We spent 3 days in Prague in winter, Czech capital.
For this wonderful European city, you will need something like an itinerary, a travel guide to get you around to see the most interesting attractions and enjoy Prague to the fullest!
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See further below, what you can do in Prague in 3 days.
I also share with you my tidbits and thoughts to some places and why we, chose to skip some sights altogether!
When you visit Prague in 3 days, you need to prioritize! Especially in the colder seasons in autumn and winter.
So while some of us prefer to discover the bohemian soul of the city, others want to dig deep into the historical site of the Czech capital.
Fortunately, Prague has a lot to offer and you can pick the things that suit your interests on your 3 days in Prague.
Prague Castle
The Prague Castle is situated in a hilly part of the city. You can't really miss it!
It's a medieval castle, but you can't compare it to other European castles as it has another feel to it.
It's more minimal in looks, and the castle walls still give you a feeling that this must have been a little town on its own in its heydays.
We were not that impressed by the castle at first but...
We spend a lot of time there, although we moved quickly through the area, it's quite a big place, but at times it feels empty in the sense that you would expect more points of interest.
At first, if you want to enter the castle, you will need to stand in a queue for a while for the checkup.
Your bags will be checked for weapons, etc. Once you are in, you can freely stroll through the stone-plastered roads.
In the center of the castle is the St. Vitus Gothic Cathedral, and nearby is the Golden Lane.
Basically, to see any of these attractions from inside, you need to pay.
In our case, it was ridiculous because the St. Vitus Cathedral was closed for renovation, and then, of course, we just wanted to see the Golden Lane.
What we did experience, was the change of guards at noon and the small Christmas market.
Also, a married couple was taking professional pictures in the castle, and that was just a beautiful moment!
So, I suggest, if you are into culture and history, and the cathedral is open for visitors, then go for the circuit B ticket to visit the Golden Lane as well!
The tickets might be valid for 2 days; however, that doesn't matter because you are not going to do the whole charade again of waiting in the queue for a check-up the next day because you will want to see the other attraction in town. There are other amazing things to do in 3 days in Prague!
Although the Gothic cathedral was closed for us on that day, we still saw it from the outside, and I have to say the cathedral is a highlight; it's a gorgeous sight!
So the main attraction is, undoubtedly, the medieval gothic Cathedral in the castle area, and to take a look at it from outside is anyway free.
Petřín Lookout Tower
The lookout tower takes the idea from the Eiffel Tower in France; however, it's far from the same grandeur.
The tower is situated near Prague Castle.
It's a walkable distance; however, it seems to be nearer than what it is.
We walked up but turned halfway back down because the walk was taking longer than planned and we wanted to see other things too.
Besides, the tower lookout appeared to be rather crowded, and I don't think it's worthwhile the trouble because you get a view of the city on other spots along the way as well.
So your time is better spent somewhere else!
However, there is a mirror maze somewhere near the lookout tower, so the Petřín lookout tower combined with the maze might make a great place to hang out for families with kids!
Charles Bridge
One of my favorite things to do was the Charles Bridge, although it was so crowded that people were touching each other while walking across the bridge from one end to another.
The bridge kind of takes you back into a medieval mindset, and there were some artists showcasing their talents, and that gives the bridge an authentic feel, a real empathic soul!
Moreover, you won't be able to stop clicking pictures; the view from the bridge to the castle and to the marketplace on the other side is just breathtakingly beautiful.
Various saints have been immortalized in stone statues along the bridge on both sides, and you might recognize a few saints or even a late emperor.
The statues are truly in a remarkable state!
The bridge, in general, is magical, and until today, the bridge is part of many superstitious controversies!
To walk across the bridge is a wonderful feeling even if it's totally crowded.
It's something worth experiencing on your 3 days in Prague, and it's suitable for anybody.
Tip: I suggest that you cross the bridge during sunset time because you can get some really stunning moments during the twilight period!
The river view will take you in for sure!
Sunset in December takes place at about 4 pm and in June at about 9 pm.
Old Town Square and Prague Astronomical Clock
I took in the architecture the moment we entered the old town square!
You will be impressed by the Church of Our Lady before Týn and Old Town Hall.
Yet, your main attention will be towards the ingenious (and still working!) medieval astronomical clock!
These kinds of clocks are mechanical wonders of their time and show the moment of time in space with numerous little animated figures.
We didn't stay very long at the old town square as it was very busy!
It was a Saturday, a long weekend, late afternoon, and there were people all over the huge old town square.
Even the Segways couldn't move about freely, so in a way, the crowds had, in that sense, an advantage...
The old town square with the clock makes it almost a must to visit in your 3 days in Prague.
I know, it's like a place you are forced to see during your travels because everyone goes to visit it as well.
Mass tourism makes it, however, tedious for someone like me who prefers more exciting attractions with fewer people.
That's why I suggest at least taking a look, even if it's just for 5 minutes.
If you are lucky, you will have visited Prague in a quieter time of the year, and the square will be almost empty. Just for you!
Malá Strana aka the lesser town
This part of town is located on the castle side of Prague just before the Charles Bridge (Karluv Most on the map) to cross the Vltava River.
Malá Strada is like what Montmartre is to Paris, a charming quarter of the city with narrow pathways and a strong bohemian vibe.
If you are like me, a bit artsy, looking for a surprise in the city, then you will enjoy strolling through Malá Strana at your pace.
We spent a whole afternoon in this part of town, and still, I think we hadn't seen it all!
The Franz Kafka Museum is situated in this area.
You will also discover quirky art installations and ateliers of independent artists, as well as smaller eateries and charming coffee shops.
We spend a lot of time discovering the creative vein of Prague at this spot, so the Mala Strada attracts a lot of independent thinking young individuals.
You can also visit the John Lennon Wall.
The wall witnessed the change of times and tells the story of those who dared to voice their opinions through communist times and still today.
The Malá Strana was another gigantic highlight in our 3 days in Prague trip!
Other Places to Visit
Your schedule will be full of those above-mentioned sights; however, if you are looking for some other places to see in the old city center corner and you don't have enough action for 3 days in Prague, then take a look at the following.
- The Clementinum - Home of the National Library with a Baroque library hall and an astronomical tower.
- The Jewish quarter with the Old Jewish Cemetery (on the map Starý židovský hřbitov) - Europe's largest Jewish Cemetery with historical old tombstones
- National Gallery Kinsky Palace - Fine Art Museum showing art pieces from the Renaissance up to the 21st Century
- Strahov Monastery (on the map Strahovský klášter) monastery with library and Baroque church
We spent a lot of time walking around in 3 days in Prague, and although we used the easy-to-understand and budget-friendly tram system to get around, we felt that places were quite far away from each other and that getting around by foot would take more time than initially thought.
Prague is built on hills like Rome!
I am the kind of person who doesn't like to stress out and who doesn't need to force myself to see all kinds of sights.
I love to just walk around and take in the atmosphere of the city and to take my time altogether.
And that is exactly what Prague will offer you!
We focused a lot on enjoying the surroundings, and we definitely walked around a lot, so those hours passed by like nothing.
Accommodations
We ended up with a very relaxed Airbnb, which wasn't in the city center but which was in one of those really cool 20th-century building complex neighborhoods.
We absolutely enjoyed our very local abode, as it gave us the feeling of discovering the city from a local perspective.
The neighborhood was good too, and we fell in love with the Vietnamese restaurant's food downstairs.
We picked this Airbnb because we were able to park our car safely, and we did not touch our car for 3 days in Prague.
Safe car parking is a priority on a road trip holiday.
At the same time, at some point, we mutually agreed that Prague would be a great city to live in!
Things to Know
- The official currency is the Czech Crown ( CZK. One euro is about 25 CZK.
- The best is to get money from the ATMs and not do money exchange. Use the ATMs where locals go!
- As in any city in this world, be aware of pickpockets! RFID safe pocket wallets come in super handy in crowded areas.
- Tram tickets are super affordable (24h ticket ~110 CZK), and you can buy them in most small shops. You can get around very well as the network is built up to the farthest corners of the city.
- Czech people are very friendly people, and most either speak English or German.
- It's customary to tip the waiters 10-15% and beware that some restaurants ask for a fee for tap water
- Enjoy some of the best beer in the world and, of course, savor the local cuisine. The food is similar to Austrian/German food with Sauerkraut, Sausage, Dumplings, horseradish, and Goulash as specialties.
- Get good shoes and don't be afraid to wander around; Prague is a very safe city. To compare, Paris feels more unsafe.
- If you don't do Google Maps on your mobile, then get a laminated pocket sized Prague city map to find all the sights easily!
Visiting in Winter
We visited Prague in December and January; that means it's the perfect time of the year to experience the city in the Christmas mood with all its charms.
We saw one Christmas market on the castle grounds and another one below the Charles Bridge.
I am sure there are way more than that, so you can experience a lovely middle European Christmas market flair with the mulled wine and locally made treats.
One thing to consider when you plan 3 days in Prague in the winter months is the weather.
It's ice-cold! If you have been to Vienna or New York in winter, then you will know how cold it can get in those cities, and Prague is just as crazy cold!
The wind is a freezing game changer!
So get warm gloves, socks, hats, and a thick jacket because you will be mostly outside checking out the sights, and it's seriously freezing after a few hours!
Prague is a city that you need to have experienced.
It's one of the most easygoing places I have ever visited in my lifetime, and the city is so simple to understand that your 3 days in Prague will be a certain total success!
Dear Reader, so how are you planning on spending your 3 days in Prague?
Wow this is a really comprehensive itinerary and I so want to visit Prague after reading it! I love the sound of the castle and the look out tower - those views! Glad you had a great time!
This looks like an incredible trip!!! I haven't made it to Prague yet but its on my list!!!
Wow its the historical city of Prague that shows great architectural designs from the buildings and in painting too! How amazing to see an old city well preserved from its traditional state.
This looks like such a fun place to visit. The castle would be top on my list to see.
I wasn't aware of the fact that Prague was SO beautiful. <3 All those striking old buildings and the swans! I wish now that I had applied to that mobility programme to go study there for a semester. Maybe next year.
Wow what an absolutely beautiful and amazing place to visit! Your photographs are absolutely gorgeous and inspiring!
Well, Prague definitely looks as beautiful as I thought it was! Also, I love that you mention all the practical pieces - like where you have to queue up for certain things and how it doesn't matter if your ticket is valid for 2 days because you won't want to hassle with it on day 2! That stuff can make all the difference to know.
Fabulous tips! I have been to Prague 8 years ago with my husband in December and we love it - a little cold ^^ But they have hot wine so all sorted out 🙂
Prague sounds so lovely! I have always wanted to go! It is just so pretty!
Prague looks really nice! I’ve never traveled Europe, but I’ve always wanted to! This history, the architecture, and the castles and cathedrals are all so lovely! Thanks for sharing and providing such an in-depth itinerary!
Xoxo,
Amber S. | http://www.thesuburbansocialite.com
Good list. We actually did spend 3 days in Prague several times, and our first time was similar to your visit too.
Prague sounds and looks like a great place to visit. That statue though, hahaha! I'd totally take a picture like that girl.
We really like Prague and spent a good amount of time by the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. It was as nice as one can imagine! It was Winter and freezing but it added to the charm of the old town!
yeah I get what you mean. The cold really ads to the picture of the city and that is the feeling I was looking for when I imagined Prague before visiting. 🙂
Thank you for this excellent article!! We are planning a trip to Eastern Europe starting in Prague next Spring! We travel with a toddler and a 5yo, so long waits queues are out of the question, I will skip the castle and visit the Cathedral instead. We also stay three days there and then leave for Poland, then Ukraine and finally Russia. It is only so little you can do with children and we have 2 full weeks, even if we can't see everything, we focus on fewer things and enjoy them more. This year we've been to Croatia, France and Italy and it was great, we could make one big visit per day, and the children enjoyed!
Thank you for the precious tips!!
Nati the Cathedral is in the castle boundaries. Sorry for not having been that clear in my post. We noticed 2 entries to the castles and both are checkpoints and busy. Eventually, I am not sure but there might be another one where the guards are standing and there it was rather quiet. So what you can do with the kids is get up super early and get there before 10 am. Also, consider visiting the castle during the week and keep an eye out for big bus groups. If you consider these points then you will have a great chance to pass the checkpoints without waiting to visit the cathedral. We didn't see a queue at the cathedral but that was because the cathedral was closed for visitors that day, however, I did read somewhere else that the waiting time can be long there. The timing of your visit can turn your waiting timeless.
I would LOVE to visit Prague, it looks like such a beautiful city! Thank you so much for sharing this, I will definitely be coming back to this post if I go to Prague (hopefully I will soon)
I was in Prague a good 10 yeargs ago, probably for about 3 days too. Would love to go back, I'm sure it's changed a lot. Didn't know about the John Lennon wall, so will have to check that out next time!
We plan to visit next summer and so am bookmarking your article. Thanks for the detailed information on Prague!
What a fun filled 3 Days! I have always heard that Czech people are really friendly! Your guide is very detailed and would be very helpful!
This is impressive travel guide for Prague. I have explored Prague thoroughly and now visited the beautiful city through your post.
We have a family friend in Prague who has invited us over sometime. I would love to get to know this city and this is a great guide for a shorter visit. I love the architecture.
Wow Prague is so beautiful place.. All the pictures are very beautiful.. I wish I could visit there too sometime..
This looks like it would be an amazing trip! I've never been overseas but this would def be on my list of places to visit.
Very nice one. I live in Prague, and it is a very nice city to live in! And I've been to the Castle a hundred times, but weirdly never noticed the golden gun. As for the lane, it's (usually) free after 6:00 pm, just FYI for next time. And the Clementinum, imho, definitely has the best view of the town.
Oh lucky you, I can imagine living there, it's a great place to be at. Good to know, I wish I had known that before that the lane is usually free after 6 pm. We will visit again for sure and the Clementinum view will be next. Thanks for sharing, much appreciated! 😀
You've covered the bases nicely here for sure. I've spent a lot of time in Prague, and I know the city really well, I think you've done a nice, thorough job of covering a lot of aspects of the city.
Prague has been on my list for a long time. Thank you for the tour of the city and the advice. I would definitely want to spend time at the Castle and cathedral. Great tip to visit the bridge at sunset. I'm sure the sites are sensational.
Prague wasn't on my list of places to visit, but it is now. It's beautiful! I think the castle is a must see for my trip,
I would love to visit Prague one day and this list certainly tells me which areas I would most like to see and which would be a complete waste of time, a very comprehensive post with great information on many areas of Prague.
Wow! 3 days! What a whirlwind trip. It does look like you got a lot in, though. I would love to see that cathedral
I love how real you were in this post, That you didn't make a person who doesn't travel much feel so overwhelmed when trying to plan a trip for the future. How listed not just that you skipped something but as to why you skipped it as well.
We've gone to Prague during all seasons, and you are right. Going in winter doesn't stop you from seeing the beauty, but it is bitter cold. Dress warm. I haven't done the Kafka sites well enough...gotta do them.
We have been to Prague just last month and it was awesome. Spend some day and it was perfect as I could have imagined. I'm glad you have a nice trip as well. You can check out my post too I did a narrative post from my experience.
ooh id love to go there for christmas! i bet it looks stunning there!
What a comprehensive guide! When I visit Prague I will definitely check back here. Thank you for posting.
I've been dying to go to Prague! It looks like you had a wonderful time there, I'm so jealous! Maybe next year we'll make it out that way.
Prague is absolutely beautiful, it is no wonder so many movies are filmed there. I am very jealous of your trip, I hope to visit one day!
What an amazing place to visit and your tips were so informative!
Prague is high on my list and I'd love to go there in winter too, to experience the holiday markets. Thanks for the tips on the tickets and golden lane.
Very interesting read as I know so little about Prague. It looks like a marvelous time though, so much history and beauty!
With so much to do and see in Prague it sounds like there is a lot that has to be skipped. I love how much detail you put into this post. It is on my bucket list for sure to visit there!
For sure that will be days well spent. Thanks for this awesome travel guide! Have a nice day!
That's a very detailed itinerary. I will bookmark this and make reference to it if I'm ever travelling to Prague! Do let me know if you are ever travelling to Singapore too!
This looks like a fun trip! I love the history side of famous cities and I bet the food is delicious too!
Great share, nice information and great photos in the article.This is a perfect destination for my next short trip.I will consider the places you mentioned such an old town square, lesser town and many more.Thanks for such a great blog.
I have a long list of places I want to visit. And Prague is most definitely up there!