From the magical Prague Castle to the iconic Charles Bridge, here’s your guide to enjoying 4 perfect days in Prague!
I had wanted to visit Prague for more than two decades.
The reason was my mother.
She had traveled to the city when I was a teenager and kept telling me about the magnificence of Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Mala Strana, and the surrounding neighborhoods.
When I finally managed to make the trip, I found that she was right after all.
The Czech capital is indeed one of the most picturesque European cities.
Built on the banks of the Vltava River, it has a medieval historic center that looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
But, unlike other capital cities, its beauty is not limited to its center; it is also present in the surrounding neighborhoods!
Is Prague friendly to tourists?
At the same time, despite the increased tourism, the prices are reasonable, and the residents remain friendly.
Almost everyone speaks English, at least at a basic level.
Moreover, you walk the streets with the same comfort in the morning and evening without feeling unsafe, even for a moment.
So if you’re wondering if it’s worth visiting Prague, the answer is a big yes.
How many days is enough in Prague?
4 days in Prague are ideal for exploring the city and a nearby destination.
If you like to walk a lot and are fine with tight schedules, you can visit the most essential attractions in three days.
Thus, you will have one more day to visit Kutna Hora, Cesky Krumlov, or Karlovy Vary.
On the other hand, if you want to stay three days or follow a more relaxed pace, you will find alternative options at the end of this guide.
Where to stay for 4 days in Prague?
Try to stay close to the Old Town, especially if you are visiting Prague for the first time since that is where most of the points of interest are located.
We chose the Botanique Hotel Prague for our stay, which was an excellent value-for-money choice.
Clean, with a rich breakfast and comfortable rooms.
In addition, in less than 20 minutes on foot, we were in the center of the Old Town Square.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more affordable option, then make sure to check out the Hostel One Old Town.
It is in a great location, with friendly staff and many good reviews from its guests.
Finally, if you want to enjoy an unforgettable stay, The Grand Mark Prague remains one of the best hotels in the city.
Spotlessly clean, with a unique view of the Old Town and an excellent breakfast.
How do you get to Prague?
You will find a direct train connection daily if you come from a nearby city, such as Vienna, Berlin, or Krakow.
Otherwise, if you are coming from further away, like us from Athens, the most convenient way to get to Prague is by plane.
The city’s only civil airport is Václav Havel, which connects to almost all major international destinations.
From there, you can go to the city center using the 119 bus and change to Metro Line A.
Bus stops are located directly in front of terminals.
Unfortunately, there is no train connection from the airport to the city.
Alternatively, you can take an Uber or a pre-booked taxi.
The service we used on our trip was Welcome Pickups.
A driver waited for us outside the arrivals hall, holding a small sign with our name.
From there, he drove us to the vehicle in the airport parking lot and took us directly to our hotel, saving us a lot of time.
In addition, we knew in advance how much we would pay as the rate was flat.
4 Days in Prague: Day 1
The recommended route for your first day
1. The State Opera
Why: Your walk begins next to Wenceslas Square, the city’s modern center.
The first building you will admire is the State Opera, which stands out for its exterior architecture.
However, the interior is just as impressive.
If you love opera or want a unique experience during your trip, consider watching a performance here.
2. National Museum
Why: Two blocks down, you’ll find the National Museum’s Historical Building.
Its facility alone is a reason to visit.
In 1962, it was declared a national cultural monument, and in 2019, it was connected by an underground bridge to the adjacent New Building.
Beyond its architecture, the exhibits are equally fascinating.
You can easily spend 1-2 hours exploring natural science and geology exhibitions.
3. Statue of Saint Wenceslas
Why: Upon exiting the National Museum, Wenceslas Square will be right in front of you.
At its top stands the statue of the king, who later became a saint, from whom the square takes its name.
This is Saint Wenceslas, who ruled between 921 and 935 AD.
Take note of his name; he is a popular saint in the Czech Republic, and you will hear more about him during your 4 days in Prague.
4. Wenceslas Square
Why: As you stroll through Wenceslas Square, you will notice numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Filled with tourists and locals, it can keep you busy for hours.
Built in the 14th century, it remains the location for important celebrations, demonstrations, and other public events.
5. Lucerna Passage
Why: Just before the end of the square, turn left and enter Lucerna Passage to admire a beautiful Art Nouveau building, just a few meters from the busy street.
Its main attraction is the statue created by artist David Černý, hanging from the roof of the building.
Although Černý has not stated what it symbolizes, it is assumed to mock the Statue of Saint Wenceslas.
6. Franz Kafka – Rotating Head
Why: Your next stop is the rotating sculpture of Franz Kafka, another creation by David Černý.
Before you reach it, make sure to pass through the charming, albeit small, Franciscan Gardens.
Once you arrive at the sculpture, you might need to wait to see it rotate: the rotation begins at the start of each hour and lasts approximately 15 minutes.
Fun fact: first, observe it with the naked eye and then snap a photo as it turns.
Compare the image with reality and determine which of the two looks better.
7. The Estates Theatre
Why: The Estates Theater is another unique building in Prague, one of many the city holds.
If you’ve seen the 1984 movie Amadeus, which won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, you’ll immediately recognize it, as most of the opera scenes were filmed here.
More significantly, there is a strong connection between the theater and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
His renowned opera, Don Giovanni, had its world premiere here in 1787.
8. The Powder Tower
Why: Before entering the Old Town Square, make sure to stop first at the Powder Tower.
It is a Gothic structure that began to be built in the 15th century AD. and separates the New Town from the Old Town.
If you want, you can climb to the top and admire a panoramic view of the city.
However, I do not recommend it; you will find better places to do so during your second of the 4 days in Prague.
9. Old Town Square
Why: Old Town Square, along with Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, is one of Prague’s most important sites.
Full of people whenever you visit, it is surrounded by landmarks such as Prague’s Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn.
I suggest finding a nearby cafe, sitting down, and enjoying the view and the people passing by.
Other spots worth noticing include the National Gallery of Prague, the Jan Hus monument, and St. Nicholas’ Church.
10. Prague Astronomical Clock
Why: In front of the Prague Astronomical Clock, you can’t miss the tourists gathered, taking pictures and videos.
The reason is that the two glass windows at the top open every hour on the hour, and the apostles pass by as if in a child’s game.
Honestly, it might not be the most impressive thing you’ve ever seen.
However, you’re on vacation, so why not enjoy the minor details?
Just watch your belongings, as the spot seems perfect for pickpockets.
11. Church of Our Lady before Týn
Why: Unlike many famous churches you may have visited, much of the exterior of the Church of Our Lady before Týn is not visible!
Other buildings stand in front of it, obscuring most of its facade.
However, its towers still stand out, as they are 80 meters (262 feet) high.
To get inside, you must cross a small passage in front of it. But it is worth it, as it is an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
Take a few moments to admire the furnishings, most of which date back to the 14th century.
12. Charles Bridge
Why: If I had to choose my favorite spot in Prague, it would be Charles Bridge without a second thought.
It offers a unique view of most parts of the city and is filled with people, street artists, and works of art.
While crossing it, you will make multiple stops to photograph Prague Castle, the Old Town, and many more landmarks.
In fact, it is worth crossing both during the day and at night, which is why you will return tomorrow evening, during the second of your 4 days in Prague.
As for today, on your way there from Old Town Square, remember to also stop by Klementinum and Old Town Bridge Tower.
13. Traditional Czech food
Why: A trip to Prague without trying Czech cuisine is unthinkable.
So after returning from Charles Bridge, we stopped at Kozlovna Apropos and tried Svíčková (beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce) and Bohemian goulash (beef, onions, paprika, caraway seeds, and beer).
The food was tasty, the service was fast, and the prices were affordable.
14. Letna Park
Why: Before heading to your final destination for the day, Letna Park, make sure to pass by the Rudolfinum concert hall and the Spanish Synagogue first.
Then, as you cross the Čech Bridge, you will find yourself at the foot of Letná Hill.
After climbing the steps, you’ll reach Letna Park, where you can enjoy a unique view of the entire city and the Vltava River.
Get your camera ready; this spot is ideal for capturing some fantastic photos.
4 Days in Prague: Day 2
The recommended route for your second day
15. Prague Castle
Why: The second of your 4 days in Prague begins with Prague Castle.
Founded in the 9th century AD, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompassing churches, palaces, towers, and other buildings.
In other words, it is not a single building but a complex, covering a total area of 70,000 sq.m.
Given its importance and the number of visitors it attracts, we chose this guided tour to explore it.
I recommend it to you as well, as the local guide helped us, among other things, to understand the area’s history in depth, appreciate the different architectural styles of the buildings, and note all the essential parts of the castle.
Moreover, the guide helped us save time by avoiding queues and crowded places.
At the same time, he also provided more general information about the Czech Republic, ranging from ice hockey to the Velvet Revolution.
It was definitely worth the money!
16. St. Vitus Cathedral
Why: Bearing in mind that it is worth spending about half a day at Prague Castle, one of the places you should not miss is St. Vitus Cathedral.
Uniquely beautiful both externally and internally, it is the most important church in the country.
Besides Saints Vitus, the temple is dedicated to St. Wenceslas (do you remember him from yesterday?) and to Adalbert of Prague.
The most beautiful part of the cathedral is probably the Chapel of St. Wenceslas, which also houses the relics of the Saint.
Additionally, here you can find the entrance to the Crown Chamber, which contains the famous Czech crown jewels.
However, unlike the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, unfortunately, you cannot visit them.
They are displayed to the public only once every eight years, and the queues are enormous.
17. Great South Tower
Why: Although it is part of St. Vitus Cathedral, I chose to make a special mention of the Great South Tower, as it is not to be missed.
You’ll need to buy a separate ticket to get to the top, but the view you’ll enjoy from here over Prague is unique – perhaps the best you’ll find on your trip.
A relatively good physical condition is required to reach the top, as you must climb about 280 steps.
However, don’t hesitate to give it a try.
My 63-year-old mother was with us and managed it relatively easily in less than 7 minutes.
18. St. George’s Basilica
Why: One of the most impressive characteristics of St. George’s Basilica is its towers.
As our tour guide explained, most visitors to the castle think they are newer than those in St. Vitus Cathedral.
But in reality, they are about two centuries older, and the confusion is due to the material from which they were built.
On the other hand, the temple’s interior is relatively modest and houses the tombs of many influential personalities.
The most famous of them is Ludmila of Bohemia, grandmother of St. Wenceslas.
19. The Golden Lane
Why: The last must-see attraction at Prague Castle is The Golden Lane.
It is a narrow street that features tiny homes built in the 16th century to house the guards of the Castle.
Later, they accommodated other residents, the most famous of whom was the novelist Franz Kafka.
Today, most houses are used either to showcase what life was like in the castle over the centuries or as tourist shops.
20. Mala Strana
Why: Having completed your tour of the Castle, it’s time to explore the Mala Strana neighborhood.
The name literally means “Little Side,” but the district is also known as Lesser Town.
It is full of gorgeous buildings, restaurants, and bars, and it is worth strolling through its streets as much as possible.
Start by walking along Karmelitska Street, stopping at The Vrtba Garden and the Church of Our Lady Victorious, and then continue to Ujezd Street.
21. More traditional Czech food
Why: On one of the perpendicular streets off Ujezd Street, Plaska Street, you will find Craft Beer Spot Prague.
This bar is frequented mainly by locals, serving delicious food and a wide variety of Czech beers.
We ordered two tasting samples with 10 beers, singling out the Biftek and Signature Ribs from the food.
If you like ribs, make sure you add them to your order.
They simmer them for at least three hours and caramelize them, resulting in a wonderful taste.
22. Strelecky Island
Why: With your stomach full, continue to Strelecky Island, connected to Mala Strana via the Legion Bridge.
Significantly less touristy than the rest of Prague, you will enjoy a unique view of the city and Charles Bridge from here.
It is an ideal location to relax and enjoy the sunset.
23. Mala Strana part 2
Why: Returning from Strelecky Island, it’s time to continue exploring Mala Strana.
The famous Café Savoy is just around the corner if you have a sweet tooth.
The truth is, though, that its interior decoration is more impressive than its sweets.
Afterward, continue your walk by the river, passing Museum Kampa and Werichova Villa, and heading to the Lesser Town Bridge Tower.
24. Charles Bridge
Why: The second of your 4 days in Prague ends with an evening walk on Charles Bridge.
The view of the illuminated city and Prague Castle from here is simply magnificent.
Before returning to your hotel, don’t forget to try the Trdelnik, the Czech version of the spit cake.
This dessert is quite famous, and countless shops near the bridge serve it.
4 Days in Prague: Day 3
The recommended route for your third day
On the third day of your 4 days in Prague, you are set to visit less touristy places.
Keep in mind that the distances between points of interest are longer than in previous days.
If you can’t handle too much walking, consider using public transport.
Nonetheless, exploring the city this way is absolutely doable and highly enjoyable.
25. Vyšehrad
Why: Today’s first stop is Vyšehrad, a stunning 10th-century medieval castle that may not be as famous as Prague Castle but is no less impressive.
Its gardens are among its most beautiful parts, so take your time strolling through them.
Also, make sure to climb the walls next to the river and enjoy a unique view of the city.
We spent a little less than half a day here, sipping coffee in one of its cafes while watching the snowfall, which was an unforgettable experience.
26. Vyšehrad Cemetery
Why: While a cemetery might not be a typical tourist destination, Vyšehrad Cemetery is worth mentioning as it serves as the resting place for many renowned Czech artists, scientists, and politicians.
Take a short walk along its paths and admire the surrounding works of art, with the Slavín tomb being the most impressive.
27. Saints Peter and Paul Basilica
Why: Adjacent to Vyšehrad Cemetery is the neo-Gothic Saints Peter and Paul Basilica.
Constructed in the 11th century AD, it was rebuilt after a fire in 1249.
Even though you’ve already visited several churches on your 4 days in Prague, this one is worth entering as it boasts equally beautiful interiors and exteriors.
28. Dancing House
Why: As you leave Vyšehrad and head towards the Old Town, you will encounter the Dancing House along the way.
Most people visit it mainly to take funny pictures in front of it, so we decided to join the fun.
If you want to explore further, there is a rooftop restaurant offering a fantastic city view.
29. Riegrovy sady
Why: Located about 40 minutes on foot from Dancing House, Riegrovy Sady is a park filled with green spaces, playgrounds, and happy dog owners.
You will also see many locals running or cycling, parents walking with their children, and people enjoying their beer atop the hill.
This spot offers some of the best panoramic views of Prague Castle and the Old Town.
30. Žižkov Television Tower
Why: Standing 216 meters tall, the Žižkov Television Tower is visible from almost everywhere in the city.
However, when you see it up close, you will notice its architecture starkly contrasts with the styles you have encountered in Prague so far.
It personally reminded me of something from a rocket, as steel and cement dominate the structure.
On the other hand, the “Babies” statues both around and on top of the tower are worth mentioning.
Their creator is David Černý, the same artist responsible for the works in Lucerna Passage and Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head.
31. National Memorial on Vítkov Hill
Why: The day concludes with a visit to the National Memorial on Vítkov Hill.
Constructed between 1928 and 1938, it was established to commemorate the Czechoslovak Legions and their fight for independence during World War I.
Today, the premises host the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and permanent exhibitions focusing on Czechoslovakian history.
4 Days in Prague: Day 4
Your options for your fourth day
At this point, you have managed to get an excellent first taste of Prague.
If you’re fortunate enough to have an extra day at your disposal, I suggest you take advantage of it with a day trip.
The most popular nearby destinations are:
- Kutná Hora
- Český Krumlov
- Karlovy Vary
Each of these destinations is unique and worth visiting.
Kutná Hora is primarily famous for its Gothic architecture and the Sedlec Ossuary, a church adorned with human bones.
In contrast, Český Krumlov is more charming and looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. The river running through it adds a special character, while the castle is simply stunning.
Finally, Karlovy Vary is a spa town known for its thermal baths, beautiful architecture, and porcelain factories.
You can visit all three towns by:
1) Bus/train. This option is the most budget-friendly but also the most time-consuming. All three destinations can be reached by train or bus companies such as Flixbus.
2) Car. For greater comfort, consider renting a car. Kutná Hora is about an hour away, Karlovy Vary about an hour and a half, and Český Krumlov roughly two hours. If you choose this option, be sure to search online for the best prices on Rentalcars.com.
3) Guided tour. If you prefer to avoid driving and let someone else handle the logistics, a guided tour is the right choice. Here you can find my suggestions for Kutná Hora, Český Krumlov, and Karlovy Vary.
All three destinations make for ideal day trips from Prague.
Ultimately, the perfect choice for you depends on your interests and preferences.
However, if it were up to me, I would choose Český Krumlov.
Conclusion: what to add or skip
The above itinerary should be enough for you to have 4 unforgettable days in Prague and enjoy most of the major sights and landmarks.
Moreover, it allows you to take a day trip to visit one more destination, like Kutna Hora, Cesky Krumlov, or Karlovy Vary.
If you have fewer days, skip either Day 3 of the itinerary or the day trip.
I would exclude the day trip between the two options, as your schedule is already quite tight. A trip will probably tire you out even more.
Alternatively, if you think you can add a few more attractions to your days, don’t miss a visit to Petrin Hill on Day 2, right after Prague Castle.
You will find the Petrin Tower, the Štefánik Observatory, and the Observation Deck among its sights.
As for Day 3, after Riegrovy sady (point 29), head towards the Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord.
Both the church and the surrounding neighborhood are worth exploring before continuing to the Žižkov Television Tower (point 30).
Plan Your Trip
Stay: Booking.com (best prices, great support)
Airport: Welcome Pickups (pre-booked, reliable airport transfers)
Drive: Rentalcars (compare prices, free cancellation)
Connect: Airalo eSIM (cheap data)
Do: GetYourGuide (unique tours & activities)
Fly: Skyscanner (find the cheapest flights)
Explore: GuruWalk (free walking tours worldwide)
Protect: SafetyWing (affordable travel insurance)
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