Prague Travel Guide: Discover the Best Things to Do, Where to Stay, and Top Restaurants in the Golden City

Planning a trip to Prague? This comprehensive travel guide will help you navigate the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, offering recommendations on the best attractions, comfortable accommodations, and delicious dining experiences. For a custom Google map containing all of these recommended spots and more, click here.

Where to Stay
Things to Do
Where to Eat

Welcome back for the final installment of our recent European travel series! After sharing our adventures in the Budapest Travel Guide a few weeks ago, you might recall that my partner, Connor, and I embarked on an exciting journey through Budapest, Vienna, and Prague in early May.

This trip marked our first time visiting each of these magnificent Central European cities. While packing three distinct destinations into just seven days might sound like a whirlwind, we found our itinerary incredibly rewarding and highly recommend it. Each city offered a unique atmosphere and set of experiences, and the ease of travel between them by train made the back-to-back exploration truly enjoyable.

Given our brief 12-hour stopover in Vienna, we’re diving straight into the heart of the Czech Republic today. We hope this detailed Prague Travel Guide inspires your wanderlust and assists you in meticulously planning your next unforgettable adventure to this captivating city!

WHY PRAGUE SHOULD BE ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST

Like countless other travelers, Prague has occupied a prime spot on our travel bucket list for many years. Having had the privilege of exploring numerous regions across Europe, I can confidently state – and Connor wholeheartedly agrees – that Prague stands out as one of the most exquisitely beautiful and captivating cities we have ever visited. Its allure is simply undeniable.

The city exudes an almost unbelievable level of beauty and charm, making it feel like stepping into a fairytale. Beyond its picturesque appearance, Prague is remarkably welcoming and approachable, making it an easy destination for first-time visitors. The culinary scene is equally fantastic, offering a delightful array of traditional and modern dishes. We particularly loved how incredibly walkable the city is, allowing us to discover hidden gems and stunning architecture around every corner by foot.

Prague truly offers something for everyone: a rich tapestry of cultural attractions, world-class art, vibrant music, and an exceptional food scene. While tourism growth has led to some price increases in recent years, it remains significantly more affordable than many Western European capitals. If you’re traveling on a budget, Prague offers exceptional value, allowing your money to go much further than in other major European destinations.

That being said, it is important to acknowledge that Prague has become one of the more crowded European cities I’ve visited recently, especially when compared to the calmer atmospheres of Budapest and Vienna. While traveling during the off-season can help mitigate some of the crowds, a certain level of tourist activity is largely unavoidable. Embrace it as part of Prague’s vibrant energy!

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO PRAGUE: OUR ITINERARY

As previously mentioned in our Budapest Travel Guide, our recent European adventure encompassed three incredible cities: Budapest, Vienna, and Prague. This itinerary proved to be an excellent choice for those looking to experience multiple Central European capitals in one trip, as all these destinations are conveniently connected by efficient train services. We personally utilized the Austrian high-speed train, which offered a comfortable and scenic journey between cities.

We dedicated three nights, equating to nearly three full days, to exploring Prague. This duration allowed us to visit all the major attractions, wander through historic neighborhoods, and truly immerse ourselves in the city’s unique charm without feeling too rushed. We managed to explore a substantial portion of the city’s highlights, from the grandeur of the Old Town to the serene beauty of Lesser Town.

However, if your travel style leans towards a more leisurely pace, or if you intend to venture beyond the capital to explore other beautiful regions of the Czech Republic, we would highly recommend extending your stay to at least four to five nights. This extra time would allow for deeper exploration, day trips, and more relaxed moments to simply soak in the atmosphere of this magnificent city.

Access your FREE custom ‘Prague Travel Guide Google Map’ by clicking here. This invaluable resource includes all destinations and restaurants listed in this post, along with additional ideas gathered during our extensive research to help you plan your perfect trip.

ESSENTIAL PRAGUE TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SEAMLESS TRIP

• Optimal Travel Season: Prague is an incredibly popular tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year. To avoid the peak crowds and potentially secure better deals on accommodation, we strongly recommend planning your trip during the low-season (January-February) or the shoulder season (March – May; September – October). While the weather might be cooler, you’ll enjoy a more tranquil experience, and hotel and Airbnb rates are typically more affordable during these periods.
• Navigating the City: Prague is renowned for being an exceptionally walkable city, allowing you to discover most major attractions on foot. However, its public transportation system – including trams and the metro – is also incredibly efficient, inexpensive, and very safe. You can purchase short-term tickets (which offer unlimited transfers within a set time limit) or opt for convenient 24-hour or 72-hour passes. A practical tip: many older ticketing machines accept only Czech coins (koruna), so it’s wise to keep some on hand.
• Taxi Alternatives: Unlike Budapest, ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and widely used in Prague, often proving to be a more affordable and transparent option than local taxis. A typical Uber ride to or from Václav Havel Airport (PRG) to the city center should cost approximately 15-20 euros, depending on traffic.
• Footwear Matters: Comfort is key when it comes to footwear in Prague! The city’s charming streets are predominantly cobblestone or feature marble-inlay, which can be unforgiving on your feet after a day of exploration. Pack and wear comfortable, supportive shoes to ensure you can fully enjoy your walks without discomfort.
• Offline Map Access: To conserve your mobile data while navigating the city, a smart trick is to download Google Maps (including our custom Prague map) to your phone before you arrive. This allows for easy offline reference, ensuring you’re always on the right path without needing an internet connection.

WHERE TO STAY IN PRAGUE: BEST NEIGHBORHOODS

Prague offers an array of wonderful neighborhoods for visitors, each with its unique character. However, for first-time visitors and those looking for convenience, we highly recommend staying in the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) or the Old Town (Staré Město). These two historic areas are among the oldest and most central parts of the city.

While they can certainly be bustling, particularly if you choose accommodation very close to the vibrant Old Town Square, both the Jewish Quarter and Old Town provide unparalleled access to Prague’s major attractions. This central location makes them an ideal home base, as you can comfortably walk to most of the sights, saving time and money on transportation.

During our visit, we opted for an incredibly affordable Airbnb Plus apartment that boasted stunning views overlooking the Old Jewish Cemetery. This choice proved to be excellent: the location was superb, the apartment was flooded with natural light, offered extreme comfort, and was perfectly central without being affected by excessive street noise. We consistently prefer staying in Airbnbs over traditional hotels due to the extra space they provide, which helps us feel more at home, and their often significantly more affordable rates compared to most hotels.

Travel Note: It’s important to be aware that our particular Airbnb was a walk-up apartment on the 4th floor and did not have an elevator. If accessibility or managing luggage up stairs is a concern for you, definitely keep this in mind when booking your accommodation in historic buildings.

UNFORGETTABLE THINGS TO DO IN PRAGUE

WALK ACROSS THE CHARLES BRIDGE (KARLŮV MOST)

An absolute icon of Prague, the Charles Bridge is a historic pedestrian bridge that has spanned the Vltava River since the 14th century. Adorned with 30 Baroque statues of saints, it’s not just a crossing but an open-air gallery offering breathtaking views of Prague Castle on one side and the Old Town on the other. Beyond walking, you can also enjoy the beauty of the Vltava River from a different perspective on a river cruise, gliding beneath the majestic arches of the bridge.

Travel Tip: The Charles Bridge, much like Old Town Square, is one of Prague’s most popular tourist hotspots. If you wish to escape the thickest crowds, capture stunning photographs without throngs of people, or simply enjoy a more serene experience, we highly recommend waking up early and visiting these areas at dawn. Otherwise, prepare for a bustling atmosphere at almost any time of day.

TOUR THE JEWISH QUARTER (JOSEFOV) AND OLD JEWISH CEMETERY

One of the most profoundly moving and memorable experiences of our visit to Prague was taking a guided tour of the historic Jewish Quarter (Josefov). This tour included visits to the Spanish Synagogue, renowned for its breathtaking Moorish interior, the ancient Old New Synagogue, and the poignant Old Jewish Cemetery. The layered tombstones of the cemetery tell a powerful story of a community confined to a small area for centuries.

We enthusiastically recommend scheduling your visit to coincide with one of the daily guided tours. Our Czech tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing rich historical context and personal insights that truly elevated our experience. It was an extremely moving and educational tour, and we learned a tremendous amount about the history and resilience of Prague’s Jewish community.

Travel Tip: English-guided tours of the Jewish Quarter are typically available most days, with scheduled timings around 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Check local listings or tour operator websites for exact times and booking information.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF OLD TOWN SQUARE (STAROMĚSTSKÉ NÁMĚSTÍ)

While the entirety of Prague is undeniably picturesque, Old Town Square is arguably the most charming and vibrant area of the city – albeit usually very crowded. This historic square, dating back to the 12th century, is encircled by a kaleidoscope of pastel-colored buildings, each adorned with ornate architectural decorations. The stunning facades are a marvel to behold up close, reflecting centuries of history and artistic expression.

Main Attractions within or around Old Town Square:

Church of Our Lady Before Týn – This imposing Gothic church, with its striking dark spires that pierce the skyline, looks as though it has sprung directly from a fairytale. While its entrance can be a bit challenging to locate (tucked away between restaurants), it is indeed open to the public for visits. Make sure to experience its dramatic illuminated presence at night, which is truly captivating.

Astronomical Clock – A masterpiece of medieval engineering, this iconic clock draws crowds for its hourly “Walk of the Apostles” puppet show. Though the actual show might be brief and a tad underwhelming for some, the intricate details and historical significance of the clock itself make it an absolute must-see. The area around the clock tower becomes exceptionally packed just before the hour, so consider timing your visit between shows to avoid the densest crowds and appreciate its craftsmanship more serenely.

St. Nicholas Church (Old Town Square) – This beautiful Baroque-style church, distinct from the one in Lesser Town, graces Old Town Square with its elegant presence. Step inside to admire its beautiful interior, characterized by impressive frescoes and sculptures. The church also frequently hosts daily symphony concerts, typically at 5 pm and 9 pm, with tickets available for purchase on the day of the performance.

RELAX IN KAMPA ISLAND AND PIKNIK PARK

Escape the urban bustle at Kampa Island, an intimate and serene island oasis nestled within Prague’s charming Mala Strana (Lesser Town) neighborhood. This picturesque area offers a tranquil respite, where you can gaze out over Devil’s Stream – a beautiful canal that meanders beneath the Charles Bridge and through Kampa. Often referred to as “Prague’s Venice” due to its waterways and quaint bridges, Kampa is perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Kampa Island is home to Museum Kampa, a modern art museum featuring Central European art, and is dotted with delightful cafes where you can sit outdoors, enjoy a coffee, grab a light lunch, or indulge in a delicious snack while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

ESCAPE THE CROWDS AT VRTBA GARDEN (VRTBOVSKÁ ZAHRADA)

For truly breathtaking and exclusive views of Prague, we cannot recommend visiting Vrtba Garden enough. This stunning Baroque terraced garden is considered one of Prague’s hidden gems, offering an unparalleled panoramic perspective of the city, including Prague Castle and Lesser Town.

Since it requires a small entrance fee, many tourists are either unaware of its existence or choose to skip it, which works to your advantage! The result is a wonderfully quiet and uncrowded experience, allowing you to explore its meticulously maintained Baroque design in peace. You can ascend through multiple ornate deck levels, with each tier revealing increasingly spectacular city vistas. This is truly a photographer’s paradise, so be sure to bring your camera!

CLIMB THE OLD CASTLE STAIRS (STARÉ ZÁMECKÉ SCHODY)

Embark on a picturesque journey from Lesser Town up to the majestic Prague Castle Complex via the Old Castle Stairs. This historic pathway consists of 121 steps, each offering increasingly dramatic views of the city below. The ascent is not just a means to reach the castle but an experience in itself, providing countless photographic opportunities of the red rooftops, church spires, and the winding Vltava River. It is undoubtedly the most scenic and atmospheric way to approach the castle, and we highly recommend taking this route for a memorable start to your castle exploration.

VISIT ST. VITUS CATHEDRAL (KATEDRÁLA SVATÉHO VÍTA)

Dominating the skyline from within the Prague Castle complex, St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest and most significant church in Prague, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. While you can typically enter the very front section of the cathedral for free, allowing a glimpse of its immense scale and stained-glass artistry, there is an entrance fee to fully explore the interior, including the chapels, treasury, and the crypt. We chose to admire its grandeur from the outside on our trip, and its intricate facade and soaring spires are equally as stunning to behold up close. This is a must-see for any visitor to Prague.

Travel Tip: To minimize wait times and avoid the longest queues, particularly during peak tourist season, we recommend visiting St. Vitus Cathedral at a slightly off-hour, such as early morning or late afternoon.

WALK AROUND PRAGUE CASTLE AND GROUNDS (PRAŽSKÝ HRAD)

After appreciating the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral, we opted to explore the extensive grounds of Prague Castle. This sprawling complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is much more than just a castle; it’s a vast collection of palaces, churches, gardens, and defensive buildings. We found the various courtyards and surrounding gardens to be beautiful and, surprisingly, quite quiet in many areas. Wandering through the castle grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into Czech history and architecture, with charming nooks and breathtaking viewpoints around every corner.

POP INTO ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH (CHURCH OF ST. NICHOLAS, MALÁ STRANA)

Often considered the most famous Baroque church in Prague and one of the finest Baroque-style buildings in all of Europe, the Church of St. Nicholas in Malá Strana (Lesser Town) is an absolute spectacle. While a small entrance fee is required to enter, the interior of St. Nicholas is incredibly ornate, lavishly decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and a massive dome. It is an experience that is absolutely worth the visit and left a lasting impression on me as one of my favorite churches I’ve ever seen in person. Its grandeur and artistry are simply breathtaking.

VISIT THE NAPLAVKA FARMER’S MARKET

One of my absolute favorite activities when visiting a new country is immersing myself in a local farmer’s market! Since our trip to Prague coincided with a weekend, we made sure to visit the city’s largest and most vibrant market, the Naplavka Farmer’s Market. Conveniently situated along the picturesque Vltava River, this market is a feast for the senses.

You’ll find countless stands brimming with local seasonal produce, freshly caught fish, delectable baked goods, artisanal breads, and a variety of other culinary delights. The atmosphere is authentically local, lively, and incredibly inviting, making it a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the everyday culture of Prague.

Travel Tip: The Naplavka Farmer’s Market operates from 8 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays, running from February through December, making it a perfect weekend morning excursion.

WHERE TO EAT IN PRAGUE: A CULINARY JOURNEY

COFFEE SHOPS:

Pauseteria – A charming and trendy coffee shop conveniently located just around the corner from Old Town Square. Pauseteria offers an extensive selection of expertly crafted coffee drinks, alongside a tempting array of breakfast items and freshly baked pastries, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.

Kavárna Místo – Though we didn’t have the chance to visit ourselves, we heard wonderful things about this specialty espresso bar, known for its dedication to high-quality coffee and minimalist design. It’s often praised for its exceptional brews.

Ema Espresso Bar – Another highly-rated coffee shop situated just outside of Prague 1, Ema Espresso Bar is celebrated for its modern, industrial-chic interior and its focus on excellent espresso and filter coffee. It’s a favorite among locals and coffee connoisseurs.

Můj Šálek Kávy – A quaint and beloved coffee shop nestled in the vibrant Karlin neighborhood. Můj Šálek Kávy (meaning “My Cup of Coffee”) offers more than just exceptional coffee; they also serve delightful breakfast, lunch, and dinner options in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it a true neighborhood staple.

Travel Tip: To effortlessly locate all the restaurants and delightful spots listed in this guide, simply access our custom Prague Google map, ensuring you never miss a culinary highlight!

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH:

Eska (Bib Gourmand) – Our absolute favorite meal in Prague! Eska is an extraordinary cafe and bakery located in a beautifully converted fabric warehouse. Their innovative menu frequently incorporates house-fermented or marinated ingredients, showcasing a unique approach to modern Czech cuisine. While it is situated slightly on the outskirts of the city center in the Karlín district, it is unequivocally worth the journey. I still dream about my yogurt bowl, generously topped with stewed gooseberries, plums, and apricots – a testament to their fresh and flavorful offerings.

Home Kitchen – Conveniently located just a few blocks from our Airbnb, Home Kitchen proved to be an excellent choice for a hearty breakfast before our city explorations. With several locations throughout Prague, they offer a diverse menu of sweet and savory breakfast plates, complemented by their fantastic homemade bread. It’s a reliable spot for a delicious and satisfying start to your day.

Cafe Savoy – A historic and elegant institution, Cafe Savoy is a long-standing favorite among both locals and tourists in Prague. Famed for its classic European breakfast spreads and its stunning Art Nouveau interior, stepping inside feels like a journey back in time. The atmosphere is refined yet inviting. Tip: Due to its immense popularity, we strongly advise making reservations well in advance, or be prepared for a potentially significant wait, especially during peak hours.

Maitrea – Tucked away just steps from Old Town Square, Maitrea is an outstanding vegetarian restaurant. It came highly recommended to us by both our Airbnb host and Journy (affiliate link). We visited for lunch and shared their incredibly delicious Maitrea burger, a flavorful veggie patty complete with tempeh bacon, along with a refreshing grilled goat cheese salad and unsweetened mint lemonade. We wholeheartedly recommend Maitrea, particularly if you’re seeking a high-quality, inventive vegetarian meal in the heart of Prague.

Pizza Nuova – Renowned for its commitment to traditional Neapolitan pizzas, Pizza Nuova consistently receives rave reviews. While we didn’t have a chance to try it ourselves, we heard great things about this lively pizza spot, praised for its authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re craving genuine Italian pizza, this is a top contender.

RESTAURANTS AND BISTROS FOR DINNER:

Hergetova Cihelna – This is an exceptional spot to enjoy dinner, especially during the warmer months, as it offers unparalleled sunset views of the iconic Charles Bridge and the Vltava River. The food was consistently very good, offering a blend of modern Czech and international cuisine, but the ambiance and the breathtaking setting were truly unbeatable. It’s absolutely worth a visit for the view alone, providing a romantic and memorable dining experience.

U Modré Kachničky – A highly traditional and well-regarded restaurant specializing in authentic Czech cuisine, U Modré Kachničky (meaning “At the Blue Duckling”) offers a charming, old-world atmosphere. Connor thoroughly enjoyed one of their staple roasted duck entrees, a classic Czech dish, while I savored a very well-prepared veal roast accompanied by a rich morel gravy. Considering the value, with entrees roughly in the $20-$25 range, we felt this spot offered excellent quality for its price, making traditional Czech flavors accessible and enjoyable.

Bellevue Restaurant – For those seeking an upscale dining experience with magnificent views, Bellevue Restaurant is an excellent choice. While we found the service slightly rushed during our visit, perhaps due to its popularity, we nonetheless enjoyed a very good meal here on our last night in Prague. The refined menu, elegant setting, and panoramic vistas of the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle make it ideal for a special occasion.

Kampa Park – My parents visited this fine-dining restaurant during their trip to Prague several years ago and highly recommended it to us. Situated right next to the Charles Bridge on Kampa Island, Kampa Park offers similarly beautiful views of the city and the river. It’s known for its gourmet cuisine and sophisticated atmosphere, making it another fantastic option for a memorable meal with a view.

Field Restaurant (1 Michelin Star) – If you’re looking to indulge in a truly exceptional culinary experience in Prague, Field Restaurant stands as one of the most highly regarded in the city, boasting a prestigious Michelin Star. While we didn’t have the opportunity to visit on our trip, our extensive research revealed glowing reviews praising its modern Czech cuisine and innovative approach. Given its popularity and acclaim, making a reservation well in advance is essential.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comment section below, and I’ll be happy to answer them, sharing more insights from our unforgettable Prague adventure!

For a comprehensive custom Google map (containing all of the places listed above, and many more hidden gems!), click here to unlock your ultimate Prague itinerary.