How to spend three days in Prague

Day one: Old Town and Jewish Quarter

Visit Prague’s historic heart in the morning

Begin in Prague's Old Town (Staré Město), arriving at the Old Town Square early to beat the crowds. Watch the famous Astronomical Clock's hourly show – considered one of the best free things to do in Prague – then climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views over the square's gothic and baroque churches.

The real charm lies in the early morning hours before 9am, when the square is peaceful and photographers capture the golden light on the Church of Our Lady before Týn. This 14th-century gothic church, with its distinctive twin 80m (262ft) spires topped by multiple smaller spires, dominates the square's eastern side, its dramatic silhouette a symbol of the city's skyline.

Discover the Jewish Quarter

Walk to Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, where six synagogues, the Jewish Ceremonial Hall and one of Europe's oldest Jewish cemeteries tell the story of the city's Jewish heritage.

Start at the Spanish Synagogue, renowned for its stunning Moorish-style interior, then visit Pinkas Synagogue – the country’s oldest, it also serves as a memorial to Holocaust victims.

The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its layered tombs and leaning headstones dating back to 1439, is particularly moving.

Spend your afternoon in the Old Town

After lunch at Sisters, famous for their traditional Czech open-faced sandwiches (chlebíčky), explore the backstreets of the Old Town.

Visit the House of the Black Madonna, home to the Museum of Czech Cubism (tickets CZK 150 / £5), then marvel at the Municipal House's art nouveau splendour. This architectural masterpiece houses the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and offers guided tours of its spectacular interiors for CZK 320 (around £10).

Round out your evening by the Vltava

Time your evening stroll across Charles Bridge for sunset, when the medieval bridge's statues cast long shadows and Prague Castle glows in the fading light.

Dine at Lokál, renowned for perfectly poured Pilsner Urquell beer and authentic Czech dishes like svíčková (marinated sirloin in cream sauce). Cap the night at Hemingway Bar, where expert mixologists craft some of Prague's finest cocktails.

Day two: Castle District and Malá Strana

Wander the Castle Complex in the morning

Start your day early at Prague Castle, the world's largest castle complex. Pre-book tickets (CZK 450 / £15) for the long tour circuit, which includes St Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St George's Basilica and Golden Lane.

The cathedral's soaring gothic vaults and stained glass windows are particularly impressive in morning light. Hang around until noon for the changing of the guard ceremony.

Discover Lesser Town gems in the afternoon

Descend into Malá Strana (Lesser Town) through picturesque Nerudova Street, where medieval houses are marked by 'house signs' – painted emblems or sculptures that served as addresses before house numbers were introduced. Visit the Church of St Nicholas, a masterpiece of baroque architecture featuring one of Europe's largest frescoes.

Next, explore the peaceful Wallenstein Palace Gardens, with its bronze statues and elaborate sala terrena, then wander to Kampa Island. This peaceful enclave houses the Kampa Museum of modern art (tickets CZK 350 / £6) and offers lovely riverside views. Look for David Černý's giant crawling babies – one of Prague's quirkiest art installations.

Taste local flavours in the evening

Start your evening at Letná Beer Garden, sipping a Czech beer with panoramic views of Prague’s bridges at sunset.

For dinner, head to U Modré Kachničky, a cosy restaurant serving traditional Czech dishes like roasted duck and goulash. Vintage furniture, dark wood flooring and framed art and decorative plates hung on eggshell blue walls create a cosy old-Europe atmosphere.

End your night across town at Cross Club in Holešovice, a one-of-a-kind venue known for its steampunk art and industrial vibe. There’s music, affordable pizza and drinks spread across its multi-level spaces.

Day three: Modern Prague and hidden gems

Check out markets and museums

After a busy night, take it easy west of the river at DOX Centre for Contemporary Art in Holešovice, where you can immerse yourself in Prague's current art scene (tickets are CZK 280 / £9).

Then, hotfoot it south to Manifesto Market in Anděl, a covered food market that’s home to Prague's more modern foodie scene – think poke bowls and sourdough pizza.

While in the neighbourhood check out the Dancing House, a wacky architectural landmark like something from a children’s cartoon that appears to twist and sway like dancers mid-motion.

Experience the best of local life

Explore nearby Vinohrady's art nouveau apartments and café culture. If you’re visiting between Wednesday and Saturday, stop at Jiřího z Poděbrad Square for its farmers' market before continuing to gritty-but-cool Žižkov.

It’s dominated by the space-age TV Tower, which houses a luxurious one-room hotel suite that you can book (well in advance) for an unforgettable overnight stay. For a unique perspective, visit its observation deck or have a drink in its café.

End the night with cocktails and views

Finish up your Prague itinerary either by heading west, back across the river to squeeze in a final beer at Strahov Monastery Brewery, or for a posher send off, stay in the area and book a table at Field for a Michelin-starred interpretation of Czech cuisine.

End your three days in Prague with a stroll along the banks of the Vltava to Cloud 9 rooftop bar for views and cocktails overlooking the illuminated city.

Top tips for three days in Prague

• With only three days, you may want to purchase a 72-hour public transport pass for quick and easy city exploration.
• Avoid the queues by booking tickets online to attractions like Prague Castle.
• If you’re visiting Prague on a budget, consider timing your trip with the first Sunday of the month, when many museums offer free entry.
• Keep some Czech koruna (CZK) to hand for smaller establishments as some places may not accept card payments.