Prague in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Standing at the edge of Charles Bridge as golden hour bathes Prague Castle in warm light, you’ll understand why this enchanting city captivates over 8 million visitors annually. Planning your first visit to Prague can feel overwhelming with its 1,000-year history packed into winding medieval streets, but a well-structured prague 3 day itinerary ensures you experience the city’s most remarkable attractions without the exhaustion of over-planning.
This comprehensive prague travel plan is designed specifically for first-time visitors who want to maximize their weekend trip while experiencing authentic Czech culture, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems that make Prague one of Europe’s most beloved destinations. Whether you’re drawn by the Gothic architecture, world-class beer, or the city’s fairy-tale atmosphere, this itinerary balances must-see attractions with local experiences and practical logistics.
Who This Prague 3 Day Itinerary Is For
This guide is tailored for travelers who:
- Are visiting Prague for the first time and want to see the highlights
- Have a prague weekend trip (Thursday evening through Sunday evening)
- Prefer walking and public transportation over tour buses
- Want a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and authentic dining
- Appreciate efficient routing that minimizes backtracking
- Need practical information on tickets, timing, and local customs
What you’ll accomplish: By following this itinerary, you’ll visit Prague’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, experience traditional Czech cuisine, navigate the city’s excellent public transport system, and return home with comprehensive knowledge of Prague’s history and culture.
Pre-Trip Planning Essentials
Best Time to Visit Prague
Prague welcomes visitors year-round, but timing significantly impacts your experience. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer moderate temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F), fewer crowds than summer, and lower accommodation prices. Summer (June-August) brings peak tourist season with temperatures reaching 25°C (77°F) and significantly higher prices. Winter creates a magical atmosphere, especially during Christmas markets, though temperatures drop to -5°C (23°F).
Transportation and Prague Cards
Purchase a 72-hour Prague public transport pass (€16) at the airport or metro stations. This unlimited-use ticket covers all trams, buses, and metro lines—the most cost-effective option for three days of exploration.
The Prague Card (€70 for 72 hours) includes public transport plus free entry to 60+ attractions. Calculate whether your planned visits justify the cost; for this itinerary covering major paid sites, it typically saves €20-30.
Accommodation Strategy
Choose accommodations in Prague 1 (Old Town, Lesser Town) or Prague 2 (New Town, Vinohrady) for walkability to attractions. Book at least 60 days in advance for optimal rates. Budget: €50-80/night (hostels, budget hotels); Mid-range: €80-150/night (3-star hotels, apartments); Luxury: €150+/night (4-5 star hotels with Vltava views).
Day 1: Old Town and Jewish Quarter Exploration
Morning: Prague’s Historic Heart (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Café Savoy
Begin your prague first time experience at Café Savoy (Vítězná 5), a beautifully restored 1893 café serving traditional Czech breakfast. Arrive when doors open to avoid lines. Order the snídaně (Czech breakfast plate) with fresh pastries and excellent coffee. Budget: €12-15 per person.
9:00 AM – Old Town Square
Walk to Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), the beating heart of Prague for 900 years. Arrive before 9:30 AM to photograph the square without overwhelming crowds. Key attractions:
- Astronomical Clock: Built in 1410, it’s the world’s oldest functioning astronomical clock. The hourly show (9:00 AM onwards) attracts massive crowds; watch from the side for better photos.
- Church of Our Lady Before Týn: Gothic masterpiece with distinctive twin spires visible across Prague
- Jan Hus Memorial: Central monument commemorating the religious reformer
Pro tip: Skip the Old Town Hall tower (220 crowns/€9) this morning—you’ll get better views elsewhere later.
10:30 AM – Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Walk north to the Jewish Quarter, Europe’s best-preserved Jewish historical site. Purchase the Jewish Museum ticket (€16, covers all synagogues except Old-New Synagogue) at the Maisel Synagogue to avoid Pinkas Synagogue lines.
Recommended route through Josefov:
1. Pinkas Synagogue: Memorial to 77,297 Czech Holocaust victims, names inscribed on walls
2. Old Jewish Cemetery: Established in 1439, containing 12,000+ visible tombstones with thousands more buried beneath
3. Spanish Synagogue: Stunning Moorish Revival architecture
4. Old-New Synagogue (separate €10 ticket): Europe’s oldest active synagogue (1270)
Allocate 2-2.5 hours for thorough exploration. This profoundly moving experience provides essential context for understanding Prague’s cultural complexity.
Afternoon: Charles Bridge and Lesser Town (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
12:00 PM – Lunch at Lokál Dlouhááá
Head to Lokál Dlouhááá (Dlouhá 33) for authentic Czech pub food at reasonable prices. Order svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce) or goulash, paired with Pilsner Urquell on tap. The bustling atmosphere embodies genuine Czech dining culture. Budget: €10-15 per person.
1:30 PM – Charles Bridge
Walk to Charles Bridge (Karlův most), Prague’s most iconic landmark. This 14th-century stone bridge spanning the Vltava River features 30 baroque statues and connects Old Town with Lesser Town.
Photography strategy: Early morning (before 7 AM) or evening (after 8 PM) offer crowd-free shots. During midday, photograph from Kampa Island below or focus on statue details rather than full bridge views.
Cross slowly, examining statue details. Touch the bronze plaque beneath St. John of Nepomuk (left side, mid-bridge) for legendary good luck and guaranteed return to Prague.
2:30 PM – Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
Lesser Town’s baroque palaces and gardens cascade down the hill beneath Prague Castle. Essential stops:
St. Nicholas Church (Malostranské náměstí): Prague’s most impressive baroque interior (€5 entry). The 79-meter dome and elaborate frescoes took 60 years to complete.
Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada): Free baroque garden with peacocks, pond, and geometric landscaping. Open April-October, perfect for a peaceful break.
4:00 PM – Petřín Hill and Tower
Take the funicular (included in public transport pass) up Petřín Hill. The Petřín Lookout Tower (€5), built in 1891 as a 1/5 scale Eiffel Tower replica, offers Prague’s best panoramic views. Climb 299 steps for 360-degree vistas covering all major landmarks.
Alternative: If weather is poor, visit the Museum of Communism (Na Příkopě 10) instead, offering fascinating insights into Czechoslovakia’s communist era (€11, 90 minutes).
Evening: Vltava River and Dinner (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
6:00 PM – Vltava River Walk
Stroll along the Vltava riverbank from Petřín toward the National Theatre. The golden hour illuminates Prague Castle magnificently. Cross the Legion Bridge (Most Legií) for optimal castle photography angles.
7:30 PM – Dinner at U Magistra Kelly
Experience traditional Czech cuisine at U Magistra Kelly (Prokopská 10), a Lesser Town gem frequented by locals. Reserve ahead. Order pečená kachna (roast duck) with red cabbage and dumplings, finishing with trdelník for dessert. Budget: €20-25 per person.
9:00 PM – Evening Stroll Through Old Town
End your first day wandering illuminated Old Town streets. The crowds dissipate, and the medieval atmosphere intensifies after dark. Stop at Karlovy Lázně (Charles Bridge area) for riverside views or enjoy craft beer at Brewery Hostivař (Dlouhá 46).
Day 2: Prague Castle and New Town Discovery
Morning: Prague Castle Complex (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
8:00 AM – Early Castle Arrival
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), the world’s largest ancient castle complex, requires 4-5 hours for thorough exploration. Arrive at 8:00 AM when courtyards open (buildings open 9:00 AM) to photograph before crowds arrive.
Getting there: Take tram 22 from Malostranská metro station to Pražský hrad stop (10 minutes). Alternatively, climb the Old Castle Stairs from Lesser Town for atmospheric approach.
8:30 AM – Purchase Circuit B Tickets
Buy Circuit B tickets at the information center (Second Courtyard) for €13. This includes:
– St. Vitus Cathedral
– Old Royal Palace
– St. George’s Basilica
– Golden Lane
Skip Circuit A (€18) unless specifically interested in St. Vitus Cathedral treasury and powder tower.
9:00 AM – St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral dominates the castle complex with soaring Gothic architecture. Construction began 1344 and wasn’t completed until 1929. Essential viewing points:
- Mucha’s Stained Glass Window: Art Nouveau master Alphonse Mucha designed the stunning north window depicting Slavic saints
- St. Wenceslas Chapel: Golden chapel honoring Bohemia’s patron saint
- Great South Tower: Climb 287 steps (€5 extra) for elevated Prague views
Allocate 60 minutes for cathedral exploration.
10:30 AM – Old Royal Palace
The Old Royal Palace showcases Bohemian kings’ residence from the 9th-16th centuries. The Vladislav Hall, with revolutionary rib vaulting spanning 13×62 meters, hosted coronation banquets and indoor jousting tournaments. Don’t miss the Riders’ Staircase, designed wide enough for mounted knights.
11:15 AM – Golden Lane
Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička), a picturesque street of tiny 16th-century houses built into castle walls, originally housed castle guards. House #22 was Franz Kafka’s writing studio (1916-1917). The colorful facades now contain shops and historical exhibitions.
Pro tip: Exit through the eastern gate toward Old Castle Stairs for spectacular city vistas and photo opportunities often missed by tour groups.
12:00 PM – Strahov Monastery
Walk 10 minutes west to Strahov Monastery (Strahovské nádvoří), home to one of Europe’s most beautiful libraries. The Theological Hall and Philosophical Hall feature baroque frescoes and 200,000+ historical volumes (€4 entry, photography prohibited).
Afternoon: New Town and Cultural Sites (1:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
1:00 PM – Lunch at Monastery Brewery
Dine at Klášterní pivovar Strahov (monastery grounds), where monks have brewed beer since 1142. Order St. Norbert amber lager and traditional bramborák (potato pancakes) or utopenec (pickled sausage). Outdoor terrace offers panoramic views. Budget: €15-20 per person.
2:30 PM – Tram to Wenceslas Square
Take tram 22 to Národní třída metro station (20 minutes), then walk to Wenceslas Square. This journey transitions from medieval Prague to its 19th-20th century expansion.
2:45 PM – Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
This 750-meter boulevard served as the focal point for major historical events, including the 1968 Prague Spring protests and the 1989 Velvet Revolution. Key sites:
- National Museum: Recently renovated neo-Renaissance building (€7, skip interior unless specifically interested in natural history)
- St. Wenceslas Statue: Memorial site where Jan Palach self-immolated in 1969 protesting Soviet occupation
- Lucerna Passage: Art Nouveau shopping arcade featuring David Černý’s satirical upside-down Wenceslas sculpture
3:30 PM – Dancing House
Walk along the Vltava (15 minutes) to the Dancing House (Tančící dům), nicknamed “Fred and Ginger.” This deconstructivist architecture by Frank Gehry (1996) contrasts dramatically with surrounding Art Nouveau buildings. The rooftop Gallery Restaurant (€10 entry) offers cocktails with castle views.
4:30 PM – National Theatre
Prague’s National Theatre (Národní divadlo), a neo-Renaissance masterpiece funded entirely by Czech public donations, symbolizes national identity. The exterior’s golden roof and elaborate sculptures make it Prague’s most photographed building after the castle.
Performance tip: Book tickets online (narodni-divadlo.cz) for opera or ballet (€20-60). Evening performances provide world-class culture at fraction of Western European prices.
Evening: Vyšehrad and Traditional Dinner (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
6:00 PM – Vyšehrad Fortress
Take metro Line C to Vyšehrad station (10 minutes from National Theatre area). This ancient fortress predates Prague Castle in legend and offers spectacular sunset views without castle-area crowds.
Vyšehrad highlights:
– St. Peter and Paul Basilica: Neo-Gothic church with Art Nouveau interior
– Vyšehrad Cemetery: Final resting place of Dvořák, Smetana, and Mucha
– Fortress Walls: Walk the ramparts for panoramic city and river views
– Viewing Points: Southwest corner provides Prague’s best sunset photography
Allocate 90 minutes. Entry to grounds is free; basilica €2.
7:30 PM – Dinner at U Kroka
Return to New Town for dinner at U Kroka (Vratislavova 12), a family-run restaurant serving exceptional Czech cuisine since 1887. Their vepřo-knedlo-zelo (pork-dumpling-cabbage), the Czech national dish, is Prague’s finest. Reserve ahead. Budget: €18-25 per person.
9:00 PM – Craft Beer Tasting
End your second day at Dva Kohouti (Two Roosters, Kozí 12), Prague’s premier craft beer bar. Sample rotating Czech microbrews while discussing your experiences with knowledgeable staff. Czech beer culture extends beyond Pilsner Urquell—explore IPAs, sours, and porters from innovative local breweries.
Day 3: Day Trip and Final Prague Experiences
Morning: Choose Your Adventure (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Your final day offers flexibility based on interests. Select one option:
Option A: Kutná Hora Day Trip (Recommended for History Enthusiasts)
8:00 AM departure from Prague’s main train station (Praha hlavní nádraží) to Kutná Hora (1 hour, €8 return). This UNESCO World Heritage town, once Bohemia’s second-richest city due to silver mines, offers extraordinary Gothic architecture.
Essential Kutná Hora sites:
Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church): This small chapel decorated with 40,000 human skeletons arranged in chandeliers, pyramids, and coat of arms remains one of Europe’s most unusual sites (€6, 30 minutes).
St. Barbara’s Cathedral: Gothic masterpiece rivaling St. Vitus Cathedral, with mining-themed frescoes and flying buttresses (€5, 45 minutes).
Italian Court: Former royal mint and palace where Prague’s silver groschen were struck (€5, 45 minutes).
Total time: 5-6 hours including travel. Return trains depart hourly. Pack lunch or eat at Dačický Restaurant (Rakova 8) for traditional Czech cuisine.
Option B: Karlštejn Castle (Best for Castle Enthusiasts)
9:00 AM departure from Praha hlavní nádraží to Karlštejn village (40 minutes, €4 return). This 14th-century Gothic castle, built by Charles IV to store crown jewels and holy relics, perches dramatically on a forested hill.
Castle tours:
– Route I (€13, 50 minutes): Imperial Palace, Knights Hall, Chapel
– Route II (€15, 100 minutes): Holy Rood Chapel with semi-precious stones (limited daily capacity, book online weeks ahead)
Village exploration: The picturesque Karlštejn village offers souvenir shops, restaurants, and scenic walks. Lunch at Restaurace Pod Dračí skálou (Pod Dračí skálou 97) with castle views.
Total time: 4-5 hours including travel and 1.5km uphill walk to castle.
Option C: Extended Prague Exploration (For Those Preferring to Stay Local)
Remain in Prague for deeper neighborhood exploration:
9:00 AM – Letná Park and Beer Garden
Take tram 1, 8, or 25 to Letenské náměstí. Walk through Letná Park to the Metronome, a giant functional metronome where Stalin’s statue once stood. The adjacent Letná Beer Garden (Letenské sady 341) offers morning coffee with unparalleled castle views across the Vltava.
10:30 AM – DOX Centre for Contemporary Art
Take tram 1, 12, or 25 to Ortenovo náměstí (15 minutes). DOX (Poupětova 1) showcases cutting-edge contemporary art in a renovated factory, including the striking airship-like “Gulliver” installation (€8, 2 hours).
12:30 PM – Lunch at Manifesto Market
Walk to Manifesto Market Florenc (Florenc bus station area), Prague’s premier food hall featuring rotating street food vendors, craft beer, and vibrant atmosphere. Sample Czech, Vietnamese, Korean, and international cuisines (€8-12).
Afternoon: Final Prague Highlights (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
2:00 PM – Kampa Island and Museum
Return to Lesser Town via metro to explore Kampa Island, a peaceful enclave between the Vltava’s main channel and Devil’s Stream (Čertovka). Key attractions:
Kampa Museum (U Sovových mlýnů 2): Central European modern art, featuring František Kupka’s abstract works (€7, 1.5 hours).
John Lennon Wall: Originally a simple memorial after Lennon’s 1980 death, this graffiti wall became a symbol of peaceful resistance during communism. Add your own message with provided markers.
Čertovka (Devil’s Stream): Called “Prague’s Venice,” this narrow canal features waterwheel and picturesque bridges.
3:30 PM – Petřín Gardens Alternative Route
If you skipped Petřín on Day 1, explore alternative attractions:
Štefánik Observatory (Petřínské sady 205): Central Europe’s oldest public observatory offers daytime solar viewing and planetarium shows (€3).
Mirror Maze (Petřínské sady 633): Victorian-era entertainment in a mini-castle, more charming than impressive (€3, 20 minutes).
4:30 PM – Final Shopping and Souvenirs
Return to Old Town for last-minute shopping. Avoid tourist-trap crystal shops near Astronomical Clock. Instead:
Authentic Czech souvenirs:
– Manufaktura (Melantrichova 17): Natural cosmetics, wooden toys, traditional crafts
– Botanicus (Týn 3): Organic herbs, soaps, and lavender products
– Artěl (Celetná 29): Contemporary Czech glass design, higher-end
– Havelská Market: Open-air market with produce, flowers, and crafts (mornings only)
Beer and spirits: Purchase Becherovka (herbal liqueur), Slivovice (plum brandy), or craft beers at Pivní Galerie (Týnská 21) for gifts.
Evening: Farewell Dinner and Reflection (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
6:30 PM – Farewell Dinner at Mlýnec
Reserve a window table at Mlýnec (Novotného lávka 9) for your final Prague dinner. This upscale-casual restaurant beside Charles Bridge serves modern Czech cuisine with Vltava and castle views. Their tasting menu (€45) showcases seasonal ingredients in creative preparations. Alternative: Field Restaurant (U Milosrdných 12) for Michelin-recognized fine dining (€60-80).
8:30 PM – Evening River Cruise (Optional)
If departure is next day, consider a Vltava evening cruise (€15-25, 1-2 hours). Multiple operators depart from Čech Bridge dock. The illuminated cityscape from water provides memorable final views, though crowds and tourist-focus may not appeal to all travelers.
9:30 PM – Final Castle Views
Walk to Mánesův Bridge (Most Mánesův) for final castle photography. The illumination creates romantic atmosphere, and this location offers unobstructed views without bridge crowds.
Prague Travel Plan: Essential Practical Information
Transportation Deep Dive
Metro system: Three lines (A-green, B-yellow, C-red) intersect at Museum station. Trains run 5:00 AM-midnight, every 2-10 minutes. Always stand right on escalators; Czechs walk left.
Tram network: 24-hour service on routes 51-59 (night trams). Tram 22 is the “tourist tram,” connecting all major sites. Validate tickets in yellow machines upon boarding.
Walking Prague: The compact center makes walking the primary transport method. Download Maps.me offline for navigation without data charges.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Accommodation: €150-450 (3 nights, €50-150/night depending on category)
Meals: €150-210 (€50-70 daily: breakfast €12-15, lunch €15-20, dinner €20-30, snacks €5)
Attractions: €80-100 (Castle Circuit B €13, Jewish Museum €16, tower entries €15, optional museums €20-30)
Transportation: €16 (72-hour pass) or €70 (Prague Card with attractions)
Total: €396-776 plus shopping and alcohol
Money-saving strategies:
– Eat lunch at traditional pubs (€10-15 vs. €20-30 dinner)
– Purchase attraction tickets online for occasional discounts
– Skip overpriced restaurants near Astronomical Clock
– Drink tap water (Prague’s is excellent) instead of bottled
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Currency exchange scams: Use ATMs instead of exchange booths advertising “0% commission” (they hide terrible rates). Withdraw from bank ATMs, not Euronet machines. Always decline dynamic currency conversion.
Restaurant tricks: Check bills carefully—some tourist-area restaurants add items you didn’t order. Bread placed on your table isn’t free (€1-2 per person). Request tap water (kohoutkovou vodu) instead of automatically charged bottled water.
Taxi scams: Use Bolt or Uber apps instead of street taxis. If taking a taxi, ensure the meter runs and displays per-kilometer rate (€1.00-1.50).
Pickpockets: Prague’s crowded tourist areas attract pickpockets. Secure valuables in front pockets or bags, especially on trams 22 and 23, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square.
“Free” tours: Tip-based walking tours aren’t truly free; guides expect €10-15 per person minimum. Decide if group tours match your travel style.
Dining Etiquette and Customs
Czech dining differs from Western European norms:
- Tipping: Round up or add 10% for good service. Hand cash directly to servers, stating total including tip
- Beer culture: Pilsner Urquell is standard; ordering “one beer” (jedno pivo) gets you 0.5L. Servers mark tally sheet (lísteček) at your table
- Bread charges: Unlike France or Italy, bread costs €1-2 per person
- Water: Request tap water to avoid €3-4 bottled water charges
- Reservations: Essential for dinner at quality restaurants, especially weekends
Language Basics
Most tourist-area staff speak English, but learning basic Czech phrases shows respect:
- Dobrý den (DOH-bree den) – Hello/Good day
- Děkuji (DYEH-koo-yee) – Thank you
- Prosím (PROH-seem) – Please/You’re welcome
- Na zdraví (nah ZDRAH-vee) – Cheers
- Účet, prosím (OO-chet PROH-seem) – Check, please
- Kolik to stojí? (KOH-lik toh STOH-yee) – How much does it cost?
Seasonal Considerations
Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms in Petřín gardens, Easter markets, perfect walking weather. Book accommodation 30+ days ahead.
Summer (June-August): Extended daylight (sunset 9:00 PM), outdoor concerts, but intense crowds and peak prices. Reserve restaurants and popular sites in advance.
Fall (September-October): Golden foliage, harvest festivals, ideal photography light. September still busy; October sees crowd decline.
Winter (November-March): Christmas markets (late November-early January), snow-dusted architecture, but short days (sunset 4:00 PM). Many outdoor attractions close; layer clothing for -5°C to 5°C temperatures.
Safety and Health
Prague ranks among Europe’s safest capitals. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Standard precautions suffice:
- Secure valuables in accommodations
- Stay aware in crowded tourist zones
- Use official taxis/ride-sharing
- Keep emergency numbers saved: 112 (EU emergency), 158 (police)
Healthcare: EU citizens should carry EHIC cards. Non-EU visitors need travel insurance. Canadian Medical Centre (Veleslavínská 1) and Unicare Medical Centre (Na Dlouhém lánu 11) offer English-speaking doctors.
Conclusion: Making Your Prague First Time Memorable
This comprehensive prague 3 day itinerary balances Prague’s essential historical sites with authentic cultural experiences and practical logistics. By following this structured plan, first-time visitors efficiently explore UNESCO World Heritage treasures, navigate public transportation confidently, and experience Czech cuisine and beer culture beyond tourist stereotypes.
Key takeaways for your Prague weekend trip:
- Timing matters: Arrive at major sites early (before 9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and capture better photographs
- Walk extensively: Prague’s compact center rewards pedestrians with architectural discoveries between planned destinations
- Embrace local dining: Traditional pubs and neighborhood restaurants offer superior value and authentic experiences compared to tourist-zone establishments
- Use public transport: The 72-hour pass provides unlimited access to Prague’s excellent tram and metro system
- Allow flexibility: This itinerary provides structure while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries and personal interests
Beyond three days: If your schedule allows extension, consider exploring Vyšehrad more thoroughly, visiting the National Gallery collections across multiple venues, taking a Vltava River day cruise to Mělník, or simply wandering residential neighborhoods like Vinohrady and Žižkov where Prague’s contemporary character emerges.
Prague rewards both structured planning and serendipitous wandering. While this guide ensures you experience essential attractions efficiently, some of your most memorable moments will come from unexpected encounters—a hidden courtyard, a neighborhood pub filled with locals, or simply watching sunset illuminate the castle from a quiet Vltava embankment.
Ready to book your Prague adventure? Start by securing accommodation in Prague 1 or 2, purchasing travel insurance, and downloading offline maps. The magic of Prague awaits, and with this comprehensive itinerary, you’re fully prepared to experience one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
Na shledanou (until we meet again) in Prague!
