3 Days in Prague: The Ultimate Prague Itinerary

Planning to spend three days in Prague? From crossing the Charles Bridge and wandering cobblestone lanes at sunrise, to climbing the Old Town Hall Tower, exploring Prague Castle, and hunting down the best bowl of goulash, your three days in Prague will be well-spent!

After many trips to this magical city, I've put together the ultimate 3-day Prague itinerary, just for you.

It includes the best things to do in Prague in three days – plus, the best restaurants in Prague, my favorite hotels, can’t-miss neighborhoods, and must-know travel tips. 

3-Day Prague Itinerary (Quick Guide)

Short on time? Here’s a quick summary of my 3-day Prague itinerary. It pairs perfectly with a day trip to Český Krumlov or my 3-day Budapest itinerary, by the way!

Day 1 in Prague

• Explore Old Town and the Charles Bridge at sunrise – magical and crowd-free!
• Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for postcard-perfect views
• Join this History & Legends of Old Town Tour or this Communism & Bunker Tour 
• Have an authentic Czech lunch at Lokál
• Wander the historic Jewish Quarter
• Go on this Prague Foodie Tour for dinner – my all-time favorite Prague activity!

Day 2 in Prague

• Discover charming Lesser Town (Malá Strana) on foot
• Climb the Old Town Bridge Tower for views over Charles Bridge and Prague Castle
• Go on this Prague Castle Tour (Interior & Exterior) or simply stroll the grounds
• Stop by the Baroque-style Vrtba Garden (closed in winter)
• Fine dine with an incredible view at Terasa U Zlaté Studně
• Watch the Royal Czech Orchestra at the Klementinum – a classic Prague experience!

Day 3 in Prague

• Grab specialty coffee in New Town
• See New Town’s Wenceslas Square and Art Nouveau façades
• Savor a hearty Czech lunch at Bredovský Dvůr
• Go on this afternoon Historic Pub Tour to learn about Czech beer culture – and drink plenty of it!

Where to Stay in Prague

Stay in Old Town (Staré Město), Prague’s historic heart, or across the Charles Bridge in quieter, charming Lesser Town (Malá Strana). I recommend staying at:

• Hotel Rott ($$, Old Town): The location is unbeatable
• Aria Hotel Prague ($$$, Lesser Town): My favorite hotel in the world!
• Golden Well Hotel ($$$, Lesser Town): Historic, elegant, intimate, unforgettable
• BoHo Prague Hotel ($$$$, Old Town): Stylish, modern, well-located

Have More Time in Prague?

• I recommend taking a day trip to a charming town like Český Krumlov or Kutná Hora, or experiencing Czechia’s underrated natural beauty in the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Parks.

Explore at Sunrise

Set your alarm early and head out around dawn – the most magical time to explore Prague. The empty cobblestone streets, glowing spires, and quiet rush of the Vltava make me feel like I’ve stepped back in time.

My favorite walking route? Starting in Malá Strana (usually from the Aria Hotel Prague), I cross the Charles Bridge while it’s totally empty, meander through Old Town’s quiet lanes, and end up at the Astronomical Clock. Then I sneak back to my hotel for breakfast, feeling like I’ve had Prague all to myself.

This stroll takes about an hour, but it’s the most peaceful way to start the day – and the best time to take photos!

MADDY’S TIPS: For one of the best sunrise views of Charles Bridge and Old Town, you can swing by Kampa Park on the Malá Strana side. If you want a longer walk (or an idea for tomorrow morning), climb up to the Prague Castle (the grounds open at 6:00 AM).

Walk Across Charles Bridge

Built in 1357 under King Charles IV, the Charles Bridge was Prague’s only river crossing for nearly 500 years.

At sunrise, when the 30 statues are silhouetted in the mist and the two sandstone towers glow pink, this Gothic bridge feels almost otherworldly. (Sounds cliché, I know. But you’ll see.)

Later in the day, it’ll be packed with more tourists, street musicians, painters, and souvenir vendors than you could've imagined. (See them in the photo above?) 

Grab Coffee in Old Town

After breakfast (ideally the Aria’s signature omelet with truffle oil and comté cheese…), it’s time for specialty coffee in Prague’s Old Town.

Coffee Room Celetná is my go-to café, tucked in a hidden arcade near Old Town Square. Another favorite is Onesip Coffee, a minimalist café in the Jewish Quarter, perfect for a quick espresso and pastry.

MADDY’S TIP: If your hotel doesn’t include breakfast, then Café Savoy (this classic coffee house opened in 1893!) or Bistro Monk are my top picks for breakfast and coffee.

Climb the Old Town Hall Tower

For the most iconic panoramic view in Prague, climb the 138 steps to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower (or take the elevator). From the top, you’ll look straight down into Old Town Square, with red rooftops, colorful façades, and Gothic spires stretching in every direction.

The tower opens at 9 AM (April-December) and at 10 AM (January-March) – ideal timing to beat the queues, snap your photos, and make it down for your morning walking tour.

MADDY’S TIP: Tickets are 50% off during the first hour after opening! Basic admission drops from 350 CZK to 175 CZK (about $9 USD). I’ve waltzed right in with no line at 9 AM. If you can’t make it in the AM, the view at sunset is worth paying full price for.

Take a Guided Tour of Old Town

Prague’s history runs deep – from medieval kings to the Nazi occupation to the Velvet Revolution. But if you explore Old Town without a guide, you’ll miss half the story.

These are my top three picks for historic walking tours in Prague. Each one covers the must-sees, including the Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, and Powder Tower. Choose your favorite!

• Private History & Legends Tour of Old Town (10:30 AM or 2 PM): For hidden details, Old Town history, Czech legends, and a more personalized pace, this private walking tour is my top pick.
• Communism and Bunker Walking Tour (11:00 AM): If 20th-century Cold War history is your thing, this fascinating tour dives into terror-filled, Communist-era Czechoslovakia and includes a visit to a real nuclear bunker. 
• Guided Walking Tour + Vltava River Cruise + Traditional Lunch (10:00 AM): Prefer an all-in-one option? This six-hour tour covers Old Town’s highlights, Prague Castle, a scenic river cruise, and includes a traditional Czech lunch.

Old Town Square

As the heart of Prague since the 12th century, all cobblestone paths eventually lead to Old Town Square. Lined with colorful Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings, this legendary square is equal parts history lesson and people-watching spot.

During your tour, you’ll see St. Nicholas Church, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the massive bronze Jan Hus Monument. 

MADDY’S TIPS: Wondering where I snapped the photo above? It’s the rooftop of the historic Hotel Rott (my favorite place to stay in Old Town). Visiting between late November and early January? Grab a steaming cup of mulled wine and browse Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market – one of the most magical markets in Europe!

Astronomical Clock

Installed in 1410, Prague’s marvelous Astronomical Clock is the third-oldest in the world – and the oldest still ticking. It tracks the moon’s phases and the sun’s course through the constellations. Pretty incredible for a medieval machine, right?

Every hour, huge crowds gather to watch the 12 Apostles parade past and hear the bells toll. Is it underwhelming? Yes. When it’s over, you’ll think, “Was that it?” But if you happen to be there, it’s worth watching once…

Powder Tower

One of Prague’s original city gates, the Gothic Powder Tower (A.K.A. Powder Gate) looks like it was pulled straight from a fairy tale. Once used to store gunpowder (hence the name), it now marks the start of the historic Royal Route that Czech kings followed for their coronations.

You can climb to the top for another bird’s-eye view, but I think the sight from the street is enough. It’s time for lunch!

Have Lunch at Lokál

When hunger strikes, head to Lokál Dlouhááá. This is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in Prague – I’ve been coming here for over 10 years and I never (ever) skip it.

It’s a lively Czech pub where beer flows straight from the tank (they even tally daily consumption by the liter on a giant screen) and the menu changes every day.

Expect hearty Czech classics done right – like goulash with pillowy potato dumplings, fried edam cheese with tartar sauce, roast beef with dumplings, marinated camembert, and crispy pork schnitzel.

MADDY’S TIP: Book ahead! It’s always busy here. Oh, and don’t skip the beer; ordering a half-liter is basically mandatory.

READ MORE: Wondering where to eat in Prague? Here’s my guide to the very best restaurants in Prague!

Explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Your 3-day Prague itinerary wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) on foot. 

Once the Jewish ghetto, this compact neighborhood holds centuries of rich, complex history and impressive architecture – from ornate synagogues to Art Nouveau mansions. 

If you want to go deeper, consider buying a Jewish Museum combo ticket. It costs 600 CZK (about $26 USD) and includes entry to the Old Jewish Cemetery, the Spanish Synagogue, and the Old-New Synagogue.

Go on a Prague Foodie Tour

Want to know my Golden Rule when I travel? Always book a food tour. It’s the fastest (and tastiest) way to understand a city. I’ve done a few food tours in Prague over the years, but this Prague Foodie Tour is the best!

After exploring the Jewish Quarter, join the Prague Foodie Tour (I recommend the 4 PM start time!). Led by a food-obsessed local guide, this four-hour tour doubles as dinner and a crash course in Czech cuisine.

Along the way, you’ll eat at authentic pubs and modern restaurants, sip Czech beer, Moravian wine, and Becherovka, and taste Czech history in every bite.

During my Prague Foodie Tour, I sampled Czech specialties such as:

• Czech sausages with spicy mustard
• Creamy Czech potato salad (I could eat this every day!)
• Prague ham with whipped horseradish
• Marinated Hermelín cheese with pickled onions and peppers (strangely amazing)
• Blackened peppers with creamy Gran Moravia cheese dip
• Groats-and-mushroom porridge (hearty and comforting!)
• Czech desserts like buchtičky se šodó and větrník
• … and many more!

By the end, I was happily stuffed and even more in love with Czech food and beer culture. I know you're going to love this experience too!

Click here to book your Prague Foodie Tour!

Day 2 in Prague: Malá Strana, Prague Castle, Concert at the Klementinum

Day 2 of your Prague itinerary is all about Malá Strana, my favorite part of the city. First, you’ll explore its romantic streets and quiet gardens, then you’ll tour the Prague Castle complex. In the evening, an unforgettable dinner overlooking the city and a Vivaldi concert at the Klementinum await.

Wander Malá Strana (Lesser Town)

Across the Vltava from Old Town, Malá Strana feels like a world apart. It’s quiet and more local, yet packed with history and some of Prague’s most beautiful architecture. 

Think Baroque churches, steep stairways with incredible views (don’t forget to turn around!), regal gardens, and colorful alleys dotted with antique shops. 

Malá Strana Walking Route

Starting at the Charles Bridge, here’s my favorite morning walking route through Lesser Town:

• Kampa Park: This riverside park boasts postcard views of the Charles Bridge and Old Town. It’s one of my favorite spots to pause, take photos, and watch the Vltava sparkle. There are usually swans gliding along the banks – only adding to Prague’s fairy-tale feeling.
• John Lennon Wall: During the Communist era – when free speech and Western influence were outlawed – young activists glorified John Lennon’s words of peace and freedom. When Lennon was murdered, they turned an ordinary wall into an ever-changing explosion of Beatles lyrics, murals, graffiti, and messages of peace. Snap a photo or just soak in the energy.

• Lesser Town Square & St. Nicholas Church: This square is the heart of the neighborhood, featuring pastel façades and the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas, with its soaring dome and interior of gilded altars and frescoes.
• Nerudova Street: This steep, historic street is lined with noble palaces and mansions. Look out for the coats-of-arms that mark each one – three violins, a golden chalice, a red lamb, and even a green lobster. It’s one of the most charming walks, giving way to some of Prague’s best panoramic views. 
• Petřín Hill & Lookout Tower: Petřín Hill is the city’s green escape – and it’s worth the climb! At the top, you’ll find the Petřín Lookout Tower (Prague’s mini Eiffel Tower) with fantastic views across the City of a Hundred Spires.

Have Lunch at U Tří Jelínků

After your climb up Petřín Hill, head back down to Nerudova Street for lunch at U Tří Jelínků. This cozy, wood-beamed tavern serves exactly what we want: more hearty, traditional Czech fare!

If I were you, I’d order the slow-roasted duck leg with red cabbage, cranberries, and Bohemian potato dumplings – it’s rich, flavor-packed, and my absolute favorite. The brewery beef goulash with Karlovy Vary dumplings is also a winner.

MADDY’S TIP: If you’re following my Prague itinerary to a T, plan to sit down here around 11 AM for an early lunch. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to summit the Old Town Bridge Tower and make it to your Prague Castle tour on schedule! 

Climb the Old Town Bridge Tower

Next up, cross the Charles Bridge and climb the 138 steps (no elevator) to the top of the Old Town Bridge Tower.

Built in the 14th century as part of Prague’s fortifications, it once served as the grand entrance to Old Town. From the top, you’ll catch stunning views of the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and all of Malá Strana.

This is a quick 30-minute stop – ideal, since your Prague Castle tour starts at the tower’s base afterward (at 1:15 PM).

Basic tickets cost 250 CZK (about $12 USD), with reduced prices for kids, seniors, and families.

Explore Prague Castle

Dating back to the 9th century, Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world! Next up on your 3-day Prague itinerary, this 2.5-hour guided Prague Castle Tour will lead you through the complex's dizzying maze of palaces, churches, courtyards, and gardens. It starts at 1:15 PM.

With a guide, you’ll step inside the Old Royal Palace and hear the stories behind St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, and the storybook cottages of Golden Lane.

Click here to book your Prague Castle and Castle District Walking Tour!

ALTERNATIVE PLAN: Not a “castle person”? I think the guided tour is worth it for first-timers, but you can skip it and wander the free castle grounds and gardens instead. The grounds open at 6 AM and close at 10 PM – and the views at sunrise and sunset are spectacular.

See St. Vitus Cathedral

Impossible to miss, the gorgeous Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral towers over Prague.

Many Czech kings and queens were crowned here, and it’s now the resting place of many royals, nobles, and patron saints. Inside, its sheer size, soaring stained glass windows (among the most impressive I’ve ever seen!), and dramatic vaults make it unforgettable. 

There’s no strict dress code, but I recommend wearing something modest out of respect.

Visit St. George's Basilica

Founded in 920, St. George’s Basilica is one of the best-preserved Romanesque churches in Bohemia. Its small size and stark design are a striking contrast to its dramatic neighbor, St. Vitus, but that’s what makes it worth stepping inside.

Stroll the Golden Lane

Once home to castle guards, goldsmiths, and – according to legend – the king’s alchemists, the narrow, cobblestone Golden Lane is as charming as they come. (It reminds me of these fairy tale towns in Germany.)

Today, its colorful 16th-century cottages hold little souvenir shops, tiny museums, and whimsical showrooms. My favorite is House No. 14, featuring an impressive collection of medieval armor. Don’t miss it!

Click here to book your Prague Castle and Castle District Walking Tour! Castle tickets are included. 

Relax at Vrtba Garden (April-October)

Visiting between April and October? After exploring Prague Castle, stroll back into Malá Strana and stop by Vrtba Garden. 

With its manicured hedges, sandstone sculptures, and sweeping views over Malá Strana, this terraced High Baroque-style garden is one of Prague’s best-kept secrets. 

Guests of the Aria Hotel Prague enjoy a private entrance; otherwise, tickets cost 150 CZK (about $7 USD).

fine-Dine at Terasa U Zlaté Studně

For a truly exquisite meal over unforgettable views, book a table at Terasa U Zlaté Studně. I’ve dined here a couple times over the years, and each meal has been as special as the last. 

Perched atop the Golden Well Hotel, the restaurant overlooks the entire city – Gothic spires, Baroque domes, and red rooftops fading into the horizon. 

Expect flawless seasonal European-style dishes, dramatic table-side flourishes, an impressive wine list, and impeccable service.

On my last visit, I had the roasted duck with figs, beetroot, currants, and hibiscus-thyme jus. Perfection.

MADDY’S TIP: Plan on an early dinner (around 5 PM) so you can linger over those golden hour views and still make an evening concert.

Evening Concert at St. Salvator Church

Ready for the grand finale of Day 2? Go see the Royal Czech Orchestra perform Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at St. Salvator Church, part of the historic Klementinum complex. It starts at 7:30 PM!

The candlelit Baroque setting and live strings make for an unforgettable experience.

Click here to book your concert at St. Salvator Church.

MADDY’S TIP: Nightcap after the show? I have a few favorite bars to share! First up, U Kunštátů, a great craft beer bar, just a 3-minute walk from the Klementinum. In the mood for a cocktail bar? The Banker's Bar (in the Jewish Quarter) is cozy and classy. And finally, if you prefer a wine bar, the Wine Office is just the place.

Day 3 in Prague: New Town, Local Eats, Historic Pub Tour

It’s time to dive into the city’s modern side – and its beer-loving soul! Start with a specialty coffee and a wander through New Town and historic Wenceslas Square – with the option to pop into the National Museum. Then, between hearty Czech meals, you’ll sip frothy Pilsners in old taverns on this fun Historic Pub Tour of Prague.

Get Coffee in New Town

Kick off Day 3 in Prague with a specialty coffee in New Town. My two favorite spots to caffeinate are Spell Coffee and EMA Espresso Bar.

Explore New Town

Ready to explore New Town? First, make your way up Wenceslas Square. The hub of New Town since the 14th century, it’s seen everything from coronations to revolutions. Today, it’s sprinkled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. (It’s also the center of Prague’s nightlife – think: loud, buzzy bars with neon lights – which I tend to stray far away from.)

If you’re up for a dose of Czech history and culture – or if it’s raining – the National Museum, housed in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building, is well worth a visit.

From there, you can meander down Národní and Vodičkova streets to admire striking Art Nouveau façades and get a feel for Prague’s more modern side.

Have Lunch in New Town

Ready for lunch in New Town? I love both of these places equally, so the choice is yours: 

• Bredovský Dvůr: As traditional as it gets, with a cozy, brick-lined interior, giant beer tanks, and warm hospitality. Their roasted pork knee with sour cabbage, horseradish, pickled peppers, and mustard is the stuff of Czech legends – and yes, I very happily finish the entire platter by myself!
• Café Imperial: Prague’s most famous coffee house (for 100+ years!) dazzles with Art Nouveau interiors, mosaic-tiled walls, and old-world charm. From salads and soups to roasted quail and veal schnitzel, the European and American classics here are ideal if you need a break from heavy Czech food.

Drink Czech Beer on a Historic Pub Tour

What would a 3-day Prague itinerary be without a little beer-drinking? At 2 PM, it’s time for one of the best things to do in Prague: this Small-Group Historic Pub Tour!

Over 3.5 hours, you’ll hop between four traditional pubs, sip Czech beers, and learn about Prague’s long love affair with brewing. Plus, you’ll play Czech trivia games that make the experience even more fun – and interesting!

During my Historic Pub Tour, we drank four types of beer: 

• Pilsner Urquell,
• Kozel Černý (dark),
• Kozel Lager,
• And a “black-and-white” Krušovice mix (dark and light beer layered together).

By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve truly tapped into Czech beer culture. And you’ll definitely have learned that a “proper pour” is 75% liquid, 25% foam – even if you don’t agree!

Click here to book your Historic Pub Tour of Prague (Small Group)!

MADDY’S TIP: At the final pub, you’ll have the option to grab dinner, or just stick to beer. If you’re after something more refined than pub fare, head to CODA or U Modré Kachničky (both just steps away) or take the tram to The Eatery in Prague 7.

Where to Stay in Prague

There are two ideal areas to stay during 3 days in Prague: Old Town (Staré Město) or Lesser Town (Malá Strana).

Old Town is absolutely magical. Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, bright-colored Renaissance-style façades, pubs galore, and terracotta rooftops make up the Old Town, and history literally oozes through every little crack in the old paint.

That said, it's the most crowded neighborhood and can be a little pricier during high season.

However, just across the Vltava River and the Charles Bridge, you'll find Prague's other historic quarter: Lesser Town. This is my favorite neighborhood to stay in!

This district is full of outstanding Baroque architecture, steep streets and stairways, quiet alleys, little shops, regal gardens, and the city's most luxurious hotels. Lesser Town also lies beneath Prague’s Castle District, making it the perfect base for exploring every inch of Prague.

Best Hotels in Prague

Here's my curated list of the best luxury and mid-range hotels in Prague!

Best Luxury Hotels in Prague

• Aria Hotel Prague (Lesser Town): This music-themed 5* hotel is my favorite hotel in the world. If you can, stay here. You’ll never forget it. 
• Golden Well Hotel (Lesser Town): Lavish, romantic, and tucked right under Prague Castle, staying at this historic hotel (which once belonged to Emperor Rudolf II) made me feel like a Czech princess!
• BoHo Prague Hotel (Old Town): The ultimate design-forward luxury hotel in the heart of Old Town.

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Prague

• Hotel Rott (Old Town): A charming, historic stay just steps from Old Town Square. I loved the rooftop views and the generous breakfast spread (sparkling wine included!).
• Hotel Pod Věží (Lesser Town): This welcoming four-star hotel is just steps from Charles Bridge – and one of the best-value stays in Prague.

Getting to Prague’s City Center

Prefer public transport? From Prague Airport, the quickest combo is Trolleybus 59 to Nádraží Veleslavín, then Metro Line A into town. You can hop off the metro at Malostranská for Malá Strana (where Aria Hotel Prague and Golden Well Hotel are located), Staroměstská for Old Town, or Můstek for New Town/Wenceslas Square. A 90-minute ticket costs 40 CZK (about $2 USD) and covers the whole journey. 

Prefer convenience? (Me too.) Uber and Bolt both operate at Prague Airport. You’ll pay about $30-45 for the 30- to 40-minute ride into Old Town, depending on traffic. 

Coming by train? Prague's main train station (Praha hlavní nádraží) sits by Wenceslas Square in New Town. From there, you can walk, hop on the metro, or grab an Uber/Bolt to get to your hotel.

3 Days in Prague: Travel FAQs