Prague
Apr 2026
GothicBeerUNESCOAffordable

Czech Republic

Prague

The complete 2026 travel guide

1,000 years of Gothic + Baroque + Art Nouveau spires packed into a compact UNESCO city — and world-class Pilsner at CZK 60 a half-liter.

Plan your Prague tripSee the 7-day itinerary

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13 top sights7-day itineraryBudget in CZK18 questions answered
DXR · CC BY-SA 4.0

The short answer

Is Prague worth visiting?

Yes — worth it for Gothic, Beer, UNESCO. Plan 3–4 days, ideally in May–Jun · Sep–Oct. 1,000 years of Gothic + Baroque + Art Nouveau spires packed into a compact UNESCO city — and world-class Pilsner at CZK 60 a half-liter.

Go if you want

  • UNESCO-listed historic center, almost completely preserved Gothic + Baroque
  • World's #1 beer-consuming nation (140 L per person per year); world-class Pilsner for CZK 60 per half-liter
  • Schengen 90-day visa-free entry for 60+ nationalities; ETIAS (€7) required from 2025
  • Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world (70,000 m²)
  • Compact: you can walk Old Town → Castle → Old Town in 2-3 hours

Think twice if

  • You can only travel in Jul–Aug and hate crowds — that is peak season.
  • Pickpocket hotspots: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, trams to Castle, Wenceslas Square metro.

Prague in brief

Prague escaped WWII bombing almost entirely intact — the result is one of Europe's most complete Gothic + Baroque + Art Nouveau cities, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. 1.3 million people live across a compact bend of the Vltava River, with the medieval Old Town (Staré Město) + the Castle District (Hradčany) across the Charles Bridge + 9 centuries of layered architecture in between. First-time visitors do 3-4 days; 5-7 days unlocks day trips to Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora bone church, or Karlovy Vary spa town.

Tourism clusters into 4 districts. Staré Město (Old Town) holds the Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, Týn Church — Prague's postcard core. Josefov (Jewish Quarter) sits inside Staré Město — 6 interconnected synagogues + historic cemetery. Malá Strana (Lesser Town) is the baroque quarter below Prague Castle. Hradčany + Prague Castle crown the hilltop across the river. Nové Město (New Town) stretches south to Wenceslas Square + the famous Dancing House.

Prague is famously affordable — mid-range daily CZK 3,000-4,500 (~USD 130-195) including a 3-star hotel, three meals (Czech pub dinner CZK 300-500), metro + tram + beers (CZK 60-80 per half-liter at a pivnice). Budget travelers hit CZK 1,500-2,000/day easily. Luxury hotel + fine dining still comes in 30-40% below Vienna/Paris. The Czech Republic has its own currency (CZK) despite being in the EU/Schengen — some restaurants quote in EUR, but always pay in CZK for the best rate.

  • Beer consumption#1 world per capita
  • Peak summer25°C
  • CurrencyCZK
  • LanguagesCzech · English (tourist areas) · German (older generations)
  • TimezoneEurope/Prague
  • RegionCentral Bohemia, Czech Republic

Before you go

7 things locals want you to know

The details that change a trip — read these before you book.

  1. 01

    Never exchange currency on the street or at offices "with no commission" near Old Town Square. Use ATMs at Komerční banka, Česká spořitelna, Raiffeisen (bank-branded only). 1 EUR = 24-25 CZK at ATMs vs 15-18 CZK at tourist exchanges.

  2. 02

    Charles Bridge at sunrise (05:30-07:30) is 95% empty + golden — come back in crowded daytime to see how lucky you got.

  3. 03

    Classical concerts nightly at St. Nicholas Church, Municipal House, Rudolfinum — 400-900 CZK for 60-90 min of Dvořák/Mozart/Smetana in gorgeous baroque settings.

  4. 04

    U Zlatého tygra pub has 100-year-old regular patrons + Václav Havel brought Bill Clinton + Madeleine Albright there in 1994. Just walk in.

  5. 05

    Trdelník is NOT traditional Czech — it's a Hungarian-origin tourist invention. Try koláče (round Czech pastries) or medovník (honey cake) for actual local dessert.

  6. 06

    Pilsner Urquell fresh-tanked (not bottled) is extraordinary — Lokál chain pubs are the gold standard. Half-liter 60-80 CZK.

  7. 07

    Day trip to Český Krumlov (UNESCO village) is absolutely worth 2h 30m bus each way — 350 CZK round-trip + 300 CZK sights = full magical day.

When to go

When is the best time to visit Prague?

May-June and September-October — mild (15-22°C), sunny, fewer crowds than peak July-August. November-March is cold (-2 to 5°C) but magical with snow + Christmas markets.

Your year at a glanceBright bands = best months
JFMAMJJASOND

Spring

Apr – May

Blooming, mild 10-18°C, Easter markets

Average low–high: 6–15°CMonthly rainfall: 55 mmCrowds: High (Easter + May 1)

Peak summer

Jun – Aug

Warm 20-25°C, long days (sunset 21:30 Jun)

Average low–high: 14–24°CMonthly rainfall: 75 mmCrowds: Very high

Autumn

Best
Sep – Oct

Crisp, fall colors, ideal temps 12-20°C

Average low–high: 8–18°CMonthly rainfall: 50 mmCrowds: High

Winter

Nov – Mar

Cold (-2 to 5°C), snow, Christmas markets Dec 1-Jan 6

Average low–high: −2 to 4°CMonthly rainfall: 35 mmCrowds: Low (except Christmas peak)

Month by month

Bar color follows the average high (cool blue → hot coral); faded bars fall outside the best months. The shaded base is the average low.

Avg highBestbest monthsPeakpeak crowdsOffoff-seasonRain (mm)

Swipe for Jul–Dec →

Warmest Jul · 25°CColdest Jan · −4°CWettest Jul · 85 mmDriest Jan · 25 mm
Month-by-month notes
  • Jan 2/−4° · 25 mmOff — Coldest + snowy. Cheapest hotels.
  • Feb 4/−3° · 25 mmOff — Still cold. Still quiet.
  • Mar 9/0° · 30 mmOff — Warming.
  • Apr 15/4° · 40 mm — Spring. Easter crowds.
  • May 20/9° · 65 mmBest — Ideal.
  • Jun 23/12° · 75 mmBest — Warm + long days.
  • Jul 25/14° · 85 mmPeak — Hottest + peak.
  • Aug 24/14° · 80 mmPeak — Still peak; warm rain storms.
  • Sep 20/10° · 50 mmBest — Ideal.
  • Oct 14/5° · 35 mmBest — Fall colors + crisp.
  • Nov 7/1° · 30 mmOff — Cool + often cloudy.
  • Dec 3/−2° · 30 mmOff — Christmas markets, snow possible, magical.

How long

How many days do you need in Prague?

3–4 days is the sweet spot. Three days covers the essentials: Old Town Square + Charles Bridge + Prague Castle + Jewish Quarter. Four-five days adds Mucha Museum, Petřín, Vyšehrad, classical concert, and breathing room. Six-seven days unlocks day trips: Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora (Bone Church), Karlovy Vary spa town.

  1. Day 1

    Arrive, Old Town Square + Charles Bridge sunset

    From the week plan

    Essential
  2. Day 2

    Prague Castle + St. Vitus + Malá Strana

    From the week plan

    Essential
  3. Day 3

    Jewish Quarter + Mucha Museum + Municipal House

    From the week plan

    Essential
  4. Day 4

    Day trip — Český Krumlov UNESCO town

    From the week plan

    Worth it
  5. Day 5

    Day trip — Kutná Hora Bone Church + Karlovy Vary

    From the week plan

    If you have time
  6. Day 6

    Petřín + Vyšehrad + Dancing House walk

    From the week plan

    If you have time
  7. Day 7

    Classical concert + Pilsner brewery tour + departure

    From the week plan

    If you have time
See the full day-by-day plans

Budget

Is Prague expensive?

Moderately — Prague sits mid-table among the cities we cover. Mid-range travelers spend about CZK 3,800/day per person — pricier than 8 of the other 21 cities we cover. That's roughly CZK 11,400–CZK 15,200 for 3–4 days. Backpackers get by on CZK 1,500/day; luxury starts around CZK 15,000/day.

  • Backpacker

    CZK 1,500

    per person · per day

    Hostel + bakery breakfast + pub lunch + takeaway dinner + metro + 1 free attraction.

    Stay
    CZK 700
    Food
    CZK 400
    Transport
    CZK 100
    Activities
    CZK 300

  • Mid-range

    Most common

    CZK 3,800

    per person · per day

    3-star hotel in Old Town + pub + Czech dinner + metro + 1-2 paid attractions.

    Stay
    CZK 2,200
    Food
    CZK 900
    Transport
    CZK 200
    Activities
    CZK 500

  • Luxury

    CZK 15,000

    per person · per day

    Four Seasons / Augustine / Mandarin Oriental + Field tasting + private guide + castle tour.

    Stay
    CZK 10,000
    Food
    CZK 3,000
    Transport
    CZK 800
    Activities
    CZK 1,200

Your trip, roughly

≈ CZK 11,400–CZK 15,200 for 3–4 days

mid-range · per person · before flights

Backpacker total
CZK 6,000for 4 days
Mid-range total
CZK 15,200for 4 days
Luxury total
CZK 60,000for 4 days

What things should cost7

Biggest markups first — what locals pay vs. the first price tourists get quoted.

  • Prague Castle ticket

    2.4× markup

    Circuit B direct. · Tourist price: "Skip-the-line" tour.

    Fair CZK 250Tourist CZK 600

  • Taxi airport to center

    2.3× markup

    Metered or Uber. · Tourist price: Unlicensed airport taxi.

    Fair CZK 650Tourist CZK 1,500

  • Svíčková + dumplings

    2.2× markup

    Tourist price: Tourist-menu restaurant.

    Fair CZK 250Tourist CZK 550

  • Half-liter of Pilsner Urquell

    2.1× markup

    Tourist price: Old Town Square restaurant.

    Fair CZK 70Tourist CZK 150

  • Trdelník

    2× markup
    Fair CZK 90Tourist CZK 180

  • Metro 90-min ticket

    Fair CZK 40Fixed price

  • Currency exchange (EUR to CZK)

    Use ATM; 1 EUR ≈ 24-25 CZK. · Near Astronomical Clock offer 1 EUR = 15 CZK. ROBBERY.

    See note

Book first

Book these before you fly

1 thing in Prague sells out or needs a timed slot. Work backwards from your dates: Hotels first (3–4 weeks out). Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Christmas markets (Dec 1-Jan 6).

  1. 3–4 weeks outStart here

Tripdox puts these on your itinerary with the booking window as a reminder. Plan this trip

Neighborhoods

Where to stay in Prague

Staré Město (Old Town) for a first visit — medieval center, Charles Bridge, tourist heart. 6 areas compared below, from CZK 1,400 to CZK 3,500 a night. Žižkov is the best value at about CZK 1,400 a night. Book hotels 3–4 weeks out for the busiest dates.

Booking tips
  • Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Christmas markets (Dec 1-Jan 6)
  • Summer (Jun-Aug) sees hotel prices 30-40% higher
  • Winter (Jan-Mar) is cheapest — hotels 40-50% below summer
  • Czech + Slovak bank holidays (May 1, May 8, Jul 5-6) spike local tourism
  • Never book "accommodation sold via street touts" at train stations — scams common

Things to do

What to see in Prague — and what to skip

4 must-sees, 9 more if you have time, and 7 things to skip. Start with Charles Bridge (Karlův most) and Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock. Most must-sees sit within a 15-minute walk of another stop — the 3 walkable groups below pair them into half-days. First thing to skip: Jul–Aug if you dislike crowds.

Where everything is

Relative positions, not to scale. Numbered points are the must-sees.

St. Vitus CathedralSt. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana)Petřín Hill + TowerVyšehrad FortressDancing House (Tančící dům)Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)Franz Kafka MuseumMucha MuseumMunicipal House (Obecní dům)Charles Bridge (Karlův most)1Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock2Prague Castle3Josefov (Jewish Quarter)4Charles BridgeOld Town Square +…Prague CastleJosefov
Must-seeWorth it if you have timeWalkable together
  1. 01Charles Bridge (Karlův most) · Connects Old Town + Malá Strana
  2. 02Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock · Staré Město
  3. 03Prague Castle · Hradčany hill
  4. 04Josefov (Jewish Quarter) · Staré Město

Also on the map: St. Vitus Cathedral, St. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana), Petřín Hill + Tower, Vyšehrad Fortress, Dancing House (Tančící dům), Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí), Franz Kafka Museum, Mucha Museum, Municipal House (Obecní dům)

Do these together

Places within a 15-minute walk of each other, grouped into half-days.

Do4

The must-sees.

Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
Dennis G. Jarvis · CC BY-SA 2.0
Must see

Charles Bridge (Karlův most)

516 m Gothic stone bridge (1357-1402) with 30 Baroque statues lining the walkway. Connects Old Town to Malá Strana across the Vltava. FREE + walkable 24/7. Street musicians, artists, jewelry vendors.

Entry: FreeTime needed: 1 hOpening hours: Always open.Location: Connects Old Town + Malá Strana
Best: Sunrise (05:00-07:00) or late night (after 23:00) for empty-bridge photos.
Tips (3)
  • The St. John of Nepomuk statue (8th on the bridge from Old Town side) is the most touched — rub the bronze plate for good luck.
  • Charles Bridge Tower East (Old Town side, 190 CZK) has the best view of Castle + Old Town roofs.
  • Pickpocketing active during crowds 10:00-20:00 — zipped pockets.
Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock
Robert Young · CC BY 2.0
Must see

Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock

Medieval square (Staroměstské náměstí) anchored by 1338 Old Town Hall + 1410 Astronomical Clock + Gothic Týn Church. Hourly "Walk of the Apostles" show at the Clock (09:00-23:00).

Entry: FreeTime needed: 2 hOpening hours: Square + Clock always accessible; Tower Apr-Dec 09:00-20:00, Jan-Mar 10:00-19:00.Location: Staré Město

Square + Apostles show free. Old Town Hall Tower + Clock interior 250 CZK.

Best: Climb the Tower at sunset for panoramic views + to see the Clock mechanism from the inside at top of hour.
Tips (2)
  • Apostles show (hourly on the hour, 09:00-23:00) lasts 30 seconds — don't wait long for it.
  • Avoid restaurants AT the square — tourist traps charging 3-4x.
Prague Castle
Tilman2007 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Must see

Prague Castle

World's largest ancient castle complex (70,000 m²) — 9th-century origin, still the Czech president's residence. St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, St. George's Basilica, Royal Gardens. Free to walk grounds; buildings require ticket.

Entry: CZK 250Time needed: 4 hOpening hours: Grounds 06:00 – 22:00 summer; 06:00 – 18:00 winter. Buildings 09:00 – 17:00 (summer); 09:00 – 16:00 (winter).Location: Hradčany hill

Basic Circuit B (St. Vitus Cathedral + Old Royal Palace + Golden Lane + St. George's) adult; full B + C circuit 450 CZK.

Best: Opening 09:00 weekday. Changing of the Guard ceremony at main gate at 12:00 daily.
Tips (3)
  • Use Malostranská metro (A) + 22 tram up to Pražský hrad station instead of climbing Nerudova stairs.
  • St. Vitus Cathedral access FREE in the nave (through Chapel of Wenceslas); tickets needed for Vitus full circuit.
  • Golden Lane tiny houses at #22 = Kafka's sister's home where he lived + wrote.

Josefov (Jewish Quarter)

Must see

6 synagogues + Old Jewish Cemetery (12,000 gravestones dating to 1439) inside the Old Town. UNESCO WWII Terezín-associated sites. Combined Jewish Museum ticket.

Entry: CZK 550Time needed: 3 hOpening hours: Sun-Fri 09:00-16:30 (winter) / 18:00 (summer); closed Saturdays + Jewish holidays.Location: Staré Město

Combined ticket: 6 synagogues + Old Cemetery + ceremonial hall. Kashrut (kosher) status respected.

Tips (2)
  • Old Jewish Cemetery (1439-1787) has Rabbi Loew's tomb (of Prague Golem legend).
  • Pinkas Synagogue lists 77,297 names of Czech Holocaust victims on its walls.

If you have time9

Worth it once the must-sees are done. Tap a row for the detail.

  • St. Vitus Cathedral

    St. Vitus Cathedral

    Churches + synagogues
    Entry: CZK 250Time needed: 1.5 hLocation: Prague Castle
    More

    Gothic masterpiece begun 1344 — completed 1929. Stained glass by Alphonse Mucha, tomb of Wenceslas, Czech crown jewels (rarely shown). Free access to nave; ticket for towers + chapel.

    Opening hours: Mon-Sat 09:00-17:00 (summer); 09:00-16:00 (winter). Sun 12:00-17:00.

    Included with Prague Castle Circuit B.

  • St. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana)

    St. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana)

    Churches + synagogues
    Entry: CZK 120Time needed: 45 minLocation: Malostranské náměstí
    More

    Baroque masterpiece (1755) — fresco-covered dome, pink-and-gold interior, rich acoustics. Classical concerts most evenings 18:00.

    Opening hours: Daily 09:00 – 17:00.

    Adult; concerts 350-600 CZK.

  • Petřín Hill + Tower

    Viewpoints + modern
    Entry: CZK 210Time needed: 3 hLocation: Malá Strana west
    More

    318 m hill west of Old Town — funicular up (70 CZK round-trip), 64 m observation tower (Petřínská rozhledna, 1891, 299 steps) modeled on Eiffel Tower. Mirror maze + Strahov Monastery adjacent.

    Opening hours: Tower 10:00-20:00 summer; 10:00-18:00 winter.

    Tower adult; funicular 70 CZK; mirror maze 120 CZK.

    Best: Sunset for panoramic Old Town + Castle views.
  • Vyšehrad Fortress

    Vyšehrad Fortress

    Viewpoints + modern
    Entry: FreeTime needed: 3 hLocation: South of centre
    More

    11th-century fortified hilltop south of city — Gothic Basilica of St. Peter + Paul (blue-and-gold Art Nouveau mosaic), Slavín cemetery (Dvořák, Smetana, Čapek tombs), panoramic views. FREE.

    Opening hours: Grounds always open; buildings 09:30-17:00.
    Best: Sunset or weekend morning.
    • Reach via Metro C Vyšehrad station + 10-min walk.
  • Dancing House (Tančící dům)

    Dancing House (Tančící dům)

    Viewpoints + modern
    Entry: FreeTime needed: 1 hLocation: Rašínovo nábřeží 80
    More

    Frank Gehry deconstructivist building (1996) looking like a couple dancing — "Fred + Ginger". Top floor has a café + observation terrace (free).

    Opening hours: Café 11:00-22:00.

    Café on top floor free.

  • Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)

    Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)

    Viewpoints + modern
    Entry: FreeTime needed: 1 hLocation: Nové Město
    More

    750 m long urban square in Nové Město — shopping + nightlife spine, site of 1989 Velvet Revolution protests. Czech National Museum at the top. Statue of Saint Wenceslas on horseback.

    Opening hours: Always open.
  • Franz Kafka Museum

    Franz Kafka Museum

    Museums + Kafka
    Entry: CZK 330Time needed: 1.5 hLocation: Cihelná 2b, Malá Strana
    More

    Permanent exhibition about Prague's most famous writer — diaries, letters, first editions, atmospheric moody design matching his work. Infamous for the urinating statues outside.

    Opening hours: Daily 10:00-18:00.
  • Mucha Museum

    Mucha Museum

    Museums + Kafka
    Entry: CZK 290Time needed: 1 hLocation: Panská 7, Nové Město
    More

    Dedicated to Alphonse Mucha, Czech Art Nouveau icon — posters (Sarah Bernhardt), paintings, photos, biographical materials.

    Opening hours: Daily 10:00-18:00.
  • Municipal House (Obecní dům)

    Municipal House (Obecní dům)

    Museums + Kafka
    Entry: CZK 290Time needed: 1.5 hLocation: Náměstí Republiky 5
    More

    Early 20th-century Art Nouveau masterpiece — Mucha-decorated Mayor's Hall, Smetana Hall concerts. Tours available; café in lobby is spectacular.

    Opening hours: Tours daily 11:00 + 14:00 + 15:00 + 16:00.

    Guided tour adult.

  • The Old Town coreCharles Bridge + Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock are non-negotiable.
  • Churches + synagoguesPrague's religious heritage is layered Christian + Jewish.
  • Viewpoints + modernPetřín + Vyšehrad + Dancing House + river walks.
  • Museums + KafkaPrague intellectual heritage.

Skip7

Not worth your time or money.

  • Jul–Aug if you dislike crowds

    Peak season: highest prices and longest queues

  • Paying CZK 600 for Prague Castle ticket

    "Skip-the-line" tour. Locals pay about CZK 250.

  • Street currency exchanges (robbery rates)

  • Airport taxis not from official rank

  • Trdelník as "traditional Czech" (it's a 2010s invention)

  • Strip clubs on Wenceslas with "free first drink" touts (massive bill scams)

  • Unmetered taxis fixing "flat rate"

Hidden gems in Prague5

Off the beaten path — places most visitors never find.

  • Letná Park beer garden

    Summer-only (May-Sep) outdoor beer garden with panoramic view of Old Town + Vltava — 40 CZK beer + local vibe.

    How to find it: Letenský zámeček, Metro A Hradčanská + walk 15 min.
  • Strahov Monastery + beer
    Matěj Baťha · CC BY-SA 2.0

    Strahov Monastery + beer

    12th-century monastery with library of 200,000 books + resident brewery. Classical + dark beer with monk history. Free grounds; library 120 CZK.

    How to find it: Walk west from Prague Castle, 10 min.

  • Riegrovy sady park

    Local park in Vinohrady — sunset view of Castle across the city, locals picnicking, summer beer garden.

    How to find it: Metro A Jiřího z Poděbrad + walk 10 min.
  • Vyšehrad cemetery
    Ludek · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Vyšehrad cemetery

    Dvořák + Smetana + Čapek tombs in atmospheric hilltop Slavín cemetery. Free, nearly empty tourists.

    How to find it: Metro C Vyšehrad + walk.
  • Žižkov TV Tower + crawling babies
    Bengt Nyman from Vaxholm, Sweden · CC BY 2.0

    Žižkov TV Tower + crawling babies

    Soviet-era TV tower with bizarre David Černý sculptures of giant babies crawling on the tower. Observation deck 280 CZK.

    How to find it: Mahlerovy sady, Vinohrady.

Plan your days

Prague itinerary: 1, 2 and 7 days

Copy a plan or let Tripdox build one around your dates.

Build my itinerary

One day in Prague

Prague in one day

Castle + Charles Bridge + Old Town

9 stops08:00–20:00
  1. 08:00

    Breakfast at Café Savoy (traditional Viennese-Czech)

  2. 09:00

    Prague Castle opening + St. Vitus Cathedral + Golden Lane

  3. 12:30

    Walk down Nerudova Street to Malá Strana

  4. 13:30

    Lunch at U Zlatého tygra or Lokál

  5. 15:00

    Cross Charles Bridge to Old Town

  6. 15:30

    Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock

  7. 16:30

    Jewish Quarter (Josefov) tour

  8. 18:30

    Sunset from Old Town Hall Tower

  9. 20:00

    Czech pub dinner + Pilsner Urquell

Two days in Prague

Day 1

Castle + Charles Bridge

West side

5 stops09:00–19:00
  1. 09:00

    Prague Castle + St. Vitus Cathedral

  2. 13:00

    Lunch in Malá Strana

  3. 14:30

    Petřín Tower + funicular

  4. 17:00

    Charles Bridge sunset

  5. 19:00

    Dinner at U Medvídků

Day 2

Old Town + Jewish Quarter

East side + history

6 stops09:00–19:30
  1. 09:00

    Old Town Square + Astronomical Clock

  2. 10:30

    Josefov Jewish Quarter

  3. 13:30

    Lunch at U Zlatého tygra

  4. 15:00

    Wenceslas Square + Mucha Museum

  5. 17:00

    Dancing House + riverside walk

  6. 19:30

    Classical concert at Municipal House

One week at a glance

A theme for each day — reorder it around your flights.

  1. Day 1

    Arrive, Old Town Square + Charles Bridge sunset

  2. Day 2

    Prague Castle + St. Vitus + Malá Strana

  3. Day 3

    Jewish Quarter + Mucha Museum + Municipal House

  4. Day 4

    Day trip — Český Krumlov UNESCO town

  5. Day 5

    Day trip — Kutná Hora Bone Church + Karlovy Vary

  6. Day 6

    Petřín + Vyšehrad + Dancing House walk

  7. Day 7

    Classical concert + Pilsner brewery tour + departure

A perfect day

Hour-by-hour in Prague

9 stops from 08:00 to 23:00. Follow it end to end, or borrow the parts you like.

Morning

  1. Czech breakfast

    Café classic — buttery croissant, fresh fruit, coffee. 150-250 CZK at a neighborhood café.

    CZK 200

  2. Castle or Old Town sight at opening

    Prague Castle, Astronomical Clock tower, or Jewish Quarter.

Afternoon

  1. Pub lunch

    Svíčková + dumplings + Pilsner = 350 CZK at a real pivnice (pub). Tourist restaurants charge 600+ for the same.

    CZK 380

  2. Second sight or neighborhood walk

    Petřín Hill, Vyšehrad, or Mucha Museum.

  3. Beer + pub culture

    Half-liter of Pilsner Urquell = 60-80 CZK in a non-tourist neighborhood pub. Accompany with utopenec (pickled sausage) or nakládaný hermelín (pickled Camembert).

    CZK 100
Evening

  1. Charles Bridge sunset

    Crowded but stunning; walk Old Town → Malá Strana or vice versa.

  2. Dinner at a Czech restaurant

    Pork knuckle + dumplings + beer = 500-700 CZK. Book ahead at popular spots.

    CZK 550

  3. Classical concert

    Daily concerts at Municipal House, St. Nicholas Church, Rudolfinum — 400-900 CZK for 60-90 min of Mozart, Dvořák, Smetana.

    CZK 600
Night

  1. Bar or beer garden (summer)

    T-Anker rooftop, U Sudu wine bar, Vinohrady craft beer spots. 80-150 CZK/drink.

Estimated spend for the dayCZK 1,830

Based on the 5 of 9 stops that list a cost.

Food & drink

What to eat in Prague

10 dishes to try and 8 places to eat in Prague, from about CZK 180 to CZK 2,200 a head.

Must-try dishes10

  • Svíčková na smetaně

    CZK 250

    Beef sirloin in rich cream sauce + bread dumplings + cranberry + whipped cream. Czech national dish.

  • Guláš (goulash)

    CZK 230

    Beef + onion + paprika stew + dumplings or bread. Czech version more stew-like than Hungarian.

  • Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

    Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

    CZK 250

    Roast pork + bread dumplings + sauerkraut. The "trinity" of Czech cuisine.

  • Vepřové koleno

    CZK 350

    Roast pork knuckle — crispy skin, falls off the bone, 1-1.5 kg serving. Shareable.

    Full knuckle.

  • Tatarský biftek

    CZK 250

    Raw beef tartare served with raw egg yolk + onion + garlic toast to rub it on. Czech pub classic.

  • Trdelník

    Trdelník

    CZK 90

    Spiral grilled dough wrapped around a spit, coated in sugar + cinnamon + nuts, often filled with ice cream. TOURIST TREAT — not actually Czech (originally Hungarian, adapted for Prague tourists).

  • Pilsner Urquell

    Pilsner Urquell

    CZK 70

    Original Pilsner lager (1842, Plzeň) — the beer that defined "pilsner" worldwide. CZK 60-80 per half-liter at a Czech pivnice.

    Half-liter.

  • Halušky

    Halušky

    CZK 180

    Slovak-origin cheese dumplings with bryndza sheep cheese. Czech version called "halušky".

  • Koláče

    Koláče

    CZK 40

    Round sweet pastries filled with poppy seed, plum jam, farmer's cheese. Czech countryside classic.

  • Becherovka

    CZK 60

    Herbal liqueur (38% ABV) from Karlovy Vary — drunk as a shot or mixed with tonic ("B&T"). Unofficial Czech national drink.

    Shot.

Where to eat8

Our shortlist, cheap to splurge.

  1. Lokál

    Modern Czech pub chain · Dlouhá 33 + multiple

    Signature: Fresh-tanked Pilsner + svíčková

    ~CZK 400 pp

  2. Sisters (Sisters Bistro)

    Modern Czech chlebíčky · Dlouhá 39

    Signature: Chlebíčky (open-faced sandwiches) reimagined for the modern palate.

    ~CZK 180 pp

  3. U Medvídků

    Traditional Czech pub + microbrewery · Na Perštýně 7

    Signature: Pork knuckle + X-Beer 33 (strongest beer in Czech Republic)

    ~CZK 350 pp

  4. U Zlatého tygra (At the Golden Tiger)

    Legendary 100-year pub · Husova 17

    Signature: Pilsner Urquell + goulash; Václav Havel + Bill Clinton drank here 1994.

    ~CZK 250 pp

  5. Café Slavia

    Historic literary café · Smetanovo nábř. 1012/2

    Signature: Czech breakfast + strudel; riverside setting.

    ~CZK 400 pp

  6. Pivovarský Dům

    Brewery-restaurant · Lípova 15

    Signature: Home-brewed banana + nettle beer + fried cheese sandwich.

    ~CZK 400 pp

  7. Field

    Modern European tasting · U Milosrdných 12

    Signature: 1-Michelin-star tasting; Prague's top fine dining.

    ~CZK 2,200 pp

  8. Mlýnec

    Modern Czech fine dining · Novotného lávka 9

    Signature: Czech fine dining with Charles Bridge view; book weeks ahead.

    ~CZK 1,800 pp
Dietary notes
Vegetarian has improved significantly — dedicated veggie restaurants (Mlsná kavka, Moment Bistro, LoVeg). Vegan harder at traditional pubs (everything is pork-based) but growing. Gluten-free understood at mid-range. Kosher: Jewish Quarter has certified spots (Dinitz, King Solomon). Halal limited but present (Ktm on Wenceslas, Kashmir India). Lactose-intolerant note: Czech dumplings + sauces contain a lot of butter + cream.
Tipping
10-15% at sit-down restaurants is normal + expected; rounded down if service was poor. Tell the server the total amount you want to pay ("Two hundred, please" vs waiting for change). Pubs: round up to nearest 10 CZK. Taxi: round up. Hotel staff: 30-100 CZK for bellhop/housekeeping.

Getting around

How to get around Prague

Prague has 3 metro lines (A green, B yellow, C red), 24 trams, + buses. Single 90-min ticket 40 CZK; 24h pass 120 CZK; 72h 330 CZK. Litačka app (in-app tickets) or contactless credit card at gates. Trams are the soul — ride one to experience a century of trams. Walking Old Town → Castle is 25 min.

Ways to get around5

  • Metro + tram + bus

    CZK 40

    Everything in city

    90-min 40 CZK; 30-min 30 CZK; 24h 120 CZK; 72h 330 CZK.

    • Cheap
    • Well-connected
    • Trams run 04:30-00:00
    • Some older trams without AC

  • Airport Express bus

    CZK 100

    Václav Havel airport to central station

    • Direct to Hlavní Nádraží
    • Every 30 min 05:30-22:00
    • Cash only on bus

  • Bus 59 + Metro A

    CZK 40

    Cheapest airport option

    Single 90-min ticket covers both.

    • Cheapest route
    • 45-55 min to center
    • Transfer required

  • Taxi

    CZK 500

    Late-night + luggage

    Airport to center ~600-800 CZK; never accept unmetered "fixed" rate.

    • Metered + reliable
    • Uber + Bolt work normally
    • Airport unlicensed taxis = major scam source

  • Uber + Bolt + Liftago

    CZK 200

    App-based rideshare

    Typical 5 km 200-300 CZK.

    • Fixed price
    • Multiple apps compete
    • Liftago is Czech local alternative

From the airport

4 options · fastest 25 min · cheapest CZK 40

  • Bus 119 + Metro A from airport to centre

    Cheapest

    One 90-min ticket covers both. Most economical.

    45 min

    CZK 40

  • Airport Express bus to Hlavní Nádraží

    Direct to central train station. Every 30 min.

    35 min

    CZK 100

  • Taxi to Old Town

    Fastest

    Use official taxi rank or Uber — NEVER accept offers inside terminal.

    25 min

    CZK 650

  • Uber from airport to center

    Fastest

    25 min

    CZK 500

Key distances

Realistic travel times between the places you'll actually go.

  • Václav Havel Airport (PRG)Old Town Square

    Distance: 17 kmBy car: 25-40 min (600-800 CZK taxi)By transit: Bus 119 + Metro 45 min, 40 CZK

  • Old TownPrague Castle

    Distance: 2 kmBy car: 15 minBy transit: Metro A + Tram 22 20 min, 40 CZK — or 25-min walk

  • PragueKutná Hora (Bone Church)

    Distance: 75 kmBy car: 60 minBy transit: Train 1h, 200 CZK

  • PragueČeský Krumlov

    Distance: 170 kmBy car: 2h 30mBy transit: Bus 3h, 300 CZK

  • PragueKarlovy Vary (spa town)

    Distance: 125 kmBy car: 1h 30mBy transit: Bus 2h, 250 CZK

Practical

Know how Prague works

Etiquette, money, a few words of Czech, safety and what to pack.

Prague etiquette & payments

Do

  • "Dobrý den" (hello, formal) is standard greeting in shops + restaurants — Czechs expect this politeness.
  • Tipping 10-15% at sit-down restaurants — tell the server the total you want to pay ("Three hundred, please") rather than leaving tip on table.
  • Beer is sacred — don't wave at a waiter for one; they'll bring another when your glass is half-empty. Put your coaster on top of the empty glass = "no more".
  • Quiet voices in public — Czechs consider loud tourists rude.
  • Use right hand for passing things (like most Slavic cultures).
  • Respect WWII + Holocaust history — Jewish Quarter + Terezín require reverence.

Avoid

  • Don't jump on the "chat ghost" tour scams aggressively sold on Charles Bridge.
  • Don't haggle at formal restaurants — only at markets + street vendors.
  • Don't eat trdelník thinking it's traditional Czech — it's a 21st-century tourist invention. Try koláče instead.
  • Don't disrespect Kafka or Dvořák; Czechs are passionate about their cultural heritage.
  • Don't use public transport without a validated ticket — 900 CZK on-spot fine for inspection.
Tipping
10-15% at sit-down restaurants (tell the total). Round up at pubs. Taxi: round up to nearest 10 CZK. Hotel staff: 30-100 CZK for bellhop/housekeeping. Tour guides: 100-200 CZK/person.
Payments
  • Visa/Mastercard widely; Amex less so
  • Apple Pay / Google Pay on contactless terminals
  • Cash (CZK) still useful for markets + small pubs; carry 500-1,000 CZK
  • Most Prague ATMs now offer EUR dispense — choose CZK for best rate
Connectivity
T-Mobile, O2, Vodafone — all 5G. EU SIMs roam free; non-EU Airalo eSIM €4 for 1GB. Free WiFi at airport, most cafés, metro stations.

Useful Czech phrases for Prague11

  • Hello (formal)
    Dobrý denDOH-bree den
  • Hi (casual)
    AhojAH-hoy
  • Thank you
    DěkujiDYEH-kwee
    "Díky" casual.
  • Please
    ProsímPROH-seem
  • Yes / No
    Ano / NeAH-no / NEH
  • Excuse me
    Promiňteproh-MEEN-teh
  • How much?
    Kolik to stojí?KOH-lick to STOH-yee
  • The bill please
    Účet, prosímOO-chet PROH-seem
  • One beer please
    Jedno pivo, prosímYED-no PEE-vo PROH-seem
  • Cheers!
    Na zdraví!nah-ZDRAH-vee
  • Delicious
    VýbornéVEE-bor-neh

Safety in Prague

Prague is very safe — violent crime against tourists rare. Biggest threats: pickpocketing, taxi scams, currency exchange fraud.
  • Pickpocket hotspots: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, trams to Castle, Wenceslas Square metro.
  • NEVER use street currency exchanges near Old Town — offer 1 EUR = 15 CZK vs real rate 25 CZK (robbery rate). Use ATMs at Komerční banka, Česká spořitelna, Raiffeisen only.
  • Airport taxis — ONLY use the official licensed rank or Uber/Bolt. Unlicensed drivers charge 3-4x.
  • Drink-spiking + pay-for-sex scams at Wenceslas Square strip clubs — avoid aggressive touts offering "first drink free".
  • Absinthe shots at tourist bars can be very strong (up to 70% ABV); pace yourself.
  • Prague pavements can be slippery when snowy/wet — wear grippy shoes in winter.
  • Schengen + ETIAS from 2025 for US/UK/Canada/Australia/Japan citizens.

What to pack for Prague

Essentials

  • Comfortable walking shoes — Prague is cobbled + hilly
  • Waterproof jacket + umbrella
  • Layers — weather swings 10°C in a day
  • Crossbody bag with zipper (pickpocket-proof)
  • Portable charger

Climate

  • Jun-Aug: light layers + sun hat
  • Dec-Feb: thick coat + scarf + gloves + waterproof boots (ice + snow)
  • Spring/fall: layers + rain jacket

Cultural

  • Smart-casual for fine dining
  • Nothing strict — Czechs are unpretentious

Electronics

  • Type E plug (230V)
  • Portable charger
  • eSIM (non-EU travelers)

If something goes wrong

Emergency numbers in Prague

Save these before you land. Tap a number to call from your phone.

Tourist helpline
+420 222 232 000 (Prague Tourism Info)

Hospitals3

FAQ

Frequently asked about Prague

Straight answers to the 18 questions first-time visitors ask most.

What is the best time to visit Prague?

May-June and September-October — mild 15-22°C, fewer crowds than peak July-August. December is magical with Christmas markets (Dec 1-Jan 6) but cold + crowded. Avoid Easter (crowds). January-February is coldest + cheapest (-5 to 3°C). Prague has 4 distinct seasons + each has charm.

How many days do I need in Prague?

Three days covers the essentials: Old Town Square + Charles Bridge + Prague Castle + Jewish Quarter. Four-five days adds Mucha Museum, Petřín, Vyšehrad, classical concert, and breathing room. Six-seven days unlocks day trips: Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora (Bone Church), Karlovy Vary spa town. Great destination for 4-5 day visits.

Is Prague expensive?

Prague is one of Europe's most affordable capitals. Mid-range daily: CZK 3,000-4,500 (~USD 130-195) vs €150-200 in Vienna/Paris. Budget travelers easily hit CZK 1,500-2,000/day. Luxury still 30-40% below Western Europe. Beer is often cheaper than water at restaurants (CZK 60-80 half-liter of Pilsner). Best value-for-quality meal in Europe.

Is Prague safe for tourists?

Very safe — violent crime against tourists rare. Main risks: (1) pickpocketing on Charles Bridge + trams; (2) currency exchange scams (offer 1 EUR = 15 CZK vs real 24-25; use ATMs only); (3) taxi scams at airport — use official rank or Uber; (4) strip club + brothel scams on Wenceslas Square with predatory bills. Otherwise walking at night in central + tourist zones is safe.

Do I need Czech currency or can I use Euros?

Prague uses Czech koruna (CZK) despite being in the EU. Most businesses accept EUR but at terrible rates (often 1 EUR = 20-22 CZK vs real 25). Always pay in CZK. Use ATMs at Komerční banka, Česká spořitelna, Raiffeisen for withdrawals — choose CZK not EUR dispense. Credit cards accepted widely; foreign-currency ATM withdrawal better than airport exchange.

Do I need a visa for Prague?

Czech Republic is in Schengen Area. 60+ nationalities get 90 days in 180 days visa-free. ETIAS (€7 online, 3-year validity) required from 2025 for US/UK/Canada/Australia/Japan citizens. Indian + Chinese + African passports require Schengen visa. Passport valid 3+ months after departure.

Is Prague good for beer lovers?

YES — #1 beer-consuming nation per capita (140 L/person/year). Pilsner Urquell (from Plzeň) defined the "pilsner" style worldwide. Fresh-tanked Pilsner at Lokál chain pubs is extraordinary. Other classics: Budvar (original Budweiser), Staropramen, Kozel, Starobrno. Craft beer scene: Matuška, Nomád, Falkon. Half-liter 60-80 CZK at real pubs. Beer trails + brewery tours widely available.

What should I eat in Prague?

Svíčková (beef in cream sauce + dumplings) — national dish. Guláš + bread dumplings. Vepřo-knedlo-zelo (pork + dumplings + sauerkraut). Pork knuckle (vepřové koleno). Tatarský biftek (Czech beef tartare). For beer snacks: utopenci (pickled sausages), nakládaný hermelín (pickled camembert), chlebíčky (open-faced sandwiches). Dessert: medovník (honey cake), koláče. Skip the trdelník — it's a tourist invention, not Czech.

How do I avoid currency exchange scams?

Never use street-level "exchange offices" (směnárna) near Old Town. Their advertised rate (1 EUR = 17-18 CZK) is fake — they charge massive commissions + fine print. Use: (1) ATMs at bank-branded locations (Komerční banka, Česká spořitelna, Raiffeisen, ČSOB); (2) airport ATMs; (3) your hotel's front desk (slightly worse than ATM but reliable). Real rate: 1 EUR = 24-25 CZK.

Is tap water safe in Prague?

Yes — Prague tap water is safe + among Europe's best quality. Restaurants sometimes charge for water (0.30 EUR for 0.5 L bottle); you can always ask for tap ("voda z kohoutku"). Czechs typically drink bottled water or mineral water (Mattoni is national brand).

Prague vs Vienna — which should I visit first?

Both excellent, different characters. Prague: cheaper (40-50% less), more Gothic medieval, famously bohemian + beer-focused, more compact + walkable. Vienna: grander imperial, more classical music + museums, more refined + expensive. First-time Central Europe: Prague for budget + charm; Vienna for classical art + imperial history. 4 hours by train between them; both deserve 3-4 days each.

Is Prague good with kids?

Yes — Prague Zoo, Petřín mirror maze + tower, Children's Island on the Vltava, Lego museum, marionette theatre performances, dwarf-sized doors in Golden Lane at Prague Castle (kids love these). Most restaurants welcome kids; Czech pubs might be smoky (some banning still patchy). Baby-changing limited at older museums. Trams are stroller-accessible.

What are the Christmas markets in Prague like?

Late November to January 6 — main market on Old Town Square + Wenceslas Square + Namesti Republiky. Mulled wine (svařák, 60-80 CZK), trdelník (tourist-targeted), sausages + potato pancakes. Night illuminations spectacular. Hotel prices triple during Dec 20-30. Prices higher at market stalls than regular pubs — go for atmosphere, eat elsewhere.

Should I book Prague Castle in advance?

Recommended but not always required. Prague Castle is huge (70,000 m²); the grounds are free + open 06:00-22:00. Paid circuits for St. Vitus + Old Royal Palace + Golden Lane + St. George's: Basic Circuit B 250 CZK; Full B+C 450 CZK. Summer + Christmas queues 15-30 min. Changing of the Guard daily 12:00 is free.

Can I do day trips from Prague?

Yes — excellent: Kutná Hora (Bone Church + St. Barbara Cathedral, 1h train, 200 CZK); Český Krumlov (fairy-tale UNESCO town, 2h 30m bus, 300 CZK); Karlovy Vary (spa town, 1h 30m bus); Terezín Concentration Camp memorial (1h, sobering); Dresden Germany (2h 20m train, €25).

What should I avoid in Prague?

Avoid: street currency exchanges (robbery rates); airport taxis not from official rank; trdelník as "traditional Czech" (it's a 2010s invention); strip clubs on Wenceslas with "free first drink" touts (massive bill scams); unmetered taxis fixing "flat rate"; trams without validated ticket (900 CZK fine); overpriced absinthe bars claiming "authentic Czech" (absinthe is banned in Europe for alcohol %, tourist bars sell fake versions).

Is Prague kid-friendly for a family trip?

Yes — interesting Prague Zoo (3rd best in the world per TripAdvisor 2017-2018), marionette theaters, Petřín Hill funicular + mirror maze, castle turret climbs, Čokoládový Muzeum (Chocolate Museum), Lego Museum. Most restaurants welcome kids; public transport stroller-friendly (older trams not, newer Metro lines accessible).

What is Czech beer culture really like?

Beer is the national drink. Half-liter pivo at a pub costs 60-80 CZK (~USD 3); cheap enough locals drink multiple daily. Pilsner style invented here (Plzeň, 1842). Beer coasters mark "how many you've had" + server continues bringing until you flip your coaster over (stop signal). Pub etiquette: don't wave for a beer; the server watches + refills. Popular beers: Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar (original Bud), Staropramen, Gambrinus.

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