Prague in a Weekend: A Whirlwind Guide

Prague, the golden city of a hundred spires, is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you love history or good food - this city delivers.

Day 1: Old Town, Castles & Beer

Start your day at Café Savoy, a gorgeous 19th-century café where chandeliers and freshly baked pastries make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a Wes Anderson film. Order the Savoy breakfast or, if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, a Větrník—a choux pastry filled with caramel cream.

From there, head to Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square), where you can marvel at the Astronomical Clock, which has been entertaining tourists and mildly annoying locals since 1410 (The little figures perform a dance every hour).

A short walk away, you’ll find the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), home to the beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery and the Spanish Synagogue, a stunning blend of Moorish and Art Nouveau design. Prague’s Jewish history is deep and moving, making this stop an essential part of understanding the city beyond its beer and bridges.

Speaking of bridges, no visit to Prague is complete without crossing the iconic Charles Bridge. This 14th-century masterpiece is lined with statues and street artists.

By now, you’ll need a break, so stop at Lokal, a legendary Czech pub serving svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) and fresh Pilsner Urquell straight from the tank.

After lunch, make your way up to Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Highlights include St. Vitus Cathedral, which took nearly 600 years to complete. Don’t miss Golden Lane, a charming street of tiny houses, once home to alchemists and Franz Kafka for a brief time.

End your first day at Strahov Monastery, where you’ll find one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. You can also enjoy a beer at the Strahov Monastic Brewery, because nothing says “spiritual enlightenment” like a pint brewed by monks.

For dinner, head to Kampa Park, a fine-dining restaurant with stunning riverside views. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, try Kantýna, a trendy meat-focused canteen where you pick your steak and watch it sizzle on an open grill.

Day 2: Hidden Gems, Lennon Walls & Rooftop Bars

Start your second day with breakfast at Café Louvre, a historic café once frequented by Einstein and Kafka.

Next, head to Vyšehrad, a lesser-known fortress with panoramic views of Prague. This spot is far less crowded than Prague Castle and offers an equally impressive dose of history, plus a beautiful cemetery where famous Czech figures like composer Dvořák are buried.

Make your way to Dancing House, Prague’s famous modernist building designed by Frank Gehry. If you’re in the mood for a drink with a view, visit the Glass Bar on the top floor.

No visit to Prague is complete without stopping by the Lennon Wall, a constantly evolving graffiti wall dedicated to John Lennon and peace.

Lunch calls for a visit to Eska, a modern bistro famous for its open-fire cooking and fermented lemonade. Try the potato in ash, which sounds questionable but tastes incredible.

In the afternoon, explore Letná Park, offering stunning views of the city and the perfect spot for a relaxed break. If you still have energy, check out the National Technical Museum—it sounds dull, but trust me, even non-engineers will enjoy its exhibitions on cars, aviation, and industrial design.

For your last evening in Prague, book a table at Terasa U Zlaté Studně, a rooftop restaurant with one of the most breathtaking views in the city. If you prefer something more laid-back, head to Hemingway Bar, a classy cocktail spot inspired by the famous writer.