Panoramic view of Prague from Petrin Tower

Prague and Beyond: A Journey Through Bohemia’s Most Captivating Sights

March 31, 2026

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of Eastern Europe’s most beloved destinations. Once a major center of the Austro‑Hungarian Empire, the city is celebrated for its stunning architecture, graceful bridges, influential thinkers like Václav Havel and Franz Kafka, and a vibrant tradition of arts and beer culture.

Trip Planning
Prague

Sights
Activities
Transportation
Cuisine

Day Trips from Prague
Tips from a Traveler
Mobile Connectivity in the Czech Republic
Other References

Trip Planning

We recommend Rick Steves’s and Frommer’s travel guidebooks for crafting a trip that suits your pace and passions. Insights into Czech Republic by Steves, renowned for his deep knowledge of Europe, and Frommer’s, a respected name in travel publishing, offer a reliable foundation for planning your trip. Frommer’s travel guide for Prague is an ideal launching pad for any traveler eager to explore and experience the city. Prague.eu, a tourism promotion website, offers a treasure trove of popular sights, tours, and entertainment options. If you are craving to explore the Czech Republic’s rich cultural heritage beyond Prague, Rick Steves has you covered with insightful knowledge of destinations that are a train or bus ride away.

With a full week to explore the Czech Republic, this guide maps out three days in Prague followed by a couple of easy day trips to nearby cities and scenic sights, all comfortably reachable within two hours of the capital.

Prague

There is much to experience in Prague, so it is best to set aside at least 2-3 days for it. A list of Prague’s most prominent sights and activities follow. We also recommend trying the local cuisine and taking advantage of the city's excellent public transportation.

Sights

Squares: Three of Prague’s most iconic gathering spots are Malostranská, Staroměstská (Old Town Square), and Václav (Wenceslas) Square. Each one is steeped in history, yet they are far from static museum pieces. You’ll find lively festival markets, plenty of cafés and restaurants, and no shortage of souvenir stalls and shops.
Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock: The Old Town Hall in Staroměstská is one of the best places to soak in sweeping views of Central Prague. A guided tour is well worth your time not only for the stories behind this iconic landmark, but also for access to its remarkably preserved medieval basement. Just outside, the Astronomical Clock steals the spotlight. Its ornate façade and hourly show draw crowds eager to watch the wooden saint figures glide past the windows as the clock tolls. Tram stop: Staroměstská.
Prague Castle (Prazský hrad): A full-price ticket, valid for two days, gets you into the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, the Powder Tower, Golden Lane, Daliborka Tower, and the Prague Castle Picture Gallery. We highly recommend renting the audio guide. This self-guided tour may take an entire day. If you would rather not pay for the audio guide, we suggest reading the Frommer’s description of the sights within the castle. Tram stop: Malostranská. Walk up the hill to the north of the square and enter the castle grounds.
Charles Bridge (Karlův most): Within walking distance of Malostranská and Staromestská (Old Town Square) is the historic Charles Bridge. The grand entrance to the bridge and the bronze statue of Charles IV are on the east bank. The bridge is adorned with sculptures of saints, Jesus, and Mary. Locals and tourists alike rub the embossed bronze panel at the base of the statue of St. John of Nepomuk and the plaque commemorating the throwing of St. John into the Vltava River. During the day, the bridge is full of tourists, artists, musicians, and trinket sellers. Therefore, if you wish to avoid crowds, visit the bridge early in the day or late at night. Tram stop: Karlovy lázně or Malostranská.
Clementinum Astronomical Tower and Baroque Library: Just a short walk from the Charles Bridge on the east bank, you’ll find the Clementinum’s Astronomical Tower and its stunning Baroque Library. Both are historic showstoppers, tucked within the national library complex and accessible only by guided tour. Tickets tend to disappear quickly, so it is best to plan a morning visit to avoid disappointment. Tram stop: Karlovy lázně, Staromestská, or Mariánské náměstí.

Head of Franz Kafka by David Černý: Located in New Town, this modern steel sculpture of Franz Kafka’s head that rotates every few minutes attracts eager crowds throughout the day. Tram and Metro B stops: Národní třídá.
Petrin Tower (Petřínská rozhledna): Located on the western bank of the Vltava River, Petrin Tower is a steel lookout tower inspired by the design of Paris’s iconic Eiffel Tower. It offers panoramic views of Prague from two observation levels, both reachable by stairs or elevator. You can get to the tower via the funicular (temporarily closed for renovations in early 2026) or by hiking up the steep hillside streets. Tram stop: Malostranská. Take bus number 194 from Malostranská to the funicular terminal.
Other sights: Have extra time to explore? Add the John Lennon Wall (tram stop: Malostranská or Hellichova), the peaceful Waldstein Garden near Prague Castle, and the quirky Grotta (New Town, tram stop: Otakarova, Jana Masaryka, Krymská, or Vršovické náměstí) to your list.

Activities

Museum of Fantastic Illusions: Prepare to be delighted by more than a century’s worth of clever illusions, created to entertain, confuse, advertise, and occasionally deceive. It’s an easy place to lose an afternoon, laughing, snapping photos, and marveling at how easily our eyes can be tricked. This museum is close to Wenceslas Square. Tram stop: Vodičkova or Václavské náměstí. Metro A/B stop: Můstek.
Steel Art Museum: Art crafted from scrap metal salvaged from old machines, bikes, and cars is always a sight to behold. Just steps from Staroměstská, this museum showcases larger‑than‑life creations inspired by Hollywood icons, comic‑book characters, and automotive legends. You are encouraged to touch the sculptures, sit in the cars and on the bikes, and fully appreciate the creativity behind each piece. Tram stop: Staroměstská. Metro B stop: Náměstí Republiky.
Black Light Theater: This art form is a uniquely Prague art form, blending dance, light, and illusion into glowing, dreamlike performances. Catch a show at Image Black Light Theater, Srnec Theater, or WOW Show Prague. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at Black Light Theater of Prague or the box office. Online ticket availability may be limited, so if you don’t see available seats on the website, head to the box office and purchase them directly from the theater. Tram and Metro B stops: Národní třídá.
National Theater (Národní divadlo): The National Theatre in Prague is one of the city’s most treasured cultural landmarks, known for its striking neo‑Renaissance architecture and golden rooftop. Home to opera, ballet, and drama, it stands as a symbol of Czech artistic pride and national identity. Even if you don’t catch a performance, the building itself is worth admiring as you stroll along the Vltava River. Tram, metro and bus stops are all within walking distance (details).
The Spectaculare Festival: An annual celebration of cutting edge audiovisual art, the festival showcases innovative electronic and acoustic performances alongside immersive installations and creative workshops. It’s a standout event for anyone interested in modern, genre‑blurring art experiences.

Transportation

Prague is easily navigable by tram, bus, and the subway. Download the PID Lítačka mobile app to your phone to search routes and schedules and purchase tickets. Tickets can be purchased from the orange (not yellow) vending boxes on the tram, bus, or train stations. Website: https://pidlitacka.cz.

You can book taxis through popular ridesharing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Liftago. At the airport, there is even a dedicated Uber booking and pickup station right outside the baggage claim area, making it simple to get on your way.

Cuisine

Traditional Czech Dishes: Goulash, Roasted Duck, and Gnocchi

Prague’s cosmopolitan food scene offers something for every palate, from traditional Czech dishes to global flavors. Frommer’s suggests a wide variety of cafes, family friendly restaurants, and pubs. Just keep in mind that restaurants in heavily touristed areas often charge a premium. Some of the best meals are hidden a block or two away, sometimes underground or tucked inside unassuming buildings near the major sights. For smart, insider tips before your trip, we recommend checking out the Honest Guide videos.

Two cafes we would love to recommend are Mezi Řádky Bistro and Skautský Institute. Mezi Řádky offers simple but delicious food while employing physically challenged people. You will find one of their outlets close to Staroměstská and another one across the river. Skautský Institute is hidden in a building right next to the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock in Staroměstská. Another outlet with a more extensive menu is located on the west bank of the Charles River.

Here are a few restaurants and pubs with a local feel: Hostinec U Rotundy (Old Town), U Veverky, Kolkovna V Kolkovne (Old Town), U Tri Ruzi (Old Town, near Charles Bridge), Kyvadlo, U Pivrnce Zatecka, Pivovarský Dům Benedict, U Sumavy.

Day trips from Prague

A view of the Karlstejn Castle

We recommend choosing two of the five sights highlighted below, keeping in mind that this itinerary assumes you have a week to explore the Czech Republic.

Terezín Memorial: Visit the Ghetto Museum to learn about Nazi persecution during World War II and the experiences of the people who lived there. Some were imprisoned in the nearby fortress, while many others were deported to concentration camps and never returned. It is a sobering but important stop for understanding this chapter of history. Guided tours are offered at the small fortress, which is a 20-minute walk from downtown Terezin. Purchase the guided tour tickets in advance. The cemetery nearby is a reminder of the horrors of war and gross injustice. Take Metro C line to Letňany and then catch bus 413 to Terezin. The buses run every one or two hours, so be sure to check their departure times in the PID Lítačka app. Alternatively, take an Uber ride (costs about USD 50) to Terezin. We recommend Bistro U Vlcaku Prazska near the Ghetto Museum for a quick bite.
Kutná Hora: Known for its magnificent architecture, Kutná Hora has several monuments designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The Sedlec Ossuary, the Italian Court, the Church of Saint Barbara, and the Gothic Stone Fountain are some of the most popular sights to visit. Kutna Hora is reachable by train from Prague. Map your journey on the cd.cz website to determine the trains to reach Kutná Hora and purchase tickets. Alternatively, use the PID Lítačka app to purchase tickets. The city is walkable. Use buses for local transit.
Castles: Konopiště, Karlštejn, and Křivoklát are three popular medieval castles reachable by train. They each offer a distinct window into Czech history: Konopiště impresses with its aristocratic elegance and landscaped gardens, Karlštejn stands out as the classic fairytale fortress built to guard royal treasures, and Křivoklát offers a more rugged, medieval atmosphere with far fewer crowds. While Karlštejn is the most famous, Konopiště feels more refined, and Křivoklát provides a quieter, more authentic escape into the forested countryside. Map your journey on the cd.cz website to determine the trains to reach main train stations in the town center and purchase tickets. All the castles are reachable from the nearest train stations by bus and foot. Note: Konopiště Castle is temporarily closed as of April 2026.

Tips from a Traveler

English is widely spoken in most tourist areas, but knowing some Czech magic words will ease interactions with the locals.
Use Czech Koruna (CZK or Kc) as the main currency for all payments. Euros are accepted in Prague’s tourist areas. Some establishments may even accept US Dollars.
All establishments accept credit and debit cards. Consider getting an international debit card offered by Wise or Revolut. Transfer cash quickly and easily to them and use your phone's wallet to pay everywhere.
Some local banks in heavily touristed areas may charge steep commissions for ATM withdrawals, so it’s worth staying alert when taking out cash.
While tap water is drinkable, some restaurants will only offer bottled water.
If you’re looking to save on meals, stop by an Albert or a Tesco grocery store to pick up essentials like bottled water, bread, milk, cereal, fruit, and ready‑made sandwiches.

Don’t Get Lost in the City of a Hundred Spires: Stay Connected with an eSIM

Before you jet off to Prague and wander into its historic city center, make sure you’ve sorted your mobile connectivity with a travel eSIM for the Czech Republic. An eSIM lets you stay in touch with local contacts, navigate with maps, book transportation, and share your adventures in real time—without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.

If your itinerary spans across borders, consider grabbing a Europe-wide eSIM. It offers seamless coverage across multiple countries, making your travel smoother and your selfies upload faster.