Prague, the stunning capital of the Czech Republic, well-known as the "City of a Hundred Spires", captivates visitors with its rich history, fairytale breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture.
Its UNESCO Historic Centre showcases Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles, with landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Visitors will love exploring its cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and medieval charm. The city's UNESCO site highlights its cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination. Whether admiring astronomical clocks, historic palaces, or panoramic views, Prague offers an unforgettable photographer’s paradise and a great experience for history and architecture lovers. This guide goes beyond the obvious to include lesser-known spots, local insights, and unique experiences that will make your visit truly memorable.
Make the Most of Your Stopover in Prague
A one-day stopover in Prague is the perfect chance to explore its historic Old Town, stunning Prague Castle, and iconic Charles Bridge. The city is compact, walkable, and rich in culture, making it easy to enjoy top attractions, Czech cuisine, and breathtaking architecture before your next flight.
If you're arriving in Prague in the evening and flying out the next day or early morning of the following day, don’t worry—you can still experience the magic of this fairy-tale city. With its compact layout, efficient public transport, and walkable historic center, Prague is ideal for a 24-hour adventure. This itinerary is designed for travelers staying near Václav Havel Airport, with a full day to explore the city’s highlights before heading back to the airport.
If you're arriving in Prague in the evening and flying out the next day or early morning of the following day, don’t worry—you can still experience the magic of this fairy-tale city. With its compact layout, efficient public transport, and walkable historic center, Prague is ideal for a 24-hour adventure. This itinerary is designed for travelers staying near Václav Havel Airport, with a full day to explore the city’s highlights before heading back to the airport.
Evening Arrival: Check-In, Rest and Reset
Plan your arrival to Prague for the evening. After landing at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), head to your nearby hotel for a restful evening.
- Holiday Inn Prague Airport – just a short distance from Terminal 1
- Courtyard by Marriott Prague Airport – modern, comfortable, and just a few steps from Terminal 2.
Morning: Check Out and Head to the City
Breakfast and Check-Out from Hotel
If your flight departs in the evening, check out of your Prague hotel in the morning and store your luggage securely at the front desk, allowing you to explore the city stress-free before heading to the airport. Most airport hotels offer complimentary luggage storage for departing guests.
If your flight departs in the evening, check out of your Prague hotel in the morning and store your luggage securely at the front desk, allowing you to explore the city stress-free before heading to the airport. Most airport hotels offer complimentary luggage storage for departing guests.
How to Get to Prague Old City and its Attractions
There are two options available:
1. To reach Prague's historic center from the airport, the most convenient option is to take bus number 119 or 59 to Nádraží Veleslavín metro station, then transfer to metro line A, which will take you to Malostranská metro station near the Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) or city center.
2. The Airport Express bus (AE) goes directly to the main train station, from which you can walk to the Old Town. The Airport Express (AE) bus, runs every 30 minutes and takes about 40 minutes to reach Prague Main Railway Station (Praha hlavní nádraží). Tickets cost around 100 CZK and can be purchased onboard with cash or card.
1. To reach Prague's historic center from the airport, the most convenient option is to take bus number 119 or 59 to Nádraží Veleslavín metro station, then transfer to metro line A, which will take you to Malostranská metro station near the Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) or city center.
2. The Airport Express bus (AE) goes directly to the main train station, from which you can walk to the Old Town. The Airport Express (AE) bus, runs every 30 minutes and takes about 40 minutes to reach Prague Main Railway Station (Praha hlavní nádraží). Tickets cost around 100 CZK and can be purchased onboard with cash or card.
Explore Prague Castle
From the Malostranka metro station walk to the Pražský hrad (Prague Castle). This iconic complex is a must-see for any visitor.
Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, is a must-visit landmark in the Czech Republic. This stunning complex offers breathtaking architecture and a rich history. Buying tickets in advance is highly recommended to skip long lines, especially during peak seasons. Online reservations ensure smooth entry and access to exclusive areas. Whether exploring medieval halls or admiring panoramic city views, Prague Castle promises an unforgettable experience.
Prague Castle offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, making it a must-visit spot for photographers. Capture stunning shots of red rooftops, historic bridges, and the Vltava River from its elevated vantage points. Visit the castle at sunrise or sunset for golden-hour magic and unforgettable images of Prague’s skyline.
Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, is a must-visit landmark in the Czech Republic. This stunning complex offers breathtaking architecture and a rich history. Buying tickets in advance is highly recommended to skip long lines, especially during peak seasons. Online reservations ensure smooth entry and access to exclusive areas. Whether exploring medieval halls or admiring panoramic city views, Prague Castle promises an unforgettable experience.
Prague Castle offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, making it a must-visit spot for photographers. Capture stunning shots of red rooftops, historic bridges, and the Vltava River from its elevated vantage points. Visit the castle at sunrise or sunset for golden-hour magic and unforgettable images of Prague’s skyline.
Highlights include:
• St. Vitus Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, captivates visitors with its towering spires, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking stained glass windows that flood the nave with kaleidoscopic light.
• Old Royal Palace – the majestic seat of Bohemian kings, stands as a historic gem within Prague Castle, showcasing centuries of royal heritage and architectural splendor.
• Golden Lane – Once inside the castle complex, don’t miss the charming medieval homes, originally built in the 16th century, and artisan shops, a colorful row of tiny houses once home to castle guards and alchemists.
• St. George’s Basilica – one of the oldest surviving churches in Prague, offers a glimpse into Romanesque architecture and early Bohemian history.
The Pražský hrad complex opens at 6 am and the historical building at 9 am. To fully experience Prague Castle you will need approximately 3 hrs.
• Old Royal Palace – the majestic seat of Bohemian kings, stands as a historic gem within Prague Castle, showcasing centuries of royal heritage and architectural splendor.
• Golden Lane – Once inside the castle complex, don’t miss the charming medieval homes, originally built in the 16th century, and artisan shops, a colorful row of tiny houses once home to castle guards and alchemists.
• St. George’s Basilica – one of the oldest surviving churches in Prague, offers a glimpse into Romanesque architecture and early Bohemian history.
The Pražský hrad complex opens at 6 am and the historical building at 9 am. To fully experience Prague Castle you will need approximately 3 hrs.
Tips: Visit the castle early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds and get
soft morning light for photos.
soft morning light for photos.
Explore the Lesser Town on Your Way to Charles Bridge
Exit Prague Castle and stroll down Nerudova Street, Malostranské Square, and Mostecká Street, a picturesque route lined with Baroque architecture, inviting cafés, charming restaurants, and unique local shops—perfect for soaking in the city's historic charm.
Cross the Charles Bridge, a 14th-century masterpiece decorated with statues. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Prague—perfect for a few memorable selfies. Charles Bridge is a historic stone arch bridge in Prague, built in the 14th century under the reign of King Charles IV. It offers stunning views of the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town, known as Mala Strana, making it a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.
Cross the Charles Bridge, a 14th-century masterpiece decorated with statues. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Prague—perfect for a few memorable selfies. Charles Bridge is a historic stone arch bridge in Prague, built in the 14th century under the reign of King Charles IV. It offers stunning views of the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town, known as Mala Strana, making it a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.
Lunch in Old Town
Old Town Prague is a treasure trove of history and beauty. Explore Old Town Square, admire the Astronomical Clock and Old Town Square, visit St. Vitus Cathedral, discover hidden courtyards, and enjoy local cafes.
Where to Eat
Try a delicious traditional Czech lunch with authentic food. Some top-rated options include:
- Restaurace Mlejnice offers a cozy, rustic dining experience near Old Town Square, serving traditional Czech cuisine like pork knuckle and goulash alongside Moravian wines in a charming, farmhouse-inspired setting.
- Restaurant Parnas offers elegant Czech and Eastern European cuisine with a modern twist, served in a refined riverside setting near the National Theatre, featuring specialties like foie gras, duck, and fine local wines. Elegant dining with views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle.
- Tiskárna Národní – the restaurant offers a stylish blend of traditional and modern Czech cuisine, featuring seasonal specialties and tank-poured Pilsner beer in a contemporary setting near Národní třída.
Tips: Ask for a “house blend” coffee — many restaurants and cafes roast their own beans or source from local roasters who use vintage brewing methods.
Prague offers a vibrant vegetarian dining scene with stand-out spots in centrally located settings:
- Lehká Hlava is a restaurant with stylish decor offering vegetarian and vegan cuisine with global flair,
- Vegan's Prague located near Prague Castle serves up plant-based versions of traditional Czech dishes
- Maitrea Restaurace offers a vibrant vegetarian and vegan menu inspired by global cuisines
Hidden Gems and Iconic Sights in Prague
With a few hours left, choose one of the excursions or visit museums to deepen your experience.
1. Walking Tour of Old Town & Jewish Quarter
Join a 1.5-hour guided tour departing from Old Town Square. Learn about Prague’s medieval history, legends, and architecture while exploring the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, and the historic Jewish Quarter.
2. Vltava River Cruise
Relax on a river cruise with views of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the National Theatre. Some cruises include drinks or audio commentary.
3. Beer Museum Tour with Tasting and Beer Bottling
Dive into Prague’s Beer Museum for an immersive journey through Czech brewing heritage—discover centuries-old techniques, uncover the secrets behind the perfect pilsner, then head to the historic cellars to sample three traditional Czech brews and craft your very own custom-labeled bottle to take home.
4. Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague
A delightfully bizarre museum dedicated to Prague’s occult history, featuring wax figures, magical tools, and a recreation of Edward Kelley’s lab. It’s part history, part haunted house.
5. Speculum Alchemiae
Discovered after a 2002 flood, this hidden alchemist’s lab dates back to the 16th century. Located beneath a baroque house in Old Town, it features secret passageways, ancient flasks, and a preserved furnace once used for mystical experiments
6. Strahov Library
Tucked inside the Strahov Monastery, this 12th-century library is home to over 200,000 volumes, including illuminated manuscripts and the 9th-century Strahov Gospel. The Theological Hall and Philosophical Hall are masterpieces of Baroque architecture, with frescoed ceilings and secret staircases disguised as bookshelves.
1. Walking Tour of Old Town & Jewish Quarter
Join a 1.5-hour guided tour departing from Old Town Square. Learn about Prague’s medieval history, legends, and architecture while exploring the Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, and the historic Jewish Quarter.
2. Vltava River Cruise
Relax on a river cruise with views of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the National Theatre. Some cruises include drinks or audio commentary.
3. Beer Museum Tour with Tasting and Beer Bottling
Dive into Prague’s Beer Museum for an immersive journey through Czech brewing heritage—discover centuries-old techniques, uncover the secrets behind the perfect pilsner, then head to the historic cellars to sample three traditional Czech brews and craft your very own custom-labeled bottle to take home.
4. Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague
A delightfully bizarre museum dedicated to Prague’s occult history, featuring wax figures, magical tools, and a recreation of Edward Kelley’s lab. It’s part history, part haunted house.
5. Speculum Alchemiae
Discovered after a 2002 flood, this hidden alchemist’s lab dates back to the 16th century. Located beneath a baroque house in Old Town, it features secret passageways, ancient flasks, and a preserved furnace once used for mystical experiments
6. Strahov Library
Tucked inside the Strahov Monastery, this 12th-century library is home to over 200,000 volumes, including illuminated manuscripts and the 9th-century Strahov Gospel. The Theological Hall and Philosophical Hall are masterpieces of Baroque architecture, with frescoed ceilings and secret staircases disguised as bookshelves.
Prague Shopping Guide
Wenceslas Square is one of Prague’s premier shopping destinations, offering everything from global fashion brands. For affordable souvenirs in Prague, head to Havelská Market, one of the city’s oldest open-air markets, where you’ll find reasonably priced handmade crafts, wooden toys, and Czech trinkets. Charles Bridge souvenir stalls also offer a wide variety of souvenirs —magnets, puppets, and Bohemian glass — where bargaining is often expected.
Return to the Airport
Head to Prague Main Station via tram or metro, then catch the AE bus to the airport.
Prague: a Day to Remember
Even with just one day, Prague offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and culture. By staying near the airport, using efficient public transport, and focusing on the city’s highlights, you can enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
Plan your trip to discover its timeless beauty!
Plan your trip to discover its timeless beauty!
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