24 Hours in Prague
If you ever wanted to find yourself in a Gothic fairytale, then Prague is the choice for you! Centuries-old tradition, beautiful architecture and a vibrant culture life create a perfect destination for everyone who calls himself a real traveler! Prague successfully combines the best of modern world with its antique customs and buildings. We seriously doubt that people visit this spectacular Czech capital for just a day, but just in case we have prepared for you a 24-hour guide of Prague!
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08:00 – When you’re in Prague for just 24 hours, you want to seize the day. The best way to familiarise yourself with Prague’s hustle and bustle is by going to one of the most popular areas, Staroměstské Náměsti. Apart from seeing the fantastic Astronomical Clock (an oldest working clock of its kind in the world), take your time to enjoy the morning and have breakfast at this magnificent square. We recommend you Den noc, Home Kitchen, Bohemica, Cafe Savoy, Cafe Ebel Řetězová and I Need Coffee.
09:00 – Only a short walk away from the Old Town Square you’ll find the majestic Charles Bridge, the city’s number one attraction. Stroll along the 30 statues dating back to the 14th century and admire the view across the Vltava River and Old Town. Don’t forget to touch the status of the martyr St. John of Nepomuk, as legend says it will bring you good luck. It cannot hurt, right?
09:30 – Right after you pass the bridge, follow the road to the Prague Castle, the largest existing complex of its kind in the world, spreading over an area of 70 000m². This UNESCO monument was founded in 880 and today consists of a large composition of palaces and buildings of various architectural styles from different periods. You can wander for hours around the courtyards, palaces and museums, and there’s much more of Prague left to see, make sure to stop by the castle’s highlights, among which are St. Vitus Cathedral which dominates the area, the picturesque Golden Lane, the Gothic Royal Palace and so much more. Check the entrance fees.
12:30 – Let’s have some lunch! After all this walking, the best place for a break is to have lunch directly in the castle complex or somewhere nearby, so make sure to check out Lo Veg, the newly opened rustic vegan bistro restaurant situated right in the heart of Prague Castle, Villa Richter on the southern slope of the complex overlooking the St. Wenceslas Vineyards, Kavárna Nový Svět perfect to enjoy Prague’s Old Town away from the crowds or U Černého Vola which serves some of the best dark beer in the city.
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13:30 – Before you go back to the other side of Vltava, make sure to stop by at a site dedicated to one of the best Czech writers of all time. Franz Kafka Museum offers an insight into the world of one the most important figures of the 20th century displaying first editions of his works, diaries, manuscripts, drawings, photographs and personal belongings that have never been showed to the public before. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 and the entrance fee is 200 CZK.
15:00 – Last stop here is Lennon Wall, dedicated to John Lennon who, for many Czechs, became a symbol of peace after his tragic death in 1980. Despite their efforts, the police never managed to keep the wall clean for long time and the site turned into a political spot for Prague youth. However, none of the original messages and graffiti remained, but the wall still remains a symbol against oppression and freedom of speech, and today is covered with messages in the spirit of love, freedom and peace. After taking a photo, have another typical Czech experience and try some fantastic beer in John Lennon Pub, located nearby.
16:00 – Cross the Charles Bridge again and head to the Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov. The area dates back to the 13th century when Jews were ordered to leave their homes and settle in this part of Prague. They were banned from all other places in the city and, to add to their misery and bad position, many buildings of Josefov were destroyed in the late 19th century during the city’s reconstruction. However, the 6 synagogues preserved are definitely worth a visit. While there (if you have extra time), check out the Jewish Museum as well, the admission fee is 300 CZK and it is open until 18:00.
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18:00 – Your Prague experience would not be complete without taking a cruise on Vltava River. This is a unique opportunity to see the city from a totally different perspective. There are boats offering cruise along the river, so make sure to grab a spot for yourselves and admire the Prague Castle, the Straka Academy, the Kramer Villa, National Theater and many other sites while drinking wine and dining on a boat. The price is 750 CZK (30€) per person and includes a welcome drink and a buffet..
19:00 – We doubt your stomach can’t fit a bit more of delicious Prague cuisine, so hop off the boat and head to some of the best restaurants in the city center, among which are U Parlamentu, Cafe U Tyna, U Golema, Michal, U Malvaze and try some of the widely famous marinated sirloin (Svíčková na smetaně), roasted pork (Vepřo knedlo zelo), baked mincemeat (Sekaná pečeně), garlic soup (Česnečka), goulash (Guláš) or beef on tomato soup (Rajská omáčka). A great tip for you: ask locals on the street where to go and what to try, you won’t regret it.
20:30 – Now head to one of the favourite meeting points among the locals, the Letna park. It takes a short tram or metro ride to get there, but it is definitely worth it. This extensive park offers one of the best views of Prague Old Town. Letna Beer Garden offers both greasy sausages and a big variety of beer, as well as hundreds of tables and benches ideal to set your evening vibe. The place opens with the beginning of sunny days in the spring and stays open until the colder season comes. There are many festivals and live performances during summer in the garden, so if you’re lucky enough, you might enjoy one of them. Buy a trdelnik at one of the local stands, few beers and breathe in the fresh air.
22:00 – When the sun goes waaay down, the crazy night can begin! Prague nightlife is alive and vibrant, containing influences of many generations, so there’s something for everybody, from traditional beer halls to crazy nightclubs. If you’re up for a more relaxing atmosphere, visit Groove Bar, Tretter’s, Mono Fono, Hemingway Bar, Cafe 80s, M1 Lounge or Bugsy, all perfect for a few drinks and small talk with your friends. On the other hand, if you want to dance the night away, we recommend you Roxy, Duplex, Karlovy Lazne, Cross Club, MeetFactory Music, Mecca or Le Clan known for awesome parties until dawn. Whatever you choose, it will be a perfect ending to this magical 24 hours in one of the world’s most unique cities.
