Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and modern charm. Known for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, Prague offers an abundance of experiences for every type of traveler. This comprehensive itinerary is divided into eight sections, each focusing on a different aspect of what makes Prague a unique and exciting destination.
Landmarks
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is one of the largest ancient castles in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the Hradčany neighborhood, the castle complex includes palaces, churches, gardens, and museums. Highlights include St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the picturesque Golden Lane. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place hourly at the main entrance.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town. This historic bridge, adorned with 30 Baroque statues, offers stunning views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline. The bridge is especially enchanting at sunrise and sunset when it is less crowded. Street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
Old Town Square
The heart of Prague’s Old Town, Old Town Square, is a bustling hub of activity and history. The square is surrounded by stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. Key attractions include the Astronomical Clock, which puts on an hourly show, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the Old Town Hall Tower. The square often hosts festivals, markets, and events, adding to its vibrant charm.
Food and Cuisine
Breakfast at Café Savoy
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Savoy, a historic café known for its elegant setting and sumptuous menu. Try their signature Savoy Breakfast, which includes scrambled eggs, sausages, ham, cheese, and fresh bread. Don’t forget to sample their famous pastries and cakes, such as the classic Czech koláč or a decadent slice of Sachertorte.
Lunch at Lokál
For a taste of traditional Czech cuisine, head to Lokál, a popular chain of beer halls known for its authentic dishes and lively atmosphere. Start with a bowl of hearty goulash soup, followed by classic Czech dishes such as svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce) or vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut). Pair your meal with a pint of unpasteurized Pilsner Urquell for the full Czech experience.
Dinner at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise
For a more upscale dining experience, visit La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Czech cuisine. The tasting menu features seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, expertly paired with wines. Expect innovative creations such as smoked trout with dill and horseradish or venison with beetroot and juniper. The elegant setting and impeccable service make for a memorable dining experience.
Dessert at Café Louvre
Finish your culinary journey with a visit to Café Louvre, a historic café that has been a favorite haunt of intellectuals and artists since 1902. The café offers a wide range of desserts, including traditional Czech sweets such as apple strudel and honey cake. Enjoy your dessert with a cup of rich hot chocolate or a classic Viennese coffee in the café’s charming, Belle Époque-inspired setting.
Entertainment
National Theatre
The National Theatre is one of Prague’s most important cultural institutions, offering a diverse program of opera, ballet, and drama. The stunning Neo-Renaissance building, located on the banks of the Vltava River, is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of Czech national pride. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit and enjoy a night of world-class performances in a beautiful setting.
Municipal House
The Municipal House, located in the heart of Prague, is a magnificent example of Art Nouveau architecture. The building houses the Smetana Hall, one of the city’s premier concert venues, where you can enjoy performances by the Prague Symphony Orchestra and other renowned musicians. The Municipal House also features a café, restaurant, and exhibition spaces, making it a cultural hub worth exploring.
Jazz at AghaRTA Jazz Club
For a more intimate and relaxed evening, head to AghaRTA Jazz Club, one of Prague’s best jazz venues. Located in a cozy cellar in the Old Town, the club hosts nightly performances by top local and international jazz musicians. The club’s warm atmosphere, excellent acoustics, and extensive selection of cocktails and Czech beers make it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some live music.
Culture
The National Museum
The National Museum, located at the top of Wenceslas Square, is the largest museum in the Czech Republic. The museum’s extensive collections cover a wide range of topics, including natural history, archaeology, art, and music. Highlights include the grand Pantheon Hall, the impressive mineralogy collection, and the fascinating exhibits on Czech history. The museum’s beautiful Neo-Renaissance building is an attraction in itself, offering panoramic views of the city from its dome.
The Museum of Communism
The Museum of Communism offers a compelling look at life in Czechoslovakia during the communist era. The museum’s exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and multimedia displays that provide insight into the political, social, and cultural aspects of life under communist rule. The museum also features a recreated classroom, interrogation room, and a section on the Velvet Revolution, which led to the fall of communism in Czechoslovakia.
The Jewish Museum in Prague
The Jewish Museum in Prague is one of the oldest and most comprehensive Jewish museums in the world. The museum’s collection includes historical artifacts, religious objects, and artworks that document the history and culture of the Jewish community in Bohemia and Moravia. The museum is housed in several historic synagogues in the Jewish Quarter, including the Spanish Synagogue and the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe.
Outdoor Activities
Petřín Hill
Petřín Hill is one of Prague’s largest and most beautiful green spaces, offering stunning views of the city and plenty of outdoor activities. Take a leisurely walk through the rose gardens, visit the Petřín Lookout Tower (often called the “mini Eiffel Tower”) for panoramic views, and explore the Mirror Maze for some fun. The hill is also home to the Štefánik Observatory, where you can learn about astronomy and observe the night sky.
Vltava River Cruise
A cruise on the Vltava River is a relaxing and scenic way to see Prague from a different perspective. Various cruise options are available, from short sightseeing trips to dinner cruises with live music. Enjoy views of the city’s famous landmarks, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the National Theatre, as you glide along the river. Some cruises also offer guided commentary, providing interesting insights into Prague’s history and architecture.
Stromovka Park
Stromovka Park, located in the Holešovice district, is one of Prague’s largest and most popular parks. The park features expansive lawns, tranquil ponds, and wooded areas, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or bike ride. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and food markets. Nearby, the Výstaviště exhibition grounds offer additional attractions, such as the Sea World aquarium and the Lapidarium, a museum of stone sculptures.
Shopping
Pařížská Street
Pařížská Street, located in the heart of the Old Town, is Prague’s most luxurious shopping destination. This elegant avenue is lined with high-end boutiques and designer stores, including brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior. The street’s stunning Art Nouveau architecture and tree-lined sidewalks make it a pleasant place to window-shop and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Pařížská Street is also home to several upscale cafés and restaurants, perfect for a break between shopping sprees.
Palladium Shopping Mall
Palladium Shopping Mall, located in the city center, is one of Prague’s largest and most modern shopping centers. The mall features over 200 shops, including popular international brands such as H&M, Zara, and Marks & Spencer, as well as a variety of Czech retailers. Palladium also offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, and a large supermarket for all your grocery needs. The mall’s central location makes it a convenient stop during your sightseeing adventures.
Havelské Tržiště
Havelské Tržiště, or Havel’s Market, is one of Prague’s oldest and most famous markets. Located in the Old Town, this bustling market offers a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, flowers, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. The market is a great place to pick up unique gifts and local products, such as traditional Czech marionettes, crystal glassware, and wooden toys. The lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it a fun and memorable shopping experience.
History
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is a historic square in the heart of Prague, named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. The square has been the site of many significant events in Czech history, including the Velvet Revolution in 1989. Today, it is a bustling commercial and cultural center, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Key landmarks include the National Museum at the top of the square and the statue of Saint Wenceslas on horseback. The square often hosts events, concerts, and demonstrations, adding to its dynamic atmosphere.
Vyšehrad
Vyšehrad is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River. According to legend, Vyšehrad was the first seat of Czech princes. The site includes the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Vyšehrad Cemetery (the final resting place of many famous Czech figures), and the Rotunda of St. Martin, one of the oldest buildings in Prague. The fortress offers beautiful views of the city and is a great place for a peaceful walk or picnic. The surrounding park features statues, gardens, and remnants of the old fortifications.
The Lennon Wall
The Lennon Wall, located in the Lesser Town, is a colorful tribute to John Lennon and a symbol of peace and freedom. The wall became a canvas for anti-communist messages and expressions of hope during the 1980s. Today, it is covered in ever-changing graffiti, lyrics, and artworks inspired by John Lennon and The Beatles. The wall is a popular spot for photos and a reminder of Prague’s history of resistance and creativity. Visitors are welcome to add their own messages and artwork to the wall, contributing to its ongoing evolution.
Beaches and Parks
Letná Park
Letná Park, located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River, offers some of the best views of Prague’s cityscape. The park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering expansive lawns, tree-lined paths, and numerous statues and sculptures. The Letná Beer Garden is a favorite hangout, where you can enjoy a cold beer while taking in the stunning views. The park also features a large metronome sculpture, which replaced a former statue of Stalin, symbolizing the passage of time and Prague’s dynamic history.
Kampa Island
Kampa Island, located in the Vltava River, is a charming and tranquil oasis in the heart of Prague. The island is known for its beautiful park, scenic riverside paths, and the iconic John Lennon Wall. The Kampa Museum, housed in a former mill, features a collection of modern art, including works by Central European artists. The island’s picturesque setting and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a relaxing picnic. Be sure to explore the island’s quaint streets and charming cafes, which add to its unique charm.
Divoká Šárka
Divoká Šárka, located on the outskirts of Prague, is a stunning natural reserve that offers a taste of the Czech countryside within easy reach of the city. The park features rugged cliffs, dense forests, and tranquil meadows, making it a great destination for hiking, cycling, and bird-watching. The Šárka Valley is home to several natural swimming pools, where you can cool off on a hot summer day. The park also has a number of historical sites, including ancient Slavic fortifications and the Šárka Rock, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Festivals and Events
Prague Spring International Music Festival
The Prague Spring International Music Festival, held annually in May and June, is one of the city’s most prestigious cultural events. The festival features performances by world-renowned orchestras, soloists, and chamber ensembles, covering a wide range of classical music. Concerts are held in some of Prague’s most beautiful venues, including the Rudolfinum, the Municipal House, and the Estates Theatre. The festival’s opening concert traditionally includes a performance of Bedřich Smetana’s “Má vlast,” a cycle of symphonic poems celebrating Czech history and landscape.
Signal Festival
The Signal Festival, held in October, transforms Prague into a city-wide gallery of light and digital art. The festival features stunning light installations, video mapping, and interactive displays by both Czech and international artists. The artworks are installed in various locations around the city, including historic buildings, public spaces, and cultural institutions. The festival’s vibrant and innovative atmosphere attracts thousands of visitors, making it a highlight of Prague’s cultural calendar. Walking the illuminated streets and experiencing the mesmerizing installations is a truly unique and memorable experience.
Christmas Markets
Prague’s Christmas markets, held from late November to early January, are a magical experience that brings the city’s festive spirit to life. The main markets are located in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, but smaller markets can be found throughout the city. The markets offer a wide range of handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and traditional Czech foods, such as trdelník (a sweet pastry), mulled wine, and roasted sausages. The beautifully decorated stalls, twinkling lights, and festive music create a warm and joyful atmosphere, making it a perfect time to visit Prague.
Prague offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from its rich history and cultural attractions to its stunning natural beauty and vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re exploring landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying outdoor activities, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to this enchanting city.