2 Days in Prague: The Perfect First-Timer’s Itinerary
Discover the perfect itinerary for 2 days in Prague and start planning your ideal weekend trip.
Prague might just be one of Europe’s most underrated capitals. It’s a city full of splendour, Medieval and Renaissance charm, attention-worthy museums, beautiful architecture, unique cafes and restaurants and great nightlife.
Just a walk around the magnificent Old Town will transport you back to times bygone. Beautiful architecture, history and culture aren’t the only things Prague has to offer. Whatever you’re looking for in a city break, Prague most probably has it and does it very well indeed.
While you could easily spend more than 2 days in Prague, and I encourage that you do, Prague in two days is completely doable. It’s a small European capital with a fairly compact centre, and good public transportation links and it’ doesn’t take long to get around.
This 2 days in Prague itinerary will tell you everything you need to know and see for a brilliant city break trip to one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals. Let’s dive in…
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Best Time to Visit Prague
The perfect European destination for a quick city break, Prague in two days is a great idea at any time of the year. Like many other European destinations, the Czech Republic sees four distinct seasons where temperatures and rainfall drastically over the course of the year.
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit where temperatures are at their warmest- an average of 24°C/75°F, parks are full of green trees and blooming flowers and the city comes alive with outdoor eating and drinking and other activities. Spring and summer are also the wettest months so you can expect quite a few showers at this time too.
This is also high season so expect prices to go up and crowds at the most popular sights.
Autumn and winter are other possible times to visit if you don’t mind the cold. In winter temperatures can go down to about 2°C/35°F but winters are also the driest time of year to visit. Visiting in the winter will mean that there are much fewer crowds around and you’ll be able to score some great deals on hotels and flights. You’ll also be able to experience the amazing Christmas Markets in the Old Town square in December.
However, sights do close earlier and daylight hours are also limited. If visiting in the winter you might benefit from extending this 2 days in Prague itinerary to a 3-day trip.
The high season months in Prague are June, July and August, shoulder seasons is April, May, September and October and the low season is November, December (apart from Christmas and New Year), January, February and March.
Getting to Prague
Plane
If you’re flying into Prague, you’ll land at Prague’s Václava Havla Airport, located about 7km outside the city center. The airport has two terminals, terminal one for Non-EU Schengen countries and the rest of the World and Terminal 2 for destinations within the EU. Both terminals are served by onward public transportation to the city.
To get to the city center you can opt for the airport bus, public transport in the form of local buses, taxi/ride-sharing apps or private transfer. Here’s a summary of everything you need to know about each:
- AE (Airport Express) bus leaves from outside both terminals and goes to Hlavní nádrazí, Prague’s main train station from where you can transfer to the metro. Tickets cost 100 CZK one way.
- Local bus 100- leaves from outside the terminals and terminates at Zličín Metro Station where you can transfer to line B (yellow line). Costs 30 CZK for the bus.
- Local bus 191- leaves from outside the terminal building and goes to Andel Metro Station, also on Line B (yellow line).
- Uber and Bolt apps work in the Czech Republic and you can call a ride to the airport. Expect to pay about 800 CZK to get to the centre.
- Taxis are available from outside the terminal buildings.
- Private transfers can be booked through your hotel or at the designated counters in the arrivals hall.
Because of the city’s compact side, taking the bus is the most affordable and the best way to get to the city center. The Airport Express for example only takes 25 minutes to get to Prague’s main station from where you can continue your journey on the metro. Both local buses and the Airport Express (AE) make for a great way to get into the center.
Bus and Train
If you’re coming into Prague via bus or train from other destinations in the Czech Republic or Europe you’ll most probably arrive at Hlavní nádrazí bus and train terminal. From here you can easily transfer onto Prague metro’s Line C (red line) to continue to your final destination.
Prague’s old town is completely walkable and during your 2 days in Prague, you’ll most probably just walk or use the metro or trams to get around the city. You can also use ride-sharing apps in Prague. Bolt is a much more popular choice compared with Uber so it might be a good idea to have it downloaded on your phone already.
2 DAYS ITINERARY PRAGUE
If you’ve only got 2 days in Prague, you’ll most probably want to spend it in the centre wandering Prague’s prettiest streets, checking out the medieval architecture and the city’s most famous sights.
The old, historical center of Prague is completely walkable and this 2 days in Prague itinerary explores one side of the river one day and the other side the next day, but you can easily walk from one neighbourhood to another. Make no mistake though, you will be doing a lot of walking so make sure to pack comfortable shoes!
2 Days in Prague Itinerary Summary:
Day One:
- Stare Mesto (Prague Old Town)
- Visit Charles Bridge
- Explore the Old Town Square
- Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery & Jewish Museum
- Try a Chimney Cake
- Oogle at the Dancing House
- Visit a Museum
- Walk Along the Vltava River
Day Two:
- Explore Mala Strana
- Visit Prague Castle & Complex
- Chotkovy Sady
- Take a Walk through Waldstein Garden
- Take a Moment in St. Nicholas Church
- Visit Petrin Hill Park
- See the John Lennon Wall
Keep reading to find out more about this perfect 2-day Prague itinerary.
Day One- Stare Masto (Prague Old Town)
Start your first day in Prague by exploring the city’s old town (Stare Masto). Here you’ll find some of the city’s most important sights and buildings including the Old Town Square and the Jewish neighbourhood Josefov.
Charles Bridge
Start your day early at Charles Bridge- one of Prague’s historical highlights. Crossing the Vltava River, this cobblestone pedestrian footbridge is flanked by entry towers on both sides and statues of various saints running down the length of the bridge. During the day you’ll also see many artists selling their work and painting caricatures of passersby. It’s probably the most iconic bridge in Central Europe.
Charles bridge is a popular place so it’s busy during all times of the day so head there first thing in the morning before 8 am for an experience without the crowds. It’s especially beautiful during sunrise if you manage to get up that early, which can be pretty difficult in summer.
Old Town Square
Once you’ve walked across (and possibly back over) Charles Bridge, head to the Old Town Square- one of the most beautiful in Central Europe. The architecture here is just stunning and so well-preserved, it really is the soul of the city. On Main Square, there are a few sights you’ll want to visit.
- Prague Astronomical Clock – One of the main draws to the Old Town Square is this incredible astronomical clock that chimes every hour. As it does mechanical figures march out, a skeleton dangles a bell and saints revolve on a platform.
- Prague Astronomical Clock Tower – You’ll also want to head inside the clock tower and make your way to the top for some of the best views in the city and the beautiful buildings surrounding it. At the top, you’ll have 360° views of the city and the main square. If there’s one viewpoint or tower you climb in Prague, make sure it’s this one.
- Church of Our Lady Before Tyn– While on the square make sure to have a peek inside the 14th Century landmark church with Baroque interiors and altarpiece.
Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and Jewish Museum
From the Old Town Square, it’s just a short walk north to Josefov, Prague’s Jewish quarter. It’s one of the only surviving Jewish neighbourhoods that wasn’t destroyed in the war. The highlights in the area are the amazing Jewish Cemetery, the Jewish Museum and various architecturally distinct Synagogues.
Entry to the Jewish Cemetery is with a combined ticket that also includes Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas and Klausen synagogues. All these along with the Ceremonial Hall form part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. Tickets cost 350 CZK per adult.
If you prefer you can also do a self-guided tour of the area and see most of the synagogues from the outside. Start at the Maisel Synagogue on Maiselova Street before visiting Pinkas Synagogue, the cemetery and Klausen Synagogue before looping around the Spanish Synagogue, famous for its Moorish architecture on Dusni road.
Try a Chimney Cake
A unique dessert in Central Europe the Trdelnik or Chimney Cake is a must-try when in Prague. It’s a unique pastry, a rolled sweet, yeast-dough that’s wrapped around a spit and baked. It’s then filled with ice cream or fresh cream and various other sweet toppings. If you’ve got a sweet tooth this one is for you.
The Dancing House
Walk along the Vltava River southwards and you’ll soon see the incredible Dancing House, one of Prague’s most modern buildings. Part of the dancing house is a twisted glass structure that looks like it’s almost falling into its other side creating a truly unique effect.
It was designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunic in collaboration with renowned architect Frank Gehry. This is definitely one of the most unique buildings you’ll see during your 2 days in Prague.
Inside you’ll find a gallery space, a boutique hotel and a rooftop bar perfect for sunset drinks.
Visit a Museum
Prague is filled with amazing museums to visit for all tastes and working a museum into your 2 days in Prague itinerary is highly recommended. Chose the historic National Museum to learn more about Czech art and culture, the Museum of Communism, a KGB Museum, a Franz Kafka Museum and even a Sex Machines Museum.
Walk Along the Vltava River
Crossing the Legii bridge (one down from Charles Bridge) there are so many opportunities for a leisurely walk along the river, especially on a warm and sunny day. Make your way down to Strelecky Island, right on the river where you can stroll around the green, leafy island and admire Prague Castle and the River. There are also a number of cafes here to grab a coffee and relax.
On the other side of the river, you’ll also see many places to grab an afternoon beer, sit in a deck chair on the banks of the Vltava and watch life in Prague go by. Make sure to keep your eye out for swans, ducks and even beavers that live in the river.
If you wish from here you can also hire boats or pedal boats for a ride on the river if you fancy something a little more active.
Day Two- Malá Strana
Day two in Prague is all about exploring the other side of the river and the Mala Strana neighbourhood. Here you’ll find a number of amazing parks, viewpoints, the Mala Strana historic neighbourhood and of course Prague Castle. Once again, you’ll want to start early to make the most of your 2 days in Prague and crowds gather quickly in the most popular places.
Prague Castle & Complex
Start your day at the Prague Castle and Complex. Here you’ll find the largest ancient castle in the Czech Republic, Prague’s most important Cathedral, the Royal Gardens and the alluring Golden Alley- a perfect example of Medieval architecture.
The castle grounds open at 6 am but the sights don’t open until 9 am. You’ll want to be here just before 9 am to get your ticket and start exploring as crowds gather shortly after 9 am. I highly recommend starting with Golden Alley as it’s the smallest place of them all and it’s better experienced without the crowds.
Standard tickets here cost 250 CZK and include entry to Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral, Golden Alley and St George’s Basilica. You’ll need a separate ticket to visit the Cathedral tower and galley where you can climb to the top for views over the city. Skip the lines and book your tickets below.
Prague Castle – Prague Castle dates back to 870 and it has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. It was the seat of power for Holy Roman Emperors, the Kings of Bohemia as well as Presidents of Czechoslovakia. Inside you’ll find an array of ancient rooms, quarters and the Czech Crown Jewels.
St. George’s Basilica – A medieval Romanesque church that served as a monastery, the second church in the Prague Castle complex and the burial site of many rulers from the Premyslid dynasty.
St. Vitus Cathedral – Built in the 10th Century by Vratislaus I, Duke of Bohemia, St. Vitus Cathedral is a perfect example of Gothic architecture. It contains wonderful artworks of stained glass windows, Renaissance and Baroque paintings as well as the tombs of many Holy Roman emperors and Bohemian Kings. On the outside, you’ll find some incredible gargoyles, comparable to those of Notre Dame in Paris. Make sure not to miss Prague’s most amazing church during your 2 days in Prague.
Golden Alley– A perfectly preserved Cobblestone alleyway with medieval houses from the 16th century. Many of the houses have been converted and restored to show life at this time; a traditional seamstress house, a goldsmith, a tavern, and some traditional houses.
The Royal Gardens – Once exiting the palace complex through the back, you’ll slowly wander into the royal gardens- beautifully manicured lawns and gardens once frequented by Czech royalty. Today the gardens are free to roam around in and I highly recommended taking a walk under the pretty trees. The gardens are especially beautiful in spring when brightly coloured tulips bloom on the lawns.
Alternatively, if you’d like to visit as part of a tour to get more information about the history of the Prague Castle Complex then book a tour online here.
Chotkovy Sady
After visiting the Castle and its complex, continue through the Royal Gardens towards Chotkovy Sady, a wonderful park with incredible views of the city. Located up on a hill overlooking the city, this is easily one of the best viewpoints in Prague, both at sunrise and sunset.
From the viewpoint inside the park, you can clearly see Charles Bridge, the Vltava river and all the bridges following it into the distance. On a sunny day, this is one of the best places in the city to take a seat on a bench and enjoy the sunshine.
During spring and summer especially the park is filled with blooming native trees, flowers and singing birds, adding a peaceful place in the middle of the city to relax, run or just enjoy nature.
Waldstein Garden
A beautifully manicured garden with fountains filled with koi fish and the grand, imposing building of the Czech Senate, this is one of the most beautiful gardens in the city that certainly deserves a stroll.
St. Nicholas Church
One of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Prague, this church is a real gem of flamboyance and beauty. Located just across Charles Bridge on the Mala Strana side, this church looks incredible when you spot it from the bridge up until you walk up to it.
Nothing quite prepares you for the Baroque opulence and flamboyance inside. Swirling motifs, marble cherubs, gold detailing and brightly coloured murals all compete for your attention. It’s definitely worth going in as this church is much better on the inside than the outside. An entry ticket costs 100 CZK.
Petrin Hill Park/ Petrinskie Sady
If you haven’t yet got enough of parks or walking, you’ll want to make your way to one of the city’s largest parks, for superb views, Petrin tower and for a slice of nature.
From Ujezd, at the bottom of the park, you can take a cable train up to Petrin Tower for 60 CZK one way. I highly recommend this otherwise it’ll be quite a long slug uphill.
From here you can walk to and up the Petrin Tower, and over to Strahovsky monastery. From here, walk down a little for one of the best panoramic viewpoints of the city.
Explore Mala Strana
After walking back down through Petrin Park, head back down to the heart of Mala Strana to stroll around and enjoy this old neighbourhood, filled with 18th Century townhouses, gardens and Certovka Canal. No 2 day itinerary in Prague will be complete without exploring this gorgeously atmospheric neighbourhood.
The best things to do here are just to walk around, poking your head into ancient churches, cafes, bars and souvenir stores and see what you can find.
Visit the John Lennon Wall
While exploring Mala Strana you’ll also come across the Lennon Wall, a graffiti-covered wall inspired by John Lennon. The wall works as a tribute to Lennon and his pacifism but also as a way for residents to protest and express their feelings and sentiments about current issues.
St Clement Cathedral Classical Music Concert
If you have time and if classical music is your vibe you might want to end the day at St Clement Cathedral at a classical music concert. This 1500s church with a sublime Baroque interior, located just by Charles bridge hosts nightly Classical music concerts which you can enjoy in a pretty wonderful setting. For more information and to see what’s on during your stay see the ticket booth around the side of the church on Karlova Street.
If You Have More Time…
Take a Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
There’s a lot more to the Czech Republic than just Prague in two days so if you do have more time I’d highly recommend getting out of the city and exploring a bit.
Cesky Krumlov is a medieval town in South Bohemia, the southern part of the Czech Republic. Cesky Krumlov dates back to the 13th Century so it’s safe to say the town is old, ancient in fact. The buildings here however have been perfectly preserved and restored, making this one of the best Medieval towns to visit in Central Europe.
Located just 3 hours from Prague by bus or train, it makes the perfect day trip from Prague where you can visit the second largest castle in the Czech Republic, paddle on the Vltava River and gaze up at the splendid, toy-like architecture.
Looking for more fun things to do in Prague in two days? Check the box below for more activities.
WHERE TO STAY
Prague has an amazing variety of places to stay from 5-star hotels in converted 18th Century palaces to more affordable boutique hotels and Airbnb apartments. Accommodation in Prague is much more affordable compared with other European capitals like Paris or London so if you’ve been thinking of splurging on a unique hotel experience, this is the place to go for it.
The Mozart Prague – One of the grandest and most beautiful hotels in Prague, the Mozart was once the home of both Mozart and Casanova. Featuring beautiful rooms with art masterpieces and murals, and 18th and 19th-century furniture this hotel beautifully embodies the culture and flamboyant Baroque style of Prague.
The hotel also has a gorgeous outdoor courtyard, a wellness center that offers a range of beauty treatments, massages and a sauna as well as being located in one of the best areas of Prague- just a stone’s throw away from Charles bridge. The Mozart is a real gem in the city.
Check rates and availability here
Golden Well– One of the most exceptional boutique properties in Prague and in the Malá Strana neighbourhood, this hotel has traditional, flamboyant rooms that are just swoon-worthy, with art masterpieces on the walls, exposed wooden roofs and antique furniture that transports you back to the 18th Century. With excellent service and a rooftop restaurant with superb views of the city, this is my top choice in Prague.
Check rates and availability here
COSMOPOLITAN Hotel Prague – With a perfect balance of the traditional and modern, this hotel scores top points for style, decor and service. With large comfortable rooms with all the amenities, a great location, delicious breakfast and if that wasn’t enough, their restaurant Next Door is located in an 18th Century building with original frescos dating back to 1889. It’s run by celebrity chef Zdenek Pohlreich, making dining here a must when in Prague.
Check rates and availability here.
BoHo Prague Hotel – This beautiful modern hotel with chic decor is a complete vibe. It has a real boutique feel, stylish rooms and bar, great breakfast and a wellness center offering great treatments and massages.
Check rates and availability here.
Old Prague House– A great budget option with a brilliant location right by Charles Bridge. They offer both private rooms and dorms. Check rates and availability here.
WHERE TO EAT
Restaurants
Vegan’s Place – Vegan rooftop restaurant with great views of the city. Menu with Czech specialities like goulash made with cabbage and soy meat, root vegetables and cream with dumplings as well as many world dishes, burgers and sandwiches. Their location is the perfect stop for lunch after you’re done seeing Prague Castle.
Lehka Hlava– A good, centrally located 100% vegetarian restaurant with a good choice of salads, mains like sandwiches, burgers, burritos and Buddha bowls, this is another great option for lunch or an early dinner in Prague’s Old Town. Make sure to try their lavender or ginger homemade lemonade. A great choice for plant-based and gluten-free options.
Maitrea Restaurant – Another great, vegetarian option right next to the Old Town Square, this wonderful, organic-looking restaurant serves a wide range of world-inspired dishes like stir-fries, burgers, salads etc.
Alriso Risotteria Italiana– One of the best spots in the city for gluten-free Italian food with an outdoor terrace on one of the most beautiful corners of Old Prague.
Cafes
Mistral Cafe– a very cool, minimalist cafe in the centre. Come here for coffee and brunches of eggs, avocado toast, açaí bowls, sandwiches, pancakes and more. Great vibe and service. Also a great place for an afternoon coffee and something sweet.
Kafedamu– Located in the old town, close to the main square, this funky cafe with communal tables and a young eclectic crowd is an essential coffee stop while exploring the old town. Also serves small bites and light meals and of course great coffee including oat flat whites. This is the cafe of the local theatre facility of Prague University.
Cafe Savoy– one of the grandest and oldest cafes in Prague this classical Baroque cafe has been operating since 1893. Come here for hot chocolate, coffee, classic Czech and Central European dishes and scrumptious apple strudel.
Arctic Bakehouse – I accidentally stumbled upon this place when walking to my hotel on the first day. A super hipster, Nordic Style bakery and cafe, this is the perfect option for a light breakfast or snack on the go. Opt for one of their mouth-watering pastries, fresh sourdough sandwiches and grab a coffee.
Ready to plan your 2 days in Prague itinerary? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.
Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!
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Related posts you might like:
The Best Viewpoints in Prague: 11 Best Views of Prague You Can’t Miss
Where to Stay in Prague: The Best Areas and Hotels
Magical Things to Do in Český Krumlov
How to Get from Prague to Cesky Krumlov
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