and visiting its significant landmarks.

Food and Beer Tasting Tour: Indulge in Prague’s culinary delights on a food and beer tasting tour, sampling traditional dishes and locally brewed beers while learning about Czech cuisine.

I always use GetYourGuide to book activities and attractions while traveling through Europe. You can search through over 200 Prague attractions on their website here 👇

Should I Buy Travel Insurance for Prague?

It’s always wise to have travel insurance when visiting any destination, including Prague. Travel insurance provides coverage for unforeseen events such as trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. Make sure to choose a policy that suits your needs and provides adequate coverage for your trip.

Other One Day in a City Itineraries:

If you enjoy exploring cities in a day, you might also be interested in our other “One Day in a City” itineraries.

Be sure to check out some more One Day Itineraries from the most popular cities in Europe!

One Day in Vienna

One Day in Salzburg

One Day in Hallstatt

One Day in Budapest

One Day in Bratislava

One Day in Ljubljana

One Day in Milan

3 Mistakes I Made the First Time I Visited Prague…

As a travel blogger, I believe in sharing both the highlights and the lessons learned from my experiences. Here are three mistakes I made during my first visit to Prague, so you can avoid them:

• Overpacking: I brought way more clothes and accessories than I needed. Prague’s cobblestone streets and hilly terrain require comfortable footwear, so leave those high heels behind and pack light.
• Not Checking Opening Hours: Some attractions and restaurants in Prague have specific opening hours that may differ from what you’re used to. I failed to check the opening hours of certain museums and ended up missing out on visiting them. Make sure to plan ahead and check the schedules to avoid disappointment.
• Neglecting to Try Local Cuisine: While I did indulge in Czech beer, I didn’t fully explore the local cuisine. I stuck to familiar dishes instead of venturing out and trying traditional Czech dishes. Don’t make the same mistake. Be adventurous and sample the local flavors for a truly authentic experience.

Learn from my mistakes and make the most of your visit to Prague. By planning ahead, immersing yourself in the local culture, and embracing the city’s unique charm, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in the “City of a Hundred Spires.”

Prague, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, is a city that captivates the hearts of visitors. Whether you have just one day or several to explore this enchanting destination, there are numerous attractions and experiences to make your visit memorable.

From wandering the streets of the Old Town to admiring the grandeur of Prague Castle, from crossing the iconic Charles Bridge to delving into the city’s Jewish heritage, Prague offers a blend of history, culture, and beauty that will leave you awe-inspired.

Remember to plan your itinerary wisely , allowing time for both the must-see landmarks and the hidden gems that Prague has to offer. Embrace the local cuisine, explore the city’s neighborhoods, and consider venturing on day trips to nearby attractions to enhance your Prague experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art and architecture, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in a charming European city, Prague promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to spend a perfect 24 hours in Prague, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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One Day in Prague Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is the crown jewel of Central Europe. The ancient Czech capital dates back all the way to the 7th century but is today a bustling center and one of the largest cities in the EU. Immensely rich history, fascinating architecture, awe-inspiring culture and so much more will leave you quite speechless as you walk the streets of the city’s old town. There is indeed a lot to see, so even if you only have one day in Prague you should not waste any time – things to see in Prague in one day are indeed numerous, and this itinerary will help you get to all the main attractions. Jump in and let the incredible atmosphere of this place wash over you.

What’s the best time to visit Prague?

Winters can get pretty cold here, while summers are often quite hot, so if you want pleasant weather for your visit to Prague perhaps the best time would be somewhere in April or May , or even in September . The temperatures should be quite bearable then, but May should be your prime target because of the Czech Beer Festival that takes place then. You really must try the beer there!

However, there is plenty to do and see in this city all year round, and if the weather is no obstacle for you, check out Bohemian Carnevale at the end of February. In addition, there is still a pretty good chance for some decent weather in mid-October, which is when the beautiful Festival of Light takes place, plus you can enjoy some smooth jazz in October and November because this is when the International Jazz Festival takes place, an event with more than 50 years of tradition.

A few facts about Prague

As mentioned earlier, the city was founded in the 7th century, but there is much more to it than that. Prague Castle, for example, is the largest castle in the whole world, spanning over incredible 18 acres of land. Oh, and the lighting for it was created and paid for by the Rolling Stones. Cool, huh?

Additionally, Prague is among the 15 biggest cities in the EU and its residents consume the most beer per capita in the world: a staggering amount of more than 150 liters per year on average is drunk by every person. And these are just a few reasons why more than 8.5 million people visit the city every year, which makes Prague the fourth most popular tourist city in Europe!

One Day in Prague Itinerary

So, what to do in Prague? There are indeed many things to see in Prague in one day, but don’t worry – it can be done! Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the best sights for your one day in Prague.

Start your day with Prague Castle

As mentioned previously, Prague Castle is the largest in the world, meaning it will take you some time to tour it. Additionally, it is also incredibly popular among tourists, so getting here early can save you valuable time.

And investing some time into exploring the castle is really worth it because apart from the spectacular view, you will also get a chance to see the Old Royal Palace with its massive main hall, its beautiful garden from the 16th century, St. Vitus Cathedral , St. George’s Basilica and much, much more. So, if you’re wondering what to see in Prague in one day, put this incredible castle at the top of your list.

Head down to Charles Bridge

Once you’re done with the castle, head down to Charles Bridge and cross the Vltava to enter Prague’s Old Town. But the bridge itself is also one of the main attractions in Prague due to its fantastic architecture and the statues that adorn each side.

The statues mostly represent saints, and it is interesting to know that the bridge aligns perfectly with sunsets on the equinox. Naturally, you will also get an up-close view of the Vltava, plus the gates at the end of the bridge are also worth your time. Without a doubt, one of the main things to see in Prague, even if you’re here for just 24 hours.

See everything on the Old Town Square

Old Town Square (Staromestske namesti) is, naturally, the focal point of Prague’s Old Town and there is really a lot of things to do here. Old Town Hall is the main thing you should visit, primarily because of the wonderful Astronomical Clock which dates back all the way to the 15th century. You can also ascend the hall’s tower for a great view of the city. Clementinum is also a place very much worthy of your time because it is a huge conglomerate of historical buildings and home to the country’s national library which contains quite literally millions of books.

Tyn Church is also a great place to see. In addition, the square is also the perfect meeting point from which you can explore old town and maybe find a nice place to eat since it will be lunchtime by now. There is plenty to see and do in this part of Prague, and you will love exploring every corner of this beautiful old town.

Check out the Municipal House

But what to do in Prague after lunch? Well, another great architectural piece is Prague’s Municipal House. This, however, is a bit newer building, seeing how it was finished in 1912. Nevertheless, it is very much worthy of a look because it is an excellent example of Art Nouveau with plenty of fascinating details. Both in terms of exterior and interior, this building is absolutely stunning, so don’t just stay outside – enter it if you can. Today, it serves as a concert hall.

Enjoy Vaclavske namesti

You will have to leave the Old Town for this one, but Vaclavske namesti (Wenceslas Square) is very much worth it, plus you won’t have to go too far. The square dates back to the 14th century and will stun you with its beauty. Awe-inspiring architecture, which includes the National Museum , encircles the square, and this is also a great place to go shopping or to find a good restaurant. Should you come here around Christmas time, you will be in for a very special treat – the Christmas Market that is held here is extremely popular.

End your day with some Czech beer

What kind of Prague itinerary would this be if it didn’t contain beer? Letna Park is a great place to sit back and enjoy because it overlooks the Vltava and the Old Town, while providing loads of greenery all around you where you can taste some truly delectable brews. And if you want to end your 24 hours in Prague with something wilder, you will find loads of very good bars all over Old Town.

As for the nightlife, you really don’t have to worry about what to do in Prague once the sun sets. With places such as Lucerna Music Bar near Vaclavske namesti and Zlaty Strom in the Old Town, you will always have some excellent clubbing options.

Where to stay in Prague?

Metropolitan Old Town Hotel

Haštalská 731/20, Prague, 110 00

Metropolitan Old Town Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to stay somewhere near the city center and get some value for your money, too. The hotel was recently renovated and has no less than four restaurants, two of which are traditional breweries. Therefore, if you want to taste Czech beer, this is a great hotel to do it in. The hotel also has a spa and sports center, plus the rooms are very comfortable and each has its own bathroom.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Julian

Elišky Peškové 11, Prague, 15000

Hotel Julian is located in a beautiful neoclassical building, and once you enter it you will be in a world of vivid colors and beautiful interiors. It has a very nice terrace, and the restaurant will serve you traditional Czech dishes. You will also find a great spa centre here, plus there’s a tram station that will take you right to the city centre in front of the hotel. The rooms are modern and very well equipped, so even if you’ll only be 24 hours in Prague, booking a room here will be a great move.

Hotel Schwaiger

Schwaigerova 3, Prague, 16000

Hotel Schwaiger is a great little hotel whose style will throw you back in the 1920s. Naturally, all the amenities are here, including a bar and a beautiful garden, plus all the rooms come with coffee machine, flat-screen TVs and free cosmetics. You can enjoy your private bathroom in every room, and you are still within a reasonable distance from the main attractions.

Little Quarter Hostel

Nerudova 21, Prague, 110 00

If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Prague, look no further than Little Quarter Hostel . This charming little place is about one mile outside the city centre, so it provides enough peace and quiet, all within a reasonable distance from the sights. There are plenty of things to do, from beer pong to darts, and you can enjoy a beautiful terrace on a sunny day, too.

Day trips from Prague

If you have more than 24 hours in Prague, you may want to explore the area around the city and the rest of the Czech Republic. And you really should, because there are plenty of great options for a memorable day trip from Prague. Here are some of the most popular ones.

Češky Krumlov

This quintessentially Bohemian town is under the protection of UNESCO, and visiting it really feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Its picturesque streets with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets create a very romantic atmosphere every tourist is sure to enjoy. The town also boasts a magnificent Češky Krumlov Castle from the middle of the 13th century and a magnificent church of St. Vitus . If you want to learn more about Bohemia, its culture and history, this is one of the best day trips from Prague you can make.

Another beautiful example of a medieval Bohemian town, Kutna Hora was once a town of miners. However, apart from rich history and loads of culture, you can also check out something quite unique here – Sedlec Ossuary may give some people the creeps, but it contains bones of thousands of people which make up remarkable sculptures and decorations. Furthermore, you simply can’t miss St. Barbara’s Cathedral , a gothic masterpiece and another UNESCO site. A great way to dive deeper into Bohemia’s intriguing past.

Bohemian Switzerland National Park

A trip to Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a trip to unspoiled nature which has created nothing short of a paradise. It is located near the border with Germany, and you will even be able to sail through the park if you so desire. But hiking is also a fantastic option because the forests here and the rock formations hidden in them are simply magical. The fact that the Chronicles of Narnia were filmed here says a lot. You will also find restaurants around the park, so a very memorable meal is in store for you if you become hungry.

Karlovy Vary

Another picturesque town, Karlovy Vary is also known as Karlsbad. Now, this could be a day trip from Prague dedicated fully to your own pleasure because the town is known as a fantastic spa destination. There is, therefore, a lot of ways to please your senses here, but do not miss a visit to the Moser glass factory because there you will find true glass masterpieces and learn all about how they are made. Exhibitions of these incredible pieces can also be visited, but even if you just decide to stroll around you will have a wonderful day.

Extra tips for visiting Prague

• While the country is in the EU, Czech currency is not the euro but CZK, i.e. Czech crown, also known as koruna. One euro is worth about 25 or 26 korunas, so be mindful of the exchange scams which are common if you exchange the money on the street.
• Buying tickets for various attractions can bring you a lot of benefits – not only can you get better deals, but you can also skip lines sometimes that way.
• The earlier you get to a certain sight, the less crowded it will be. Keep that in mind when creating your Prague itinerary.
• Metros work only until midnight! After that you can only use trams and buses for the rest of the night.
• “Ahoj” means both “Hello!” and “Goodbye!” in Czech. It’s a simple way to connect with the locals.

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Prague Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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One Day Prague Itinerary: See The Best Of Prague In One Day

This page may contain  affiliate links which earn us a commission at no extra cost to you to support the site. Thank you!

Only spending one day in Prague and unsure how to make the most of it? This one day Prague itinerary will show you how to see the best highlights in a short time!

It comes to no surprise that Prague has turned into one of the most popular city breaks in Europe. With its fairy tale vibes, its beautiful architecture, rich history and cheap beer, it makes for a perfect city trip.

Whether you’re simply stopping in Prague during a road trip through the Czech Republic or have a layover here, you may be a little overwhelmed to plan a one-day itinerary. There are so many things to do in Prague ! How are you going to make sure you’re seeing the best hot spots in the city?

This itinerary will help you plan the perfect day in Prague. It’s an easy and efficient route though the city that can be one in a few hours, taking you to all the highlights of this beautiful city in Central Europe.

* The Navigatio uses affiliate links . If you make a purchase through these links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Prague itinerary overview

Short on time but still want to figure out how to spend your day in Prague? This quick overview will show you what’s part of this one day itinerary. If you want to learn more about the spots that are recommended, please keep scrolling for a more in-depth guide to this beautiful historic capital.

A. Charles Bridge B. Old Town Square (including the Astronomical Clock (C) , Old Town Hall, Kinsky Palace, Church of Our Lady (D) , the Powder tower (E) and the Jewish Quarter (F) ) G. Letna Park H. Prague Castle I. St. Vitus Cathedral J. Golden Lane K. Enjoy a Czech beer

If you’re looking for a little more information on the sights I recommend you visit in Prague, stick around 😉 Prague is filled with some of the most beautiful architecture, streets that feel like a fairy tale and some stunning views. Even though it’s hard to take in all this beautiful in one short day, you can definitely see most of the absolute highlights of Prague in 24 hours. Let’s take a look…

One Day Prague Itinerary

When you only have a short time to spend in Prague, you need to figure out what sights are worth your time and what the most efficient way is to see them all.

1. Charles Bridge

The best place to start your one day in Prague is the Charles Bridge . This bridge has been part of Prague since 1357, when King Charles IV ordered for it to be build between the Old Town and Prague Castle Grounds. Stretching out 515 meters in length, 9.5 meters in width and 13 meters high, it took the builders until 1402 to finish it. It was actually the only way to cross the Vltava in Prague until 1841!

The 30 Baroque statues that are lined up on either side of the bridge were placed there in the 17th century. One that deserves a look up close is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk. This famous saint was drowned in the river below the bridge after refusing the share the secret confessions of the Bohemian queen. Legend says touching the statues toes brings you some extra luck – worth a try in my opinion!

The reason I’m starting this itinerary here is because it tends to get pretty busy as the day progresses. It being such an iconic sight to visit in Prague, most tourists want to pay a visit to it (including us!). By going here early in the morning, you avoid the huge crowds that will gather here during the day. Otherwise, it’s pretty much constantly filled with people.

Another reason why I recommend going as early as possible is because you’ll get there before all the stalls set up. Being such a tourist magnet, local artists and vendors use it to sell their art, souvenirs and show off their performances. Even though it does add something to the atmosphere, I definitely preferred seeing the bridge when it was quieter. It’s also a much better photo opportunity 😉

Address: Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1

2. Old Town Square

From the Charles Bridge, you enter the Old Town of Prague ( Staré Mesto ). You can start to see why Prague attracts millions of visitors every year by simply walking through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town. Cobblestones, colourful buildings and beautiful Gothic architecture really do make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

As you can imagine, the Old Town in Prague is a very popular part of the city for tourists to visit. Apart from looking like a real life fairy tale, you can find some of the highlights of Prague here. Even if you only have one day in Prague, you kinda have to visit it.

Old Town Square is, like the Charles Bridge, a hot-spot for tourists. That’s why I really do recommend going here as early as possible. This way, you get to feel the magic of the place even more so.

On Old Town Square, there are a few points of interest that you should check out. Firstly, the Astronomical Clock. Seen on the cover of many Prague travel guides, this is the oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still operating (it’s over 600 years old!). This clock tells not only the time, it shows the relative positions of the planets in our solar system and the zodiac constellations. Legend says that the creator of this magnificent clock was blinded by the government in order to prevent him from creating a similar clock for other cities.

Then there is the Old Town Hall Tower , the building on which the clock is found. This Renaissance and Gothic tower stands tall on the square and has one of the best views in Prague. You can climb the tower for a small fee, and it’s 100% worth it!

Thirdly, there is the unmissable Church of Our Lady Before Tyn . The asymmetrical Gothic twin towers are an iconic part of the Old Town Square. I say asymmetrical because one of the towers (Adam) is slightly larger than the other (Eve). As mentioned before, Prague feels and looks like a fairy tale. Legend even suggests that this beautiful church inspired Walt Disney for the castle of Sleeping Beauty.

The interior of the church was completely reworked after a fire in 1679. The new Baroque interior fitted also includes the oldest organ in Prague. Apart from its regular services, the church also hosts classical music concerts.

Old Town Square address: Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Josefov

3. Powder Tower

Head over towards the Powder Tower , which is located a little walk from Old Town Square. It’s another beautifully preserved Gothic piece of architecture that gives Prague its undeniable charm. Hundreds of years ago, there were 13 entrances to the Old Town of Prague. The Powder Tower (even though it wasn’t called Powder Tower just yet, it used to be called the New Tower ) was one of them. In 1475, the tower was modelled to look more like the tower that can be found at the end of the Charles Bridge.

The tower was part of Celetná street, which if famous for being a part of the Royal Way. This route was used for kings when navigating from the Royal Court to Prague Castle.

When in the 18th century the tower was used to store Prague’s gun powder, the tower was named Powder Tower. Nowadays, you can find an exhibition inside and you can click the 186 steps towards a beautiful viewing platform at 44 meters of height. This is one of the best views in Prague and I highly recommend giving it a go!

Address: nám. Republiky 5, 110 00 Staré Město

4. Jewish Quarter ( Josefov )

Packed away in between the Old Town and the Vltava river lays Josefov , also known as the Jewish Quarter. As you can imagine, this part of Prague carries a lot of troubled history. The reason these buildings are so well preserved is because the Nazis were planning to turn this part of the city into a museum of an extinct race after the war. It’s chilling to think about, but I think it’s very important to learn about this history so we can all do better in the future. Due to this, the Jewish Quarter in Prague is one of the best preserved Jewish monuments in Europe.

The Jewish Quarter dates back to the 11th century and was founded after other Jewish settlements were destroyed. Not long after that, Jewish people were ordered to move to this part of Prague and were banned to live anywhere else in the city. New arrivals from other countries were also banished to the Jewish Quarter and its population quickly grew. During the second World War, many of the inhabitants were taken to concentration camps.

When you are in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, there are a few points of interest that I recommend you to check out. Firstly, pay your respects at the Jewish Cemetery . The cemetery is also part of the Jewish Museum, which I definitely recommend if you have more than one day in Prague. You may be pushing your luck by visiting it if you want to see more of the city during your short stay. But visiting the Jewish Cemetery can definitely be done. This is the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the world and with over 12.000 gravestones (there’s even more graves), it is also one of the largest in Europe. It is said that some of the graves are 10-12 layers deep. This is also the final resting place of many important Jewish names like Rabbi Judah Loew Ben Bezalel , Avigdor Kara and Rabbi David Oppenheim .

Also walk passed the Franz Kafka Monument , which you can find on the square near Vězeňská street and the Spanish Synagogue. The writer Franz Kafka (most famous for his story The Metamorphosis ) spent most of his life in the Jewish Quarter and didn’t get a statue until 80 years after his death. The statue shows a headless man with a smaller man on his shoulders. The smaller man is Kafka.

And lastly, check out one of the Synagogues. There are a total of six Synagogues in the Jewish Quarter, each with their own stories and history. The two most famous ones are the Old-New Synagogue and the Spanish Synagogue . The Old-New Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. This Gothic building was established in 1270. The Spanish Synagogue is a bit younger, but it’s popular due to its beautiful Moorish interior design. Both are more than worth a quick visit!

5. Letna Park

In the afternoon, we are going to explore the Lesser Town of Prague. We start by crossing the Vltava river from the Old Town towards the castle grounds. First stop… Letna Park ( Letenské sady ). It’s a little hike up the hill, but the view will definitely pay off. Alternatively, you can take a tram up. It’s actually one of the best views in Prague, where you can look across the river and see the Charles Bridge in the distance alongside the orange/red roofs of the city. But it’s more than just a viewpoint of the Old Town.

This huge park is also one of the main green places in Prague where locals and international students come to take a little break from the busy city. Alongside a skateboard park, a playground for children and a beer garden for us city trippers, Letna Park makes for the perfect start of our afternoon.

At the entrance of the park, you can see a giant red metronome. Even though it may not seem as important when first laying eyes on it, on this spot used to stand a massive monument of Joseph Stalin overlooking the city. It was destroyed in 1962 and years later (1991), this metronome was installed. It is seen as a symbol for a new era for Prague. It’s a popular sight to watch the sunset – especially while drinking a cold beer from Stalin Bar.

Address: 170 00 Praha 7-Letná

6. Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral

On to one of the absolute must-sees in Prague: Prague Castle . It being the number one tourist attraction in the city, you simply cannot visit Prague and skip this impressive building. It is absolutely stunning! Prague Castle is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also the largest castle grounds in the world at 753,474 square feet. Founded in 880, the castle grounds ( Hradčany ) are filled with history, beautiful architecture and stunning gardens to enjoy. You could literally spend all day here and still find new things to enjoy, but on our tight time schedule we’ll only spend a few hours here. This is still more than enough to see the main highlights, though.

Build in a Romanesque-style and modified with some Gothic features, Prague’s skyline wouldn’t be the same without its castle. It’s free to visit the castle grounds. But there is a small fee to enter the castle itself and the cathedral. Please also note that there are guards to check bags before entering the castle grounds.

Note: Stick around for the change of the guards, which happens every hour on the hour.

Inside of Prague’s Castle Grounds, you can also find St. Vitus Cathedral. This stunning cathedral is one of the highlights of the castle grounds and the skyline. It does cost a little fee to enter the cathedral, but you can buy a ticket that includes both the castle and the cathedral.

You can book a tour for Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and some other highlights on the castle grounds here . This includes admission tickets, a tour where you can learn about Prague Castle through the centuries and a tram ride towards the castle from the Charles Bridge.

Even though you may only have one day in Prague, this 2.5 hour tour will ensure you to get the most of your visit to the Castle Grounds and I could not recommend it more. Because you will most likely spend 2-3 hours at the Castle Grounds anyways, you may as well learn everything there is to know about the area with a guide.

Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1

7. Golden Lane

While visiting the Prague Castle grounds, make sure to stop by the Golden Lane ( Zlata Ulicka ). Along this street, tons of tiny, colourful houses are lines up. They look like they came straight from a fairy tale picture book where the dwarfs live. But in reality, these houses were build for the castle fortifications back in the 16th century. Originally, there were two streets.

After the guards moved out, one of the streets got demolished and the other become home to the poor and was no longer part of the castle. It was home to quite a few famous people, like Franz Kafka, who lived on number 22 for a year.

The Golden Lane also comes with its own stories and myths and is often referred to as the “ Street of Alchemists “. Legend says alchemists lived on the street and kept themselves busy turning iron into gold and creating potions of youth. The street was originally called Goldsmiths Lane, after the goldsmiths that used to live there, but was shortened to Golden Lane. Inside the houses, you can find little shops and expositions that show what life was like in Prague over the last few centuries.

Address: 119 00 Praha 1-Hradčany

8. Try the Czech Cuisine for dinner

After a long day of walking around Prague, it’s time for dinner. In a busy city like Prague, you can find a restaurant for basically any type of cuisine, but why not try a traditional Czech meal? Czech cuisine may not be as widely known as other European kitchens like French or Italian, but they do have some amazing dishes that you could try when in Prague:

• Svíčková na smetaně : Slices of beef tenderloin in a vegetable puree often served with some dumplings on the side. The puree is usually made with carrots and parsley roots.
• Smažený sýr : Prague’s food scene isn’t completely designed for vegetarians (yet). Usually this dish is one of the few items you can order if you don’t eat meat. It’s fried cheese (oh yeah, a deep fried block of cheese). The dish is often served with some tartar sauce.
• Guláš : Even though Hungary may be famous for its goulash, the Czech Republic has its own version that may be even better. It’s thicker and feels more like a strew rather than a soup.
• Česnečka : This is a Czech garlic soup. It may not sound too appealing but I challenge you to give it a go, you may be surprised at how tasty it is!

10. Czech Beer in a Czech Pub

And what better way to end a day in Prague then with a cold, Czech beer? The Czech Republic and its capital city are famous for its tasty and cheap beers. The Czech actually drink more beer per capita than anywhere else in the world (leaving the number 2 far… far behind). So yeah – they know and love their beer!

Many local breweries supply Prague’s pubs with different variety of Czech beer, which is why ending the day in one of the many Prague pubs is such a great idea. Definitely try the nation’s favourite, Pilsner Urquell . But don’t shy away from trying one of the many craft beers available in the bars and pubs.

• Cash Only Bar : One of the most popular bars in Prague lays in an atmospheric cobblestone street in the middle of the Old Town. Very cosy, great beer and cocktails and they also serve a great hot dog.
• Beer Museum Pub : Being such a beer-loving city, Prague even has its very own Beer Museum. Even though you probably don’t have time to visit the museum when you’re in Prague for one short day, but you can definitely still visit the affiliated pub for a quick drink at the end of your day.
• U Zlatého Tygra : Also known as the Golden Tiger, this old drinking hall serves very affordable beers for a traditional beer drinking experience. This is where you’ll find the locals, which means it’s always a good choice.

Is one day in Prague enough?

Spending one day in any large city requires you to plan your day properly. Especially if you want to make the most of your short time. Even though I would personally recommend spending at least 4 days in Prague , sometimes our schedules simply don’t allow it. One day in Prague is definitely still better than none 😉

But with this itinerary, you can easily see most of the best highlights of the city in one day. Even though you probably can’t fit any museum visits in (and Prague has a lot of great museums), you can still get a great impression of Prague and tick most of the bucket-list items off your list!

Where to stay in Prague

When visiting Prague for one day, I highly recommend staying as closely to the city centre as possible. Because this one-day itinerary is tailored to fit a full day, staying in city centre of Prague helps you create some more time in the morning/evening to explore the city.

Budget: Hotel U Zlateho Stromu

Located in the heart of Prague, steps away from the Charles Bridge, Hotel U Zlateho Stromu makes for a great stay with double rooms from £26 per night. With a view on the tower of the Charles Bridge, I don’t think you can get a better location for your first stay in Prague!

Check prices and availability here

Mid-range: Hotel Leonardo Prague

This lovely mid-range hotel is located in the Old Town of Prague with a beautiful view across the river and onto Prague’s Castle. Furnished with some antique decorations, this hotel gives you that Prague fairy tale vibe even in the place you’ll sleep. There is an open-air courtyard where you can enjoy a drink and the rooms come with free WiFi.

Luxury: Jalta Boutique Hotel

Don’t mind spending a little more for a better room? (This is still quite cheap compared to other European capital cities!) The Jalta Boutique Hotel’s got you covered. Only 800 yards from the historic centre of Prague, this hotel comes with air-conditioned rooms and views of the historic town. The hotel also comes with free WiFi.

Extra Prague Travel Tips

How to get around prague in one day.

Prague is a very compact city compared to other European capital cities, making it quite easy to get to all the highlights on foot. The route described in the itinerary can be done without public transport, but if you want to check out the metro and trams, I recommend reading this guide.

Is the Prague Pass/Prague Card worth it?

The Prague City Pass and Prague Card give you access to many of the main highlights in the city alongside free access to a bus and river tour. Because these Prague Card starts at 2 days, I could not recommend it for this trip. The Prague Pass is also pretty pricey if you’re only going to use it for a day. So it’s cheaper to just get a tour or entree passes for the individual sights you want to see.

Even though one day in Prague may not seem like long enough to see everything this beautiful historic city has to offer, it is a great start. As you can see, there is more than enough you can fit into 24 hours if you plan accordingly. Seeing the Old Town and the Castle Grounds are by far the most popular sights. Adding these into an easy-to-follow itinerary only made sense. I hope this guide has helped you with your plans to visit Prague!

Pin for later …

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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13 thoughts on “One Day Prague Itinerary: See The Best Of Prague In One Day”

These are great recommendations. I’d love to go back to Prague.

This is such a great one day guide to Prague! I was there a few years ago and would have loved this guide! Thanks for sharing all your great recommendations!

What a great itinerary! I haven’t been to prague for years so will use this when I return. I particularly liked the map – so useful!

Thank you so much for this information! The last time I went to Prague it really was only for one day, and there are spots on your list I missed the first time around. Can’t wait to go back and add some of the locations you mentioned!

I completely agree with you, ‘One day in Prague is always better than None. 🙂 Prague is such a beautiful city and obviously one day would not do justice to it. But your post carefully sums up all the major attractions that can be covered in a day and its a wonderfully done post. Thanks

Such a gorgeous city but I have only visited it once. You managed to pack everything to one day which is quite impressive. Wha a great one-day itinerary!

I wanted to visit Prague a few years ago for the day but was worried one day wasn’t going to be enough time. I wish I’d seen your itinerary then! But hopefully, I’ll plan a trip there soon so I can spend a bit more time exploring the city. Saving for later!

This post is so useful for anybody planning to spend one day in the city! Thanks for sharing, I love Prague so much 🙂

I was supposed to go to Prague in April so this will be good for if I ever go back

You just made me want to go back to Prague!! I’ve been there almost 10 years ago and visited many of the sights you mentioned 😊

I wish I had a blog back then… Hahaha

Xo, Barbara

Such a good itinerary, makes me miss Prague and want to revisit! Thanks for all the tips 🙂

I love Prague! I only had one weekend there when I visited a few years ago so I would love to go back and explore more of the city and the area. Great guide for fitting in all of the main must-see’s in one day 🙂

This looks absolutely gorgeous. Dying to go now that we can travel again. How easy is it to get around with just English?

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How to Spend One Amazing Day in Prague

Rich in culture, history, and stunning architecture, the City of a Thousand Spires is one of Europe’s most fascinating places.

Prague has been the seat of power for Bohemian kings, a medieval crossroads for east-to-west trade, and has a somber history of occupation during World War II and communism during the Cold War.

Today, the vibrant Czech capital thrives as a part of the EU and attracts tourists from around the globe. You could spend weeks exploring the city and still leave things undiscovered, but if you only have 24 hours, this one day Prague itinerary and guide will show you all the highlights.

Prague Trip Resources

Here are the services we use and recommend for traveling in Czechia;

• Search for affordable flights with Skyscanner
• Book your airport transfers with Intui Travel
• Find hotel and accommodation deals with Booking.com
• Book the best value car rentals with Rentalcars.com
• Find the best activities and tours with Get Your Guide
• Get highly-rated travel insurance with True Traveller
• Get your convenient travel esim from Airalo or Holafly

When to Visit Prague

Because there are so many things to do in Prague in one day, there’s hardly a bad time of year to visit. It’s not a seasonal destination with beaches or ski slopes, but there are pros and cons for each season. 

Spring in Prague offers a transitioning city to explore with Easter markets and a blossoming landscape. There are countless events and festivals that you may be lucky enough to catch in your one day trip to Prague.

Temperatures can fluctuate in the spring, so the weather is good but not optimal, however, the spring crowds are much easier to navigate compared to Prague in the summer months. 

Overall, the shoulder season is ideal for planning your trip to Prague. Late March through May and September through early November will have the best weather and crowd sizes in Prague.

You won’t be lacking in things to do, and you get all the best attractions that Prague has to offer.

If you visit Prague in the summer months, be prepared for the city to swell with tourists. This is the time of year when you’ll have to get up early to walk across the Charles Bridge without it feeling overrun.

You can expect queues to enter Prague Castle and you may not be able to find a table for dinner without a reservation.

Still, this is a great time to visit Prague if you want to experience the famous nightlife with plenty of international visitors by your side.

It’s also the most comfortable weather with loads of sunlight, longer days to fill with activities, and comfortable temperatures to be outside and walk around the historic city. 

Autumn in Prague is one of the best times to visit the city. During the fall months, you’ll have a noticeable difference in crowd size and you’ll feel freer to tour the city without long lines and strangers walking in front of your photos.

Because of the large student population, the city has a buzz about it during the fall – it’s like a “back to school feeling” all around town.

Prague in the falls feels more authentic than when you visit at the height of the tourist season. The autumn months may have cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, but that’s the trade-off for visiting the city with fewer crowds and queues. 

During the wintertime, temperatures in Prague will be cold and the daylight becomes scarce.

Some activities like Vltava river cruises are limited or closed altogether. Instead, they’re replaced with other winter activities like the atmospheric Christmas market in Wenceslas Square, and holiday bazaars around Prague.

There are more tourists in the city for these holiday attractions, but it’s still not as crowded as the peak days of summer. You’ll feel a favorable difference in the crowd levels but have less daylight and colder temperatures in which to tour Prague in one day.

Get Your Prague Visitor Card Here

The Prague Official City Pass with Public Transport covers 2-5 days and has access to more than 70 experiences in Prague + unlimited use of public transport including the airport bus. Get your Prague Visitor Card now .

The Prague CoolPass covers 1-6 days and has access to 70+ attractions and includes a sightseeing bus tour and two river cruises. Get your Prague CoolPass now .

Getting to Prague

Václav Havel Airport Prague, formerly Prague Ruzyně International Airport, is the international airport of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, and sits around 15km to the west of the city.

You have several options to get into downtown Prague from the airport;

Catch the Prague Public Transit company (DPP) bus No. 119 from the airport towards Nadrazi Veleslavin station, which leaves every 15 minutes. It will take around 20 minutes to get to the station, where you can connect to Metro Line A for Můstek, Muzeum, or Malostranská stations. Metro trains run at 3-5 minute intervals and the journey will take a further 25 minutes. Tickets cost 32 CZK (Czech Korunas).

The quickest and most convenient option, you can book in advance with Intui Travel , meaning you’ll be met at the terminal and the driver will help with your luggage. You’ll go directly to your hotel or accommodation in a comfortable car.

Grab a metered cab or an Uber which will cost around €35 and take about 35 minutes to arrive in the city center.

Where to Stay in Prague

• Luxury: Andaz Prague – a Concept by Hyatt – Booking.com | Agoda
• Mid-Range: Three Storks – Booking.com | Agoda
• Budget: Hotel Prokop Square – Booking.com | Agoda
• Hostel: Hostel Little Quarter – Booking.com | Agoda

What to See & Do in Prague

The perfect Prague 1 day itinerary is easy to plan out because the most visited and famous must-see Prague attractions are clustered together.

Each sightseeing area is easy to walk to and from, but to start we’ll leave Old Town and head towards Prague Castle. You’ll see plenty of opportunities to reach the castle by carriage, antique car, or other unique means, but we think the best way to spend a day in Prague is by foot.

If you like your city visits organized for you, then check out this highly-rated Prague Old Town and Jewish Quarter guided walking tour with a local guide.

One Day in Prague Interactive Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Stroll the Charles Bridge

Start your day in Prague by strolling across Karluv Most , or Charles Bridge, one of Prague’s key landmarks and the most famous of the city’s seventeen bridges.

Charles Bridge is an iconic stone arch bridge that crosses the Vltava River and brings you to the oldest part of the city, Mala Strana , beneath Prague Castle.

Construction of the bridge began in 1357 and finished in the following century. It’s lined with religious statues and dotted with artisans selling local goods and is a must-see Prague attraction.

Top Tip : The Charles Bridge becomes packed by mid-afternoon, so the earlier you begin your walk to the castle the more you will enjoy yourself.

Admire Prague Castle

From the other side of the bridge, you’ll ascend  Hradcany , or Castle Hill, towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Prague Castle and be rewarded with a more spectacular view with every step you climb.

Once you reach the castle grounds, you’ll find a queue to go through security, and if you’re lucky you can see the changing of the guards. 

Visiting Prague Castle for the first time, you will be stunned by how much there is to do and see. One of the main attractions is the Golden Lane, a reconstructed row of dwellings that once housed castle laborers. It’s located along the castle wall opposite the entrance. 

Make sure to visit the strikingly beautiful 14th century St. Vitus Cathedral, the final resting place of saints including Wenceslas, the former Duke of Bohemia. You can also book skip-the-line tours of the Old Royal Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and St. George’s Basilica, all contained within the Prague Castle walls. 

Top Tip : The ceremonial Changing of the Guard at Prague Castle, which includes the fanfare and flag ceremony, takes place daily at noon in the first courtyard of the Castle. The sentries at the gates of the medieval castle also change on the hour from 7am to 8pm in summer and from 7am to 6pm in winter, but without as much fanfare as the noon spectacle.

The Castle Gardens & Towers

The gardens below Prague Castle are open daily between April and October, and are free to visit and offer respite from the crowds. They are a wonderful place to find a few peaceful moments.

The Royal Garden was founded in 1534 by Ferdinand I and is historically the most valuable of all the Castle Gardens. Originally inspired by formal Italian design, you’ll find statues, box hedging, and restrained flower displays. One of its greatest treasures is the Singing Fountain, one of the most beautiful Renaissance fountains in Europe. 

The Southern Gardens, comprising the Paradise, Ramparts, and Hartig Gardens are spread along the southern facade of the Castle and provide striking views of the Lesser Town (Mala Strana), Old Town, and nearby Petřín.

The Castle Towers

At the eastern end of the Castle grounds, you’ll find three towers; Daliborka, a castle tower that was once a prison and contains medieval torture devices, the Black Tower which offers the best view of the city below the castle and is a great spot for a Prague cityscape photo, and the White Tower which is part of the Late Gothic fortifications and was a state prison from 1584.

Cross the Manes Bridge

After you leave the towers, descend the Old Castle Stairs and cross the river to Old Town over Manesuv Most , or Manes Bridge – a perfect stop to snap a few photos of the Charles Bridge upriver.

Named after Joseph Manes, the local artist who painted the images of the twelve months on the Prague Astrological Clock, Manes Bridge was built prior to World War I and is considered a fine example of Czech cubism.

Visit the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter or Josefov, is the smallest district in Prague and was formerly the city’s Jewish ghetto.

In the 13th century, all the Jews in Prague were forced to leave their homes and live in this one small area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the oldest buildings and most beautiful streets in the city.

The Jewish Quarter is full of historic buildings like the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe, which was completed in 1270 and is the home of the legendary Golem of Prague. 

In Jewish folklore, a golem is an animated anthropomorphic being that is created entirely from inanimate matter such as clay or mud. The most famous golem tale involves the 16th century rabbi of Prague, Judah Loew ben Bezalel, also known as the Maharal, who reportedly created a golem out of clay from the banks of the Vltava River and brought it to life through rituals and Hebrew incantations, to defend the Prague ghetto from anti-Semitic attacks and pogroms.

Adjacent to the synagogue is the Jewish Town Hall, a picturesque building with two distinctive clock faces. Nearby is the Old Jewish Cemetery, a remarkable 15th century graveyard with over 12,000 tombstones, and unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Before you leave the Jewish Quarter, make a stop at the Spanish Synagogue, an ornate house of worship on the edge of the neighborhood. It’s the most modern synagogue in the Jewish Quarter and next to the Franz Kafka Monument, which honors the Czech writer who once lived in the Jewish Quarter.

To learn more about the Jewish Quarter and its history why not take this popular guid ed tour which includes entrance tickets to some of the main attractions?

Alternatively visit the Jewish Museum in Prague , one of the oldest Jewish museums in Europe, which oversees four historical synagogues and various other important Jewish buildings and places. You’ll also find galleries of over 40,000 artifacts and a library of over 100,000 books. 

Wander Staré Mesto

 In Old Town Square or Staré Mesto, you’ll find the final cluster of Prague attractions surrounded by stunning buildings with colorful art nouveau facades, such as Old Town City Hall, Týn Cathedral, and St Nicholas Church.

In the center of the square is the historic Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock, or Prague Orloj, which was installed in 1410, making it the third oldest astronomical clock in the world, and the oldest clock still operating.

Wander the area as long as you need, but be sure to gather in front of the clock for the hourly show. The masterpiece of Prague’s Astronomical Clock really is a thing of beauty.

Wander the web of passages around Old Town Square and enjoy the exquisite architecture and secret corners. Further east, you’ll find the Gothic Powder Tower, the 65m high historic town gate, which was once a gunpowder store!

Take a Vltava River Cruise

See Prague from a different perspective when you take a cruise along the River Vltava. Beautifully lit, the city is gorgeous at night, and cruising under the Charles Bridge, with Prague Castle above, is a perfect way to end your 24 hours in Prague.

Go Ghost Hunting

Prague has had a long and well-documented history of ghosts, legends, and mysteries. Join a local guide on a ghosts and legends tour to hear all the ancient stories in Old Town, and visit the underground dungeons and back alleys while admiring some of Prague’s landmarks at night.

Experience the Famous Prague Nightlife

Home to some of the best bars and clubs in Europe, Prague has something for everyone. Go dancing in Karlovy Lazne, the largest club in Central Europe, or join a pub crawl to meet others and let a guide take you to the best places.

If you prefer your nightlife a bit quieter, wander the city at your own pace, enjoying local beers and wines in whichever spots take your fancy. Beer aficionados should go to U Kunštátü in the Old Town, where over 100 beers are on offer from independent local breweries.

Wine lovers should head for Vinograf in Mala Strana, where the focus is firmly on wines from Czech and Bohemia. Ask for a tasting of Czech wines and they’ll be happy to show you the whole spectrum of what Czech winemakers can offer.

Where to Eat in Prague

Café culture.

Prague was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire for over 400 years and inevitably, the Viennese café culture extended beyond the borders of the imperial city and gained a foothold in Prague.

Cafés were not just places to have coffee and cake, they were meeting points for cultural societies, actors, poets and writers, and in the communist era, dissenters and plotters met there too.

There are three types of cafés in Prague: the gorgeously ornate and decadent early 20th century coffee houses which were mostly shut during the communist era and have since been restored, like Café Imperial ; the utilitarian cafés which sprung up post-1948 like Café Slavia ; and the more modern iterations which you see in every city across the globe.

Our favorites are Kavarna Obecni Dum or the Café of the Municipal House for its sparkling Art Nouveau decor and Café Savoy , just over the Most Legii or Legion Bridge because we enjoyed a very gloopy and delicious hot chocolate there in March many years ago, just after we got engaged in Petřín Gardens!

The best place to have lunch in Prague’s Old Town is Krcma , a traditional Czech eaterie in a vaulted basement. It has a casual tavern vibe with authentic cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere.

If you’ve never had Czech food before, you’ll find a lot of potatoes, gravy, pork, and dumpling items on the menu. In the Czech Republic, lunch is traditionally a bigger meal than dinner. Don’t be shocked if the meal seems larger than you’re used to in the afternoon, since you’re in Prague you can have a lighter dinner.

A perfect authentic dinner destination in Prague is Lokal , a local favorite for light fare with a beer hall atmosphere. As mentioned, a Czech dinner is usually a smaller portion than you’d expect at lunch.

A simple basket of schnitzel and fries with a mug of cold beer is a typical evening meal. You’ll find that locals will linger at tables for an after-dinner beer as well, so make the most of your night in Prague and stick around.

Top Five Prague Travel Tips

• Make sure to pack sturdy and comfortable shoes. While there’s great public transportation, you’ll walk a lot when you visit Prague in a day, and the mosaic and cobbled stone pavements are uneven underfoot.
• Avoid using Prague’s currency exchange shops, many of them use drastically incorrect exchange rates and it’s much to your advantage to simply withdraw Czech Krona and use it in the city. 
• Euros are accepted in many locations, but even the vendors who accept Euro will overcharge you to pay in any foreign currency. At best they will give you a poor exchange rate and at worst, they will claim that they cannot give you change.
• Book skip-the-line tickets online in advance for Prague attractions to avoid queues during your one day in Prague itinerary.
• Dress in layers when you visit Prague as the temperature can fluctuate quickly from morning to afternoon and again when the sun sets in the evening.

More Than One Day in Prague?

If you have extra time in Prague there are a number of fantastic museums that you can easily spend a few hours enjoying.

Hit the City’s Lesser Visited Museums

From the KGB Museum and National Technical Museum on the edge of beautiful Letna Park, to the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague, there are plenty of educational places in Prague to visit.

Explore Petrin Gardens

The Petrin Gardens, situated on the slope of Petrin Hill, are the largest green space in the center of Prague and enjoy hidden corners that provide stunning views of Prague Castle, the Old and New Town, and the Nusle Bridge.

The 510-meter-long Petrin funicular connects the lower station Ujezd with the upper station Petrin via the Nebozizek stop over 130 meters of elevation gain. The original cableway was commissioned for the Jubilee Czech Exhibition in 1891, along with the Industrial Palace at the Prague Exhibition Grounds and the Petrin Observation Tower. Standard public transport tickets can be used and bicycles can also be carried.

The funicular railway passes through the Hunger Wall, built by Charles IV in the 14th century as part of the city’s fortifications. According to legend, he decided to build the wall to provide a livelihood for Prague’s poor citizens during a famine.

Discover the John Lennon Wall

Make a point to visit the John Lennon Wall. It’s a graffiti-covered spot that’s popular on Instagram and served as a beacon of resistance during the Soviet occupation of Prague.

Terezin Concentration Camp Guided Tour

If you take one day trip from Prague, make it this highly recommended and well-organised guided tour.

Explore the famous Terezin Concentration Camp on a guided tour. You will see the Terezin Small Fortress, the museum, and more on a half-day tour from Prague. 

Take a tour of the site of the concentration camp and the barracks while hearing about how the former garrison town transformed into a camp. Learn about how Terezin changed dramatically when the Nazis renamed it Theresienstadt and sent the first Jewish transports there in November 1941. 

With a professional guide to offer insights, this emotive tour is the perfect opportunity to see  more of the Czech Republic in less time!

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• Travel Guides
• December 30, 2023
• Prague — Czech Republic
• City in a Day

Prague’s main sights

The historical part of Prague is compact. One day for a sightseeing walk is the best option. The most famous route is the legendary «Royal Road»: the path along which future Czech rulers walked to their coronation.

Buses, including from the airport, and trains to Prague arrive at the Main Station (Hlavní Nádraží). You can start your walk there or from Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). It is much more convenient to walk down the hill. The route is approximately 3.5 km — 2 hours at a leisurely pace.

Prague Castle

The most striking symbol of the city and the No. 1 attraction. This complex was built in 855. Since 1355 it became the residence of Czech kings, since 1918 the residence of the president. In terms of its importance, the construction is not inferior to the Kremlin in Russia.

The dominant feature of Prague Castle is St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic Catholic church. Within its walls was held the coronation rite after the future ruler completed the royal itinerary.

Attractions of the complex:

• Rozmberg Palace;
• The old royal palace;
• St. George’s Basilica;
• Zlata alley (in the Middle Ages it was home to alchemists and magicians, later F. Kafka);
• Viewing platform of St. Vitus Cathedral and the walls of Prague Castle;
• Picture Gallery;
• Historical Exposure.

Some of the attractions are accessible by ticket, which are sold at the entrance. Access by ticket is for two days, so it is not necessary to visit everything on the first day.

• Prague Castle website .
• Open November-March 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., April-October 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri).
• Cost: free admission and visit to the observation wall, ticket price for the exhibitions and the observation room on the cathedral tower.

Nerudova ulice (Nerudova ulice)

This ancient street runs from Prague Castle to the historic Mala Strana district. It is decorated with Baroque houses with colorful portals and stucco decorations. Under King Charles IV, the street became part of the «Royal Road».

It is noteworthy that in Prague houses are numbered and named after a coat of arms or legend. There are many such examples on Nerudova Street. For example, house No. 44 was named «By the Three Black Eagles», No. 47 — «By the Two Suns», No. 49 — «By the White Swan». An important feature of such buildings is the coat of arms above the entrance (fresco or stucco).

Charles Bridge (Karlův most)

Prague’s iconic landmark is a record-breaker in many categories:

• The most frequently photographed object in the city;
• it’s wrapped up in the greatest number of legends;
• it’s the most traveled by tourists per day.

The first bridge was built in the 10th century from wood. In 1357, it was rebuilt in stone. Over time, it was widened to 9.5 meters, towers were placed at the bases, and the balustrades were decorated with sculptures.

It’s not just a bridge, but a whole street with artists, photographers and mimes. It is constantly busy with people. Only early in the morning I managed to catch the bridge almost empty, soak up the atmosphere and take photos.

Stare Mesto (Stare Mesto)

The Stare Mesto district is a concentration of historical buildings of different eras and styles. Here you can find Gothic cathedrals, old Baroque or Rococo houses. Despite the diversity, everything looks harmonious. A striking example is Old Town Square and its legendary buildings:

• Týn temple;
• Old Town Hall;
• Church of St. Nicholas;
• Former dwellings with portals and coats of arms.

In summer the square is crowded with vacationers and in winter with visitors to the Christmas fair. In Prague, this event is especially colorful.

Powder Tower (Prašná brána)

The route of the «Royal Road» is marked with silver arrows on the houses. From Old Town Square, the route follows Celetná Street and ends at the Powder Tower. In the Middle Ages it was used to store ammunition, now it is a museum and observation deck.

• Website: Museum .
• Open November-February — 10:00—18:00, March — 10:00—20:00, April-September — 10:00—22:00, October — 10:00—20:00.
• Price: adult ticket — 100 CZK, children’s ticket — 70 CZK.

Wenceslas Square (Václavské námĕstí)

The spacious Wenceslas Square is a walking area and a significant place for the citizens of Prague. In 1348 Charles IV ordered a market to be set up here, but the citizens were used to more than just trading. Sometimes they organized mass meetings and rallies that led to revolution.

The square was rebuilt several times. The modern square is a boulevard with functional buildings. I found everything I needed here — inexpensive cafes, souvenir stores, clothing stores, a bank.

Main station (Hlavní Nádraží)

For many people, getting to know Prague starts at the Main Station. This building is impressive. From the outside, it has a 19th century facade with decorations, stucco and statues, while inside it is a modern structure with a developed infrastructure.

What else is there to see in Prague?

There are many attractions on the Malostranská side. If there is only one day to explore Prague, you can stop at the most interesting and unusual places.

Valdštejnský Palace (Valdštejnská zahrada)

This palace is an attempt to surpass Prague Castle. The ambitious Field Marshal Albrecht von Wallenstein bought up a considerable area and ordered the construction of a palace and park complex with the largest halls and parks.

The result is impressive. Perfect geometry of the buildings, an Italian-style park with sculptures, aviaries with birds, a pond with carp and fountains.

• Senate website.
• Open: The Senate meets in the palace, so access is only on weekends (April-May, October — 10:00—17:00, June-September — 10:00—18:00). The park is open weekdays from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, on Sat-Fri from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Price: visits to the park and palace are free of charge.

Petřín Hill (Petřín)

Petřín Hill is an impressive area with a variety of attractions. There is a church, a monastery, an observation tower, an observatory and a mirror labyrinth, eight gardens and parks with flowering alleys. It can take all day to walk around.

Some of the attractions are free:

• St. Wawrzyniec Church;
• Calvary Chapel;
• Rose Garden (10,000 roses planted);
• The Kinskys' summer castle;
• Hunger Wall;
• Strahov Monastery.

Entrance to the observation deck of the tower is paid, but the view from the top will be remembered for a long time. Only at such a moment you realize that you are lucky to be in the great city of Prague.

The hill is high — 327 meters. You can climb to the top on foot, but it is better to save your strength for a walk. The funicular takes only 5 minutes to the observation tower. The transportation comes from the Újezd stop (Mala Strana).

The funicular operates year-round:

• April-October — 9:00—23:30 (follows every 10 minutes);
• November-March — from 9:00—23:20 (follows every 15 minutes).

A ticket for Prague’s public transportation is suitable for the climb up. You can buy a cable car ticket at the ticket office at the entrance.

One Day in Prague: What Can You Do in Prague in 24 Hours?

An eclectic blend of medieval history and European charm, this striking city tops the list as one of the most popular destinations in Europe. No matter if you are able to spend a few weeks or just one day in Prague , you’ll be left wishing you had more time.

Often referred to as the City of a Thousand Spires, Prague seems to be frozen in the 14 th century with its gothic cathedrals, functioning astronomical clock, and sky-scraping castles!

Prague is a perfect destination for those who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of life. With its medieval architecture, easy-to-navigate layout, and abundance of fun activities for all types of travelers, it’s no wonder that so many tourists choose to visit this beautiful city each year.

The best way to see everything that Prague has to offer in one day is by following our ultimate guide and itinerary! Read on below for 24 hours’ worth of tips about where you should go and what you should do while in the Czech Republic’s vibrant capital city.

Additionally, you’ll learn about how to get to Prague, how to get around, the best sites and attractions, what to eat, where to stay, and even a FREE guide on the 3 mistakes I made the first time I visited Prague, and how to avoid them (found at the bottom of the article).

Happy Travels!

Where is Prague Located?

So, where is Prague exactly? Nestled between Germany, Poland, Slovakia, and Austria, the Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, is home to many stunning cities.

From the fairytale city of Český Krumlov perched on the Vltava River to the charming town of Liberec, Czechia is known worldwide as one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe.

Prague, the capital, is located in the northwestern reaches of the country . Surrounded by several smaller cities and set back just 2 hours southwest of the striking Krkonoše National Park, the city is easily reachable via plane, train, or bus.

The Best Time to Visit Prague

On any given tourist guide or city pamphlet, you’ll probably read that the best time to visit Prague is in the summer months of June through August. But, we tend to disagree with this.

Why? Because Prague is at its absolute busiest and most expensive during these months. Prices on flights, accommodations, tours, meals, and transportation skyrocket all the while tens of thousands of tourists are pouring in and out of the city every day.

We find this to be a chaotic time to be in Prague with really the only perk being the nice weather.

If you are looking to stay on a budget and don’t mind wearing a sweater and maybe a rain jacket while sightseeing, then the real best time to visit Prague is in the shoulder season months of April through May and September through October .

During these periods, you can find awesome deals on travel expenses like flights and hotels, and you’ll get to experience the more local side of the city with a fraction of the tourists.

You’ll also probably be able to snap some sweet photos without any people in them either!

Especially if you only have one day in Prague, do your best to visit in the off-season months!

Tips for Visiting Prague for One Day

On my first trip to Prague, I was completely (happily) overwhelmed with the level of beauty and excitement all around me! Every turn I took there was something new and wonderful to be explored. But, I did experience a few things that left me wishing I had known about them before arriving.

Prague is actually one of my most beloved cities in Europe and I hope you feel the same after visiting now that you’ll have all of the best insider tips!

✔️ Be Aware of Scams

Unfortunately, Prague is one of the worst cities in Europe for tourist scams. Luckily, I can tell you all about what to look out for!

✔️ Don’t ever exchange your money for local currency on the streets

9/10 times it’s fake.

✔️ Avoid street games.

The people standing around are usually in on the trick and the game is rigged, so you’ll never actually win.

✔️ Avoid using streetside ATMs

They make you take out thousands of korunas in cash (hundreds of dollars), then charge you a large percentage to use the ATM on top of the typical ATM fee. Instead, go inside a bank, or best yet, just use a debit card.

✔️ Don’t Carry Too Much Cash

Like most places in Europe, pickpocketing isn’t infrequent and most things you can pay for with a card.

Carrying too much cash is a recipe for disaster if your wallet gets lost or stolen. Instead, if you’re a mid-range traveler (meaning mid-range meals and accommodation), plan to need about 2,000 Czech Korunas per day including meals.

This will help you plan for how much cash you should carry at any given time.

✔️ Try the Food

I totally get it… rich foods filled with meat and covered in sauerkraut aren’t for everyone!

But, if you’re only spending one day in Prague, you really should try at least some of the food to get an idea of this important piece of the Czech culture.

If you’re a vegetarian, try the Langos! It’s savory fried dough with a generous layer of sour cream and topped with shredded cheese. Totally customizable, this is a great vegetarian option.

✔️ Don’t Rent a Car

If you rarely see locals driving cars in Prague, that’s a pretty good sign that you shouldn’t be driving one either.

To be frank, driving in Prague isn’t easy and well, actually rather chaotic. The roads are mostly made of several thousand broken cobblestones and share space with the trolley so you’ll need to be watching out for trams while driving!

Not to mention that everything you’re going to want to see and do is within a short walk of each other, and anything that is too far for you to walk to can be easily reached by hopping on the bus or metro.

✔️ Czechia Uses the Koruna, Not the Euro

Contrary to popular belief, not everywhere in Europe uses the Euro.

The Czech Republic uses what’s called the Czech Koruna which actually offers a far better exchange rate than the euro, making Prague relatively affordable to most visitors.

✔️ Beer is Cheaper than Water

If beer isn’t really your thing, be prepared to pay a pretty penny for water or other alcoholic beverages.

Especially since the tap water isn’t great for drinking in Czechia, you’ll have to pay for bottled water wherever you go or carry along a reusable water bottle with a filter ( this one is my favorite! )

Additionally, the Czech Republic is home to the original Pilsner Urquell, so it’s easy to see why beer is so cheap. Other alcoholic beverages such as wine and spirits are far more expensive, though still affordable, and are typically coming from other regions of Europe.

✔️ It’s Customary to Tip A Little

While it may not be customary throughout much of Europe to tip, it’s normal to round your bill up to the nearest $10, or add up to 10% for good service in Czechia.

✔️ Most Tourist Shops Aren’t Selling Local Products

If you see Russian dolls, Prague t-shirts and hoodies, and custom frames, it’s likely none of it is actually made in Prague.

Leave the main tourist areas and go up and down the quirky side streets around the city to find the best hidden gems selling local marionettes and puppets, a true Czech souvenir.

✔️ Keep Your Belongings On Your Front

We were only in Prague for about 5 minutes before a local tried their first pickpocket attempt on us. Luckily everything was zipped up tight and I was able to step in between them and our backpack before anything happened.

Whatever you do, don’t put your phone or wallet in your back pocket. Though it may be tempting since it’s what you are likely used to, put all valuables in a zipped-up bag on the front of your person and never take it off or leave it unattended.

Pickpocketing is the most common way tourists get robbed in Prague and it happens to people daily. Be street smart!

✔️ The Early Bird Avoids Tourists

The best views of the city come just before sunrise when barely anyone else is awake yet.

Stroll the Charles Bridge and watch the sun rise over the city, photograph the vibrant buildings and medieval architecture, and enjoy an early morning coffee and pastry while scoping out which shops you want to explore after opening hours!

How to Get to Prague

Depending on where you’re coming from, there are 3 main ways you can get to Prague : plane, train, or bus . If you’re already in Europe, it’s likely that the train will be your fastest and most cost-efficient option.

✔️ Via Train

Unless you’re traveling from over a few countries away from somewhere such as Greece, Spain, or Portugal, the train will usually be your best bet.

However, do some research on flights if the train is going to take you more than 8 hours, as it’s occasionally cheaper just to fly. I do believe that the train is far prettier and far less chaotic than flying, but if you’re short on time, then flying will be a better option.

✔️ Via Plane

If you’re coming from outside of Europe, a plane is likely going to be your best option. Prague has one main international airport, Václav Havel Airport Prague, and has dozens of departing and arriving flights every day.

Flights can be expensive, but if you have some extra time, research flying into a nearby airport such as Berlin or Vienna, and then taking the train.

This not only could save you some cash, but could also give you the opportunity to see a few more places and experience the Eurail firsthand!

Lastly, the bus. Europe has a very good bus system that can save you quite a bit of money, but keep in mind it’s usually at the expense of comfort.

Buses are typically more crowded and less clean than the train and will take you longer to get to your destination. Since pricing will vary on which city you’re coming from, compare prices to Prague on both the train and the bus to see which option is best for you.

The Best Things To Do in Prague

On any trip to Prague, there are a few things you simply can’t miss! Luckily enough, most of the attractions are close to one another, so you should have plenty of time to get from place to place during your 24 hours in Prague.

Be sure to continue reading to see how we organized the itinerary to ensure you are using your time efficiently while sightseeing!

✔️ Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square is a beautiful plaza in the heart of Prague. The square features an equestrian statue (the Statue of St. Wenceslas ) on one side and opposite it, you’ll find two fountains with statues atop them.

If you’re looking for something more than just beauty though, head to Wenceslas Square at night when there are tons of people making their way through this picturesque area as well as vendors selling everything from flowers to clothes or food items like bratwursts!

I always enjoy visiting Wenceslas Square in Prague. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness their huge outdoor market offering homemade local delicacies in large, wooden bowls all through the center of the square. Personally, this is my favorite way of exploring Czech cuisine, but it’s best during Christmas .

There are also a few fast-food chains scattered about, where you can grab lunch or dinner before going shopping in this main tourist square.

✔️ Prague Castle

Prague Castle is often crowned as the most iconic landmark in Prague .

The castle has a lot to offer including medieval-era architecture, gothic charm, beautiful stained glass windows, and a fairytale ambiance that will transport you into an old-world storybook for just one day.

Visitors who enter the castle for 350 Kč/ person are rewarded with stunning views of the highly interrupted cityscape of Prague.

Spires, towers, and striking cathedrals can be seen for miles before the view fades into the lush greenery of the surrounding countryside.

Prague was originally founded by Emperor Charles IV who had the castle built on the banks of Vltava River next to an ancient settlement called Lesser Quarter (now known as Malá Strana) which still hosts many fascinating attractions like its Church of Our Lady before Týn and the Church of Our Lady of the Snows.

✔️ Old Town Square

Cobblestone streets and historic architecture are what make Prague’s Old Town Square so special.

The Church of Our Lady before Týn, where the infamous Czech composer Dvořák once served as an organist, stands tall in this area that has been one of Europe’s most-frequented tourist destinations since its construction was completed in the mid 16 th century.

Nearby you will find a more modern marvel: the Municipal House which hosts concerts by world-class orchestras both inside and out on their beautiful terrace gardens during springtime months.

When visiting Prague, I love to spend the majority of my time in Old Town Square.

There’s always something going on- street performers or buskers with their instruments playing out of tune, and even fluorescently lit street carts giving rides to tourists.

I sometimes stop by a crêpe stand for some sweet dessert after lunching at one of Prague’s cafés, or at the stands where they make Trdelník pastries that are like crispy doughnuts stuffed with hazelnut chocolate and rolled in cinnamon sugar; so good!

If you’re up for a night out on the town, be sure to try the crispy potato chips from the vendor who sells them off a stick!

✔️ Astronomical Clock

As you stroll around the cobbled streets of Prague’s Old Town Square, you’ll be able to see many tourists admiring its most famous site: The Astronomical Clock.

This clock is from 1410 and displays the Twelve Apostles in a procession every hour on the hour from 9am-11pm every day! It also has an astronomical dial showing planetary hours by means of concentric circles with zodiac signs which represent 24 time zones.

The procession of the Twelve Apostles is a historical tradition which has been celebrated for centuries. The clock features paintings depicting Jesus and his apostles on one side, while statues depict saints who were persecuted under imperial rule.

Whether or not you’re interested in the history behind this beautifully designed, and still functional, astronomical clock, it is still worth stopping in to see while wandering around Old Town Square during your one day in Prague.

Built high on a pillar set against the side of the Church of Our Lady before Týn, there’s no missing this stunning sight, even from a distance!

✔️ Charles Bridge

Prague is home to the world-famous Charles Bridge which was one of two main entrances from Prague Castle to the Old Town. Construction began in 1357 when architect Peter Parler designed this beautiful landmark before being completed sometime in the early 15 th century.

It has stunning, yet gothic stone arches with statues on both ends depicting Saints John Nepomuk and Saint Vaclav as well as 16 small towers.

The bridge connects Staré Město on the north bank where nearly all tourist attractions lie, while Malá Strana lies southwards past the Vltava River until finally ending at Kampa Island which provides scenic views overlooking the entire area before meeting up at Wenceslas Square.

While strolling over this magical bridge, stop and peek at the artists painting and drawing live portraits of people and the unique music along the way. The Charles Bridge is a quintessential part of Prague and the special link connecting the two sides of this medieval city!

✔️ St. Vitus Cathedral

The St. Vitus Cathedral stands as one of Prague’s most recognizable landmarks with its two white bell towers and intricately designed columns.

Visitors can admire the dozens of vibrant stained glass windows that depict biblical stories or scenes from holy figures such as saints Peter and Paul.

The gothic architecture of the cathedral draws tourists from all over the world to marvel at its beauty every year!

The Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church , and it has been used as a coronation site for former Czech kings and queens. It also serves as an important burial place with many royal members buried here.

As the most important landmark in Prague, and one of the most meaningful sites in the history of the Czech Republic, this cathedral surely deserves a stop on your one day in Prague!

✔️ Lennon Wall

Prague’s Lennon Wall is a well-known graffiti wall with over 100,000 pieces of art that span from the 1980s to today. It was created in 1988 by Czech citizens and has been repainted continuously since then.

The artwork ranges from simple drawings and poems to designs reflecting local causes such as animal rights or global concerns like climate change.

John Lennon Wall is a place of cultural significance and artistic expression. Graffiti painted across this concrete barrier was not only an act of defiance against the communist government after his murder, but also became a place for artists to express their voice around the world.

The lyrics of music, particularly from the Beatles , can be seen on posters or stencils adorning buildings nearby with political messages and other global causes.

This wall holds a special place for both Czech citizens and visitors and is a great spot to check out if you have some extra time during your one day in Prague.

One Day in Prague Itinerary

This ultimate one day in Prague itinerary goes into detail about how to fit in all of the exciting attractions I mentioned above in an efficient order, some great places to grab meals, and some of my favorite personal stops that will simply make your day even better!

This itinerary is based on a full 24 hours in Prague starting in the morning, so you may need to start and end the itinerary at different points depending on when you arrive in the city.

It also includes almost exactly 5 miles of walking, so be sure to bring some comfortable and supportive walking shoes or be prepared to buy a metro pass or rent bikes.

If you’re getting off of a train or bus, it’s likely you’ll be starting your day in Wenceslas Square . Wenceslas Square may be small but you can find many kinds of restaurants, cafes, and shopping opportunities here.

But, if you’re like me and want to escape the tourist madness as soon as possible, you won’t need much more than 30 minutes or so here.

From Wenceslas Square, make your way down Václavské náměstí Street where the street meets with Melantrichova. This will bring you directly into the Old Town Square where you’ll find the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the astronomical clock, and dozens of local shops and authentic spots for food.

If you’re hungry, grab a crêpe at one of the small stalls or try the traditional breakfast which is a combination of some type of bread and either butter, jam, or honey, or meat and cheese.

Or even try out some of the traditional food stalls offering different types of local recipes!

From the Old Town Square, you’ll continue straight until you reach the infamous Charles Bridge . Stretching across the Vltava River, it’s a beautiful sight to behold and walk on.

From here, you’ll make your way into the Lesser Town , also known as Malá Strana , where you’ll first come across the gothic Lesser Town Bridge Tower.

If you wish, you can climb to the top of the tower for excellent views overlooking the city for 150 CZK (about $7). If not, continue making your way over the bridge where you’ll find Klárov Street.

Follow the road around the gardens to the left where you’ll be met with the impressive Prague Castle !

If you wish to go inside and explore until your heart’s content, it will cost you 350 CZK (about $16). Afterward, continue walking down Třetí nádvoří Pražského hradu Street for a short way until you reach St. Vitus Cathedral .

Once you’ve photographed and wandered this historically important area, it’s time to make your way back into the center of Malá Strana where you can explore the streets’ charming shops and boutiques and perhaps find yourself a local Czech souvenir !

Hungry yet? You can either grab some lunch at one of the best spots in the Lesser Town, Café Savoy , or you can continue on your journey.

Soon you’ll be back on the opposite side of the river, so think about a few places that you saw and if you want to hold off on lunch until you make it back for the local grub in the Old Town.

Once you’ve finished perusing this area, you can head on over to Velkopřevorské náměstí Street where you’ll find the vibrant John Lennon Wall !

After you have taken some time to read through all of the graffiti, you can head down the river bank where you’ll come across Kampa Island and the famous Kampa Museum .

You have the option of exploring the museum, or if you’re short on time, you can head to Most Legií Street where you’ll cross one of Prague’s scenic bridges.

Next, if you have the time, continue heading down the river on Masarykovo Nábř Street where you’ll come across the quirky and fun Dancing House .

This unique piece of architecture tells an interesting story of two brothers and a cool pitstop on your journey that also leads you perfectly into the New Town of Prague.

However, if unique architecture doesn’t fit your style, then after you cross the bridge continue following Národní Street.

This will lead you back towards the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square much faster than going down to the Dancing House, through the New Town, and back up.

Once you’re back between the Old Town and Wenceslas Square, you can either get some food if you haven’t yet at the spectacular Restaurant Mlýnec that offers traditional Czech recipes and live evening music or continue sightseeing and go up to the Powder Tower off Celetná Street.

As one of the original city gates to Prague, this gothic piece of architecture offers sweeping views of the city and Vltava River!

After enjoying the last few hours of daylight, find a cozy spot in one of the numerous bars or restaurants around town, and order yourself a rich, hot bowl of goulash and a cold pint to rest your feet with.

Now, this is a FULL day of sightseeing and you’re likely to be pretty tired at the end of it. But, I can honestly say you’ll be happy you snuck all of these major landmarks and unique Prague sites into your day!

This is my ultimate one day in Prague itinerary for a reason, so trust me when I say you’ll need some comfort food and at least a pint or two when you’re done!

Map of One Day in Prague Itinerary

Getting Around Prague for One Day

Since you’ll only be visiting for a short amount of time and, as I’ve said before, Prague is extremely walkable, you won’t need to rent a car .

In fact, I highly suggest that you never rent a car in Prague unless you plan on exploring other cities, in which case, I will tell you to also not rent a car and to just take the train.

If you’ve read enough of my articles, you’ll start to see more and more why I never suggest renting cars in Europe. It’s extremely expensive and only ever adds stress to your trip.

Instead, opt to either walk, hop on the public metro or bus, or rent bicycles!

Prague’s sites and attractions can easily be reached on foot, however, be sure to pack supportive footwear that can withstand several miles of walking per day.

The streets are mostly cobblestones and railroad tracks, so if you’ve got heels already in your suitcase, take them out!

✔️ By Metro

For attractions that may be uphill or if you’re traveling with someone who has limited mobility, then the metro and bus will be your best option.

It’s affordable, has dozens of convenient locations around the city, and is easy to use. Simply walk into the terminal, find an available kiosk, and buy either a one-way ticket or a 10 ticket pass if you’ll be using the metro a lot on your trip.

✔️ By Bicycle

Bicycles are so fun! They give you the best combination of efficiency and joy while exploring the city.

You’ll actually see most locals either on foot or on bike, so this is a cool way to fit in. Praha Bike is a great company that offers country and city tours and rentals at affordable prices and is located right in the middle of the city on Dlouhá Street.

What to Eat in Prague

Known for its rich and flavorful foods, Prague’s food scene is one to be savored. Hearty meats, well-seasoned dumplings, and salty sauerkraut make up a small portion of the plethora of options available in this foodie’s paradise!

One of the best places to try a lot of different local foods at once is in Wenceslas Square when over a dozen food stalls are set up offering self-serve local delicacies. My favorite was the Haluski , a homemade spaetzle with sauerkraut and all of the fresh bratwurst .

The bratwursts come in a long, fresh roll and you can ask for mustard, peppers, and onions if you wish! This was our favorite on-the-go lunch while exploring the city.

There are a few typical dishes you’ll come across at least once during your one day in Prague. For the best sweet treat in the city, have yourself a slow-roasted Trdelník .

This sweet dough is wrapped around long, wooden rods and roasted over a slow fire until it’s soft and chewy in the center and crisp on the outside.

They then roll the dough in cinnamon sugar and you can ask them to coat the inside with chocolate spread if you so choose. I think I had about 9 of these while in Prague…

Next, goulash is extremely popular across Hungary and the Czech Republic. Deliciously seasoned and perfectly hearty for a day full of sightseeing, this is one of my favorite meals in Prague.

Melt in your mouth meat (usually beef) is paired with lightly salted dumplings and a thick, meaty sauce.

It’s also occasionally paired with sauerkraut (you’ll start to notice that almost everything has sauerkraut paired with it).

Another popular dish in Prague is a generous serving of multiple types of meat including duck, pork, beef, and sausage, which is paired with traditional Czech stuffing, dumplings, sauerkraut, and thick meat gravy (shown to the right).

While the combinations vary from place to place along with the name, this dish can be found in most sit-down restaurants across the city and is usually listed as a popular dish right at the top of the menu.

Looking for another type of sweet treat? Not only popular in Paris, but crêpes are also well known in the Old Town Square and can be filled with a variety of items of your choosing!

If you’re just looking for a small bite, I suggest sharing one, as these crêpes are about the length of your arm. Just keep an eye out for the small stalls selling them by the dozens!

Where to Stay in Prague for One Night

It can be overwhelming figuring out where to stay in Prague if you only have one night, I mean, you want to pick the right place right?!

The best way to figure out where you should stay for the night is to decide what is most important for you to do and see whether it be attractions, restaurants, art galleries, etc.

Below, I’ve listed the perks of staying in each of the popular neighborhoods, so you don’t need to do hours of research to figure out where to stay!

There are other districts, labeled by number (Prague 1 through Prague 10), but if you only have one day in Prague, I suggest choosing one of the below districts that will keep you close to all of the action.

✔️ Mala Strana

When your main focus is to see as many sites and attractions in a short amount of time as possible, this is where you should stay!

Home to some of the most famous attractions in the city including Prague Castle, St. Nicholas Church, the Charles Bridge, Franz Kafka Museum, and the John Lennon Wall, this is the ultimate place to stay when visiting Prague.

However, while it is bustling with fun shops and restaurants and close to many of the major attractions, it’s also quite touristy (which also means quite expensive).

If you’re looking for more of a local’s perspective of Prague, perhaps check out one of the other districts just outside of the main city center.

✔️ Old Town Prague

Often referred to as the most beautiful and striking part of the city, Old Town Square (or Old Town Prague) boasts a wonderful, medieval ambiance with its highly-embellished buildings, sky-high cathedrals adorned with spires, and functional astronomical clock.

Also home to the Old Town Hall and the Old Jewish Quarter, this part of town is suspended in the olden days of the 14 th century and is my personal favorite place to stay in Prague!

Situated in the center of New Town Prague, this long, elegant square is filled to the brim with upscale dining options, popular shopping outlets, and chain fast-food options. Nearby, you can find the famous Dancing House and the National Theatre.

As one of the most touristy spots in Prague owing to its convenient location just a few hundred steps from the train station, I suggest staying elsewhere unless you have an early ride out of the city.

Wenceslas Square is beautiful but lacks the ability to provide a genuine Czech experience due to its chain brands and endless street sellers trying to get you to buy a keychain.

Overall, I would suggest staying in the Old Town Square as it will provide you with an authentic Prague experience, is close walking distance to almost all of the major attractions and the metro, has authentic restaurants and streetside cafés right at your doorstep, and will give you the opportunity to communicate with the locals.

All of these combined make for the most incredible Prague experience!

Is Prague Cheap or Expensive?

Prague is known for its affordable and budget-friendly attractions . Whether you are looking to spend a lot of money on fancy jewelry or just want the best beer in town, Prague has something for every type of traveler!

Prague offers all types of travelers an opportunity to experience what this city has to offer at relatively low costs.

If you’re into buying expensive artwork, there’s no shortage; if it’s cheaper souvenirs that sound more up your alley then worry not because everything from cheap food and accommodations can be found here too.

While more expensive than some other cities in Europe including Budapest or Lisbon, it’s far cheaper than the nearby capitals of Vienna or Berlin.

Whether you’re traveling on a tight college budget or are looking to splurge on a luxury hotel, Prague has something for every price range.

How Much do I Need Per Day in Prague?

If you’re looking to get an idea of how much money you’ll need per day in Prague, you’ll first need to figure out your travel style .

Do you prefer hostels, mid-range hotels, or luxury suites with a view? Are you alright eating local meals and eating from food carts or do you prefer to always eat in a sit-down restaurant? Or is it a mixture of both?

Once you figure out how you’re going to want to spend your trip, you can start closing in on your ideal budget.

For us, we tend to stay in lower-price hotels in Prague as we have found the hostels to be less than safe (at least in this region of Europe). We aren’t luxury travelers, but if you are, then be sure to budget for $180+ per night.

✔️ Pro Tip : We were also warned by a local not to stay in the hostels… this very kind man told us they were not safe, especially for females, and that he highly recommended us to stay in a private room in a hotel.

If you want to stay in mid-range hotels like us, then you can expect to spend between $80-130 per night .

As for food, meals are quite cheap averaging around $10 per person (211 Czech Korunas) for lunch and dinner and only $5 (106 Czech Korunas) for breakfast .

On average, people typically spend around $7 (148 Czech Korunas) per day on transportation including the metro and public transportation.

For a more in-depth look at how to create your daily budget, check out our article on how to plan a trip to Europe !

Is One Day in Prague Enough?

While Prague continues to be one of the most, if not the most, walkable cities in Europe, there are still tons of incredible things to do, try, and see, and I’m always going to recommend that you spend more than one day in Prague if you can .

Luckily for visitors, sites and attractions are relatively close to one another, the public transportation system is easy and efficient to use, and narrow streets and alleyways can get you from one place to another in a matter of minutes.

It is possible to cross a lot of things off your Prague bucket list in a single day, but if the time allows, plan on spending at least 2 days here.

Don’t worry, if you’re really short on time you’ll still have an amazing trip… you’ll just be wishing you didn’t have to leave!

How Long Do You Need in Prague?

In our experience, we think between 2-3 days in Prague is perfect . This way, you aren’t rushing from landmark to landmark or skipping exciting activities, and you can move at your own pace.

Your feet will also thank you for not walking 10+ miles per day… we’ve all had those vacations, and a city filled with hills and cobblestone streets probably isn’t a place you want to repeat that experience.

If your schedule allows, try to plan to spend at least 2 nights in Prague . After your first full day of sightseeing, you’ll be grateful that you won’t need to jump on a plane, train, or bus out!

If you Have Two Days in Prague or More

If you happen to have two days in Prague or more, there are a considerable number of additional activities you could fit into your Prague itinerary! I’ve written a few of them below.

✔️ Take a Vltava River Cruise

A cruise down the Vltava River is an amazing way to spend an afternoon or evening!

You will get the opportunity to experience the city from a different perspective and capture some awesome photos of what the city looks like from the river.

We recommend taking a river cruise at night since the city will be lit up beautifully and most attractions close after 5:00-6:00PM. You can also find evening river cruises that included dinner and drinks.

River Cruises in Prague

✔️ take in the views from vyšehrad.

This historic castle is just a few kilometers from the center of Prague and provides exceptional views overlooking the city.

This medieval castle dates back to the 10 th century and is one of the most overlooked things to do in Prague.

✔️ Walk up the Hill to Petřín and Climb Petřín Tower

Petřín is a beautiful hilltop that houses a tower offering panoramic views of Prague. Easily reachable on foot or via the metro, this is an easy add-on to any multi-day Prague itinerary.

And believe it or not, you can hike to the top of this hill within 5-10 minutes, maximum! Just be sure to climb the stairs to the observation point and bring a camera with you.

Day Trips from Prague

If you are lucky enough to have two days or more in Prague, you should consider taking one of these amazing day trips!

Lucky for travelers, Prague is centrally located between numerous amazing cities and national parks, so you’re never far from another magical destination.

✔️ Kutna Hora

Just over an hour by car or an hour and 20 minutes by train from Prague, Kutna Hora is a beautiful city that houses a medieval past.

Home to the gothic Sedlec Ossuary that has been embellished with over 40,000 human skeletons from the 15 th century, this is one spooky day trip from Prague!

✔️ Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a pure gem just 2 hours by car or 3 hours by train from Prague.

Easily recognized across Europe for its envelopment by the Vltava River and its tight network of cobblestone streets, this charming city is easily one of the best day trips from Prague you can take!

✔️ Karlovy Vary

Just an hour and 45 minutes by car or 2 hours and 10 minutes via train, Karlovy Vary is a vibrant hillside town in the western reaches of the Czech Republic.

Nearing on the border of Germany, Karlovy Vary is famous for its numerous hot springs and its high-end reputation as an indulgent spa town.

The optimal destination for travelers seeking a piece of rejuvenation among their journey, a trip to Karlovy Vary is the ultimate relaxing day trip from Prague!

✔️ Krkonoše National Park

Just 2 hours by car from Prague, the Krkonoše National Park is situated way up north on the border of Poland.

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is the ultimate destination for adventure travelers and those who love to hike and take scenic strolls in nature.

You can find brilliant waterfalls and endless natural beauty everywhere you turn here. If you’re looking to escape the chaos of the capital on a day trip from Prague, then Krkonoše National Park is a perfect choice!

Best Prague Tours

Looking to discover Prague’s history in a private tour or learn about the Czech Republic’s cuisine? What about taking a day trip to one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe?

These tours have you covered! And don’t worry if the ones below look a little too much out of your budget if you’re on one, just click the link, and you can search for any tour that suits your style and budget. Cheers!

Should I Buy Travel Insurance for Prague?

Even if you’re only planning to spend one day in Prague, I always recommend purchasing travel insurance. You never know what might happen!

And in a place where pickpockets are common and scams are an art, you’ll want to protect yourself and your personal belongings.

Most travelers recommend using World Nomads , though I have never used it myself and can’t vouch for it personally. I have heard great things, however,

On the other hand, we always use SafetyWing since it’s very cheap (I mean extremely cheap … for 3 weeks abroad to the Middle East and Kyrgyzstan for two people doing numerous adventure activities, it only cost us $84!) and covers pretty much everything you’ll need.

We’ve had our bags lost and damaged by airlines, flights delayed and canceled by airlines, and even had run-ins with the current pandemic situation, and SafetyWing insurance helped us through it all! If the only reason you’re debating buying travel insurance is because of the price, you can’t find a better affordable option than SafetyWing .

Book your SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance Here

Other One Day in a City Itineraries

Like our one day itineraries? Be sure to check out some more from the most popular cities in Europe!

One Day in Paris One Day in Budapest One Day in B erlin One Day in Porto One Day in Lisbon One Day in Bruges One Day in Barcelona One Day in Amsterdam One Day in Brussels One Day in Ghent

Prague is one of the most magical destinations in Europe with its medieval charm, gothic architecture, stone arch bridges, and rich cuisine. With so many impressive landmarks, exciting attractions, and interesting historical sites, it can be hard to decide what to do with your time.

But, with my handy one day in Prague itinerary, you can be sure you’ll be getting the best experiences the City of a Thousand Spires has to offer, even when you are short on time!

In the end, Prague is a city that will not disappoint. If you are looking for an affordable getaway with still plenty of luxury and culture to offer–look no further!

I hope this one day in Prague itinerary has inspired you to plan your next trip to the Czech capital. With so many different things to do and see, it’s easy for everyone- regardless of their interests or budget- to have a fantastic experience in Prague!

3 Mistakes ​ I Made the First Time I Visited Prague…

Don’t make the same mistakes I did on your next trip to Prague!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

One Day in Prague Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

By: Author Claire

Posted on Last updated: 2nd August 2023

Categories Czech Republic , Itineraries

Last Updated on 2nd August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

The bustling Czech capital, Prague is a city known for its Medieval architecture and buzzing atmosphere. Popular with all sorts of travellers – young and old, budget and luxury – Prague really does have something for everyone. In this itinerary, we will suggest how to spend the perfect one day in Prague itinerary.

The city is surprisingly walkable, so if you only have one day in the city, you should be able to see all of its highlights. Check out this guide to making the most of your day in Prague and see how much you can pack in! For even more inspiration, be sure to check out our very best Prague travel tips .

Is one day enough time in Prague?

Take a morning stroll in letna park, walk up to prague castle, explore the mala strana area, cross over charles bridge, see the astronomical clock, prague old town square, explore wenceslas square, take an evening boat cruise, attend a medieval dinner, where to stay in prague.

As the capital of Czechia, Prague is a large city with plenty of attractions and even more to see. As such, you won’t be able to cover everything that there is to do in Prague over the course of 24 hours.

With that being said, if one day is all the time you can allocate to visiting Prague, then it’s better to go and get a taste for the city than forgo it altogether. The ideal amount of time to explore Prague is three or four days.

Suggested one day in Prague itinerary

Letna Park (known in Czech as Letenské sady) is a popular spot in Prague for both tourists and locals, famous for its beautiful views over the city centre and River Vltava. It’s a great place for a morning walk, before beginning your exploration of the history and culture of Prague!

But for locals, Letna Park has a deeper meaning. The country was communist until 1989, when the Velvet Revolution took place across the whole of Czechoslovakia, which is modern-day Czech Republic and Slovakia. The biggest protests in the entire country took place in this park.

Plus, there used to be a huge statue of Stalin, the Soviet dictator, in Letna Park – it was unveiled in 1955 and was the biggest group statue in Europe at the time – but was demolished shortly after, in 1962! Today, attractions of the park include some of the best views of Prague old town and a metronome.

From Letna Park, you can easily walk up to Prague Castle. Dating back to the 9 th century, it’s the largest ancient castle in the world! Before you go, you should know not to expect a Castle in the traditional sense of the world. Instead, Prague Castle is a big open area which is free to wander around, with a few paid for closed spaces.

It has a long history as the seat for Bohemian Kings and Holy Roman Emperors, and today it remains the office of the Czech president. It’s also the location of the Bohemian Crown Jewels, but they are kept in a hidden chamber!

You can enter the castle and explore its interior ( it’s possible to pre-book your tickets here in advance to skip the line! ) , or if you don’t want to pay, just walk around the outside and take in incredible views of Prague city.

Alternatively, visit local favourite, Jelení Příkop , which is a small park just outside of the castle. This is known as ‘Deer Moat’ in Znglish and is somewhat of a hidden gem of Prague. One particular highlight includes a beautiful view of Prague Castle.

Also called Little Quarter, Mala Strana is an idyllic area of Prague. Sitting just below the palace, it’s famous for its baroque and Renaissance architecture, and it’s a great place to grab a coffee (Café Designum is always popular).

Here, you can visit the Church of St Nicholas which dates back to the early 18 th century, the peaceful Wallenstein Garden and the John Lennon Wall which was created after his assassination.

Lennon became an inspiration to many peace-loving young Czech people and to this day, it remains covered with pacifist quotes, Beatles lyrics and graffiti referring to global causes.

There are a few bakeries in the Mala Strana area where you can grab a bite to eat, but St Martin’s is also a popular restaurant, serving tasty Mediterranean-inspired food.

Once you’ve fully relished this side of the city, it’s time to cross over to see the rest of it! In Prague, even crossing the river is a unique experience. The historic Charles Bridge (known as ) dates all the way back to 1357 – it was the only way that Prague locals had to cross the river until 1841!

The bridge offers incredible vistas back to Prague Castle. Plus, it has its own attractions – touching the St. John Of Nepomuk Statue is supposed to bring you good luck.

It’s also usually full of buskers, artists drawing caricatures and people selling souvenirs. It remains a hubbub of Prague life, just as it did back in the Medieval period! Just be sure to keep a close eye on your belongings when in this area as there are quite a few pickpockets around!

Another Medieval attraction in Prague is the astronomical clock on the Old Town Hall, which dates back to 1410 AD. Not only does it tell the time, but you can also see sunrise and sunset times, moon cycles and ancient Czech time.

Plus, it’s a stunning clock to admire and photograph! Prague medieval clock itself was installed as early as 1410, meaning that it’s the oldest astronomical clock still functioning to this day, and the third oldest clock of its kind in the world. Purchase your Prague Astronomical ticket in advance.

The Astronomical Clock is located in Prague’s Old Town Square, which is the oldest square in the city, dating all the way back to the 12 th century! Other spots that are worth visiting are:

The Church of Our Lady Before Týn: One of the most striking Gothic churches in all of Prague. The church dates back to the Middle Ages and has been one of the most important churches in Prague since the 14th-century.

Rococo Kinský Palace: Now an art museum, this was formerly one of Prague’s palaces. The history of the National Gallery building dates back to the mid 18th-century and today houses over 13,000 works of art from all corners of the globe.

Memorial stones of Czech Lords: These lords were executed in 1621 and their memorial stones are in the centre of the square. In total, there are 27 tombstones visible in the town square.

Prague meridian: This used to mark high noon when Prague relied on its own time. Indeed, it was the case for most countries to have their own time and this can be seen in various cities today, including in the form of the Paris meridian today.

The heart of Prague’s “New” Town (although it dates back to the 14 th century!) Wenceslas Square is not so much a square, but actually a large boulevard full of shops, restaurants and bars. Named after the statue of King Wenceslas riding a horse, the boulevard was originally used as a horse market in around 1348.

Since then it’s been a site for protests and demonstrations and remains one of the main places where you can get a glimpse into traditional Czech local life. At Wenceslas Square, you’ll find the national museum, which is the perfect place to take in local history. Plus, the Prague Opera is just around the corner!

For dinner, head to Francouzska Restaurant, which is located in the Municipal Building and dates back to the 14 th century! It’s a fine dining restaurant serving French and Czech food. If you prefer to find some specific dietary options, be sure to check out our guide to the best vegan food in Prague .

The best way to end your day in Prague is undoubtedly from the water. Prague is a stunning city any time of day, but many people think it’s at its best during the evening when it is bathed in soft lights. And what better way to see a darkening Prague than from the River Vltava?

A variety of boat cruises traverse the river every evening (and throughout the day too!). Bookable in advance, some of these cruises offer a one-hour scenic tour of the river and others provide a three-course dinner. Check out a Prague by night dinner cruise here.

One of the more convivial evenings you can have in Prague is to attend a medieval dinner with unlimited drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks). There are a number of different specialty diet menus available, including vegan and gluten-free options.

This experience will allow you to enjoy medieval style music and performances. In terms of food, there is a 3 or 5 course meal option. Check prices and availability here.

Old Town Square Apartments. If you want to have your own space, the Old Town Square Apartments are perfect. Choose from a studio or an apartment sleeping up to 10 people, and have your own kitchen, dining and lounging space! Check prices and availability here.

Hotel Mala Strana is a grand accommodation option close to Prague Castle. Enjoy the deluxe rooms which are furnished to perfection as you stay here! Check prices and availability here.

Hostel Downtown is a great option if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation as it is very affordable and includes free breakfast. Check prices and availability here.

The Medieval city of Prague is a delight for any kind of travel style. If you only have one day in the city you can still pack a lot in, although I’ve no doubt that you’ll be back for more!

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Prague? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Claire is a take-life-by-the-horns kinda gal whose travels have taken her all over the world. Favorite countries so far: New Zealand and Peru. When she’s not traveling you’ll find her blogging about life as a millennial expat, working on her first novel, and eating her way through Strasbourg. Follow Claire on Instagram .

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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

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One Day in Prague: The Ultimate Itinerary

February 10, 2024 //  by  Linda Malys Yore //   Leave a Comment

Do you only have one day in Prague? Don’t worry! That is still plenty of time to enjoy the best things to do in Prague.

Prague is the capital city of Czechia, (formerly the Czech Republic). Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” the Vltava River flows through it.

With history, culture, and fun attractions, Prague is full of surprises and waiting to be explored. There are amazing churches, beautiful architecture, and chances to step back in time.

I have been to Prague and know you will love it as much as I did!

Prague offers quite a bit to those visiting. While my suggestions may seem a bit ambitious for one day, they are meant to inform you of all that is Prague.

Feel free to arrange my recommendations in any way that works best for you. Your interests and budget will determine which locations you will visit and which to skip.

When you visit Prague in 1 day, you will have to prioritize your must-see places so your itinerary does not become overwhelming.

Wondering where is Prague? It is located in central Czechia, formally the Czech Republic, which hugs eastern Germany above Austria.

If your visit to Prague is longer, check out my 2 days in Prague itinerary .

Keep reading for what to see in Prague in one day!

Stroll The Charles Bridge

The Vltava River bisects the lovely city of Prague. It is a wonderful place to begin your trip when visiting Prague . 

Although 15 bridges span the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is the oldest and most famous. Completed in 1402, the pedestrian Charles Bridge is lined with statues of Catholic saints.

It is much more than simply a river crossing, as you will find out on your one day in Prague.

Charles Bridge lures tourists, street performers, and vendors. More than just crossing the river, it is an event!

The 1,700-foot span takes you past 30 bronze sculptures. The first sculpture added was a bronze crucifix. Charles Bridge has 16 sandstone arches that add to its charm as well. 

At either end of Charles Bridge are the fortified towers that once protected Prague. 

You can tour either, the Old Town Bridge Tower or the Lesser Town Bridge Tower with an admission ticket. I suggest you purchase tickets online to avoid lines.

Musicians and entertainers keep the mood at a festival-like level. Vendors of all kinds sell their wares and food to tempt you.

The Vltava River is beautiful to see as well. For epic Prague sightseeing, consider taking a boat tour.

Book Here: Prague: 45-Minute Historical River Cruise and Refreshments

Explore The Prague Castle Complex

High above Prague and the Vltava River, the Prague Castle Complex has a long and interesting history. It is a complex of palaces, courtyards, churches, and pretty streets all spread out on Hradcany Hill.

Designated as a World UNESCO destination, the Prague Castle Complex is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and of course, in Prague itself. 

Interestingly, the Prague Palace is the working office of the President of Czechia and his living residence as well. This is highly unusual.

If you are starting your one day in Prague by heading straight for the Prague Castle Complex, there are several tram stops and metro stations that will transport you very close.

It is a simple walk from the Charles Bridge, but there’s a lot of walking up the hill. That said, it is a very popular way to get to the castle.

There is an admission fee to enter all of the buildings once you are inside the complex. It is worth it as this is a Prague must-do!

Tickets are sold in several configurations, depending on your budget, interests, and time limit. Options are Saint Vitus Cathedral, Saint George Basilica, and the Picture Gallery Museum.

There is plenty to see within the Prague Castle Complex, even without purchasing tickets. At the top of every hour, you can see the formal and very ceremonial Changing of the Guard.

Book Here: Prague Castle: Small Group Tour with Local Guide & Admission

Book Here: Prague Castle 2.5-Hour Tour Including Admission Ticket

Visit The Golden Lane

When exiting the Prague Castle Complex, walk through the Golden Lane. It is a cluster of old-world modest dwellings.

Situated adjacent to the complex, it is thought that servants and trade smiths once lived there.

Today, however, local crafters and artisans sell their wares in cute little houses. The individual homes are all lovely pastel colors set side-by-side with one another.

They make the perfect backdrop for that perfect Insta-worthy picture!

Flying into Prague? Read how to avoid getting sick on a plane for my tips on remaining healthy.

Do Not Miss Old Town Prague

An absolute must is visiting Prague’s Old Town Square where you will find some of the city’s most iconic attractions.

A mecca for locals and tourists alike, here you will find many of Czechia’s amazing architecture and history packed tightly together. When visiting Prague in one day, you have to explore this square.

The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn  has been the primary church in Prague since the 14th century. Its inspiring Gothic architecture dominates the skyline. It is instantly recognizable by its two massive spires.

Baroque architecture is my personal favorite, so we spent some time in  St. Nicholas Church . The magnificent interior defies description.

The Prague Astronomical Clock has an almost festival-like atmosphere around it most of the day and evening that swells before the clock chimes at the top of each hour. 

The animation and chiming take about thirty seconds heightened by the figures that travel around the top of the clock. The Prague Astronomical Clock is the third oldest in existence and should not be missed.

The view from the Old Town Hall is a Prague must-see as well if you are not afraid of heights!

If you are looking for top things to do in Prague at night, there are plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants here. Many of them provide outdoor patio seating on the square.

Book Here: Prague: Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock Entrance Ticket

Book Here: Prague: 3-Hour Walking Tour of Old Town & Prague Castle

Find Glittering Bohemian Crystal

In the mountains of Bohemia in Czechia, the most beautiful crystal is produced. It gleams and shines in all the shops all over Prague.

There are different qualities of Bohemian crystal to purchase at different price ranges to fit your budget. Shopkeepers do barter, so do not pay full price. Haggle a little beforehand.

I purchased a crystal vase and once back home regretted I had not bought more. It is just that beautiful.

If you want a great souvenir to remember your 1 day in Prague, buy some colorful glass to showcase in your house.

Check Out The Jewish Quarter (Josefov) 

Prague’s historic  Jewish Quarter  hosts several significant sites worth seeing.

Located between Prague Old Town and the Vltava River, it used to be referred to as the Jewish ghetto.

You can see the Spanish Synagogue and the Old-New Synagogue , Europe’s oldest active synagogue. 

The  Old Jewish Cemetery  is an unforgettable sight. There are 12,000 visible graves with countless souls buried below.

Due to space limitations, graves needed to be placed on top of one another, sometimes as many as twelve layers deep.

There are tickets required to enter these places, so check for availability online.

Book Here: Prague: Jewish Quarter Walking Tour with Admission Tickets

Book Here: Prague: Old Town and Jewish Quarter Tour

See The Infant Jesus Of Prague

You will find the Infant Jesus of Prague located inside Our Lady of Victorious Church in Prague.

It is commonly also known as the Infant of Jesus of Prague Church and is a fine example of Baroque architecture. This is one of the most unique places to see in Prague.

Tradition has it throughout history many miracles and extraordinary events were attributed to praying to the Infant Jesus.

The statue arrived in Prague, was broken during a war, forgotten, and then restored. Many graces have been bestowed and it is now called the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague.

Seeing the stunning Baroque side altars and the majestic main altar is rewarding too.

This church should be a consideration on your one day in Prague itinerary.

Where to Stay in Prague

As a major tourist city, there are a ton of places to stay in Prague for all budgets. If you visit for more than a day trip to Prague, you will want a nice hotel where you can unwind after exploring.

Affordable Apartments Close to Old Town: Cathedral Prague Apartments . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range Hotel With a Beautiful Style: The Julius Prague . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury Hotel With Many Amenities: The Grand Mark Prague . Check Rates: Booking.com

Packing Tips

Here are my tips on How To Pack Lightly that I hope will help when it comes time to pack!

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

These  RFID  sleeves  would be a solution. This configuration comes with enough passport and credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected.

These Bagail packing cubes   are  the exact ones I use whenever I travel . I cannot believe how much more organized I am now!

This  world traveler adapter kit  can charge several devices at the same time.

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod  for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and is Bluetooth-enabled.

  I never leave home on a trip without my   Bobble filtration bottle .  the 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.

Also when filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, water bottles, phones, extra clothes, etc. while you are exploring Prague. This  foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these  Air Run high fashion sneakers  come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.

If you are visiting Prague in warmer weather, maybe you want  a pair of sandals  to wear to dinner or to the local cafe, I highly recommend these  Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.

We all need to  protect our eyes  from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. These  unisex polarized sunglasses   come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the  aviator-style of sunglasses  these polarized aviators may interest you. 

If you need new luggage to travel to Prague, this  expandable soft-side spinner luggage  is affordable and comes in lots of colors.

If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this  hard-sided luggage set  better. Both sets come with TSA locks and 8 wheels per piece.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Quick Tips For Your One Day In Prague

UPDATED:  Stay vigilant!

Please do not have any preconceptions about who can violate you by stealing your possessions.  Stay alert.

Prague is a large European capital city. Pickpocketing is rampant there. Please stay vigilant and watch out for each other.

Do not worry about the language barrier . When we visited, my sister and I knew no Czech words and had no difficulty communicating with the people. 

The Czechs know enough English that you will be able to communicate enough for them to understand. There are even translation apps you can download to your phone.

Call your credit card company  and check to see if charges foreign transaction fees every time you are out of the country.  If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does NOT charge such fees.

When using an ATM  in Prague, make sure it is in your bank’s network, so you do not incur a transaction fee every time you use a Czech ATM to withdraw money.

Also, consider withdrawing larger amounts of money, fewer times, to limit the transaction fees by your bank, if any.

Whenever you can,  purchase advanced tickets  to tourist attractions. Tickets purchased online, in advance, are mostly always discounted, and many times come with a “skip the line” perk.

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Prague   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Grafissimo | Getty Images

1-day Itinerary in Prague

• 1-Day Itinerary
• All Things To Do
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) free

Old Town Square is a popular spot in Prague, with travelers flocking here in droves for its beautiful architecture, colorful history and vibrant atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed square hasn't changed much since it was established in the 12th century when it functioned as the city's original marketplace. 

The square is home to some of the most historic attractions in the city, including the Old Town Hall, one of the best places to get a bird's-eye view of the city and the Prague Astronomical Clock, a beautiful timepiece dating back to the 1400s. Other architectural highlights found within the square include the baroque Church of St. Nicholas and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, instantly recognizable for its two Gothic spires. Meanwhile, the newest additions to the square include a monument erected in 1915 for the religious reformer Jan Hus. There are also several restaurants here that spill out onto the square during the warmer months as locals and travelers alike enjoy a coffee or a beer on the patios. And if you're visiting during the holiday season, expect the square to be filled with Christmas market shoppers.

Prague Astronomical Clock Prague Astronomical Clock free

Located in the  Old Town Square , the Prague Astronomical Clock has been around since the 15th century, though it has required repairs many times over its history.

This clock doesn't display the time of day. Rather, it's meant to be used to determine the phases of the moon and the equinoxes. The clock uses depictions of symbols, such as a money bag representing greed, a figure looking at himself in a mirror to represent vanity and a skeleton to depict death. Each hour the clock shows a visualization of time unlike anything else in the world. 

Charles Bridge (Karluv most) Charles Bridge (Karluv most) free

The Charles Bridge connects Old Town ( Staré Mesto ) and Lesser Town ( Malá Strana ). Visitors come here to soak up the atmosphere, take in the views of the city and explore the 30 saint statues that line the bridge. Though the bridge dates back to 1357, the statues were crafted from 1683 to 1928 to honor numerous saints. 

Recent travelers said a visit to the bridge is a must-do, especially if it's your first time in Prague. But reviewers do warn that you'll likely encounter claustrophobic swarms of tourists and street vendors and you should keep a close watch on your valuables. Some suggest visiting at dawn or dusk to avoid the crowds; the congestion is at its worst in the afternoons, according to travelers. Visiting with a tour guide is another way to sidestep the crowds.

Prague Castle Prague Castle free

Holding the record for the largest coherent castle complex in the world, Prague Castle serves double duty as the office of the Czech president and a popular tourist destination. The complex where it stands is also home to several other attractions. 

Prague Castle has stood in this spot for more than a thousand years and covers a lot of area. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the grounds feature a variety of architectural styles, including everything from 10th-century Romanesque buildings to Gothic structures from the 14th century. Throughout its history, the castle and the area around it have gone through extensive restorations and renovations. 

St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) free

Note: Due to construction work, the free part of the cathedral is inaccessible beginning in October 2023. No reopening date has been announced. You can still visit other sections of the cathedral with a paid ticket.

While the site of St. Vitus Cathedral dates back to about A.D. 925, the church that stands today is actually the third in honor of Saint Vitus (the patron saint of dancers, actors, comedians and epileptics). Consecrated in 1929, the cathedral features neo-Gothic stylings alongside Renaissance and baroque details. 

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One Day in Prague

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1-Day Prague itinerary: Top Things To See

While one day in Prague is not enough to explore everything the city has to offer, it is still possible to visit most of the top attractions. This 1 -Day Prague itinerary will allow you to enjoy the main attractions.

Prague, the capital of Czechia (Czech Republic) is a hugely popular destination for short city breaks. As well as being packed with sights and attractions , there’s a lively food, drink and entertainment scene. 

But what if you have only one day in Prague? You can fit so much into a whistlestop tour if you plan carefully. Here is an achievable 1-day Prague itinerary.

The main attractions of Prague are in the historic centre which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Table of Contents

1-Day Prague Itinerary: Top Things To See

Begin this 1-Day Prague Itinerary in Wenceslas Square

The square (although technically more of a boulevard than a square) at the heart of the New Town is named after the patron saint of Bohemia and is one of the busiest pedestrian areas in the city. 

Its two main features are the statue of St. Wenceslas and the National Museum but it’s also a favourite shopping destination for locals and tourists. 

Powder Gate

From the square, walk along Na Příkopě to reach Powder Gate. This rather impressive gothic tower separates the Old Town from the New Town and stands at the beginning of Royal Way, the route that connects the town to Prague Castle. 

It was one of the original gates of entry into the city and gets its name after being used as a gunpowder store in the 17th century. 

Make time to visit the viewing gallery (at a height of 44m) and if you can, watch the short film about Charles Bridge that you will be visiting later on your tour.

Old Town Square

After taking photos at the Powder Gate, walk along Celetna Street to the cobblestoned Old Town Square . The beating heart of Prague, Staroměstské náměstí is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. 

This is one of the lengthiest stops when touring Prague in 1 day because of its key attractions. 

As well as being a major community gathering place (if you’re here at Christmastime, it’s truly magical with its market and ice rink), important civic and ecclesiastical buildings line the square.

Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall became the seat of Prague’s administration back in 1338. Another magnificent example of gothic architecture .

It was added to over the centuries so visitors can now explore historical halls, cellars, the council chambers and the chapel reflecting various periods of style including neo-gothic, Renaissance, Empire and Romanesque.

Daily tours are available .  Bookings can be made online , from the Tourist Information Centre, or the Town Hall. The full tour will take around 90 minutes.

Astronomical Clock

The major feature that makes the Old Town Hall one of the most visited attractions in Europe is the Astronomical Clock. 

If there is one thing that you must see on your 1 day in Prague in the Old Town, it is this amazing timepiece installed in 1410 . Time your visit to the square to be the hour so the clock puts  on its show.

When the clock strikes the hour, twelve apostles are revealed by two opening windows. They are flanked by a Turk shaking his head, a skeleton ringing a bell and a miser offering money to Death to pay his way out of dying. 

The tableau finishes with the crowing of a golden rooster and the ringing of the huge bell at the top of the tower .

Don’t allow this marvellous exhibition to derail your 1-day Prague itinerary because there’s still more to mark off in the square. 

Church of Our Lady Before Tyn

Among the sights are two churches. The first is Kostel Matky Boží před Týnem or The Church of Our Lady Before Týn.

This imposing gothic church took nearly two hundred years to build in the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. Its most dominant feature is the two towers.

They stand 80m high and each spire is topped by two layers of four smaller spires made even more distinctive as they are in a much darker stone than the main church. 

Much of the original medieval interior has been preserved.

Church of St. Nicholas

It may seem a bit much to put two churches in the same location on your sightseeing list when doing Prague in 1 day but it’s a short walk across the square to the Church of St. Nicholas . 

You’ll immediately notice the different style from the Church of Our Lady as St. Nicholas Church is a fine example of Baroque architecture , built in the 1730s. 

The main features to check out are the stucco décor , sculptural front entrance, the main marble altar and in the basement, the remains of the original Gothic church that burned down.

Other places of note in the Old Town Square that should be on the Instagram feed of your 1 day in Prague are:

• the Kinsky Palace , a fine Rococo building with a sumptuous interior that plays host to some of the Czech National Gallery’s treasures, 
• the House of the Stone Virgin Mary with its art nouveau mural depiction of King Wenceslas , a 14th-century building used by the Prague Gallery as exhibition space, 
• and the Jan Hus Memorial , a bronze statue of the religious reformer who was burned at the stake in 1415.

Walk to Charles Bridge

When you have drunk in the splendour of the Old Town Square, the next phase of your 1-day Prague itinerary is the walk to Charles Bridge. 

The walk takes less than 10 minutes at a leisurely pace. 

You might want to see the David Černý sculpture of the man hanging off a building, the Clementinum – the home of the National Library, the Golden Well apothecary and the plague memorial or the Clam-Gallas Palace supported by two huge carved stone giants.

Don’t linger too long because one of the most arresting sights of Prague awaits. 

The Charles Bridge spans the Vltava River and forms part of the Royal Way between Prague Castle and the Old Town Square. 

Standing on 15 pillars, it is 516 metres in length, 9.5 metres high and 13 metres wide. Completed in 1402, it is anchored at both ends by gothic towers and there is a wealth of statuary .

Most of the statues are of saints and religious figures with contributions from major Czech artists throughout the centuries. There are single figures and groups and each tells a story. 

During the day, the bridge is dotted with artists, street entertainers and stalls and at night it is magnificently illuminated by its highly ornate lamps.

Malà Strana

When you reach the end of Charles Bridge, you’re about to embark on the part of your 1-Day Prague itinerary that will lead you to the castle and it begins in Malá Strana.

Malá Strana is the neighbourhood occupying the slopes just below Prague Castle. 

If you’re trying to see Prague in 1 day, this is an area where you might shave off some time if you want to give extra attention to specific attractions or build in time for browsing in the wonderful array of boutiques around all the key places.

Founded in 1257, the Little Quarter , as Malá Strana is known, is one of the most beautifully preserved areas of Prague . 

Among the hidden cobblestone streets and square s , there are ancient churches and other major points of interest.

Kampa Island

Do make time to make a short detour to Kampa Island . The island, most of which is a park, is separated from Malá Strana by the Devil’s Stream, a narrow, artificial channel originally built to power water mills. 

The main sight on Kampa Island is the huge chair sculpture by Magdalena Jetelova which stands outside the Museum Kampa, housed in Sova Mills and can be seen from across the river. 

The museum is an art gallery with a focus on Czech and central European artists. Kampa Park is also home to the famous sculptures of “Crawling Babies” by David Černý.

Lennon Wall

No other sight of Prague can claim to change face as many times as the Lennon Wall. Located on Velkopřevorské náměstí opposite the French Embassy, the wall became host to graffiti against the Czech communist regime in the 1960s. 

By the 1980s, following his assassination, the wall was covered in slogans, poems and lyrics inspired by John Lennon addressing numerous global causes and issues .

It has been painted over numerous times but each time, it attracts new daubings, pictures and sayings.

Eventually, the wall’s administrators (The Sovereign Military Order of Malta), exhausted by the constant “vandalism” designated specific spaces where people can leave messages to love and freedom and installed CCTV to monitor any infringements. 

You can learn all about the history of the wall at the Lennon Wall Museum which opened in 2021 on Prokopska Street.

One of the main tourist magnets in Mala Strana is the baroque Church of St. Nicholas which stands in Malostranská Square . 

Identified by its green dome and bell tower, the church stands out on the Prague skyline and its bell tower offers wonderful panoramic views . 

A painting of St. Nicholas adorns the dome interior and the church has hosted concerts by composers Mozart and Bach during their lifetimes. 

You’ll also notice the lovely architecture of the square including the Malostranská Town Hall, the Jesuit college, a plague monument and a number of burgher’s houses.

Other sights to catch while you’re in Malá Strana are the Wallenstein Palace (its gardens are a pleasant place for a refreshment pitstop), the KGB Museum, and the Franz Kafka  Museum ..

Nerudova Street

When you’re ready to head to the castle, walk along Nerudova Street . This thoroughfare, named after Jan Neruda, the Czech journalist and writer, connects Malá Strana to the castle complex via Malostranska Square. 

Nerudova is cited as being one of the most picturesque streets in Prague and the reason it needs to be visited on your 1 day in Prague is not just because of the access to the castle.

Nerudova Street has some of the best examples of house signs in Europe . 

Before houses were numbered, they were identified by specific features, most particularly, richly decorated shields and portals often depicting the occupation of the people who lived and worked within. 

Examples are No. 233, Jan Neruda’s former home, which is identified by a plaque bearing two suns, at No. 210, the three violins and at No. 213, the house of St. John of Nepomuk.

By now, you should be ready to visit what is many people’s number one attraction when spending just 1 day in Prague. 

Prague Castle

Dominating the skyline over the River Vltava from the New Town and rising above Malá Strana, Prague Castle is one of the most photographed and indeed, photogenic, sights in Europe.

The castle is the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic and having been built in the 9th century, you can imagine it has more than a few amazing stories to tell. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , it has a footprint of almost 70,000 square metres that is 570 metres long and 130 metres wide which according to the Guinness Book of Records , makes Prague Castle the world’s largest ancient castle.

The term castle doesn’t just cover one building but a whole complex of palaces and ecclesiastical and civic buildings in a wide range of architectural styles . With major changes having been made over many hundreds of years.

When restricted to 1 day in Prague, which could easily be wholly spent on the castle, you’ll have to cherry-pick your highlights. Most of the complex is open to tourist s and here’s what we recommend.

The entrance to the Prague Castle grounds is free. You can enjoy its buildings from outside, but it is unquestionably worth having a look inside. For that you need to  buy a ticket   (250 CZK, approx. 10 EUR ). 

If you prefer to visit the Castle complex with a guide,  guided tours  are available.

Old Royal Palace

The Old Royal Palace is the original residential part of the castle and the wooden structure dated to the turn of the 9th/10th century. 

It was replaced by a Romanesque stone structure in the 12th century adjoining the All Saints’ Chapel on the eastern side along with a new fortification wall .

King Charles IV enlarged the building on the northern side, adding a gothic place that featured a vaulted interior and a band of arcades. 

His son, Wenceslas IV, added two perpendicular wings and also ordered the reconstruction of All Saints Chapel.

For the first 80 years of the 15th century, the castle was deserted until in 1483 it was occupied by King Vladislav Jagiello who began large-scale reconstruction. 

During this phase, the splendid Vladislav Hall was added as was a new perpendicular palace wing named after Ludwig, Vladislav’s son.

It’s held many different functions in its lifetime, even jousting competitions and the main exit is known as the Riders’ Staircase that was originally built to accommodate the entry and exit of mounted knights.

The hall is still used for similar state functions it was designed for and there are beautiful views of the gardens and the city from the observation gallery on the south side.

The interior of the palace received further regal upgrades after the Hapsburgs succeeded to the Bohemian throne and new residential quarters were added to the western part.

A number of important buildings lead off from the hall. These include the Diet (parliament chamber), All Saints’ Chapel and the Cech Chancellery (in the Ludwig Wing). The diet and the chapel were rebuilt after a disastrous fire in 1541. 

Vladislav Hall is a must-visit for lovers of European history because the 1618 defenestration that happened was the catalyst for the Thirty Year’s War.

St Vitus Cathedral

Although there are magnificent churches that we’ve already added to this 1-day Prague itinerary, the daddy of them all is St. Vitus Cathedral.

St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the castle complex and is the city’s largest and most important religious building . 

It functions as a regular church but it was once the site of the coronation of Czech kings and queens and is the burial site of many significant Czech people including sovereigns, saints, archbishops and noblemen.

Like so many massive churches, the construction of the cathedral happened over the course of many years. After an initial wooden construction, the first iteration was a Romanesque rotunda built in 925 which became a basilica in the mid-1060s. 

The basis of the gothic cathedral you’ll see today was begun in 1344 and the construction included St. Wenceslas Chapel , the Golden Gate and the lower portion of the Great South Tower .

The Hussite Wars halted work for many years and the tower was completed in the 16th century with the addition of a Renaissance viewing gallery and helmet, the latter being replaced by a new dome in the 18th century. 

Work was completed in Neo-gothic style in the latter half of the 19th century and St. Vitus Cathedral was officially consecrated in 1929!

Features to notice as you wander around the cathedral are the reliefs of cathedral history and the legends of St. Wenceslas and St. Adalbert on the bronze door, the rich gilded mosaic from the 14th century on the Golden Gate, the Royal Mausoleum below which is the royal crypt and the Crown Chamber , home of the Bohemian Coronation Jewels.

The focal point of the cathedral is St. Wenceslas chapel in which the most important Czech patron saint is entombed. 

Some of the original 14th-century wall paintings decoration of the chapel depicting the Passion Cycle survive.

If you’re feeling fit enough, you can climb the 287 steps of the 100m tall Great South Tower for a unique view of the city and also see the cathedral’s bells. 

The prize bell is Zikmund and with a weight of 15 tons, it is the biggest bell in the Czech Republic. It features beautiful relief decorations and takes four people to set it in motion to ring it. 

While there, you can wonder at the legend of the bell which is that if the clapper cracks it is a portent of disaster. In June 2002, the clapper cracked and in August the city suffered a devastating flood.

Climbing the bell tower is a nice way to conclude your visit to the cathedral and if you don’t yet feel saturated by magnificent religious buildings there’s one last one to add to your 1-day Prague Itinerary.

Basilica of St. George

The Basilica of St. George was the first church to be established in the castle complex and only minor parts of the original construction from 920 remain. 

What you see today is mostly a Romanesque structure with two steeples dating from 1142. Over the centuries it has been extended and remodelled. 

The chapel of St. Ludmila and a portico were added in the 13th century, the facade was given an early-Baroque makeover and the whole convent was reconstructed. 

The Baroque Chapel of St. John Nepomuk was an early 18th-century addition and after a destructive military occupation in the late 18th century, the church was renovated between 1887 and 1908 with an aim to restore its original Romanesque appearance.

The convent was again reconstructed between 1969 and 1975 when it was adapted to become part of the National Gallery , exhibiting old Bohemian art.

Having seen quite a few churches during your 1 day in Prague, you’ll notice how stark and plain the limestone blocks of the Basilica’s interior are compared to the ornate and decorative baroque and rococo churches. 

Despite the austere appearance, important people in Czech history are entombed in the church including Prince Vratislav, the father of St. Wenceslas.

Golden Lane

Leaving St. George’s Basilica behind as the last church to visit when you tour Prague in 1 day, your next stop is Golden Lane.

In Golden Lane, you are still within the Prague Castle complex. The last remaining small-scale architecture of the castle, the very well preserved Golden Lane is a cobbled street that forms part of the Northern Bailey (outer wall) and is lined with modest dwellings.

The houses were inhabited by workers and tradesmen of the castle including servants, marksmen and goldsmiths. 

The latter gave the street its name, originally Goldsmith Lane in the 16th century, later changed to Golden Lane. It is known that a goldsmith dwelt at No. 15.

Three other houses of specific historical interest are No. 13, the former home of a member of the castle guard known as “Red Musket” and No. 14 where “Madame de Thebes” lived. 

She was a famous fortune teller and during World War II foretold the near downfall of the Third Reich. She died under interrogation after her arrest by the Nazi secret police. 

The third is No. 12. The staircase in this house leads to a terrace that overlooks the round cannon tower, Daliborka . Part of the Jagiello fortifications, it was formerly used as a prison.

The most famous resident of Golden Lane, however, is Franz Kafka who lived at No. 22 between 1916 and 1917.

Rosenberg Palace

One of the buildings with a less common use in the castle complex is the Rosenberg Palace. 

Built by the eponymous family between 1545 and 1574, the Renaissance palace became the property of Emperor Rudolf II in 1600. 

Its original form was retained until the mid-1750s when it was converted and given over to the Imperial and Royal Theresian Stift for Noble Ladies in the Castle of Prague.

The Institute of Noblewomen (for short) was founded and opened by Empress Maria Theresa in 1755. 

It was structured as a religious order and provided a home for impoverished noblewomen over the age of 24 from the aristocratic families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire .

The initial intake was 30 women with Maria Theresa’s daughter Maria Anna as the first Princess-abbess. 

They lived as secular canonesses and unlike nuns, they did not take vows of celibacy and could marry and leave the order.

The Princess-abbess of the Theresian Stift adopted the responsibility for crowning the Queens of Bohemia until the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the formation of Czechoslovakia in 1919 caused the institution to close.

Walk through the castle gardens and grounds for your last stop in the Prague Castle complex.

Lobkowicz Palace

Lobkowicz Palace is the only privately owned building in the complex. It was constructed in the second half of the 16th century and passed to the Lobkowicz family by marriage in 1618. 

The palace was in the ownership of the family until 1939 when it was confiscated first by the Nazis and then the ruling communist regime. The palace was returned to the family in 2002.

Similar to all great buildings of a significant age, the palace has seen a number of architectural changes. Post the Thirty Years War, alterations gave the palace a baroque, Italianate look . 

Václav Eusebius , 2nd Prince Lobkowicz introduced lavishly decorated salons, changes to the Concert Hall, adorned the ceilings of the Balcony Room with frescoes and elaborate stuccowork and updated the Imperial Hall with frescos featuring trompe l’oeil statues of emperors surrounded by decorative motifs.

Panoramic balconies were added to the palace in 1791 when the exterior was remodelled in readiness for Emperor Leopold II’s coronation as King of Bohemia.

Since April 2007, the palace has been a museum, home to the Lobkowicz Collections . Its 22 galleries hold works by artists of global significance including Canaletto, Velasquez, Peter Paul Reubens and Pieter Brueghel the Elder. 

There are also collections of hunting and military paraphernalia, musical instruments and original musical manuscripts by Mozart and Beethoven.

After viewing the magnificence of the art at the palace you will have absorbed a great deal of the historical, cultural and social heritage of the city so to round off your tour of Prague in 1 day, sit back and relax on a boat.

Vltava River Cruise

A Vltava River Cruise is just what you need to wind down from busy sightseeing. You will glide along the river past all the sights you have visited and more that you just can’t fit in on a one-day Prague visit.

The best attraction s are in the main visible from the river and some of those we haven’t put on our 1-day Prague itinerary are:

• the Staropro Men Brewery, 
• Strahov Monastery, 
• National Theatre, 
• Enmaus Monastery, 
• Rudolfinum, 
• Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia, 
• Straka Academy, 
• Herget Brickyard, 
• the Prague Metronome
•  and numerous bridges that you’ll pass under.

The Skyline reveals why Prague is nicknamed the City of a Thousand Spires so have your camera ready. 

For a romantic touch, an evening cruise shows the city from a different perspective as the major sights are illuminated in the darkness.

There are many companies that offer river cruises so do a bit of research before booking. Some of the cruises you can choose from:

• Prague: Panoramic Vltava River Cruise
• Prague: Vltava River Lunch Cruise in an Open-Top Glass Boat
• Prague: 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise
• Prague by Night: 3-Hour Dinner Cruise
• Prague: 45-Minute Historical River Cruise and Refreshments

This 1 day Prague itinerary is based on walking from sight to sight because the city centre is nicely compact but if you want to take shortcuts, public transport is pretty good. 

You can buy tickets for individual journeys or purchase a day pass which enables you to interchange between trams, the metro and buses.

I hope this 1-day Prague itinerary arms you well enough to serve as a guide to enable you to tour the city, making the most of your time, understanding the significance of the major sights and attractions and maximising your satisfaction with its treasure, beauty and atmosphere.

READ MORE TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in Prague
• Best things to see in Prague
• How to get from Prague Airport to city centre
• Getting around Prague by public transport
• Prague in 3 days
• Prague in 2 days
• Best Day trips from Prague

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View from Prague

01/06/2023 by Magdalena Marsden

One day Prague travel itinerary – How to make the most of your visit in 2024

Travel Tips

If you have only one day in Prague I suggest you start at the Prague castle and work your way down the cobbled streets, walk over the Charles Bridge and finish your walk in the centre at Vaclavske Namesti or Old Town Square.

This is pretty much what I do every time I come to Prague after a long time or if I just want to have a good walk. It combines my favourite places, coffee houses, shops and views of Prague.

While it’s not exactly a non-touristy view of Prague , if you follow my suggested walk, you’ll find that you’ll meet fewer people than if you start in the centre of Prague.

Apart from the tram ticket to get you to the top of the hill to start the walk, you’ll not need to buy any more tickets (besides there is really no good public transport that would connect or take you part of the walk – it’s all within the inner town). The tram network circles around the Old Town Square, so you’ll always need to walk to get to the main tourist atractions.

Make sure you pack good shoes for your Prague visit , as you’ll be on your feet all day and Prague streets are full of cobblestones. Depending on which month you want to visit Prague , you’ll also need to pack a sensible clothes for the type of weather you’ll encounter.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

• Prague location & position in Europe and the Czech Republic >>
• Getting from the Vaclav Havel airport to the centre of Prague >>
• Using English in Prague >>

Is one day in Prague enough?

One day is definitely not enough to see everything in Prague, but if one day is all you have, then my guide will help you to make the most of your day.

Because this Prague itinerary is for one day only, I’m going to leave out any suggestions of going inside museums, castle or other attractions. Unless it’s raining or you have a specific interest in a particular museum, there is really not enough time to see everything. And besides, the view of Prague, whilst walking around is truly spectacular in itself.

I’ll mention what you can see on the way and you can either decide to visit later or you can easily split this 24 hr Prague itinerary into 2-3 days.

My one day Prague itinerary is also low budget. That’s not because I’d planned it this way, but since the best way to see the town is to walk, explore the town away from the crowds and eat like a local, you are not going to need to spend a lot of money.

I’ve also included optional detours or places to visit on the route, if you fancy to stop for a while or you want to skip a particular area.

MORE PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS

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One day in Prague itinerary – area by area

Start at staromestska metro or tram stop and take the ride up the castle hill.

We will start with a tram ride up to the top of the Prague Castle Hill, but unlike most people don’t get off at the official Prague Castle tram stop, but carry on a couple more to reach the very top of the castle hill a stop called Pohorelec. A tram number 22 will get you there from the centre or Staromestska Underground – Metro Station.

From Staromestska, the tram will go up the hill first and then turn around and you’ll get a great view of Prague, the green gardens around Prague Castle and the palaces behind the Prague Castle.

You’ll also pass Ana’s Summer Pavilion (Anensky Pavilion) and carry on pass the official Prague Castle Stop. The one you’ll want to get off is called ‘Pohorelec’ and it’s 2nd stop after the Prague Castle Stop.

New world quarter – Novy Svet

You will find the streets of New World tucked away behind the Loretta Church square. This is a quarter of Prague that’s like a forgotten town from the last century.

Tiny houses, cobbled streets, old-fashioned coffee houses and even a country cottage. Once you walk over to the Prague Castle complex itself, you’ll realise even more how very special this area is.

Explore Prague Castle grounds

The Prague Castle complex is open from 6 am, which means you can start your 24 hours Prague day as early as you want to. The beauty is that if you go there sufficiently early, you’ll miss most of the tourists and you’ll have the castle nearly all for yourself.

I’d suggest walking around with a good Prague guidebook to learn more about the castle. Alternatively, you can just enjoy walking around and taking it all in. Don’t miss the large Cathedral (and go behind rather than in front of it to find out another hidden corner of Prague Castle).

The entrace to the Prague castle grounds is completely free and you can also explore most of the top level castle gardens and streets for free.

Coffee at Lobcowicz Palace

The only private palace within the Prague Castle Complex is the Lobcowicz Palace (Lobkowicky Palac). It has a museum and a gallery, but more importantly, it has a coffee house with amazing views of Prague below Castle hill. Depending on how much time you have at least have a look around or stay for a coffee and a cake.

Return back to the main entrance of the Prague Castle, where you can find more great views of Prague, the Monastery, the Petrin Hill Park area and, of course the historic Petrin Tower . This is a great opportunity for a photo, especially if you get there early in the day.

Nerudova Street & quirky shops

Go back up to the main entrance to the castle and walk down the cobbled streets of Nerudova Street.

As you walk down, you’ll pass a lot of tourist shops, which are actually pretty interesting. You’ll first see a handmade chocolate shop called Prazska Cokolada with really good chocolate bean to bars infused with various flavours. Although the chocolate might be a bit pricier than normal chocolate, I think it’s nice to try something different and locally made too.

There are also little shops with wooden marionettes, local crafts and a gingerbread shop, which is definitely worth visiting (if only for the amazing smell). Unlike ‘trdelnik’ which is definitely not a traditional Czech sweet, gingerbread is.

The traditional gingerbread is firm and decorated with white icing with intricate décor. It’s delicious to eat and also makes a great present to take home (it’s hard, so it travels well).

If you still do fancy trying Prague famous trdelnik , then the Cafe U Kajetana is one of the best places where they serve homemade trdelnik with lots of different flavours. My favourite one is with plum jam and they also have vegan version too.

There are also few traditional pubs, which have food, beer and other drinks, so if you are feeling peckish you can make a stop. Bear in mind that having food in a restaurant might take a bit of time, which cuts into our day.

I prefer to just walk down the Nerudova Ulice and grab a Fried Cheese in a Bun (Smazeny syr) or Hot Dog (Parek v rohliku).

There is a little stall with hot food on the corner of Nerudova Ulice and Malostranske Square as you are coming down the hill. It’s been there ever since I remember from my student days and it still has reasonably priced hot food and drinks, that you can just buy and carry on walking.

Coffee stop at Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague

This is an ideal opportunity for another great coffee break, which you can enjoy in the shade of the Church of our Lady Victorious and the Infant Jesus of Prague in Karmelitska Street.

Unlike other coffee places, this one is run by the church itself, so everything you spends contributes towards the running of the church and the coffee itself is really good!

Vrtba Garden – Detour stop – if you have the time – adds at least 60 min to the itinerary

Vrtba Garden is one of the ‘now not so hidden gems of Prague’, but it’s still worth visiting if you have the time.

There are some amazing views of Prague, the castle and of course the garden is very pretty too – laid out on three different levels, with water features, sculptures and beautiful plants and flowers.

Lennon Wall, Kampa & Certovka Canal

A walk around Prague wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Lennon Wall just off the Kampa Island . After John Lennon died in 1980 somebody painted his portrait on the wall and after that people started to write their own thoughts, wishes and peace slogans.

This was even more prominent during the autumn of 1989 when the students started the Velvet Revolution and the Czech Republic become a democratic and free country again.

Charles Bridge

We are now approaching the most photographed and famous bridge in Prague – Charles Bridge . If you start today’s walk really early (like 6 am) you might be lucky enough not to have too many people there.

Otherwise, most of the time, Charles Bridge can be quite crowded, but if you find it like this, just enjoy it for what it is – the most amazing historic bridge with many statues and a great views of Prague Castle, the river and other bridges across the river Vltava .

• How to take great photos of Charles Bridge + Locations & Tips >>

Klementinum Library Complex

When you cross Charles Bridge you have a couple of options – either go straight to follow the Kings route or go slightly to the left through a large door that leads you to a courtyard of a Klimentinum – a university library.

This is my preferred way to the centre as the Kings Route is often very crowded.

Marianske Square

Walk through the Klementinum and keep left as you stroll through the different courtyards. You will arrive at Marianske Square with yet another library and a town hall.

During the Czech state celebrations in May , September , October and November the Town Hall runs open days (for free) when you can join a guided tour of the building and inside rooms.

The Main Town Library often holds open-air exhibitions, concerts and book readings at the square and you can also find a range of small refreshment stalls there.

Fountain with an allegorical statue of the Vltava River (Terezka)

You might also notice a pretty statue of a girl holding a vase. She is called a Terezka and her vase continuously pours water into the well underneath.

The Glam Gallases Palace

The statue is right in front of the Glam Gallases Palace, which is now open to the public after a very lengthy renovation. It belonged to a wealthy family, who had castles and holdings around Liberec before 1948.

The palace was never really opened to the public as the premises were used for archives, so it’s a pretty special building to visit.

You can walk for free through the palace courtyard, but to see the inside you need to buy a ticket for an exhibition. There are usually art or cultural exhibitions organized by the Prague National Gallery.

Coffee break & The book installation at the Municipal Library of Prague

The Town Main Library has a coffee place inside which has a good selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade cakes, and decent coffee at reasonable prices.

Also, pop in to the main entrance of the library to have a look at an art installation made from books. The installation is called Idiom and it’s been designed by the artist Matej Kren in 1998 and it’s made from over 8000 books.

Lunch at the Restaurant in the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague

If you have a bit more time, you can also walk towards the Museum of Decorative Arts. The cafe there serves simple but tasty lunches, salads and has homemade cakes and pretty amazing coffee.

If you have the time (or fancy a little diversion) the Museum of Decorative Arts has always interesting exhibitions on. Last time I’ve visited exhibition of 19 century advertisement leaflets which showed the way marketing worked at the end of 19 and beginning of 20 century.

Walk around the Old Town Square

Returning back to our Prague walk, you’ll now find yourself at the Old Town Square with it’s moving clock, stalls selling souvenirs and many restaurants. If you time your arrival just before the whole hour, you can watch the clock striking and the moving statues of saints going around inside the clock windows.

The Old Town Square in Prague is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It is the oldest and most significant square in historic Prague and has been a bustling marketplace at the intersection of European trade routes since ancient times.

Nearby stood the customs house (Ungelt), where goods imported by foreign merchants were taxed. In 1338, King John of Luxembourg granted the Old Town permission to build its own town hall. The inspiration for the town hall was the Gothic house of the wealthy merchant Wolflin from Kamene and tall tower was added in 1364. The famous Old Town Astronomical Clock with moving figures of the apostles was made in 1410 by master Nicholas of Kadan.

Next to the Old Town Hall and the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the dominant feature of the square is the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas by architect K.I. Dienzenhofer, the Rococo Palace of the Kinsky family, which now houses the Graphic Collection of the National Gallery, the House at the Stone Bell – a Gothic city palace from the 14th century, now a concert and exhibition space of the Gallery of the Capital City of Prague, and the Jan Hus Memorial from 1915 by Ladislav Šaloun.

The location of the execution of 27 Czech lords (June 21, 1621) and the Prague Meridian are marked on the square’s pavement. You can also see the newly added collum of St Mary, which was originally stud here until 1918 when it was demolished by a drunken crowd in a political protest.

Originally, the square was called Great Square, in the 13th century, the name was changed to Old Market. In the 14th century, the square was referred to as the Old Town Market, and the current name (Old Town Square or Staromestske Namesti) dates back to 1895.

Stroll by the luxury shops in Parizska Street

Pařížská Street, just off the Old Town Square, is a road full of luxury shops, lined with buildings featuring impressive facades, where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll and of course, enjoy window shopping (or a real shopping if you have the budget!).

Walking down the Parizska street, you really feel the atmosphere of the French capital – Paris, which is how the street got it’s name. Old buildings with large glass shop windows showcase the most exquisite products of the most expensive clothing, jewellery, and fashion accessories. You can find here luxury brands, such as Hermés, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Fendi, and many others.

The 500-meter-long Pařížská Street connects Cechův Bridge with Old Town Square and because of the town redevelopment at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, it runs through the center of the former Jewish Quarter.

Pause for a thought in the Jewish Quarter – Josefov

The Josefov district is the smallest official district area in Prague and until 1850 it was called the Jewish Quarter, and before that, it was known as the Jewish Ghetto. Today, it is a preserved complex of significant Jewish monuments of European importance.

The original Jewish Ghetto was condemned to “sanitation” at the end of the 1880s labelled as a poor district. Only a few buildings survived from the original ghetto, including the Jewish Town Hall, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and six synagogues: Klaus, Maisel, Pinkas, Old-New, Spanish, and High Synagogue.

During World War II, Jews were deported to concentration camps. The abandoned Josefov became a warehouse for confiscated property. After the war, much of the legacy remained in the hands of the Jewish Museum because its original owners didn’t come back from the concentration camps, and because of that the Jewish Museum became the second-largest Jewish museum in the world.

Although only a few of the most important monuments and buildings from the centuries-long history of Prague’s Jews have been preserved, they form the most preserved complex of Jewish monuments in Europe.

Visit the Oldfashioned Tyn Square

Return back from the Jewish quarter via Parizska Street or any of the side streets back to the Old Town Square. From the Old Town Square, walk through the tiny street called Tynska to get to Tyn and Ungelt Square.

It’s a perfect example of what the centre of Prague looked like in olden times with its unique mix of small decorative dwellings right next to imposing Baroque buildings all the time surrounded by attractive archways and glistening cobblestones. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops and galleries there.

If you have the time you can explore this area further. Just round the corner you’ll find the famous Powder Tower where you can view the whole centre and the castle from the top of the tower.

Dinner stop at Ceska Kuchyne

This is totally one of my favourite places to eat in central Prague. Non-pretentious, easy going, simple but tasty traditional Czech food served without waiting and at a great price too!

If you’ve come to Prague to eat gourmet food at 5-star hotels, this is not a place for you!

But if you are hungry, want to eat right away without waiting or perhaps would feel awkward in a high-end restaurant (that’s me, by the way!) and want to try traditional canteen-style food , please come in!

I should mention, that there is a certain way this restaurant works. As you enter the restaurant you’ll be given a white ticket. Next head over to the food areas.

The starters and puddings/sweets/hot drinks are at the front and the mains and cold drinks at the back of the restaurant on the left handside. Try a beer or ‘pivo’ and you’ll be charged a fraction of the price you’d pay at a nearby restaurant.

Pick up a tray and wait your turn and point or say whatever you fancy eating. At the same time, give the lady at each counter your ticket and she will write a short code for the meal you’ve just requested.

The short-codes are not the prices and you’ll see special codes for individual portions and elements of the food (like dumplings, bread, cucumber, extra potatoes etc.) Don’t be alarmed if it looks like a long list and you’ve only ordered one plate!

The prices are written on the board and for mains you’ll want the meat element (for example ‘gulash’) and the side dish (for example ‘knedliky’ dumplings). You can pick and choose whatever you like, if you don’t want dumplings with your gulash you can have just bread or nothing, it’s your choice.

After you select your meal, it will get plated up for you straight away and you can choose where you want to sit. There are usually plenty of spaces and there is even a little conservatory with wicker chairs.

If at any point you want more food or want a pudding or coffee, just take your white ticket to the other counter and pick what you like.

The restaurant staff asks that you take your empty trays and dishes to a designated area in the middle of the restaurant.

When you are ready to leave, simply hand over your white ticket to the checkout lady and she will total everything up for you.

The Estates Theatre

Before you start heading up to the Wenceslas Square, walk a little sideways to Ovocny Trh (Fruit Market) on the same street as Ceska Kuchyne and you will see the Estates Theatre the oldest theatre still in use in Czech Republic and the whole Europe.

Mozart has performed here many times and even composed an opera for Prague people since he liked it here so much.

If you fancy going to the theatre in the evening, check out the list of theatre plays that are displayed at the theatre entrance. A lot of these now include English subtitles, especially if it’s an opera. Tickets are sold in the building opposite the theatre or you can book online.

Wenceslas Square ( Vaclavske Namesti)

As you walk up the Wenceslas Square , you’ll be surrounded by some amazing architecture, shops and restaurants. I usually walk up half way to the Svetozor Passage for one of best ice creams in Prague , traditional cakes (try the ‘Spicka’ or Vetrnik’ and to catch up on the latest art film!

Svetozor shows regular films, but also art films and Czech films with English subtitles. The cinema has 3 screens and there is always something interesting to watch.

Lucerna Passage

If you can’t find something you like there, walk across the street to the Lucerna gallery where you’ll find not only another old-fashioned cinema, but also an old fashioned coffee house, a David Cerny sculpture of a horse hanging upside down (oh, yes, that one!) and in the summer you can visit the Lucerna roof terraces.

If your legs can still carry you (or after you had a good cake, coffee and watched some nice film) walk up to the top of Wenceslas Square where you’ll see the main National ‘Narodni’ Museum which is illuminated in the evenings. The fountain in front of the museum is also lit up in white, blue and red, which symbolise the colours of the Czech flag.

From the top of Wenceslas Square is only 10 minutes to the Main Train Station or Museum Underground Station entrance (Lines A, C) is right next to the statue of St Wenceslas.

I have more suggestions on what to do in Prague in the evenings on my blog, so make sure you check it out.

STAY IN TOUCH

Hope this blog post inspires you and as ever I’d love to what you think! Let me know in the comments below or catch up with me over on Instagram .

This blog post was originally written on 3 November 2021 and last updated on 1 June 2023

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Not just cheap beer and old buildings: an arty weekend in Prague

A new sleeper train from Brussels is bringing the Czech capital’s contemporary art scene within easy reach of rail travellers

F or decades, cheap flights, nightclubs and booze made Prague one of Europe’s stag party capitals. City officials have spoken out about tourists’ drunken behaviour, but Prague remains popular among men dressed as Smurfs drinking 50 koruna (£1.70) pints of pilsner.

I arrive on the train from Dresden, the German city just north of the Czech border, shortly before the launch of a new night train route. On 25 March the European Sleeper between Brussels and Berlin extends to Prague, arriving at Hlavní Nádraží, Prague’s main central station, at 10.56am.

I’m here to find the best things to do in the Czech Republic’s capital, and surrounding countryside, away from the city centre tourist sights.

I’m staying at Miss Sophie’s Downtown hotel (huge rooms, exposed piping, staff who don’t mind me taking socially unacceptable amounts of boiled sweets from reception), just a five-minute walk from the station. I take a tram to Kunsthalle Praha art gallery to meet Ivana Goossen, director of the white-walled exhibition complex, which opened in 2022 and today resembles a dream-state library. I’d heard that in this city of flowing beer and grand museums, Kunsthalle represents a more contemporary side of Prague culture.

READ, a books-themed exhibition by Berlin-based artists Elmgreen & Dragset, has taken over most of the gallery and runs until 22 April. A sculpture of a chimp stands on a pile of hardbacks. Visitors peruse a display of progressive books banned in Florida. A man sitting alone at a long table calmly writes in a notebook. “What he’s doing is actually an art performance,” says Goossen.

Kunsthalle was converted from a 1930s electricity substation by local entrepreneurs Petr and Pavlína Pudil. Goossen says that after the 1989 Velvet Revolution, privately owned arts institutions were initially slow to emerge.

“There’s been a process of maturing,” she says. “Certain practices normal in the western world, where you see culture supported privately [with private investment in public art spaces], weren’t so typical. That’s changing, and people are recognising that Prague isn’t just about old architecture.”

Kunsthalle had about 110,000 visitors in its first year, attracting more local people than tourists. “We’re in the old centre, by the Prague Castle steps,” says Ivana, “but we’re showing that there is contemporary culture here.”

North of the centre, Holešovice, is one of Prague’s more gentrified districts, and home to the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art . I admire its moody nude sculptures before lunch at the newly opened Slice Slice Baby restaurant (recommended as “the best pizza slice in town” by one of Goossen’s colleagues). The pizza is excellent: co-owner Kateřina Jakusová tells me that the tomatoes are imported from Puglia.

A 30-minute tram ride south, the southern tip of Smíchov district is popular with artists but doesn’t yet have any hip pizzerias. A large parrot is gnawing a wooden door in the atrium cafe at MeetFactory : which is now a nonprofit artist space. The Shape of Water -esque sculptures here are great, but I don’t get properly sucked into the depths of artistic intrigue until I enter the gallery on the opposite side of the railway tracks. Musoleum opened in 2022 to showcase the work of Prague-born sculptor David Černý , who also founded MeetFactory. He’s known for his work Miminka, the freaky bulbous baby sculptures seen crawling up the city’s Žižkov Television Tower .

Car-sized handgun sculptures hang from the ceiling, and sporadic gunfire sounds make me jump every minute or so. A sculpture of a vintage car with human legs is overseen by a garish orange and blue Černý self-portrait. These brilliantly odd works are not suitable for kids or prudes though: one floor is dominated by enormous explicit moving human body part sculptures: Cronenberg via Razzle magazine.

Next day, I drive an hour and a half north to the – more family-friendly – Jiří Pačinek glass factory. Garish glass octopus sculptures protrude from soil in its “glass garden”. Inside, Pačinek, his 23-year-old son Jan and a few employees with metal rods are at work pulling molten glass from raging furnaces, and spinning bulbs so they solidify as vases.

The area has been known for fine glassmaking for centuries, and is still home to several glassworks. Pačinek is handing out bowls of boar stew. “The local hunter gave us the boar in exchange for some glass,” he says. “That’s how things work in the villages here, sometimes.”

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The Pačineks export their glass pieces globally, and tourists can try their hand at making glass souvenirs. The factory made the “crystal” sculptures for the 2022 film Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery . But despite that success, Jan says, fine Czech glasswork is under threat.

He nods towards a pair of employees gently curling molten glass threads around a vase. “These guys are about 50; young people don’t want to make glass any more. It’s a tradition in this area, but people want to work with computers.”

Pačinek rests his arm on his son’s shoulder. They tell how a huge local glasswork factory recently shut after 230 years, because of soaring energy costs. Pačinek’s gas furnaces have to be kept running constantly, at temperatures reaching 1,340C.

“I’m not afraid,” he says. “The small family companies will be the future, because when we see this problem with the energy prices it becomes something only for people who love this work. Which I think is perfect.”

Jan shows me a glass gorilla head his father made, then a cluster of pieces inspired by the Covid-19 virus shape, made during lockdowns. I have a go at glass spinning and only manage an ugly glass globule. He smashes it. “Don’t worry, we can melt down the glass again.” I drive back to Prague with a signed beer glass his father made earlier.

On the train home, as I admire the smoothly rendered pint glass, I recall gallery director Goossen telling me: “Our joke went that Brits don’t think they’ve been to Prague, because they start drinking on the plane coming here and don’t sober up until the plane back.”

I won’t forget the friendly glassblowers, the door-gnawing parrot or the huge faceless babies quite so easily.

Train travel from London to Brussels was provided by Eurostar (from £3 9 each way). Travel from Brussels to Prague was provided by Omio , whose app allows travellers to compare different transport methods simultaneously. Accommodation in Prague was provided by Miss Sophie’s Downtown (doubles from €70, breakfast included if booking with the hotel directly) via Czech Tourism . Prague Visitor Pass provided by Czech Tourism . The European Sleeper train runs between Brussels Midi and Prague Hlavní Nádraží from 25 March 2024 (one-way couchette from €79)

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Posted: December 30, 2023 | Last updated: March 17, 2024

The most beautiful places on Earth

Despite ills such as pollution, climate change, ecological disasters and the destruction of many wild places, Earth is a beautiful place. From waterfalls and islands to forests and mountains, our planet boasts myriad natural wonders that can amaze even the most jaded observer. But it also boasts equally dazzling human-made wonders, like picturesque cities and unique architecture.

Our list of the 10 most beautiful places in the world is subjective, but we think it is eclectic enough to capture the diverse beauty of our planet. If you were to point a camera at any of the places listed here, you'd get a breathtaking image.

SANTORINI, GREECE

The whitewashed, blue-capped houses of the Greek village of Fira are typical of the many picturesque villages of modern-day Greece. But these particular houses, along with those of Fira's sister city Oia, are perched impossibly on the ridge of a caldera and command a bold, panoramic view of the surrounding Aegean Sea. 

The caldera is the remnant of the ancient island of Thera, now called Santorini. Situated in the southern Aegean Sea and forming the southernmost of the Cyclades group of islands, Santorini is a volcanic island located 120 miles (200 km) southeast of the Greek mainland. It is famous for its rugged landscape, towering cliffs displaying distinct and colorful geologic layers, volcanic beaches, romantic sunsets and 360-degree view of the deep-blue Aegean Sea. 

Santorini is also famous for the catastrophic volcanic eruption that occurred 3,600 years ago, during the height of the Minoan civilization, according to the World History Encyclopedia. The eruption destroyed much of the island, spewing a massive cloud of ash and debris into the air, creating a water-filled caldera and breaking the island into several separate islands. The eruption also destroyed the ancient village of Akrotiri, the most famous Minoan settlement outside Crete. First excavated in 1967, it is now a well-known archaeological site, some of it partially reconstructed but much of it, like Pompeii, still preserved under a thick layer of ash. The site is famous for its well-studied frescoes, or wall paintings, which depict fishermen, boats, dolphins and well-manicured Minoan ladies of high rank. 

Santorini is a major tourist destination, and the archaeological site of Akrotiri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND

The Isle of Skye has a long history of appearances in songs, stories, novels and poetry. Novelist and poet Walter Scott used the picturesque location as the setting of his epic poem "The Lord of the Isles," and Sir Harold Boulton's romantic ballad "The Skye Boat Song" tells the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie's flight from the Scottish mainland to Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. It is unclear where the name Skye comes from, but some sources, such as the Gazetteer of Scotland, claim it comes from the old Norse word "sky-a," meaning "cloud island," likely in reference to the fog that often enshrouds the island. 

Skye is the largest and northernmost of Scotland's Inner Hebrides, a group of islands located on the country's west coast. The island is roughly 50 miles (80 km) wide from east to west and is made up of a hodgepodge of moors, blue lochs, windswept coastline, fields of heather, stark medieval castles and craggy mountains. Its climate is wet, windy, cool and frequently overcast. But when the sun breaks out, the island is aglow with rainbows, sparkling lochs and some of the most beautiful coastal vistas in the British Isles. "In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes top prize," according to the Lonely Planet travel guide. 

North of Portree, the island's main town, is a cluster of pinnacle-like rocks known as the Old Man of Storr. Farther north is Kilt Rock, a sheer coastal cliff of sedimentary and igneous rock that draws a constant stream of sightseers, many having come to see Mealt Falls, a cascade that drops 164 feet (50 m) straight down to the water. Near the top of the list of jaw-dropping attractions, however, is Spar Cave, a cathedral-like sea grotto filled with calcium carbonate formations. It was a major tourist attraction during Victorian times and continues to draw adventurous hikers. All of these can be viewed at the official Isle of Skye tourist site. 

HUASHAN, CHINA

"Shan" is Mandarin for "mountain," and  hua  means "splendid" or "magnificent." Huashan, a towering mountain located near the city of Huayin in China's Shaanxi province, about 74 miles (120 km) east of Xi'an, lives up to its moniker. 

It consists of five separate peaks, the tallest of which, South Peak, rises to 7,070 feet (2,155 m). The mountain is composed primarily of Mesozoic-era granite upthrust as the result of geologic faulting over millions of years, according to UNESCO. This created the sheer rock faces that characterize the mountain and plunge precipitously to the valley below. The surrounding flora is rich and varied. Mosses, lichens and shrubs characterize the understory, while several species of pine clinging precariously to steep rock faces and sheer cliffs form the overstory. 

Taoists, who are practitioners of the ancient Chinese religion of Taoism, have cherished Huashan for centuries, and it is considered one of China's most sacred mountains. Several Taoist temples dot the mountain's slopes and peaks. The earliest temple, the Shrine of the Western Peak, dates back to the second century B.C.

The mountain is also a major tourist destination. Many people from around the world venture to climb the South Peak, an ascent to the top of the mountain that some have dubbed the "most dangerous hike in the world." The initial ascent is easy enough; it begins relatively flat but gradually transitions to stone steps, which then give way to a wooden plank that hugs the mountainside with a series of chains for handholds. The dangerous trail is only about 1 foot (0.3 m) wide and is known as the "plank walk in the sky." 

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," a name that references its famous castles, cathedrals, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and medieval squares and bridges. It is home to 1.3 million people. 

The area around Prague is a region known as Bohemia, which has been settled for many millennia, first by Paleolithic peoples and much later by the Celts. But Prague did not acquire the rudiments of a city until the ninth century A.D., according to Encyclopedia Britannica. During the medieval period, the city grew in size, scope and renown, becoming a major city of political and cultural influence in the 14th century. In 1348, the Holy Roman emperor Charles IV founded Charles University in Prague, the first such center of learning in central Europe. And during the latter Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, Prague played a major role during the Reformation, a period of intense religious ferment that gave rise to Protestantism. Under the influence of Catholic Church critics like Jan Hus, Prague became a hotbed of opposition to Roman Catholicism. 

The Vltava River runs north to south as it meanders through the city, passing such famous landmarks as the Prague Astronomical Clock, the Vysehrad Museum and the famous Charles Bridge, a medieval stone bridge that links Prague's Old and New Towns and is famous for its Baroque statuary of prominent saints. 

Perhaps the most picturesque of Prague's buildings, however, is Prague Castle, which sits atop a hill and dominates the city's skyline. It was built in the ninth century and was expanded upon over subsequent centuries. Today, it is the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. 

In 1992, Prague's historic city center was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List.

JÖKULSÁRLÓN, ICELAND

The first thing you notice about Iceland's largest glacial lagoon is the dazzling blueness of the water. It has a crystalline quality that is mesmerizing and otherworldly. Brilliant white icebergs, broken off of the nearby glacier, float about, resembling clouds drifting in the sky. 

Jökulsárlón, translated as "glacial river lagoon," is Iceland's deepest lake, plunging 813 feet (248 m) below the surface, according to Earth Observatory, a NASA-affiliated site. It covers a surface area of 7 square miles (18 square km) and borders the coast, so at high tide, Atlantic Ocean water spills into the lagoon. Jökulsárlón is part of Vatnajökull National Park, located near the town of Hofn in the southeast part of the country. The park derives its name from Vatnajökull glacier, which is Iceland's largest ice cap and the second-largest ice cap in Europe, after the Severny Island ice cap in Novaya Zemlya, Russia. 

Jökulsárlón formed fairly recently, between 1934 and 1935, when meltwater from Vatnajökull glacier rushed into the lagoon, forming a lake. It has been expanding ever since. Today, the expansion of Jökulsárlón is accelerating as a result of climate change. 

The lagoon is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Europe, Asia and the United States. They come to see the icebergs, the wildlife and the amazing vistas, especially Vatnajökull glacier, which rises to 3,000 feet (910 m) and provides a dramatic backdrop to the striking blue lagoon. A plethora of seabirds — including terns, skuas, gulls and puffins — call the area home, and seals are frequent visitors to the lagoon. 

Jökulsárlón and the surrounding area became part of Vatnajökull National Park in 2008. The Park is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, AUSTRALIA

Flanked on the south by the tempestuous Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is Australia's most scenic highway. It passes by some of the country's most amazing vistas and natural landmarks, and is on Australia's National Heritage list, a list of places deemed to be of outstanding historical, natural and cultural significance to Australia. 

The Great Ocean Road runs along the southeast coast, from Torquay in the east to Allansford in the west. It covers a length of 151 miles (243 km) and parallels the southern edge of the continent for most of the way, though it occasionally deviates to cut inland and zigzag around a landform or natural formation. The entire route takes about 9.5 hours, and tourists typically spend three days doing the drive. 

The road winds through coastal scenery for most of its length, running along cliff tops, skirting beaches and coves, and passing through rainforests and by waterfalls. Highlights include the Otway rainforest canopy, which takes visitors high up through the canopy of a myrtle beech ( Nothofagus cunninghamii ) forest, and the Grotto, a stretch of limestone coast that has been eroded into fantastical shapes and formations. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction, however, is a series of limestone sea stacks called the Twelve Apostles. These rock formations were part of the mainland 20 million years ago but have eroded over time and now form pinnacles just offshore. 

The idea of creating the Great Ocean Road grew out of a desire to commemorate the Australian soldiers who died during World War I, according to SBS News, an Australian news site. Construction of the road began in 1918, after a survey crew laid out the route the previous year. Many members of the construction crew were servicemen who had returned from the war and needed jobs. The road was constructed piecemeal, and it was completed in 1932.

In 1881, the famous British general Charles "Chinese" Gordon thought he had stumbled across the biblical Garden of Eden — literally. He claimed it was on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, now known as Praslin in the Republic of Seychelles. 

Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands nearly 1,000 miles off Africa's east coast. The islands are the epitome of postcard perfect: Stately palm trees sway above pristine white beaches and brilliant turquoise water. 

Most of the islands are granite, according to One Earth Philanthropy, a non-profit environmental group, although several islands are also coral atolls. The Aldabra Group of islands includes Aldabra Island, which is the world's second-largest raised coral atoll and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the endemic Aldabra giant tortoise ( Aldabrachelys gigantea ), which, like the Galapagos giant tortoise, is an example of island gigantism, an evolutionary process whereby certain island-dwelling animals grow to very large sizes. 

Seychelles is a major tourist destination with numerous nature preserves and marine parks. 

ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

A cold, windswept island chain in the north Pacific Ocean is hardly the first location that springs to mind when contemplating the world's most beautiful places. But the Aleutian Islands, located between 51° and 55° N latitude, is a special place that defies all expectations and assumptions. Though beset by fierce winds, thick fog and heavy rainfall, the islands have mystical charm. A haven for seabirds and marine life, the islands are a wonderland of rugged volcanoes and snowcapped peaks surrounded by a vast expanse of deep blue ocean. 

The Aleutians form the northern extension of the Pacific Ring of Fire, extending in an arc westward from the Alaskan Peninsula for 1,200 miles (1,900 km) to the Russian Kamchatka Peninsula. The Aleutians consist of more than 70 islands, including 14 large volcanic islands, 55 smaller islands and several islets. They are located where the Pacific Plate sinks below the North American Plate, creating an active subduction zone. Here, the molten lava bubbles up to the surface, and several of the islands contain active volcanoes. A group of scientists recently proposed that the Aleutian Islands are the interconnected vents of a much more massive underwater caldera, Live Science previously reported. 

Unalaska is the best-known island in the chain and the only one with a permanent population. Attu Island, the westernmost of the Aleutian Islands, is a premier destination for bird-watchers, containing countless resident and migrant seabirds and numerous nesting sites and colonies. Attu Island is also famous for its role in World War II: In May 1943, American and Japanese forces clashed in a bloody month-long battle that culminated in an Allied victory and the withdrawal of Japanese forces from the island chain. 

MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is an ancient city that sits high up in the mountains, surrounded by gauzy wisps of cloud. The extreme altitude and surrounding backdrop of the vegetation-clad slopes of the Andean foothills lend the air an ethereal quality.

Machu Picchu is located in the Andes mountains of southern Peru, in the craggy heights above the Urubamba Valley, also called the Sacred Valley. Archaeologists think Machu Picchu was constructed in the mid-1400s under the direction of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the ninth ruler of the Inca. The city was built as a citadel for Inca royalty and was occupied for nearly a century until it was abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. It contains numerous palaces, residences and stone temples, including the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows, and is surrounded by expertly made stone walls. The nearest modern city, Cuzco, is 50 miles (80 km) to the southeast.

After its abandonment, the citadel fell into disuse, and as thick vegetation closed in around the site over the centuries, it was reclaimed by the jungle. Although it was well known by the local populace, American explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

Today, Machu Picchu is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in South America but also a major tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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N.Y. appeals court reduces Trump's bond in his civil fraud case to $175 million, a victory for the former president

A state appeals court ruled that Donald Trump and his co-defendants in the New York civil fraud case have 10 days to post a $175 million bond, down from the $464 million judgment that was originally due Monday.

The 11th-hour ruling from a panel of state Appellate Division judges, all appointed by Democratic governors, is a major victory and relief for the former president, whose attorneys had said coming up with the larger bond was a “practical impossibility.” The ruling also means state Attorney General Letitia James’ office cannot yet begin collecting on the judgment. 

“I greatly respect the decision of the appellate division and I’ll post the $175 million in cash or bonds or security or whatever is necessary very quickly within the 10 days, and I thank the appellate division for acting quickly,” Trump said in front of cameras after he left a New York courtroom for a hearing in the hush money case.

Before Monday’s ruling, Trump was  liable for $454 million , most of the fraud judgment, but the amount he owed had been increasing by more than $111,000 a day because of added interest.

Trump claimed on social media Friday that he had nearly $500 million in cash that he had planned to use toward his 2024 presidential campaign. The former president, however, hasn’t used his own money toward his presidential campaigns since 2016.

He had also floated the idea last week of mortgaging or selling off his properties, saying he would be forced to do so at “Fire Sale prices.”

His lawyers noted in court filings that bond companies typically “require collateral of approximately 120% of the amount of the judgment” — which in this case would total about $557 million.

Trump's lawyers said in one filing a week ago that they hadn’t been able at that point to secure a bond, and believed it was “a practical impossibility.” They said that they approached 30 surety companies through four separate brokers, trying to negotiate with the world’s largest insurance companies.

The other bond companies will not “accept hard assets such as real estate as collateral,” but “will only accept cash or cash equivalents (such as marketable securities),” his lawyers said.

Trump’s lawyers had asked the state appeals court to either reduce the amount of money he had to post or stay the award without him posting any security while he appeals Engoron’s order.

The decision Monday also puts a stay on the part of the original judgment that barred Trump from serving as a public officer of a company, as well as the prohibitions placed on Weisselberg, McConney, Donald Trump Jr. And Eric Trump.

The court did not grant requests from Trump to prohibit the independent monitor or installing an independent director of compliance.

The AG's office brushed off Monday's ruling in a statement, saying: "Donald Trump is still facing accountability for his staggering fraud. The court has already found that he engaged in years of fraud to falsely inflate his net worth and unjustly enrich himself, his family, and his organization. The $464 million judgment — plus interest — against Donald Trump and the other defendants still stands."

Trump celebrated the ruling in a post on Truth Social, attacking Engoron and reiterating that he believes he did nothing wrong. Speaking to reporters outside an unrelated hearing in his New York criminal case, he called Engoron "a disgrace to this country."

Alina Habba, the former president's lawyer in the civil fraud case, said in a statement, “We are extremely pleased with the ruling issued by the Appellate Division. This monumental holding reigns in Judge Engoron’s verdict, which is an affront to all Americans. This is the first important step in fighting back against Letitia James and her targeted witch hunt against my client which started before she ever stepped foot in office."

On Friday, Trump told Fox News he'd appeal Engoron's ruling "all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary." He must first go through the state appeals court process before he can bring that challenge before the justices.

Trump has valued his brand at  over $10 billion , but a 2021 financial statement put his net worth $4.5 billion. He has said that most of his assets are in real estate — not cash or stock — saying at a deposition in the fraud case last year, that he had “substantially in excess of $400 million in cash.”

Trump may have some financial relief coming in the near future.

On Friday, shareholders in  Digital World Acquisition Corp.  voted to approve a merger with the former president's Trump Media & Technology Group , the private firm that owns his social media platform  Truth Social .

Shares in the newly combined company, Trump Media, could begin to be publicly traded this week, and Trump would have nearly 80 million shares, estimated to be worth around $3 billion.

Under the terms of the merger, Trump is prohibited from selling shares in the merged company for at least six months, but the board of directors, which will likely include his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., could vote to allow him to sell shares earlier than that.

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.

Dareh Gregorian is a politics reporter for NBC News.