The mere mention of Prague conjures up fairy-tale-like vistas capable of convincing the weariest traveler to stop and snap pictures. With its rich history, gorgeous classical architecture, and quaint neighborhoods, there’s a lot to love about this city. Prague offers a captivating travel experience with its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities making it a must-visit destination. Here’s our lowdown on how best to spend one day in Prague and the best things to do 🙂.
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Is One Day Enough For Prague?
No. Seeing Prague in one day would only allow a visitor to scratch the surface of what the city has to offer. Many of the city’s nuanced details, cultural experiences, museums, and culinary delights would be missed. However, if you only have one day in Prague, you can still visit some of the city’s most iconic sights.
Getting To Prague
If you’re traveling to Prague by air, you’ll be flying into Prague Airport (Václav Havel Airport Prague), which is located 12 kilometers (7 miles) west of the city center.
There are multiple ways to travel from Prague Airport to the city center. The most cost-effective option is by taking public transportation.
Take bus number 119 from the airport. The bus stop is right outside the terminal, and the service operates from approximately 04:15-23:30.
The 119 bus takes you to the Nádraží Veleslavín Metro station. The ride typically lasts about 15-20 minutes. You can purchase a ticket for this journey from the public transport counters in the arrivals hall of the airport, from the ticket machines at the bus stop, or from the driver for a slightly higher fee.
At Nádraží Veleslavín, transfer to the Metro Line A (the Green Line). Make sure you get on a train headed towards Depo Hostivař.
Depending on where you are staying in the city center, you could disembark at various stops, such as Malostranská, Staroměstská, or Můstek. All of these are in the heart of the city. The entire journey from the Prague Airport to the city center usually takes around 40-60 minutes by public transport.
There’s also an Airport Express (AE) bus service that directly connects Prague Airport and Prague Main Railway Station (Hlavní nádraží). The AE bus stop is located outside the airport terminals. Buses operate from approximately 05:30-21:00 at an interval of about 20 minutes and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes.
Tickets for the AE bus can be purchased from the driver (cash or card). Tickets cost 100 CZK for adults and 50 CZK for children between 6–15 years. Kids under 6 travel for free.
You can find authorized taxi services at the airport. This is more expensive than public transportation but offers convenience. Ensure to use the official taxis to avoid being overcharged.
Private/shared transfers are the most comfortable and convenient way to get from Prague Airport to your destination in the city. They are especially useful if you are traveling in a group, have a lot of luggage, or want to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
How to Get Around During Your One Day in Prague
Prague’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the major attractions in Prague are within comfortable walking distance of each other.
Exploring Prague on foot can be the most rewarding way to see the city as you can fully appreciate the architecture and true charm of the city. In case you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Prague on foot, check out this rewarding Prague walking tour.
Pro Tip
Many streets in Prague are paved with bricks, some of which have cracks, uneven angles and can become slick when wet. It would be optimum to stick with a comfortable pair of flat shoes rather than heels as they can get stuck in the pavement.
However, to make the most of your 24 hours in Prague to get around the city quickly, or to visit a more distant sight, public transport is a great option. Prague’s public transport is reliable and cheap and consists of trams, buses, and the underground (metro) system.
For getting around the inner city, the tram is probably the easiest and most pleasant mode of transport. You’re unlikely to use a bus as buses are not allowed in the city center because the streets are too constricted.
A day ticket only costs 120 CZK. You can also buy 30 and 90-minute tickets for 30 and 40 CZK respectively. Tickets can be purchased from the automatic machines at the entrance of all metro stations, at some tram or bus stops, and at tabáks (tobacconists).
Tickets can also be purchased from the yellow-colored ticket validators on-board buses and trams and in the metro stations. Payment is possible by cashless payment card only.
You can also buy electronic tickets through the PID Lítačka app, which is the official app of Prague’s public transportation authority.
N.B. Remember to validate your ticket at the start of your journey in one of the validation machines. Periodic checks are carried out by plain-clothes ticket inspectors and you’ll incur a hefty fine if you don’t.
Make use of the very useful intermodal Journey Planner for getting around Prague with public transport.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours offer a convenient way to see major Prague sights without worrying about navigation or public transport schedules. They provide flexibility as you can get off at any stop of interest and come with an audio guide.
Prague is a bike-friendly city and this can be a quick and enjoyable way to get around, especially if the weather is nice. In case you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Prague on a bike, check out this excellent Prague Bicycle Tour.
Electric trikes have become quite popular in Prague and are a fun way of sightseeing in the city. In case you’re interested in seeing the top-rated attractions of Prague on a trike, check out this popular Prague Electric Trike Tour.
Segways provide an exciting and quick way to get around Prague. In case you’re interested in seeing the key sights of Prague on a segway, check out this highly-rated Prague Segway Tour.
I wouldn’t recommend using taxis unless it’s absolutely necessary. It’s very difficult not to get fleeced unless you speak Czech or know the terrain. Uber and Bolt are also active in Prague and can be a convenient way to travel.
Is the Prague City Card/Prague CoolPass Worth It For One Day?
For sightseeing in Prague, the most common travel card/pass that allows you to access over 60 of the most important attractions/museums/tours for free or at a discounted rate is the Prague CoolPass (formerly known as the Prague Card).
The one-day Prague CoolPass costs 55 EUR. If you intend to visit a number of the covered attractions in a single day, then the card offers good value. It can also save you time by allowing you to skip the line at some popular sights.
On the other hand, if you plan a more leisurely day, the Prague CoolPass might not be cost-effective for one day and you might be better off purchasing individual tickets.
Remember, the validity of the card is for consecutive days, not 24-hour periods. So, if you activate a one-day card in the afternoon, it will not be valid on the next day. Plus, the Prague CoolPass does not include public transport.
Your One Day in Prague Itinerary
This ‘one day in Prague’ itinerary includes most of the must-see attractions in the city. It, of course, isn’t possible to explore all of Prague’s major sights in just one day, and you’ll barely scrape the barrel of what the city has to offer.
For your convenience, this post includes a free map that highlights the main points of interest in Prague for one day. You can find the addresses of the attractions by clicking on the icons in the map.
Obviously, everyone travels at a different pace so feel free to choose the destinations according to your own pace. This is a pretty packed itinerary so the earlier you start your day the more time you’ll have to see the main attractions in Prague.
Below I have compiled a list of the best things to see in Prague over the course of one day:
1. Charles Bridge
The best way to kick off your one day in Prague would be by going to the iconic Charles Bridge (Karlův most). You can’t really ignore it since it is an absolute must-see attraction in Prague.
This beautiful Gothic bridge has a rich history that goes back some 600 years in time and it occupies a special place in the hearts of Prague natives. It has witnessed numerous historical events, including battles, religious processions, and cultural ceremonies.
Charles Bridge spans a length of 520 meters across the Vltava River and was built from sandstone blocks, rumored to be strengthened by mixing mortar with eggs. The structure derives much of its magic from the artistic differences between Baroque and Gothic styles.
Fun Fact
According to Czech legend, Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV had the foundation stone of the Charles Bridge laid on the 9th of July 1357 at 5:31 a.m. This was no coincidence since Charles IV was a devout follower of numerology and carefully chose the date himself. When it is written in the chronology of the year–the day–the month–the time, it makes a palindrome, going upwards and then downwards: 1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1. He felt this would bring the bridge strength and good fortune.
Speaking of legends, check out this insanely popular Prague Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour.
Beautiful statues of saints and religious scenes adorn the bridge, most of which are Baroque in style. Initially installed in the 17th and 18th centuries, these statues depict various saints and patron saints revered at the time.
Notable among them are St. John of Nepomuk, who was thrown from the bridge and later canonized; and the statue of St. Luthgard, which features a golden Christ figure. The statue of St. John of Nepomuk is burnished each day by the hands of hordes of tourists who hope it brings good luck or, according to some versions of the legend, a return visit to Prague.
The bridge is not just a passageway, but a vibrant hub of activity. Musicians, artists, and performers often grace the bridge, adding to its buzzing atmosphere.
Charles Bridge is free to visit and open 24/7.
Pro Tip
Since sauntering across the Charles Bridge is on every visitor’s Prague must-do list, it is usually jam-packed for most of the day. Try to visit around sunrise if you can drag yourself out of bed. The early morning light illuminates the statues and towers, and there’s a peaceful ambiance as Prague slowly wakes up. This is also the best time for photography, as the bridge is less crowded.
2. Breakfast at Café Savoy
A good breakfast is necessary when you have a full day of sightseeing ahead of you. Just a short detour from the Charles Bridge lies Café Savoy, one of the very best cafés in Prague. You can sample delicious Czech cakes and pastries like buchty and kolache here.
We highly recommend that you try Vetrnik – a choux pastry filled with whipped cream and topped off with caramel fondant.
3. Lennon Wall
Take a moment to stop by the Lennon Wall. The Lennon Wall is a prominent wall in Prague that is filled with graffiti inspired by John Lennon. Lennon was a powerful symbol of non-conformity for young people throughout Communist-ruled Czechoslovakia.
Although John Lennon never visited Prague, the Lennon Wall is one of the city’s most famous photo spots.
His death in 1980 inspired some of his fans to scrawl portraits and messages to air their grievances on the wall near the Maltese Garden. The communist police repeatedly painted over the messages, but intrepid fans repainted over the wall.
The wall continuously undergoes change and the original portrait of Lennon is long lost under layers of spray paint. You can find snippets of lyrics from the Beatles’ song on the wall.
Over the years, the Lennon Wall evolved into a space for messages of peace and love from visitors worldwide. It stands as a vibrant visual delight and a symbol of the strength of uninhibited expression.
It’s worth taking a quick look at before moving on.
Fun Fact
Though there are several theories as to the origin of Prague’s name, the most likely one is that the city’s name is Czech “Praha” stems from an old Slavic word, práh, which means “ford” or “rapid”, in reference to the city’s origin at a crossing point of the Vltava River. The English spelling of “Prague” is loaned from French.
4. Prague Castle
Prague Castle, perched above the city on Hradčany Hill, is an immense and illustrious symbol of the Czech Republic’s rich history. Established in the 9th century, this sprawling complex covers an area of 70,000 square meters and is touted as the largest ancient castle globally.
Prague Castle has been the seat of the Bohemian Kings and Holy Roman Emperors and since 1918, the residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word defenestration (the act of throwing someone out a window as a means of execution) originates from an incident that occurred in Prague Castle in 1618? A year earlier, when the Habsburgs attempted to make Catholicism the sole religion of the empire, the Protestants of Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic) protested the quelling of their religion. To voice their displeasure, Bohemian nobles in Prague chucked two Catholic regents and their secretary out of a window of the Royal Palace. Fortunately, their fall was cushioned by a manure pile and they escaped.
Architecturally, the castle is a tapestry of styles, blending the majesty of Gothic with the elegance of the Renaissance and the grandeur of Baroque. The Prague Castle complex consists of numerous buildings and gardens, including four churches, four palaces, and sprawling gardens.
Prague Castle offers a multifaceted experience that appeals to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and casual tourists alike. If you’re in Prague, it’s certainly a must-visit. The following are the main things to see within its confines:
4.1 St. Vitus Cathedral
The beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrála Sv. Víta) is the largest and the most important religious building in Prague. The construction of the cathedral began under Emperor Charles IV in 1344, but due to interruptions by wars, plagues, and fire, it took nearly 600 years to complete.
The ornate façade features pointed arches, elaborate tracery, flying buttresses, a rose window, a dozen statues of saints, and gargoyles sticking their tongues out. The main southern entrance, the Golden Portal, is adorned with a stunning mosaic depicting the Last Judgment, shimmering in gold and rich colors.
Upon entering, you are instantly enveloped by the cathedral’s awe-inspiring Gothic architecture. The soaring vaulted ceilings, held aloft by robust pillars, guide the eye toward the heavens, evoking a sense of divine grandeur.
I really loved the radiant array of stained-glass windows by Alfons Mucha, which bathes the cathedral in ethereal hues of blues, reds, and golds. These windows depict biblical narratives, saints, and local legends, their vibrant colors dancing with the sunlight to cast kaleidoscopic patterns on the stone floors.
Also noteworthy is the St. Wenceslas Chapel, with its intricate frescoes and a gem-studded reliquary containing the saint’s remains.
4.2 Old Royal Palace & Vladislav Hall
The Old Royal Palace was built in 1135 in the beautiful Romanesque style and is one of the most interesting buildings in the Prague Castle complex. It was once the ruling seat of the Bohemian kings.
The palace’s most remarkable chamber, Vladislav Hall, is a testament to late Gothic grandeur. Designed in the late 15th century by Benedikt Rejt, this vast, rib-vaulted space was a hub for royal banquets, coronation feasts, and even jousting tournaments, with knights charging across its expansive floors.
Vladislav Hall’s grandeur is amplified by an intricately carved, wooden coffered ceiling and the famous Rider’s Staircase, large enough to accommodate a mounted knight.
4.3 Golden Lane
The Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička), nestled within the Prague Castle complex, is a charming and historically rich street, resonating with tales from bygone eras.
Originally built in the 16th century to house castle guards and their families, the lane’s name is believed to derive either from the goldsmiths who resided here in the 17th century or from legends of alchemists seeking to transform base metals into gold.
The tiny, colorful houses, closely huddled together, evoke a fairytale ambiance. Notably, No. 22 was once the residence of the famed writer Franz Kafka, who found solace and inspiration here during the early 1910s.
Today, these houses are meticulously preserved, some transformed into quaint shops selling crafts and souvenirs, while others have been turned into mini-museums, showcasing medieval armory, textiles, and recreations of historical interiors.
Walking through Golden Lane feels like stepping back in time. The cobbled pathway, the centuries-old dwellings, and the overarching shadow of Prague Castle create a magical setting. Don’t skip it!
Practical Information For Visiting Prague Castle
The Prague Castle complex is open daily from 06:00–22:00. Entrance to the castle is free but many of its attractions keep different hours and charge an entrance fee.
St. Vitus Cathedral is open Monday–Saturday from 09:00–17:00 and Sunday from 12:00–17:00 (April–October); and Monday–Saturday from 09:00–16:00 and Sunday from 12:00–16:00 (November–March).
The Old Royal Palace & Golden Lane are open from 09:00–17:00 (April–October) and from 09:00–16:00 (November–March).
The basic ticket to Prague Castle costs 250 CZK and covers the entrance to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
In order to avoid long queues at Prague Castle and save precious time, I strongly recommend investing in a skip-the-line ticket which includes a guided tour.
5. Lunch
For a well-deserved lunch and a break from sightseeing, you can go to Občanská plovárna, a nice Asian fusion restaurant with a waterside terrace.
6. Letná Park
Letná Park, perched on a plateau overlooking the Vltava River, is a spacious urban green space offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and panoramic city vistas. Once a vineyard, this verdant expanse transformed into a public park in the 19th century
The large park is punctuated by wide, tree-lined pathways and vast meadows, making it a hit with locals and visitors for leisurely strolls, picnics, or sporting activities.
Letná Park is also well-known for formerly being home to the world’s largest statue of ex-Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, which towered over Prague from 1955 until its demolition in 1962. Commissioned by the Communist regime of Czechoslovakia, this colossal granite monument, measuring over 15 meters in height, depicted Stalin leading a group of workers.
However, following Stalin’s fall from favor and Krushchev’s de-Stalinization policy, the statue became politically inconvenient. It was explosively demolished, leaving behind an empty pedestal. Today, the site is marked by a giant, functional metronome, symbolizing the passage of time.
The Metronome area in Letná Park provides breathtaking views of Prague’s Old Town, its spires, and the many bridges arching gracefully over the river, with the iconic Charles Bridge often taking center stage. For me, this is the ultimate picture-postcard image of Prague.
Letná Park is open 24/7 and is free to visit.
7. Jewish Museum
Located in the Jewish Quarter, the Jewish Museum is one of the must-see Prague attractions since the Jewish community has left an indelible mark on the city’s history.
The Jewish Museum in Prague is not just a single building but a complex of historic sites preserving the heritage of the Bohemian and Moravian Jewish communities. It was established in 1906 and serves as a poignant reminder of the rich Jewish history and traditions in the region, as well as the tragedies faced by the Jewish community.
You won’t have time to see all the sites of the Jewish Museum if you’re seeing Prague in one day. The main components and highlights of the Jewish Museum are –
7.1 Old Jewish Cemetery
The Old Jewish Cemetery (Starý Židovský Hřbitov) is one of the best things to see in Prague. This ancient burial ground dates back to the early 15th century, making it one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe.
Distinctive for its densely packed gravestones, the cemetery’s jumble of uneven, weathered tombstones reflects the historical restrictions imposed on Jewish burials, with limited space forcing multiple layers of interment.
Over the centuries, an estimated 12,000 tombstones were erected, but beneath them lie many more souls, with graves stacked up to 12 layers deep due to space constraints. It is believed that there are around 100,000 people buried on these grounds.
The graves were never relocated because Jewish traditions dictate not to move bodies after they are buried. The settling of the ground over time has created lopsided tombstones pointing in every direction, a most surreal and evocative sight that is eternally spellbinding.
The headstones, with inscriptions in Hebrew, bear a range of symbols, each denoting various familial lineages, professions, or virtues of the departed.
The Old Jewish Cemetery’s oldest grave belongs to the poet Avigdor Karo and dates from 1439 while Moses Beck, who died in 1787, was the last person to be buried in the cemetery.
Seek out the headstone of Jehuda ben Bezalel, the famed Rabbi Löw, a chief rabbi of Prague and a scholar and philosophical writer, credited with creating the mythical Golem.
7.2 Spanish Synagogue
If there’s one synagogue that shouldn’t be missed in the Jewish Quarter of Prague, it is the Spanish Synagogue (Španělská Synagoga). It was only completed in 1868 and although it is the newest synagogue in the Jewish Quarter it is arguably the most spectacular one.
The synagogue stands out as an architectural jewel with its intricate Moorish Revival style. I love the synagogue’s exterior with its horseshoe arches atop slender columns, elaborate tracery, and pseudo-minarets.
Stepping inside, the interior is where the Moorish influence truly dazzles. Jacky and I totally fell in love with its explosion of colors, patterns, and geometric designs.
Every surface, from walls to ceilings, is covered in elaborate, gilded stucco work. The detailed arabesques, interwoven patterns, and lace-like designs that cover archways, walls, and the domed ceiling are executed with impeccable precision.
It’s not hard to figure out that the synagogue’s name reflects its ornate interior, which is reminiscent of the Alhambra Palace in Spain.
The Spanish Synagogue also boasts exceptional acoustics. The synagogue’s domed ceiling and architectural layout amplify sounds, making it an ideal venue for concerts, where notes resonate beautifully, creating an immersive auditory experience.
The synagogue isn’t just an architectural marvel; it also holds significant historical importance. The exhibition inside charts the history of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from the reforms of Emperor Joseph II in the 18th century to the tumultuous times post-World War II.
Practical Information For Visiting the Jewish Museum
In order to visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Spanish Synagogue, you are required to buy a ticket (valid for 7 days) to the Jewish Museum, which allows access to these sites (plus some other sites). It is not possible to purchase a single ticket for each of these places.
The Jewish Museum is open Sunday–Friday. It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. The opening hours are 09:00-18:00 (April–the end of daylight saving time in October) and 09:00-16:30 (November–the start of daylight saving time in March).
A ticket to the Jewish Museum costs 400 CZK. Tickets can be purchased at the Spanish synagogue, the Klausen Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, and the museum’s information center. You can also purchase a handy skip-the-line ticket to the Jewish Museum online.
In order to make the most of your visit here and hear interesting anecdotes about the place, you can take this fabulous in-depth tour of the Jewish Museum. It’s also very handy as it allows you to skip the ticket queue and save some valuable time.
8. Parizska Street
Parizska Street, situated in Prague’s historic Josefov (Jewish Quarter), is the epitome of luxury and elegance in the heart of the Czech capital.
Often likened to Paris’s Champs-Élysées, this tree-lined boulevard is characterized by its early 20th-century Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau buildings, which exude grandeur with their ornate facades and intricate detailing. The buildings at the intersection of Parizska Street and Siroka Street (known as the Four Corners) are especially lovely.
As Prague’s premier shopping street, Parizska is home to a plethora of high-end boutiques, from global luxury brands to exclusive local designers. Here, you can indulge in the latest fashion trends, exquisite jewelry, and gourmet dining experiences.
The street’s blend of architectural beauty, historical depth, and modern luxury makes it a must-visit, offering both a shopping extravaganza and a glimpse into Prague’s multifaceted cultural tapestry.
9. Old Town Square
Another place to check off your Prague bucket list, the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) is a historic epicenter brimming with centuries of history, architectural marvels, and vibrant cultural life.
Established in the 12th century, this expansive square has borne witness to many of the city’s pivotal events, from markets and festivals to public demonstrations and executions.
Be sure to admire the medley of Gothic, Romanesque, Rococo, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture of the colorful buildings surrounding the square. Many of these now house an array of restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.
![Prague Architecture: White sgraffito etchings on the black facade of the House of the Minute. PC: Fred Romero from Paris, France [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=MTExNTo3MTU=-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAwMCA5NDciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9Ijk0NyIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
One of my favorite buildings in the Old Town Square is the House at the Minute at number 3 which is famous for its numerous beautiful white sgraffito etchings on the black façade that depict Habsburg rulers. Don’t miss the Storch House at number 16, which boasts arguably the most beautifully painted façade of Prague’s medieval buildings.
![Prague sightseeing: The colossal Jan Hus monument in the center of Old Town Square. PC: Øyvind Holmstad [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=MTEyMzo2ODg=-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAwMCA2NTMiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY1MyIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
Equally captivating is the Jan Hus Monument, standing defiantly in the square’s center, commemorating the Czech reformer and his fight for religious freedom and national identity.
While the square’s merits are undeniable, I do understand when some feel the commercial aspects and throngs of tourists can detract from its charm. However, the façades, intricate details, and overall grandeur of the square are too visually stunning to overlook.
Ultimately, the hype about Old Town Square is justified and it is no surprise that visitors from all over the globe flock here to see its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
10. Old Town Hall
The Old Town Hall (Staroměstská Radnice) is definitely one of the must-see attractions in Prague. This dazzling building was established in 1338 after King John of Luxembourg agreed to set up a town council.
In 1364, the distinctive trapezoidal tower was added to what was the private house of Wolflin of Kamen. The neighboring row of colorful Gothic and Renaissance merchants’ houses were incorporated into the building over time.
Inside, the building boasts Gothic interiors, historical frescoes, and ornate council chambers, narrating tales of civic pride, administration, and conflict.
The hall’s tower, easily accessible to visitors, offers panoramic views of central Prague, revealing a sea of terracotta roofs, intricate spires, and winding streets.
You can go up the tower for a fee of 310 CZK for excellent views over central Prague. The opening hours of the Old Town Hall are January–March: 11:00–20:00 (Monday) and 10:00–20:00 (Tuesday–Sunday); and April–December: 11:00–21:00 (Monday) and 09:00–21:00 (Tuesday–Sunday). >>> Book your ticket now.
11. Astronomical Clock
Nestled on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall, the Prague Astronomical Clock, or “Orloj” is probably the best-preserved astronomical clock of all. The clock dates back to 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operational.
At first glance, the Orloj captivates with its intricate dials and stunning craftsmanship. The primary dial showcases the positions of the sun and moon in the sky, alongside a calendar dial depicting the months.
The clock displays Babylonian time, Old Bohemian time, German time, and Sidereal time.
However, the clock’s real spectacle occurs every hour on the hour from 09:00-23:00. A procession of the Twelve Apostles and other moving statues, including a skeleton representing Death, parade in a captivating show, symbolizing the inexorable passage of time and the impermanence of life.
I’ve read a lot about people complaining about the slightly underwhelming display. Yes, it’s nothing spectacular, but you have to remember that this is a 600-year-old piece of machinery.
Pro Tip
If you really want to witness the show of the Prague Astronomical Clock, arrive at least 15–20 minutes early so you aren’t caught in the back of the crowd.
12. Týn Church
Týn Church, officially known as the Church of Our Lady before Týn, is an emblematic Gothic edifice that dominates the skyline of Prague’s Old Town Square. With its soaring twin spires reaching 80 meters in height, and adorned with numerous small spiky pinnacles, the church is a testament to Gothic architectural grandeur.
Established in the 14th century, Týn Church has long been a spiritual and cultural anchor for Prague. Its façade is imposing, characterized by a grandiose entrance, rose windows, and the statues of the church’s patrons.
Legend has it that Týn Church gave Walt Disney inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle. True or not, it is certainly an awe-inspiring sight during the day, and even more so at night brightly lit against a dark sky.
Inside, the church unveils a majestic array of Gothic, Renaissance, and early Baroque interiors. The tomb of the famous Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, who spent a significant part of his life in Prague, can be found inside.
The opening hours of Týn Church are 10:00–13:00 & 15:00–17:00 (Tuesday–Saturday) and 10:30–12:00 (Sunday). The church is open from March–December. There’s a voluntary entrance fee of 40 CZK.
13. Wenceslas Square
Your final stop of sightseeing on this 1 day Prague itinerary will be Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Located in the heart of Prague’s New Town, Wenceslas Square is less a traditional square and more a bustling boulevard stretching over 750 meters.
It was established in the 14th century by Charles IV and has been a central stage for many significant events in Czech history, from political uprisings to large-scale celebrations. The square is named in honor of Saint Wenceslas, Bohemia’s patron saint, and at the top of the square sits the St. Wenceslas Monument.
The area is the commercial heart of Prague and is now one of the prime shopping areas of the city. It is now a popular meeting point and the numerous hotels, shops, and restaurants around the square attract hordes of tourists and locals alike.
Lining the square are a plethora of buildings reflecting a mix of architectural styles, from Art Nouveau to modernist structures.
Two of the best buildings to look out for on Wenceslas Square are the Wiehl House (Wiehlův dům), a striking Neo-Renaissance edifice with colorful murals, and sgraffito; and Grand Hotel Europa, an ornate Art Nouveau building with a splendid façade crowned with gilded nymphs.
13. Dinner
After a long day’s sightseeing, you’ll be jaded and hungry. Since you’re in Prague, a city renowned for its beer culture, it would be a good idea to head to one of the city’s famous gastropubs, the Prague Beer Museum.
Czechs take their beer and food seriously and this place is no exception. There are over 25 beers on tap to choose from and you can gulp it down with some hearty grub.
If you’re curious to learn about the Czech Republic’s storied history of beer brewing and sample various varieties of Czech beer, consider signing up for a Czech Beer Tasting Experience
If you want more of a quieter evening head to Restaurace Mincovna for a great Czech meal. We would strongly recommend the goulash or svíčková na smetaně (beef sirloin with cream sauce). Either way, you won’t be disappointed!
More Than One Day in Prague?
There is plenty more to see in Prague than what we have covered in our one-day itinerary.
Prague is home to a vast array of museums that offer a diverse exploration of history, art, and culture, making the city a haven for enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
Additionally, places like the fantastic Loreto shrine, the exquisite Strahov Monastery, the tranquil Vyšehrad fortress, and the Czech National Theater all deserve to be seen.
Other fun and popular activities in Prague include –
- Prague Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks: Enjoy a night out in Prague by treating yourself to a 3 or 5-course medieval-themed dinner with unlimited drinks
- Prague Beer Spa With Unlimited Beer: Soak in handcrafted wooden tubs filled with natural extracts used in beer brewing, believed to rejuvenate the skin and boost health
- Alternative Prague Walking Tour: Delves into Prague’s offbeat and underground scenes, this tour explores street art, counter-culture hubs, and hidden gems, offering insights into contemporary life, subcultures, and the vibrant art scene.
- Prague Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet: Experience the spectacular panorama of Prague at night on a 3-hour dinner cruise on the Vltava River
- Prague WWII & Operation Anthropoid Tour with Bomb Shelter: Learn about the Nazi occupation of Prague by visiting an underground bomb shelter and about Operation Anthropoid, the operation undertaken to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich
Prague is also the ideal starting point for excursions to the postcard-perfect UNESCO-listed town of Český Krumlov, and the infamous Terezín (Theresienstadt) Ghetto/Concentration Camp.
You could also take a day trip from Prague to the stunningly beautiful areas of Bohemian Switzerland and Saxon Switzerland.
Where to Stay in Prague
It’s handy to stay in or around the districts of the Old Town, New Town, and the Lesser Quarter as they are a good base for sightseeing. There are plenty of good options here for all budgets.
If you opt to stay further from the center, make sure you’re still well connected by public transport.
Hostel: Hostel Prague Tyn, a great choice within 2 minutes of the Old Town square
Budget: Exe City Park Hotel, an amazing budget hotel located opposite the Prague Main Train Station and only 300 meters from Wenceslas Square
Mid-range: Archibald at the Charles Bridge, within 2 minutes of the Charles Bridge, in the Lesser Quarter
Splurge: Art Nouveau Palace Hotel, sumptuous top-choice within 5 minutes of Wenceslas Square
Now, what do you think? Is Prague on your bucket list? Or is there anything else that shouldn’t be missed during one day in Prague? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).
Hello-
This is everything that I need. I am definitely following this itinerary to a tee. Thank you so much.
Thank you Wanda! Have a great time in Prague 🙂