How to spend 4 days in Prague: a comprehensive guide
“If European cities were a necklace, Prague would be a diamond among the pearls.” Anynymous
I have been living nearly 20 years of my life just on the other side of the border near Prague. As it happens if life often, we go far away in search of adventure and forget that there are some breathtaking places just in front of our noses. That happened to me and I must admit with shame that during those 20 or so years I have never crossed the border to spend some time in the capital of Czech Republic. There came the time when I could no longer live with the feeling of ignorance and I planned a trip to Prague, where I spent nearly a week enjoying its streets, food and people. Having little time to explore the city, I followed this plan with all the things to do in Prague in 4 days.
I like being a lazy bum a little bit while visiting some beautiful places, so when I finally got to travel to Prague, I explored it rather slowly. I have prepared for you an example of itinerary you may follow, although it took me a bit longer that it is actually needed. You know… all the coffees I slowly drink and all the corners I need to see. I am a “stop and smell the roses” type.
Favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
- Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
- Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
- World Nomads travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
- Jack’s Flight Club is a service that can save you hundreds of dollars on flights, it works especially well in Europe.
- Trivago where you can search and save on hotels.
- Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money.
- Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
- Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
Where to stay in Prague
Old Town (Staré Město): Old Town is the heart of Prague, known for its stunning medieval architecture, historic landmarks like the Astronomical Clock, and vibrant atmosphere. Staying here puts you within walking distance of major attractions, charming cobblestone streets, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Malá Strana (Lesser Town): Nestled beneath Prague Castle on the left bank of the Vltava River, Malá Strana is characterized by its Baroque architecture, picturesque squares, and narrow alleyways. This area offers a quieter, more romantic atmosphere while still being close to the city center.
Josefov (Jewish Quarter): Located between Old Town and the Vltava River, Josefov is rich in history and culture. It’s home to several synagogues, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. Staying here provides easy access to historical sites and a glimpse into Prague’s Jewish heritage.
Vinohrady: This residential neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, Art Nouveau buildings, and trendy cafes. Vinohrady offers a more local experience away from the tourist crowds while still being well-connected to the city center by public transportation.
Žižkov: Žižkov is a bohemian district known for its alternative vibe, eclectic street art, and lively nightlife. Staying here gives you a taste of Prague’s underground scene and access to quirky bars, cafes, and music venues.
No matter which area you choose, Prague’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city’s many attractions. Consider your preferences for atmosphere, convenience, and proximity to attractions when selecting the best area for your stay in Prague.
Best tours in Prague worth taking
- Walking tour and cruise with authentic Czech lunch
- Medieval dinner with live performance
- Foodie tour (by the way, this tour received thousands of 5-star reviews and is one of the best you can take)
- Communism and nuclear bunker tour (a unique experience)
How to plan 4 days in Prague
Day 1
Join a free walking tour
It is a great way to start your visit. The main reason I like joining the walking tours is that I can get some ideas about the main attractions, what to see and experience in the city, learn some history and when I travel solo, to have an opportunity to meet other travelers. There are many walking tours in Prague. Go to the Old Town Square where the guides meet the groups just at the Astronomical Clock at 10 am and you can join a tour of your interest.
Visit the old town square
I love the main squares in old towns in Eastern Europe countries. They are full of history, bursting with details that will never bore you. This is usually the place where things happen. The old town square in Prague is not different. Hang out there, listen to live music, admire street artists, have a local sweet treat and just enjoy the atmosphere of the city.
What to see at the square:
Astronomical Clock
This clock causes the most interest amongst all the tourists coming to Prague. Vastly decorated is truly a piece of art, which makes it the most beautiful clock in whole Europe. Every hour tourists line up to hear the chime and see the 12 apostle sculptures moving during the time announcement.
Explore the catacombs
Below the old town main square there is a series of catacombs that used to be medieval houses.
Watch a sunset from the Charles Bridge
This stone bridge is probably the most iconic landscape feature of Prague. Handsomely decorated with statues and its rich history, the Charles bridge ought to be the first stop during the visit. Since it is almost always overcrowded, I guess I am not the only one who thinks so.
See also:
What to pack to travel in style in Europe this summer
5 underrated cities for a weekend break in Europe
19 most beautiful castles in Europe you must visit
Guide to renting a car and driving in Sicily.
From Tuskany to Cannes in two weeks. Plan a perfect road trip in France and Italy.
Day 2
Dancing house
The dancing house, also known by its nickname as a Ginger & Fred House is a modern attraction in Prague surrounded by historical buildings. This uniquely designed building is located at the Vltava river, so you will have a lovely stroll in this area. Ginger & Fred has been designed by Vlado Miluni? in cooperation with the famous Frank Gehry.
Josefov- the Jewish quarter
This place is a great source of history. There is a beautiful Old New Synagogue to visit, cemetery and Jewish Museum. It is a historical site of one of the biggest Jewish communities in Europe. Hitler spared this place with intention to create a museum remaining the loss of Jews.
Go to Letenské Sady
This grassy park, just across the river from the Jewish quarter, is a lovely place to relax and get a great view of the city. The best view you can get from Hanavský Pavilion, one of the most impressive Art Nouveau structures in the city.
Day 3
Visit the castle
Heading up to Hradany neighborhood, visit Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). Within the castle complex you will have a chance to see some other Prague’s most interesting attractions: St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane or Powder Tower. You can also see a classical music concert there in the evening.
Golden Lane (Zlata Ulicka)
Within the castle complex there is a little cobbled street with houses so small that are more suitable for gnomes than people. The street was built at the end of 16th century and a home for rich and poor, artists and clerks. Interestingly, the house number 22 was home of the famous Franz Kafka.
Powder Tower
The tower owns its name to the role it played in the 17th century: it was a gunpowder storage. Its history goes back to the 11th century when the Powder Tower was one of the 13 entrances to the city.
Day 4
Visit the John Lennon Wall
After death of the artist, John Lennon was very popular amongst your people in Czech and a peace hero. His face and the lyrics from his music were painted on the wall and the local police failed to fight the graffiti. Now, the wall in a symbol of peace and love.
Wander the streets of Prague
Well, that would be my plan for every day in Prague. Charming cobbled streets of the city, historic sites and colourful buildings don’t become boring very easily. Before leaving to another destination I usually want to soak the atmosphere of the place as much as possible and what is the better way to do so if not idly enjoying a long walk? Ohh… I wouldn’t be myself if I did not recommend you to try some sweet treats that street vendors have to offer.
Prague is one of my favourite and most beautiful cities I have visited and 4 days was surely not enough. It took me so long to finally go there. I got charmed and I know that it will not be my last time in that city. This plan does include the main attractions you can visit in Prague and if is intended to provide an idle and relaxing visit…no hurry. But if you rather prefer to pack your days to the limits, there are a few more things you can do:
- Visit Kafka Museum
- See a concert. Prague is heaven for ballet and classical music lovers.
- Explore Vyšehrad- a castle that dates back to the 10th century and is not very popular amongst tourists, so you won’t risk struggling in a crowd.
- One day excursion to Kutná Hora, a town located in Bohemian Region and mainly known for its church where you can see around 70.000 bones (Sedlec)… spooky!. Apart from the church, the trip the town can be quite pleasant due to its medieval buildings and lovely cobbled streets.
- Have endless walks along the river.
Best excursions outside of Prague
- Kutná Hora (1-day tour). Visit the UNESCO-listed town of Kutná Hora, famous for its medieval architecture and the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church).
Duration: Approximately 8 hours round trip.
- Český Krumlov (1 or 2-day tour). Explore the picturesque town of Český Krumlov, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, castle, and charming riverside views.
Duration: For a 1-day tour, you’ll spend around 10-12 hours round trip. For a 2-day tour, you’ll have more time to explore at a relaxed pace.
- Karlovy Vary (1-day tour). Discover the renowned spa town of Karlovy Vary, famous for its thermal springs, colorful architecture, and spa treatments.
Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours round trip.
- Karlštejn Castle (1-day tour). Visit Karlštejn Castle, a magnificent Gothic castle founded by Emperor Charles IV, located amidst beautiful Czech countryside.
Duration: Around 6-8 hours round trip.
- Terezín Concentration Camp (1-day tour). Take a sobering yet important trip to Terezín Concentration Camp, a memorial to the victims of Nazi persecution during World War II.
Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours round trip.
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What are your favourite cities you have ever been to? Thank you for visiting. It’s always so nice to have you here.
“It’s easy to fall in love among the winding cobblestone streets and snow-covered castles of Prague, but is it a good idea?” Dana Newman, Found in Prague
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Between 12 and 20 times in Praha, I have yet to become bored with the “hlvani mesto.” As I haven’t there in some time, I’m due for another return visit. Thanks for your tips.
Dear Henry,
thank you for visiting. It is a lovely city indeed.
Thanks for the travel inspiration. I have been in Prague 40 years ago, but I guess it is time to visit it again.