15 Best Places to Visit in Prague for Three Days

If asked about my favorite city in Europe, I would not hesitate to say it’s Prague. For me, Prague is a city with so much to explore, a charmingly ancient atmosphere, an incredibly romantic vibe, amazing food, all at a very affordable price. I’ve visited Prague three times and am ready to go many more times! Below are essential tips for traveling in Prague and the best places to visit in Prague for 3 days based on my experience.

Prague Travel Tips

Prague is a large city located at the heart of Europe, earning it the nickname “the heart of Europe.” With over 7 million tourists visiting each year, Prague is always bustling and crowded. To have a wonderful experience in the capital of the Czech Republic, make sure to keep the following travel tips in mind.

Best Time of Year to Visit Prague

I’ve visited Prague once in the winter during Christmas, once in early spring, and once in the summer. Each season in Prague is beautiful and charming, with differences in weather, scenery, and festivals.

Prague in Winter is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 5°C. Snow typically falls in January and February, creating breathtakingly beautiful snowy landscapes, especially at Prague Castle and Old Town Square. From late November to the end of December, the city is decorated by twinkling lights and massive Christmas trees to celebrate the holiday season. The Christmas market in Old Town Square is an activity you can’t miss if you visit Prague during this time. However, winter skies are often overcast; if you need vibrant blue skies for landscape photos, this might not be the best time for you.

Prague in Spring, Summer, and Fall offers more pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 30°C. There are more sunny days during these seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. However, summer in Prague can sometimes be quite hot, with occasional rain showers. Due to the large number of tourists and temperatures that can exceed 30°C, exploring Prague during this season might be more exhausting. I experienced the July heat in Prague, and my advice is to bring plenty of water and apply sunscreen.

What to Eat and Drink in Prague

Prague is a culinary paradise in my heart! Everything from main courses to desserts and beer is incredibly delicious. I’m particularly fond of Czech open-faced sandwiches (Chlebíčky) with pickles, cold cuts, boiled eggs, and various delectable sauces, the unique bread dumplings, and the excellent dark beers. Here are a few of my favorite spots in Prague, all offering very affordable prices, and places I’ve revisited every time I’m in the city:

• Naše maso: This tiny butcher shop has a few seats for customers to enjoy their meals on-site. It’s always busy, so be prepared to wait in line. My favorite dishes here are the beef tartar and beef steak—the quality of the meat and the preparation are outstanding.

• Lokál: A chain of Czech restaurants serving traditional Czech dishes and fresh beer. There are about six Lokál restaurants around Prague, so you can easily find one near you. I’ve tried three of the six locations, and I’ve always been satisfied. The prices are very reasonable.

• Jizerske Pekarny: A bakery offering a wide variety of tempting Czech pastries. It’s inexpensive and conveniently located right in Old Town Square. Be sure to try the Czech open-faced sandwiches. Other pastries are also delicious.

• Kolacherie: A small café in the Old Town. I visit this place for the Czech poppy seed torte. However, the café is quite small, so you might need to get your order to go.

• For Vietnamese food lovers: Being Vietnamese myself, and with Prague having a large Vietnamese community, I’ve tried several Vietnamese restaurants in the city. Năm – Viet Kitchen left the best impression on me, with its authentic Vietnamese decor and well-prepared dishes. Additionally, if you can, visit the Sapa Market on the outskirts of Prague. This is a Vietnamese market, a true Vietnamese culinary heaven right in the capital of the Czech Republic. When visiting Sapa Market, be sure to bring cash as some shops do not accept card payments.

Where is the Best Area to Stay in Prague?

The central areas are, of course, the most ideal places to stay during your trip. The main central districts are Old Town (Staré Město), Lesser Town (Malá Strana), New Town (Nové Město), and Josefov (Jewish Quarter). Staying in these areas gives you easy access to most of the city’s major attractions, making your experience much more convenient and enjoyable. 

However, accommodations further from the center are usually cheaper, though they can be a bit less convenient in terms of getting around. During my trip to Prague in 2018, I stayed at A&O Hostel in Prague 08, which was quite far from the center but very affordable and safe. 

Keep in mind that Prague is a large city, so when choosing your accommodation, be sure to check how easy it is to travel to the city center. This will let you make the most of your time exploring the beautiful Prague.

How to Get to Prague City Centre from the Airport

The main airport in Prague is Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), located to the west of the city. You have several options to get to the city center, including public transportation, the airport express bus, taxi, or car hire.

– Public Transportation: It’s fantastic that Prague’s public transportation connects directly to the airport without any extra charges beyond the regular public transportation ticket. It takes about an hour to travel from the city center to the airport using public transportation. The information provided by Google Maps is accurate for public transportation in Prague, so you can confidently follow the directions suggested by Google Maps.

– Airport Express Bus (AE line): You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket to use the Airport Express Bus to get to Prague. The ticket costs CZK 100 (approximately 4 EUR). The advantage of this option is that it saves you time compared to public transportation, with a travel time of about 40 minutes to the main train station.

– Taxi/Car Sharing/Car Hire: You can take a taxi or use car-sharing services from Prague Airport, with fares ranging from 600 to 800 CZK (23-32 EUR). Alternatively, you can rent a car directly from the airport, which can be convenient if you plan to travel around during your stay.

How Much is Public Transport in Prague?

Public transport in Prague is both affordable and efficient, covering buses, trams, and the metro. Here’s a breakdown of the ticket prices:

• Basic Ticket (90 minutes): 40 CZK (about 1.70 USD)
• Short-Term Ticket (30 minutes): 30 CZK (about 1.30 USD)
• 24-Hour Ticket: 120 CZK (about 5 USD)
• 72-Hour Ticket: 330 CZK (about 14 USD)

You can purchase basic and short-term tickets online or from ticket machines in trams, city buses, and metro stations. However, the 24-hour and 72-hour tickets are only available for purchase online and at metro stations + some surface transport stops. Remember to validate your ticket when you first enter the metro, tram, or bus, and keep the ticket with you carefully.

Is Prague Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The answer is yes. I traveled alone during my first visit to Prague, and everything went smoothly. The streets are clean and safe, and the locals are friendly and polite. However, like in any major city, pickpocketing can occur, particularly on the streets and in public transportation.

During my second visit to Prague with friends, I experienced an attempted pickpocketing on a tram. Fortunately, I noticed in time and didn’t lose anything. So, always wear your backpack or bag in front of you when you’re in crowded places or on buses, trams, or the metro. 

By staying alert and taking basic precautions, Prague is a safe and enjoyable destination for solo female travelers.

How Many Days in Prague?

As I mentioned earlier, Prague is a large city with plenty of fascinating attractions waiting for tourists. One day is not enough to fully experience Prague—you should plan to stay for at least two days. If possible, spend 3-4 days in Prague to truly enjoy this beautiful city and to incorporate day trips to nearby destinations like Cesky Krumlov or Bohemian Switzerland National Park.

Below is my suggested itinerary with the best places to visit in Prague for three days.

Best Places to Visit in Prague for Three Days

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Prague

On your first day, immerse yourself in the historical and cultural treasures around Prague’s Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.

• Prague Old Town Square: This iconic square is often the first stop for many visitors. It’s the historical heart of Prague, surrounded by stunning architecture, vibrant cafes, and street performers. During Christmas, it transforms into a lively market where you can enjoy mulled wine, churros, and chimney cakes.

• Church of Our Lady before Týn: Located at Old Town Square, this Gothic church, with origins dating back to the 14th century, dominates the skyline. The church’s construction began around 1365 on the site of an old Romanesque church from the 11th century. The building was initially Gothic and continued to be enhanced over centuries with various architectural elements.

• Astronomical Clock and Old Town Hall Tower: Witness the hourly show of this medieval marvel, one of the oldest and most famous of its kind in the world. It is mounted on the facade of the Old Town Hall Tower, also in Old Town Square. Built in 1410, its intricate mechanics are truly awe-inspiring. You can also go inside the Old Town Hall Tower, climb to the top to have an panorama view of Prague. The ticket is 300 CZK (13 USD).

• Charles Bridge (Karlův most): This iconic bridge, built in the 14th century and completed in the early 15th century, is one of Prague’s most recognizable landmarks. The bridge connects both sides of the city across the Vltava River and is adorned with 30 statues and groups of statues, mostly with religious significance, added in the 17th and 18th centuries. Don’t forget to pet the dog statue on the bridge!

• Prague’s Narrowest Alley, Čůrající postavy (Urinating Sculptures), Lesser Town Bridge Tower: These interesting spots near Charles Bridge are worth a quick visit and add to the charm of your exploration.

• Sunset at Charles Bridge: End your day by watching the sunset over Charles Bridge. One of the most beautiful views can be seen from Park Cihelná, where the vibrant colors of the sunset reflect on the bridge and the swans swim peacefully on the Vltava River.

Day 2: Castles Complex and Parks

On your second day, explore the grand Prague Castle area and relax in one of the city’s beautiful parks.

• Prague Castle Area: Spend the day exploring the largest ancient castle complex in the world, which includes palaces, churches, and gardens. This is a large complex, so prepare to spend a significant amount of time here.

• St. Vitus Cathedral: The catheral locates within the castle grounds, with Gothic architecture. In my opinion, it’s the most impressive building of the Prague Castle Complex. St. Vitus Cathedral is the final resting place of many Bohemian kings. 
• Letná Park: After exploring the castle, take a break at Letná Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Prague. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Day 3: Modern Prague and Panoramic Views

On your third day, explore modern architectural wonders and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

• National Museum: Start your day at the National Museum, the largest and most important museum in the Czech Republic, located at the end of Wenceslas Square. The museum has an extensive collection of natural history, archaeology, anthropology, and cultural history. The main building, a neoclassical masterpiece, was recently restored and reopened in 2018. I spent an entire morning here, as the museum is vast and truly impressive.

• Dancing House (Tančící dům): Admire the unique modern architecture of this building, symbolizing the yin and yang with its dynamic design. You can enjoy a coffee at the rooftop café while taking in the views of Prague from above.

• Vyšehrad: This historic complex and ancient castle sits atop a hill overlooking the Vltava River. Vyšehrad was built around the 10th century, and during the Middle Ages, it served as the residence of Bohemian kings before they moved to Prague Castle. According to legend, Vyšehrad is the birthplace of Prague. While here, visit the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Vyšehrad Cemetery (final resting place of many notable Czech figures, including composer Antonín Dvořák), and stroll along the paths offering panoramic views of the city.

• Petrin Tower: Finish your day at the Petrin Tower, an observation tower located on Petrin Hill, one of the highest points in the city. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Prague. You can climb up the hill or ride funicular to Petřín.

Day Trips from Prague

If you have more than three days in Prague or are looking for day trips, consider the following options:

Český Krumlov Day Trip from Prague

Český Krumlov is one of the most picturesque towns in the Czech Republic, located about 170 km (approximately 2.5 hours) south of Prague. As a UNESCO Heritage Site, it’s known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, red-roofed houses, and winding cobblestone streets.

The most convenient way to get there is by bus, which takes about 2.5-3 hours each way, or by renting a car, which takes about 2.5 hours. Although it’s quite far, the travel time is manageable if you start early in the morning. A day trip can last about 10-12 hours, giving you 5-7 hours to explore Český Krumlov Castle and the Old Town.

Bohemian Switzerland Day Trip from Prague

Bohemian Switzerland National Park, located about 130 km (around 2 hours) north of Prague, is known for its dramatic sandstone formations, lush forests, and breathtaking views. The park is part of the larger Elbe Sandstone Mountains and extends into Germany (Saxon Switzerland National Park).

Although it’s only 130 km from Prague, public transportation to the national park is not very convenient and can take over 5 hours each way. Therefore, the most feasible way to visit Bohemian Switzerland as a day trip is by car, taking less than 2 hours each way. Once there, you can hike to Pravčická Brána (the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe) and the Gorges of the Kamenice River in about 2-3 hours. The scenery is stunning, although recent wildfires have left noticeable scars along the hiking trails.