Itineraries for Your Trip to Prague
2 Days in Prague for First Timers
There’s just something about Prague, where even its name conjures up images of a grand old city full of history and ambience. So, yes, my expectations were a little high when I arrived in the Czech capital for the first time on a surprisingly pleasant November day.
Walking around the city’s Old Town immediately put me at ease, but what clinched my love of the city was walking up Nerudova Street to a viewpoint that showed off the entire magical city backlit by the setting sun. And now I never resist the chance to visit when I’m in Central Europe. Discover what many visitors find so charming about Prague with this 2-day itinerary of the city’s highlights.
Summer rain is common in Prague, but it comes and goes quickly, so check the forecast and have an indoor activity ready.
If you only have time for one thing, make it admiring the city from Prague Castle's viewpoints.
For a city with so much history, it makes sense to start with Prague’s historic center—specifically, the Old Town Square of Prague. Explore on your own or learn the history of Prague on a walking tour, making sure to see the Prague Astronomical Clock while there. Breeze down elegant Paris Street to the Josefov neighborhood, home to the city’s Jewish Museum and Old Jewish Cemetery.
Continue exploring Prague’s historic neighborhoods by crossing the famous Charles Bridge to the neighborhood of Mala Strana. You could get lost in the attractions here, such as the John Lennon Wall and Franz Kafka Museum, but instead, take the tram up to Prague Castle above you. Here you have the Gothic grandeur of St. Vitus Cathedral and the adorable homes of the Golden Lane, plus perfect city views.
You’ve surely worked up an appetite after so much sightseeing, so return to the Old Town for a crash course on Czech cuisine. Familiarize yourself with the Czech love of dumplings and hearty dishes like goulash, all washed down with local Czech beer or wine, as your guide shows you places you likely wouldn’t find otherwise.
It is difficult to see everything around Prague’s Old Town in one day, so return to see the Clementinum and its precious library. Then, follow the river by tram or on foot down to the Dancing House, a modern gem of Prague architecture. Continue exploring Prague’s New Town at Wenceslas Square by walking along the stretching plaza to the National Museum to see its Czech history and natural history exhibits.
Since you barely had time to explore Mala Strana yesterday, cross the Vltava River—on foot or by bike or scooter—and dedicate your afternoon to this eventful neighborhood. Wander around Kampa Island to admire its pleasant scenery and pop into the Museum Kampa. Dip into the Franz Kafka Museum now that you have time and find the Narrowest street in Prague along the way.
As sunset approaches, head to Letna Park or Petrin Tower for one last glimpse of Prague’s cityscape at golden hour. Afterwards, reward your busy Prague visit by slowing down and experiencing the novel indulgence of a beer spa—yes, a spa where you soak in warm beer while also drinking beer.
