First time in Prague: Everything you need to know

Set on the banks of the Vltava River, there’s a reason Prague is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful cities — its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of hidden gems and iconic landmarks just waiting to be discovered. Whether wandering the city’s cobblestone streets or visiting world-renowned attractions like the Charles Bridge, you’ll want to spend your first time in Prague soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Discover the most important things to know about Prague, from the best time to go to must-see sights in this essential first-timer’s guide.

Prague: Tips for first-timers

1. Popular spots like Prague Castle and the Astronomical Clock can get very busy, so time your visits for early in the morning or later in the afternoon before closing hours.
2. Some attractions and restaurants may close earlier than expected, especially during the off-season, so always check opening hours when planning a visit.
3. Pack comfortable walking shoes — you’ll be happy to have them when walking on Prague’s historic cobblestone streets. Remember to keep a jacket on hand, as the weather in Prague can be unpredictable.
4. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, you should carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in markets or local shops. You can easily withdraw Czech koruna (CZK) at the many ATMs around the city, although it’s a good idea to use ATMs from reputable banks for the best exchange rates.
5. Public restrooms are available at metro stations and larger tourist areas, but they often require a small fee, so keep some cash on hand.

Best time to visit

Prague experiences distinct seasons, offering plenty of captivating experiences year-round. From lively summer festivals to the quiet charm of its winter streets, explore the best times to visit Prague below.

Spring

Visit Prague in the spring to enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming gardens like those at Petrin Hill. An added bonus of a spring visit is a calendar of exciting cultural events like the Prague Spring International Music Festival.

Summer

Summer in Prague runs from June to September, bringing warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the city´s parks, beer gardens, and river cruises along the Vltava. The town gets busier as summer progresses, especially during lively music festivals like the Prague Proms.

Fall

Prague’s fall season offers fewer crowds and a stunning display of autumn foliage throughout the city. Consider it the perfect time to explore the city’s parks and gardens or to check out cultural events like the Signal Festival, which lights up the town with stunning projections and installations.

Winter

Winter in Prague, from December to February, is the coldest time of the year, but can also be a good season to visit due to smaller crowds. Time your trip during the weeks before Christmas to soak up the festive atmosphere at the city’s holiday markets and iconic Old Town Square ice skating rink.

Prague’s top 5 must-visit attractions

1. Prague Castle

The Prague Castle complex is an architectural masterpiece that mixes Gothic and Renaissance styles with intricate details, and is one of the top things to do in Prague for first-timers. Built as a royal residence in the 9th century, it’s one of the city’s most impressive landmarks.

2. St. Vitus Cathedral

Step inside the breathtaking St. Vitus Cathedral, a must-do in Prague. It’s part of the castle complex and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

3. Charles Bridge

Go for a stroll across one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, or better yet, opt to take in the beauty of the Vltava with a picturesque boat cruise by Charles Bridge.

4. Prague Astronomical Clock

View Prague’s iconic Astronomical Clock, a captivating historical landmark that draws crowds every hour. It’s one of the oldest functioning astronomical clocks in the world, with intricate details and moving figures that offer a glimpse into medieval craftsmanship.

5. The Dancing House

Visit the Dancing House, a deconstructivist building on the banks of the Vltava that’s thought to resemble a pair of dancers. The river offers the best views of this architectural landmark, so consider taking a cruise or renting a canoe to see it from all angles.

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in Prague

Malá Strana

Malá Strana, or Prague’s Lesser Town, is one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, with cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture, and stunning views of Prague Castle. Beyond the picturesque riverside cafes and gardens, the area boasts fascinating museums like the contemporary art museum on Kampa Island.

Staré Město

Also known as Old Town, Staré Město is the historic heart of the city, offering a mix of medieval architecture and lively squares to explore. With several of Prague’s unmissable landmarks found in this historic neighborhood, it’s the ideal place to stay for your first time in Prague.

Josefov

Josefov, also known as Prague’s historic Jewish district, is home to famous landmarks like the stunning Spanish Synagogue. It’s the perfect neighborhood to hop from quaint cafes to local shops while admiring its remarkable architecture and profound history.

What to eat in Prague

Prague’s cuisine emphasizes rich sauces, hearty dishes, and local ingredients. With street food and other sweet Czech delicacies just waiting to be sampled throughout the city, this first-timer’s guide spotlights the must-try dishes.

Main dishes to try

1. Goulash

A must-try dish in Prague, goulash is a hearty stew of tender beef simmered in a rich, savory sauce. You’ll find it on the menu in most traditional restaurants, accompanied by bread or dumplings.

2. Svíčková

Usually found in Czech restaurants, svíčková is a dish of marinated beef served with a creamy vegetable sauce and bread dumplings.

3. Trdelník

Also called chimney cake, trdelník is a popular street food consisting of a sweet pastry wrapped around a cylindrical stick and baked over an open flame before being coated in sugar and cinnamon.

4. Koláče

A popular Czech treat commonly eaten during celebrations and holidays, koláče are sweet pastries filled with fruit, cheese, or poppy seeds.

5. Pilsner Beer

Don’t miss a chance to taste the original Pilsner beer. This crisp lager is a must-try for beer enthusiasts and pairs perfectly with local dishes.

Getting to Prague

Flying into Václav Havel airport

Getting to Prague’s city center from Václav Havel Airport is convenient and efficient. The Airport Express bus takes about 30 minutes to reach Hlavní Nádraží, the main train station, and runs every 30 minutes. Additionally, public transportation options, including buses and trams, provide economical access to various parts of the city, typically taking around 40 minutes. Taxis are readily available outside the airport 24/7, and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also commonly used.

Hlavní nádraží station

Prague’s central train station, Hlavní Nádraží, is well-connected to destinations across Europe, such as nearby Vienna and Budapest. Located in the heart of the city, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the iconic Wenceslas Square, so you can start exploring right away.

Getting around Prague

Getting around Prague is easy thanks to its compact and pedestrian-friendly city center. Walking is the best way to discover the sites in the historic Old Town, while the efficient tram system is a convenient option for exploring less central neighborhoods.

Exploring Prague on foot

Walking the streets of Old Town is one of the best things to do in Prague for first-timers, as it’s a great way to see iconic landmarks and explore the best neighborhoods in Prague. Most top attractions are within easy walking distance, making it convenient for travelers eager to explore.

Public transportation in Prague

With a public transportation network that includes trams, buses, and the metro, it’s easy to navigate the city. One of the most helpful things to know about Prague is that its public transport is cashless — simply purchase a ticket via the Lítačka app or use a contactless credit or debit card. Just be sure to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines.

What to avoid in Prague

• Don’t ride in unmetered taxis or accept rides from individuals offering transportation, as some drivers may try to overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Licensed taxis or rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are the better option.
• Like many popular big cities, Prague has its share of pickpockets, so keep your valuables close and remain vigilant in crowded places.
• Avoid taking photos at sensitive places like military sites, certain museums, or during performances, where photography may be restricted for security, preservation, or etiquette reasons. If you’re unsure, check for signs that will give you more guidance.

First-timer’s guide to Prague: FAQs

1. How many days is enough to visit Prague?

Give yourself at least three days for your first time in Prague. This should allow enough time to explore the historic Old Town and several top attractions.

2. What’s the tipping policy in Prague?

While not mandatory, a tip of around 10% is customary for good service in restaurants and cafes in Prague.

3. What’s a good area to stay in Prague?

Staying in Prague’s Old Town is perfect for first-time visitors, as it puts you within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions.

4. Is it safe to walk around Prague at night?

Prague is generally a safe city with a well-lit city center and low crime rates. However, it’s still a good idea to take precautions, like sticking to well-lit streets, avoiding isolated areas, and being aware of your surroundings.

5. Do I need cash in Prague?

Prague is a very card-friendly city, but it’s still a good idea to bring cash with you. Although most larger hotels, shops, and restaurants accept payments in euros or dollars, you’ll want to have some Czech Crowns (CZK) on hand for cash payments in some shops, bars, cafés, and tourist attractions.