The Czech Republic’s fairytale-like capital is full of fascinating history, eclectic architecture, buzzy beer halls and culture at every turn. A compact, walkable city with plenty to shout about, we could easily spend a long weekend enjoying the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. We don’t always have this luxury, however. Luckily, for those without time on their side, 24 hours in Prague is enough to hit the highlights. Phew. Read on for our breakdown of how best to spend these precious hours in pretty Prague.
9am
Wander the Mala Strana
Begin your 24 hours in Prague in Mala Strana, a historic Baroque district on the banks of the Vltava River. Boasting a plethora of pastel-hued townhouses, smart boutiques and craft breweries, it’s the perfect place to while away an hour or two. Our top tip? Indulge in a freshly baked Czech pastry (we like kolache) from a cosy neighbourhood café before the sightseeing begins. Among the things to see in Mala Strana is the Lennon Wall, a mural featuring political messages calling for freedom, peace and love under communist rule in the 1980s. Literary nerds will enjoy perusing the Kafka Museum, and peering into the beautiful St. Nicholas Church is non-negotiable.
10.30am
Discover Prague Castle
Next on the agenda is Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest castle complex, covering almost 70,000sqm. From its Romanesque-style tenth-century buildings to its 14th-century Gothic inclusions, Prague Castle is a delight for architecture aficionados and history fans alike. While you wander, don’t miss the gorgeously Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral (the most important in the country) or the Old Royal Palace, the original residence building. Another highlight is the perfectly picturesque Golden Lane, a colourful, cobbled Medieval street that Kafka once called home.
1pm
Stroll Charles Bridge
After taking in the majesty of Prague Castle, it’s around a 20-minute walk to Prague’s famous architectural feat, Charles Bridge. Crossing the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is the oldest stone bridge in Europe, connecting the old town with the ‘lesser town’ (Mala Strana). Lined with 30 saintly statues, the bridge is a must-see monument, bustling with musicians and street vendors. History buffs can learn more about the bridge’s construction at the Charles Bridge Museum on the Old Town side, and for fantastic views, climb the 138 steps up the Old Town Bridge Tower (it’s worth it, we promise).
1.30pm
Marvel at Old Town Square
24 hours in Prague wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Old Town Square. It features a cluster of beautifully preserved – and distinctively Czech – Medieval buildings, including The Church of Our Lady Before Tyn and The Old Town Hall. Make sure to peek at the 15th-century astronomical clock in the latter building; it’s the third-oldest clock of its kind in the world (and the only working one). After seeing the square’s sights, it’s time to satisfy grumbling bellies (after all, a pastry can only keep you so full). Tuck into traditional Czech fare in one of the plentiful restaurants in the area, like U Modre Kachnicky.
3.30pm
Explore the Jewish Quarter
First established as a ghetto for Jewish people in the 13th century, today, Prague’s well-preserved Jewish Quarter offers a window into a troubled past. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the oldest and most important in Europe, housing an estimated 100,000 bodies. Take in the enormity of this history before touring the neighbourhood’s magnificent buildings, including six synagogues. Among the six are: the Klausen Synagogue, an early Baroque-style building and the largest and (almost) most significant in the city; the 16th-century Pinkas Synagogue; and the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in Europe. If time allows, visit the Museum of Decorative Arts and Kafka’s birthplace too.
5.30pm
Climb Petrin Hill
Later this afternoon, amble back across Charles Bridge towards Petrin Hill, the city’s highest point. Boasting some of the best panoramic views over Prague, visitors can walk to the top or opt for a historic cable car ride. However you reach the peak, the views across the Vltava and Prague’s Old Town are well worth the effort. This pretty park also hosts the Petrin Observation Tower, the Stefanik Observatory, a mirror maze, a rose garden and the historic Hunger Wall, so you won’t be short of things to do.
7pm
Sample Czech cuisine
Having worked up an appetite after today’s activities, it’s time to feast on a delicious dinner. Among this evening’s restaurant contenders is U Kroka, located near Vysehrad, a historic fort on the banks of the Vltava. Here, expect mouthwatering servings of svickova (braised beef in a creamy sauce) and Czech schnitzel. Another delectable dining option is Pod Vezi, located near Charles Bridge and a favourite for duck confit and wild boar goulash. If hearty dishes and generous helpings are up your street, we recommend U Sadlu. This Old Town establishment specialises in Czech comfort food, including pork knuckles and roast game. After filling up on authentic cuisine, set off in search of a pint of Prague’s famed pilsner in one of the city’s plentiful pubs.
9pm
Listen to live jazz
In a city famous for classical music and jazz (Prague hosts the International Jazz Festival every year), you’re not short of after-dinner entertainment. Head to the quirky AghaRTA Jazz Club in Prague’s Old Town to listen to local jazz musicians in an intimate cellar setting. Hosting live music every night from 9pm, you can easily spend a few hours immersed in the lively atmosphere. With a pint of pilsner in hand, what better way to end your 24 hours in Prague?
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Bjoern Steinz/PANOS REA
