Visiting friends often ask me what to see in Prague in a couple of days, where to eat, where to get good beer, and where to go. I've lived here for six years, so I decided to put my recommendations together in one place. This isn't an attempt to list every attraction in the city, just my personal take on how to spend a few days here.
If you're only visiting for a weekend, start with the two-day itinerary below. After that, I've put together some extra recommendations: restaurants, cafés, bars, parks, and sights you can add to your trip depending on your interests.
Part 1: How to Spend Two Days in Prague
Day 1: Medieval Prague, the Castle, and Beer
On the first day, I'd focus on classic Prague: the historic centre, Charles Bridge, Malá Strana, and Prague Castle. It's a fairly packed day, so wear comfortable shoes and don't try to see absolutely everything.
1. Old Town Square and the surrounding area
Start at Old Town Square. See the Prague Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the historic buildings surrounding the square. Yes, it's full of tourists, but it's still one of those places you should see at least once.
Hidden just a short walk from the clock is Skautský institut (Scout Institute). It's a less obvious spot where you can grab a coffee or a beer and take a break from the tourist crowds. Locals hang out here too, including people on dates.
2. The Jewish Quarter, if you're interested in history
If you'd like to explore Prague's history a little further, take a detour through Josefov, the historic Jewish Quarter. You'll find the Old-New Synagogue and the Old Jewish Cemetery here.
It's an important part of the city's history that's easy to miss if you stick to Old Town Square and Charles Bridge. Keep in mind that visiting the historic sites may require separate tickets, and opening hours vary.
3. Charles Bridge
Next, head to Charles Bridge. Yes, it's almost always crowded, but the views of the Vltava River and the historic buildings are still worth it. If you have time on another day, try coming back early in the morning.
4. A beer at U Sedmi Švábů
If you're heading uphill from Charles Bridge towards Prague Castle, consider stopping at U Sedmi Švábů (The Seven Swabians).
Yes, there's a bit of a tourist markup, but it's a proper old-school tavern with a fireplace and the atmosphere of a medieval inn. It's especially cosy in winter, when you can warm up by the fire with a beer. Sometimes a place is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone, rather than the prices or the menu.
5. Malá Strana and St. Nicholas Church
On your way towards the Castle, stop by St. Nicholas Church in Malá Strana. It's one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Prague. The contrast with the Gothic buildings in the Old Town is particularly striking.
6. Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
The main highlight here is St. Vitus Cathedral, one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in the city. Take your time to admire the details and explore the Prague Castle complex.
If you want to visit the interiors and other parts of the complex, check ticket options and opening hours in advance.
7. Where to go after the Castle
Choose one of these options depending on how much energy you have left and what the weather is like.
- Petřín Hill and Strahov Monastery Brewery. Take a walk up the hill, enjoy the views, and stop for a beer at the brewery near Strahov Monastery. It's become quite touristy, but the beer is still tasty and interesting.
- Letná. If you'd rather relax and enjoy panoramic views of Prague, head to Letná Gardens. There's a beer garden here, and it's especially nice to walk around in the evening with views over the historic centre.
You don't have to rush through the entire route. It's better to see fewer places and actually enjoy them.
Day 2: Vyšehrad, the Riverside, and a Different Side of Prague
The second day is a little more relaxed. Instead of spending all your time in the historic centre again, I'd start with one of my favourite places in the city.
1. Vyšehrad
Take the metro to Vyšehrad station and explore the grounds of the historic fortress.
Things to see:
- The Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul.
- The old fortress walls and ramparts.
- The small Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin.
- The viewpoints overlooking the city and the Vltava River.
Vyšehrad is connected to the early history of the Czech lands and legends about the founding of the state. But even if history isn't really your thing, it's worth visiting for the walk and the views. It's one of my favourite places in Prague.
2. Head down to the river and walk along Náplavka
After exploring Vyšehrad, make your way down towards the Vltava and follow the riverside in the direction of the Dancing House. It's a pleasant way to see another side of the city without constantly visiting museums and monuments.
You can stop for a beer at Bike 7 along the way.
3. The Dancing House
The Dancing House is one of Prague's most recognisable examples of modern architecture. It looks very different from the historic buildings around it, and that's exactly what makes it interesting.
4. The National Theatre and ice cream
Continue towards the National Theatre. The building is beautiful in its own right, but it's also historically significant: it became one of the symbols of the Czech National Revival in the 19th century.
Nearby, on Národní třída, you'll find Crème de la Crème ice cream parlour. I've tried ice cream in different countries, and this place is still one of my favourites.
I especially recommend two flavours: salted peanut and sea buckthorn with rosemary. If you like unusual flavours, give them a try.
5. Choose how to spend the rest of the day
Depending on your mood, you could head to one of these places:
- Vítkov Hill — an enormous equestrian statue of Jan Žižka and a great view over Prague. I especially recommend coming around sunset.
- Vinohrady — a beautiful residential neighbourhood. You can start at Náměstí Míru, see the Church of St. Ludmila, and continue to Grébovka Park, which has its own vineyard.
- Stromovka — a large green park where you can escape the busy streets and relax.
- Žižkov Television Tower — unusual modern architecture, famous for the crawling baby sculptures by David Černý.
In the evening, pick one of the bars, cafés, or live music venues from the next section.
Part 2: Prague Recommendations for Every Occasion
Two days might not be enough, and everyone has different interests. Think of the following as a collection of extra recommendations you can mix and match to suit your trip.
Sights and Architecture
Clementinum
If you're interested in historic interiors, check out the Clementinum. It's famous for its Baroque Library and Astronomical Tower, which offers views over the city. Visits depend on guided tours and the current schedule, so check the details in advance.
Wallenstein Garden
Wallenstein Garden is a beautiful historic garden in Malá Strana. It's a great place to walk among Baroque architecture, greenery, and sculptures without going far from the centre. Check seasonal opening hours before visiting.
Žižkov Television Tower
If you're interested in modern architecture, take a look at the Žižkov Television Tower. It stands out from Prague's historic skyline and is known for the crawling baby sculptures by David Černý.
National Museum
The National Museum, located at the top of Wenceslas Square, is a good option if you want to spend some time in a museum, especially when the weather isn't great for walking around. There are several exhibitions, so check what's on before you go.
DOX Centre for Contemporary Art
DOX is a contemporary art centre. It's worth considering if you're more interested in modern culture, exhibitions, and unusual art projects than traditional historical displays.
Parks and Views
Letná Gardens
A great place for a walk and panoramic views of historic Prague. There's also a beer garden where you can relax after exploring the city.
Petřín Hill
A green hill with walking paths, an observation tower, and lovely views. You can combine it with a visit to Prague Castle and Strahov Monastery.
Stromovka
A large park where you can spend a few hours walking or having a picnic.
Divoká Šárka
If you want to get out into nature, head to Divoká Šárka. You'll find forests, rocky cliffs, hills, and walking trails. It's far removed from the classic tourist centre and gives you a chance to see Prague's more natural side.
Štvanice Island and Karlín
For a contrast with the historic centre, head towards Štvanice Island and the riverside spaces around it, such as Baden Baden Štvanice. The atmosphere is different here: the river, modern urban spaces, and bars.
Nearby, you'll find Karlín, a neighbourhood with modern architecture, cafés, restaurants, and glass-fronted buildings. It's a good choice if you want to see a more contemporary side of Prague.
Where to Eat 🍽️
Czech Food
If you want to try Czech cuisine, consider these places:
- Pilsnerka Národní
- Vinohradský Parlament
Pilsnerka Národní is a good option if you're looking for Czech food and beer in the city centre, although it's not necessarily the cheapest choice.
Some traditional dishes worth trying:
- Svíčková — beef served with a creamy vegetable sauce and Czech dumplings.
- Smažený sýr — fried cheese.
- Roast duck with cabbage and dumplings.
Vietnamese Food
Prague has plenty of Vietnamese restaurants, and they're a reliable option if you want a tasty meal without necessarily paying extra for a tourist-friendly location. I don't have one single favourite that I'd recommend to everyone, so I'd choose a place based on recent reviews and location.
Burgers
If you're in the mood for a burger, check out:
- Sad Man’s Tongue
- Dish
- Želva Burgers
Mexican Food and Ramen
For Mexican food, consider Las Adelitas.
For ramen, try Takumi Ramen.
Kebab
In my opinion, one of the best options in Prague is Gemüse Corner Kebab.
A Student Atmosphere: Klub AVU
If you're looking for a younger crowd, try Klub AVU. It can get pretty loud, but the atmosphere is lively and there are plenty of young people around. Beer with fries and chipotle mayo is a great deal for the money.
Coffee, Tea, and Ice Cream
Prague has plenty of good cafés. Here are some places I'd recommend checking out:
- EMA Espresso Bar — try the pumpkin spandauer with goat cheese if it's available.
- Format
- Café Hrnek
- Acid Coffee
- Moe
- Ticho před bouří
- Kafemat
- La Forme
- Vnitroblock — a spacious café and bar where it's also comfortable to sit and work.
- Osada
- Typika
- Version Coffee
I'd also recommend One Poem Tea Room. If you're into Chinese tea, it's a nice place to sit down and enjoy a proper cup.
Crème de la Crème
I've tried ice cream in different countries, and Crème de la Crème remains one of my favourite places.
They have a large location on Národní třída. My personal favourites are salted peanut and sea buckthorn with rosemary.
Where to Drink Beer and Spend an Evening
It's usually hard to go wrong with a standard draft beer in Czechia. The beer is good in many places, although the selection might be limited. Finding a place with the right atmosphere is another matter.
If you're looking for a relaxed place to have a beer or a glass of wine, consider:
- Campus Hybernská
- Čítárna Unijazz
- KOLEKTOR
- Station 6
- Klub AVU
If you're more interested in craft beer and a wider selection of brews, check out:
- Beer Geek
- Sibeeria Tap Room
- Automat Matuška
Bars and Live Music
If you want to see some live music, I'd recommend Café V lese. They host smaller European bands and artists, so check their official website for upcoming shows and tickets.
Jazz Republic is another option for jazz lovers in the city centre. Check the schedule and entry conditions before visiting, as these can change.
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That’s it for my little Prague guide! I hope you find something useful here and enjoy your time in the city.
And if you have a favourite spot in Prague that I haven’t mentioned, feel free to share it in the comments! I’d love to discover some new places myself.
Thanks for reading, and enjoy Prague! 🏰