Prague is an enchanting city with a fabulous history, Czech culture and social scene. Look no further than this perfect itinerary for 2 days in Prague to see the highlights of the “City of a Hundred Spires”.
Table of Contents
DAY ONE | 2 DAYS IN PRAGUE ITINERARY
Free Walking Tour of Prague Old Town
On short 2 days in Prague, starting with a walking tour is a great way to go to give you a good feel of the city, get inspired with the Czech history and see if there is any highlights you’d like to see in more detail for the rest of the trip.
Old Town Square Prague
Prague’s Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí in Czech) is the heart of the city that has seen many historical events dating back to the 10th century but now is awash with tourists looking to learn about days gone by. With a unique mix of architecture, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in different cities as you spin round and examine the different influences.
Jan Hus Memorial
Located in the centre of Prague’s Old Town Square is the Jan Hus Monument which celebrates the 14th century Hussite reformer, Jan Hus. He criticised the corruption of the Catholic Church, named a heretic and burned at the stake in 1415. His sermons later became the basis of reform across many parts of Europe and the symbolic monument was completed on the 500th anniversary of Jan Hus’ death.
Prague Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock
Established in 1338 as the administrative seat for Prague’s Old Town, it is now used for ceremonies. Consisting of of five medieval houses decorated with astronomical clock, a gothic bay window and a large rectangular tower with tremendous views over Prague.
I won’t lie, I was mesmerised by the capabilities of the Prague Astronomical Clock, or Prague Orloj! The medieval mechanical gem was installed in 1410 and is thought to be the third oldest in the world and the oldest one that still working to this day.
The Astronomical dial show the position of the sun and moon, the calendar with medallions represnt the months of the year and the ‘Walk of the Apostles’ happens every hour, on the hour from 9am-9pm where the 12 Apostles and other fiugures move including the skeleton of Death making the final gong. Crowds gather in preparation to get a good view of the show.
What else to look out for Prague’s Old Town Square
- The Prague Meridien is a brass strip set amongst the cobbled stones that worked in conjunction with Marian column to cast a shadow to show high noon. This was in place from 1652 – 1918 when the column was taken down in a demonstration.
- The House at the Minute, where Franz Kafka lived at the end of the 19th century, is a typical example of Czech Renaissance townhouse architecture with sgraffito facade depicting biblical and mythological scenes.
- Kinský Palace is a Rococo building, formerly a palace to the Kinský family until 1945 and now an National Gallery Prague.
- House of the Stone Bell was built in 14 century and located next to Kinský Palace. This Gothic building was hidden behind a Baroque facade for many years and has now been reconstructed to its’ former glory. The building now shows exhibitions for Prague City Gallery.
- Štorch House (At the Stone Virgin Mary) was built in 1897. A fine example of Neo-Renaissance architecture with its murals of Saint Wenceslas painted by L. Novak.
- Týn Church (Church of Our Lady before Týn) is a 14th century Gothic church with beautiful unsymmetrical towers 80m high that make this a prominent landmark in Prague.
- St. Nicholas Church is an impressive Baroque church which i visited again on my 2 days in Prague.
Other points of interest on Walking Tour of Prague Old Town
- House of Golden Melon is a a cultural heritage monument built in the Gothic era but renovated in the 19th century in Renaissance style and is now used as an event space.
- Stumbling Stones can be founbd across the city and areound the world outside the last residence of Jews incarcerated in concentration camps. Stumbling Stones are an art project by German artist, Günter Demnig.
- Jewish Quarter is a formerly a walled ghetto with religious sites and museums depicting the plight of the Jews. The area, known as Josefov, is compact and well-preserved.
Explore the history of Prague Castle
Hop on the Prague tram to transport you up the hill to see the world’s largest medieval castle. The tram in itself is quite prolific line with the first electric tram running in 1891 but the horsecar tram was the starting point in 1875!
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) dates back to the 9th Century and is the work of a multitude of architects over the years, their style and stamps are evident as you wander round. The complex is huge covering 45 hectares comprising of historical palaces, offices, church and fortification buildings, gardens and incredible city views.
History and art buffs could easily spend a day in there with many hidden treasures to keep your eyes peeled for. St. George’s Basilica is the oldest survivng church in the complex with striking stained-glass windows.
The Old Royal Palace is extensive complex of buildings, halls and corridors where Czech rulers stayed and is now used for important state events. Don’t miss the Last Judgement mosaic on the south facade of St. Vitus Cathedral, pretty spectacular.
Take a stroll down Golden Lane, full of quaint brightly coloured houses, it was so-called due to the many goldsmiths residing there. My tour of Prague Castle ended with panoramic views near the Black Tower and then I wandered through to the exit by Matthia Gate and caught the changing of the guards at 5pm!
Prague Castle Walking Tour
I decided last minute to take the Prague Castle free walking tour with Sandemans as the meeting point in Jan Palach Square in front of the Rudolfinum is the same spot as where the Prague Old Town tour ends. After being super impressed with the last one, it seemed like a no-brainer and a perfect way to catch the best parts in a quick 2 days in Prague.
Alternative Prague Castle Tours
- Prague Castle and Old Town After Dark
- Classical Concert at St George’s Basilica in Prague Castle
- Old Town & Prague Castle Tour in German
Dine at Strahov Monastery Brewery
If you exit Prague Cathedral towards Hradcany Square, you could head up the hill, take in the city incredible views across the river and wander on to Strahov Monastery Brewery, a 17th-century brewery restored & reopened as a craft brewery in 2000, with restaurant & courtyard. After a full day of listening intently to tour guides, I was ready to switch off and sample the Czech beers and local dishes.
Located on Strahovské nádvoří 301, Hradčany, 118 00 Praha 1 // Opening hours & events, Strahaov Monastrery website)
Stroll over Charles Bridge
You will find yourself walking across historic Charles Bridge many times on your wanderings around Prague, both day and night. The Gothic-style Charles Bridge began construction in 1357 and was completed in 15th Century. Until 1841, Charles Bridge was the only means of crossing the Vltava River making it a vital connection between Prague Castle and the Old Town, and is now considered a famous landmark in Europe.
The entrances to Charles Bridge are guarded by watchtowers. You can climb the 138 steps inside the towers for a bird’s-eye view over the River Vltava and Charles Bridge.
The balustrades of Charles Bridge is lined with 30 statues of Saints predominantly from Baroque period. All of the statues on the Charles Bridge are made of sandstone apart from of St. John Nepomuk. Many of the sandstone statues have turned black due to pollution and are being replaced with replicas.
Located in Praha 1 across Vltava River
DAY TWO | 2 DAYS IN PRAGUE ITINERARY
Time for breakfast at Cafe Louvre
Cafe Louvre dates back to 1902 and was frequented by Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein back in the day. All ‘bourgeois’ type places were considered decandent by the Communist regime and was closed down but fortunately, it reopened after the Velvet Revolution. You will find the doorway to Cafe Louvre next to the National Theatre, take the beautiful staircase up to the first floor to discover a bright, spacious Art Nouveau style cafe with large windows.
With the breakfast buffet pretty busy in the hostel, I wandered off to the infamous and much recommended Cafe Louvre to savour the traditional Czech breakfast which includes fresh pressed orange juice, ham from the bone, czech cheeses, boiled egg and creamy cheese. In true Czech style, you can order their ‘hangover breakfast’ which includes a lovely cold lager but without a hangover and a full day of exploring ahead, I know I made the right choice!
Located on Národní 22, Nové Město next to the National Theatre // Open 8am-11.30pm daily (Different hours on Sunday – check Cafe Louvre website)
Admire St. Nicholas Church in the Old Town
St. Nicholas (Kostel sv. Mikuláše) is a Baroque church with with an unusual history. As I entered, I was in awe of the sheer height of the interior spanning up with a grand chandelier as a centrepiece. The ceiling and walls are adorned with elaborate fresco paintings covering around 3,000 sq.m., take a pew and admire them in more detail.
A LITTLE HISTORY: St. Nicholas is a Baroque church with with an unusual history as was completed in 1735 replacing the original church which dates back to 1283. However, in 1781, emperor Josef II ordered the closure of all monasteries without a social function and the interior decoration was removed.
In 1870, St. Nicholas became Russian Orthodox and, thankfully, during in WWII, army units started restoring the church with the help of local artists. After the war, St. Nicholas was transferred to the Czech Hussite movement, and is now known as a Czechoslovak Hussite Church.
ENJOY A MUSIC CONCERT: On the way in to the St Nicholas Church, there is a board detailing their early evening classical music concerts. I did not have time but I hear the performances are quite something!
Located on Malostranské náměstí, Malá Strana // Opening hours & events, check St Nicholas Church website)
Hunt for crazy art and sculptures in Prague
As a big fan of unusual art, Prague is the perfect place to find it. Check out The Idiom in Prague Municipal Library, Hanging Man (Sigmund Freud) and the Head of Franz Kafka by David Cerny.
If you want to discover some of the crazy sculptures in Prague, I recommend you make a list of their locations before you go for you to see whilst you are self-guiding in your 2 days in Prague.
Visit the Jewish Quarter
After the brief overview on the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) on the Old Town Walking Tour, I felt this area is deserving a morning to explore in more detail.
Pinkas Synagogue
The Pinkas Synagogue was built in 1535 making it the second oldest synagogue in Prague. It is a memorial to the 77,297 Jewish victims of the Shoah from the Czech lands. The names painted onto the walls is a stark reminder of the horrific genocide in WWII.
On the first floor of Pinkas Synagogue, there is a permanent exhibition dedicated to children imprisoned and incarcerated at Terezin Ghetto. In secret, a Jewish Art Professor at the camp schooled the children helping them express their emotions through poems and drawings. Their work was hidden in a suitcase undiscovered by the Nazis and is displayed ay the Pinkas Synagogue. Quite an emotional exhibition.
Old Jewish Cemetery
Enter the Old Jewish Cemetary by the Pinkas Synagogue where 100,000 Jews are buried between 1439 to 1787. You may wonder why the cemetery is jam-packed with 12,000 tombstones in a small area and not particularly well-laid out? Prague Jews were not permitted to be buried outside the ghetto, and the Jewish faith does not allow moving the dead. For this reason, the deceased were buried on top of each other over the years creating about 12 layers, hence why the cemetery can be seen rising above the ground.
Old-New Synagogue
The building of the Old-New Synagogue was completed in 1270 making this the oldest building in the Jewish Town and one of Europe’s oldest synagogues that still in use today. The Gothic structure is simple in design with two naves in the interior. Legend has it that the remains of the Golem are to be found in the attic of this synagogue, this area area is restricted to visitors.
Maisel Synagogue
This Renaissance Synagogue was built in 1592 by Mordechai Maisel, mayor of the Jewish community. It was destroyed by the ghetto fire in 1689 and after several attempts to rebuild, it was finally replaced with the neo-Gothic version of the Maisel Synagogue in 1893-1905.
Maisel Synagogue is now a museum displaying artifacts, textiles, manuscripts, and books from the Bohemia and Moravia Jews between the 10th to the 18th centuries. It is laid out in chronological order so if this is of interest, give yourself enough time to read how their plight unfolded.
Spanish Synagogue
Dating from 1868, the Spanish Synagogue was the last house of prayer built in the Jewish Quarter. It is described as the most beautiful synagogue in Europe and you will see why when you enter. The eye-catching gold and detailed Moorish design with glowing stained glass are inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. Definitely worth a visit!
Nest to the Spanish Synagogue, have a look at the surreal statue of Franz Kafka by Sculptor Jaroslav Róna.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
- Jewish Quarter is located in Praha 1
- Open every day except Saturday and Jewish holidays: Summer 9am-6pm, Winter 9am-4.30pm
- Buy tickets for individual sites or a day ticket to cover all
See Little Venice and the Lennon Wall
Branching from the River Vltava, the canals of Little Venice are a delight to wander round with the Baroque houses and medieval mills. As you cross the bridges in this charming, lesser-known neighborhood, check out the love locks, one of the many citiues where the romantic gesture from couples are displayed. You can take cruise through the Devil’s Channel seeing the sights from the water’s perspective and hear more about the history.
Cross the Čertovka Water Wheel Bridge to find the John Lennon Wall. You can’t miss it with the collection of tourists but the bright display of graffiti with Beatles song lyrics is pretty cool. Following the murder of John Lennon in 1980, an image of the singer was painted onto the wall and ever since it has become a place for political marking through the revolution. Now the Lennon Wall is a symbol of love and peace where you are invited to contribute along with artists making this a forever changing piece of art.
Explore Kampa Park
Kampa Museum
This modern art gallery focuses on Central European but predominatly Czech artists. Located in the restored Sova Mills, there is an outdoor exhibition with unique sculptures which is free to wander round. The indoor exhibition with a large collection from František Kupka has an entry fee attached, the work is top class so I’d recommend it!
Giant Crawling Babies
Just outside the Kampa Museum are David Černý’s Giant Crawling Babies which seem to act as climbing frames for kids. The bronze sculptures look pretty strange but if you like controversial works of art, they’re definitely a must-see.
Yellow Penguins
Created by Cracking Art Group in collaboration with Kampa Museum, you can spot 34 yellow penguins which light up at night. Made from recycled materials, the message is about the issue of climate change and how wildlife’s habitats are being threatened.
Other points of interest in Kampa Park
- Werich Villa was once the home of Czech actor and writer Jan Werich who lived in this 17th-century mansion for 40 years until his death in 1980. After being severely flood-damaged in 2002, it is now renovated acting as an arts centre and holds regular exhibitions and performances.
- Lichtenstein Palace (Lichtenštejnský palác) belonged to the Princely Family of Liechtenstein and was the first large Baroque building in the city of Prague. The stunning location is the venue for concerts, ballets, and operas.
Rooftop beer in Prague is a must
You really are spoiled for choice with roof-top bars in Prague and my chosel one was T-Anker. You can reach the bar via the lift in the shopping mall Kotva. The terrace is ginormous, the biggest one in Prague, and luckily, got a table at the edge to make the most of the fabulous views of the Old Town and Prague Castle.
Whilst having a huge range of bottled beers from around the world, T-Anker suports microbreweries with some fine affordable Czech beers. You will pay a little more here I found than other places but that view is worth a few extra korunas!
Located nám. Republiky 656, 110 00 Staré Město // Opens 11am
Traditional Czech lunch at Mlejnice restaurant
With rave reviews, the Mlenjnice Restaurant seemed like the obvious choice to sample Pork Knuckle, a traditional Czech dish. You will find this rustic eaterie down a side street in the Old Town. The interior is authentically decorated with old farm machinery. Most importantly, the quality of the food was top notch and my mission to try the Pork Knuckle was a big success! If you are looking for a more vegan experience in Prague, there are loads of restaurants to choose from!
Located Kožná 488, Staré Město, Praha 1 // Open 11am-11.30pm
Watch the sunset from Rieger Park
Sunsets never get boring! Head to Rieger Park (Riegrovy sady) in the Vinohrady district for a stunning sunset behind Prague Castle. The park has many wooded areas, grassy meadows but the hill makes this perfect place to rest your weary feet and watch the magic happen as the sun sets behind Prague Castle.
The gardens in Rieger Park date back to 1904 and were mostly vineyards. There is a classical 1920’s lookout tower that has been renovated and is now a restaurant. Enjoy some of the Czech ale whilst you wait from the Riegrovy Sady Beer Garden, what’s not to like?
Located in Praha 2 // Beer garden opens daily noon-2am (April-October)
Nightcap at Illegal Beer Pivotéka
We didn’t go looking for the Pivotéka Illegal Beer, it is conveniently located across from our final resting place at DREAM Hostel Prague in Praha 1.
OK don’t get the wrong idea, this bar is definitely above board. The name derives from the Czech prohibition days and the simple decor certainly sets the scene. It’s a small establishment with 2 rooms, 1 with a bar and the other housing 6 tables. They serve top class IPA’s at super cheap prices and the friendly staff are more than happy to talk you through their craft beers to find one to suit your taste. We got sucked in and managed to try and few, it would be rude not to! When in Prague….
Located at Ve Smečkách, Nové Město // Open daily from 5pm
PRAGUE IN 2 DAYS | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Where to stay in Prague
The Old Town of Prague is most centrally located and is one of the most popular areas for first timers along with New Town and Mala Strana.
BUDGET – DREAM Hostel Prague is a new and quirky residence that feels more like a boutique hostel. Located next to Wenceslas Square, you are 2 km away from the centre of Prague and Jewish Quarter.
Read my Review of Dream Hostel Prague / Independent Reviews / Best Prices at Dream Hotel Prague
MID-RANGE – Hotel Elite Prague is a 4-star Baroque house offering rooms with antique furniture and hand-painted wooden ceilings. There is a restaurant with a courtyard terrace, spa, hot tub and sauna. The hotel is located 10-minute walk from the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square and Charles Bridge.
LUXURY – Aria Hotel Prague is a music-themed residence giving you all tastes from Beethoven to Blues. This 5-star boutique hotel is located in the historical Mala Strana quarter in the historic centre of Prague.
Tours in Prague
You will never be short of things to with 2 days in Prague with a range of tours to cover culture, history, food and drink and some amazing day trips that will make you wish you were staying longer!
- Small group Sedgeway Tour of Prague
- Prague Ghost Tour: Dark Shahows of the Old Town
- 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Vltava River, Prague
- 3-Hour Alternative Walking Tour of Prague
- Prague Beer Bath with Unlimited Beer
- Day Trip from Prague: Bohemia & Saxon Switzerland Full Day Tour
- Day Trip from Pargue: Kutná Hora & Bone Church Excursion with Lunch
- Adrenaline-seeking adventures in Prague
Best time to go to Prague for the weather
is an all-year round destination, although it depends of your preferred weather condititions and how
Generally, before and after summer are the best times to go. The weather in mid-April to May and September to mid-October is mild with a glimmer of sun. There will be less crowds and lower accommodation costs.
If you’re visiting Prague in the summer, you can expect glorious sunshine, more crowds and the costs hike up in the peak season.
Winter is fabulous in Prague to see the Christmas markets and get in the festive mood. Expect very cold weather though, this tends to keep visitors at bay in January and February so you can get some great deals on accommodation.
Best time to go to Prague for festivals
- JANUARY – Short Film Festival
- FEBRUARY – Malá Inventura
- MARCH – FebioFest, Prague’s international film festival / Irish Music Festival on St. Patricks’s Day
- APRIL – On 30th April, celebrate Čarodějnice, or Witches’ Night, an old Czech tradition with bonfires in public parks, drum circles, and plenty of food and beer.
- MAY – Prague Beer Festival
- JUNE – Prague Spring International Music Festival / Minibrewery Festival at Prague Castle
- JULY – Prague Proms is held in concert halls and open air venues across the city throughout July / Prague Folklore Days to enjoy folk dancing and Czech culture.
- AUGUST – Prague’s Pride Festival / Castle-Château Night held at castles to bid goodbye to summer.
- SEPTEMBER – Prague’s Burgerfest is the largest festival of burgers and barbecue in Europe.
- OCTOBER – 3 day event celebrating fashion and design with Designblok / See Prague light up for 3 nights during the Signal Festival.
- NOVEMBER – On 11th November, start drinking wine at 11:11 and eat the traditional dish of goose at the Feast of St. Martin / 17th Novemver marks the of the Velvet Revolution protest in 1989, Czechs celebrate the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day with a candle-lighting ceremony in Wenceslas Square.
- DECEMBER – Christmas Markets throughout the month / New Years Eve is a big party!
PIN FOR LATER!
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3 comments
I love how detailed this post is about visiting Prague! Such a helpful resource! Also love the little map thing, so easy to find things 🙂
So happy you find this a useful resource for your Prague travels, the map does make it super easy!
Looks like a fabulous itinerary! I’d esp love to visit a brewery! I am sure the beer is fantastic!