Prague

Prague travel guide overview

Prague is one of Europe's most beautiful cities, with a perfectly preserved medieval centre, hilltop castle, baroque churches and a beer culture that rivals anywhere in the world. This Prague travel guide will help you plan the best time to visit, where to stay, how to avoid tourist traps and which day trips are worth the journey.

Best time to visit Prague

April to June and September to October are the best times to visit Prague, with mild weather and long days. Summer is lovely but crowded. December is magical for Christmas markets but cold. January and February are the cheapest and quietest months, though temperatures can drop below freezing.

Where to stay in Prague

Old Town puts you in the heart of the action, within walking distance of the main sights. Lesser Town, below Prague Castle, is quieter and romantic. Vinohrady is a local favourite with great cafés and restaurants. Smíchov is convenient and good value, close to the river and public transport.

Top things to do in Prague

Cross Charles Bridge at sunrise, explore Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral, watch the astronomical clock strike the hour and wander the Old Town Square. Take a Vltava river cruise, visit the Jewish Quarter and spend an evening in a traditional beer hall. Český Krumlov makes a great day trip.

• Visit Charles Bridge at dawn before the crowds arrive
• Book Prague Castle tickets online to skip the queue
• Climb the Old Town Hall tower for the best square view
• Avoid restaurants with aggressive touts on Old Town Square

What and where to eat in Prague

Czech cuisine is hearty and meat-focused: svíčková, goulash, roast duck and dumplings. Prague also has excellent beer halls serving fresh pilsner. Smíchov and Žižkov have better-value local restaurants than the tourist centre. Try trdelník from a street stall only if you must — it is more touristy than traditional.

Getting around Prague

The historic centre is walkable, and the metro and trams are cheap and efficient for longer distances. Tickets cover metro, trams and buses. Taxis can overcharge tourists, so use a reputable app. The airport is connected by bus and metro.

A simple 4-day Prague itinerary

Day 1: Old Town Square, astronomical clock and a sunset walk across Charles Bridge. Day 2: Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral and Lesser Town. Day 3: Jewish Quarter, Wenceslas Square and a river cruise. Day 4: day trip to Český Krumlov or Kutná Hora.