What to see in Prague in one day
A one-day visit to Prague is really an injustice to the beauty and architectural brilliance of the Czech Republic’s capital city. But a day may be all you have if you’re touring the imperial cities or if you’re on a flying visit. For those with limited time, we have prepared a guide to enable you to see the essential sights of Prague in a day without having to constantly watch the time.
Itinerary day 1
9:30-10:30
Old Town Square
This is the best place to start your one-day visit to Prague. Focus your attention on the essentials, and marvel at one of the loveliest squares in the world, the heart of the Czech capital. Keep an eye on the time, because at 10.00 am (and on every hour until night time), Prague’s fantastic Astrological Clock on a wall of the Town Hall strikes the hour. And don’t forget to go up the tower!
10:35-11:00
The Church of Our Lady of Tyn
As well as exploring the corners of the square, go into the Church of Our Lady of Tyn, whose two towers stand out against the skyline of the Staré Mesto (Old Town) — and which remains permanently hidden behind the façades of the houses overlooking the square.
11:30-12:45
A walk through the Staré Mesto
The sight of the square will spark your love-affair with Prague. Devote the next hour and a quarter to exploring the Old Town. You can meander haphazardly, letting yourself be seduced by the atmosphere. Meanwhile, don’t forget to visit the Church of Saint Nicholas, the Powder Tower and the Clementinum.
13:00-14:30
The U Medvidku brewery
Time to recharge your batteries. As you continue on your way through the Old Town, nothing can beat a visit to the historic U Medvidku — which began brewing beer in 1466 and still functions today as a brewery and restaurant. In addition to the traditional Czech dishes, try a good unfiltered Pils and the brewery’s famous X-Beer 33, brewed on site and considered the world’s strongest beer.
14:30-15:00
Charles Bridge
With your batteries fully charged, now is a good time to make for the Charles Bridge, Prague’s most famous monument. In less than 10 minutes, you will reach this wonder which history has bequeathed to the city. A monumental bridge, constructed between 1357 and 1402, and the essential link between the banks of Prague’s river. Take time to admire the details of each of the statues that line the bridge!
15:15-15:45
The John Lennon Wall
Crossing the river Vltava will bring you into the Malá Strana district. On both sides of the bridge, you will find places of interest, including the house of Franz Kafka and the John Lennon Wall, the iconic wall of peace which attracts fans of the Beatles star. From the wall, following the Certovka Canal, you will come to the ‘island’ of Kampa, a pretty area with mansions and villas overlooking the river.
16:00-17:15
The Malá Strana district
This neighbourhood clings to the hillside beneath Prague Castle. The proximity of the castle led members of the aristocracy to build mansions and settle here, and so it has become known as the ‘Baroque Pearl’. Start at Mostecka Street, visit Malostranske Square, and then turn towards Karmelitska Street. You can enjoy a coffee or a beer at any of the bars you find along the way.
17:30-18:30
Prague Castle
As we are visiting Prague in just one day, a full exploration of the castle will have to wait for another time. But you can go into the castle area, which is open until night time. It is one of the largest castles in the world, and so it is fitting that it has unique gardens. From here, you can enjoy some of the finest views of Prague and see the famous Golden Lane.
19:00-20:30
Prague at night
As evening falls, Prague takes on a new appearance. As the city lights up, the magic of the night descends over the streets. Every step, every corner, all deserve those haunting photos to take home after your holiday. Walk down from the castle, back into the Old Town and gaze at the night-time scene from the Charles Bridge.
21.00-23-00
Alcron Restaurant
To put the perfect finishing touch to your day in Prague, we suggest you book a table at the elegant Alcron Restaurant. The gourmet experience in this establishment, which boasts a Michelin star (and which retains its original décor, with scenes by Tamara de Lempicka), provides an incomparable setting for an unforgettable evening.