An Amazing 4 Days In Prague Itinerary
Have you been to Prague? Or, are you planning 4 days in Prague trip?
This 4 days in Prague itinerary is ideal for first-timers and those wanting to revisit this beautiful city. Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic. It is also the largest city with a population of 1.3 million people.
In this post, we answer the questions below which could be useful when planning your trip to Prague.
- Where is Prague?
- Is 4 days enough in Prague?
- What are the best areas to stay in Prague?
- What is the best part of Prague to stay?
- How much money do I need for 4 days in Prague?
- Is Prague worth visiting?
Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.
Where is Prague?
Prague is on the Vltava River at the center of the Bohemian Basin. The city has continuously been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age. In the early 4th and 5th centuries, a Celtic tribe arrived and established settlements in present-day Prague.
The tribe named the place “Boiohaemum” which translated to the “home of the Boi people”. The Celts were driven out by the Germanic tribes. The Slavic tribes moved into Central Bohemia during the 6th century.
For the next three centuries, Czech tribes built several fortifications. By the 9th century, the expansion of Prague Castle began on an existing settlement that had existed since the year 800 BC.
Legendary Beginnings
The legend of the beginning of Prague goes back to the 7th century when a Slavic Princess Libuše and her husband, Prince Přemysl once ruled peacefully over Czech lands. One day, the princess had a vision.
At that time, she stood on a cliff overlooking the Vltava, and pointed to the forests across the river, and said “Vidím město veliké, jehož sláva hvězd se dotýkati bude” which means “I see a great city whose glory would touch the stars.”
After this vision, she instructed her people to build a castle where a man was building the threshold of a house. She then said, “and because even the great noblemen must bow low before a threshold, you shall give it the name Praha”.
Two hundred years later, Prague became the seat of the Premyslid Dynasty.
5 Fun Facts About the Czech Republic
- Prague is approximately at the same latitude as Frankfurt, Paris, and Vancouver.
- This city’s nickname is the “City of a Hundred Spires” as it has at least 500 spires. The tallest spire is at City Tower which stands at 109 meters.
- The Bohemian lifestyle is part of the Czech heritage. The Kingdom of Bohemia was an early modern monarchy in Central Europe.
- Home to several of the oldest historical sites. This meant that many historical sites still stand today. St George’s Basilica, the oldest building in Prague is one the must-visits when in the city.
BONUS FACT: There are 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Czech Republic.
Visa Requirements
It is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that manages the visa and entry residence permits into the Czech Republic.
Schengen Visa
Since the Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area, the Uniform Schengen Visa applies. This visa is for categories “A” and “C”.
A category “A” is an Airport Transit Visa whereby citizens of 29 nations would have to lodge a transit visa if they are transiting to any international airports within the Czech Republic.
A category “C” is a Schengen Visa that is specifically for tourism, medical treatment, business, culture, internship studies, employment, and training. This visa is valid for up to 90 days for stays in either the Czech Republic or any other Schengen States.
Long Term Visa
These visas are for stays longer than 90 days and less than 1 year. This Type “D” visa allows the holder to travel and stay either in the Czech Republic or any Schengen nation on a long-term non-profit basis.
A category “D” is specifically for medical treatments, sporting events, cultural events, volunteering or internship studies, visiting family members, and entrepreneurship.
The Application Forms for Visas and Permits are available in dual language and languages such as French, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian. These forms are available at all consulates and are free of charge.
Do I need a visa to go to Prague?
According to the Department of State, citizens of the United States DO NOT REQUIRE A VISA for stays less than 90 days. The purpose should only be as tourist, business, and study, except for work.
Getting Around in Prague
Prague has an integrated transport system which makes getting around the city easy and in some areas, walkable. Listed below are some of the transport options you can consider when in Prague.
Metro, Buses & Trams
There are three metro lines in Prague. Line A is the GREEN line while Line B is the YELLOW line and Line C is the RED line. Prague has exceptional and comprehensive bus and tram lines that reach every corner of the city.
The trams and buses usually run from 5 am to midnight. After midnight, a small fleet of night trams and night buses are available across the city every 40 minutes. The price for the night ticket is 32Kč ($1.50) per person.
For a complete list of public transport available, scheduled routes, and prices, you can check out the Prague Integrated Transport website and click the “For tourists” tab for information on traveling around Prague, what ticket to use, and maps.
Taxis & Ride-share services
Taxis are another easy and affordable option to get around Prague. Taxi scams are a risk and any trip within the city center should not cost more than 200Kč ($10). It is best to confirm your destination and estimated fare before getting in. Also, make sure the meter is switched on.
Liftago is a reliable and locally owned ride-share service and your ride would arrive within minutes. You would need to download the app before arriving in Prague. What we love about it is that we can choose our driver based on price, arrival time, user reviews, and car model.
Walking
This is the best way to explore Prague’s Old Town as all tourist icons are within walking distance from one another. For women, make sure to wear your Skecher’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoes and for men, get the Skecher’s Go Walk Max and walk your way around Prague!
Is 4 days enough in Prague?
Although 4 days may seem brief, it is perfect to explore the city, absorb its culture and history. Importantly, these four days are not rushed and you would have ample time to see its main sites.
Day 1: Old Town (Staré Město pražské)
Prague’s Old Town began as a medieval settlement that was separated from the outside by a semi-circular moat and wall that was connected to the Vltava River on both ends. Historical records dating back to 1100 AD mention that every Saturday, a market was held there.
Is Prague Old Town safe?
According to Travel Safe Abroad, Prague is a very safe city to visit. Other than the usual pickpocketing, the risk of mugging and natural disasters is low. Prague is also a safe city for female solo travelers and women do not have to worry about being harassed on the streets.
Charles Bridge
The first in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Charles Bridge or Karlův most. This stone arch bridge replaced the Judith Bridge that was damaged by the floods of Prague in 1342.
Charles Bridge was the means of crossing the river until 1841 and was the most important connection between Prague and the city’s Old Town. The bridge made Prague an important trade route between Eastern and Western Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why do people touch the statue on Charles Bridge?
The statue that is prone to rubbing is that of St John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that the saint was thrown into Vltava River after he refused to divulge the queen’s confessional secrets.
It is believed that touching the plaque below his statue brings good luck while touching the plaque with a cross that marks the spot he was thrown into the river would grant one’s wishes.
How many statues does Charles Bridge have?
On the balustrade of this bridge, you will see 30 statues. These sculptures were erected between 1683 and 1714 and are that of venerated saints and patron saints of that time. Among the notable statues are St Francis of Assisi, St Francis Xavier, St Luthgard, and St John of Nepomuk.
NOTE: The statues you see on the bridge are all replicas. The original statues are placed at the National Museum.
Read the 10 Facts About Charles Bridge and the Google Doodle on the 660th Anniversary of the Charles Bridge to know more.
Powder Gate Tower
The second in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Powder Gate Tower or Prašná brána is one of the original city gates that separate the New Town from the Old Town. The name is because the gate was used to store gunpowder during the 17th century.
When was Powder Tower built?
Powder Tower was built in 1475 and stands at 65 meters in height. The Observation Gallery is at 44 meters and visitors would have to climb 186 stone staircases to reach it.
How much is the entrance fee to the Powder Tower?
The entrance fee starts at 150Kč ($7) for adults. A reduced fee of 100Kč ($5) is given to children aged between 6 to 15 years, students below 26 years, and seniors above 65 years of age. A family entrance ticket is 350Kč ($17).
There is an early bird discount of 50% off the admission fee, every day during the first hour of opening.
Old Town Square
The third of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Old Town Square or Staroměstské náměstí. This historic area is located between Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square and is an easy 10-minute walk from Charles Bridge.
The Old Town Square has seen many events since it was constructed in the 10th century. The first Czech King, John of Luxembourg, and his wife, Elisabeth of Bohemia passed through this square in 1311.
Many beheadings have taken place in front of the Town Hall with the most tragic event being the beheadings of the 27 prominent participants of the Czech Revolt. A commemoration with 27 crosses are marked on the sidewalk at the Old Town Hall for these martyrs.
This square has several other landmarks such as the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Mother of God before Týn, and the Prague Meridian.
What is the statue in Old Town Square Prague?
The statue at the Old Town Square is the Jan Hus Memorial. This statue depicts the Hussite and Protestant warriors who were forced into exile during the Battle of the White Mountain.
Jan Hus was a symbol of strength against oppressive regimes and a symbol of the anti-Habsburg rule to the people of Bohemia and regions around Prague.
Fun Fact
During the communist rule of Czechoslovakia, sitting at the feet of the Jan Hus Memorial was a way where one could express opinions and opposition against the Communists, peacefully.
Astronomical Clock
The fourth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Astronomical Clock or Pražský orloj is the third oldest clock in the world and the oldest clock that is still working. The clock is at the southern wall of the Old Town Hall building in the Old Town Square area.
The three main components of the clock are its astronomical dial, the statues of various Catholic saints, and the “Walk of the Apostles” which is a must-see event when at Old Town.
Legends of the Astronomical Clock
One local legend mentions that once the clock stops, the Czech’s would suffer bad times or be affected by war. Another legend is that of the Clock Master Hanuš who was blinded by the Prague Councillors so that he would not make another masterpiece clock again.
Legend has it that after he was blinded, he went to the heart of the astronomical clock and stopped the clockwork. The clock was only repaired a century later.
Kinský Palace
The fifth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Kinský Palace. This palace is now the National Gallery and is used as an art museum. It is an easy 2-minute walk from the Astronomical Clock.
Some notable people who have stayed here are Alfred Nobel, Bertha von Suttner who was the winner of the first Nobel Peace Price in 1905, and Franz Kafka.
How much is the entrance fee to Kinský Palace?
A 10-day pass costs 500Kč ($23) and is valid for entry to all permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Church of Mother of God before Týn
The sixth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Church of Mother of God before Týn. This church was built in the 14th century. It is on the grounds of a Romanesque church that was present since the 11th century.
Is there any entrance fee to enter the church?
No, there isn’t any entrance fee to enter the church. However, a donation of about 40Kč ($1) would suffice. As this is a working church, sightseeing is not possible during masses.
Day 2: New Town (Nové Město)
On Day 2 of our 4 days in Prague itinerary, we explore Prague’s New Town. This area is about three times the size of the Old Town. The three main sights we will explore here are the Dancing House, the Franz Kafka rotating head, and the Emmaus Monastery.
Fun Fact
This New Town isn’t exactly new. It was built in 1348 by Charles IV which makes this place about 673 years old. This place is also the center of education as Charles University is within this area.
Dancing House
The seventh in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Dancing House. The actual name of this building is the Nationale-Nederlanden building. The house attracted controversy due to its unique design as it stands out among its Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau neighbors.
What is another nickname of the Dancing House?
Another nickname of the house is “Fred & Ginger”. The house was originally named to honor the famous dancers, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The tower made of concrete represents Fred Astaire while the tower of glass represents Ginger Rogers.
Fun Fact
The house is historically significant as part of the building was destroyed by the United States bombing of Prague in 1945 which led to the building being abandoned.
Emmaus Monastery
The eighth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Emmaus Monastery which is a short 10-minute walk from the Dancing House. This monastery was originally known as Na Slovanech and is the only Benedictine Monastery of the Bohemian Kingdom and Slavic Europe.
This monastery is home to the rarest sights of Bohemian Gothic art with 85 wall paintings that depict scenes from the Old Testament and the New Testament. The original frescoes that depict Pagan symbolism from the 14th century can also be seen.
How much is the entrance fee to the Emmaus Monastery?
The entrance fee for an adult is 60Kč ($3) while the fee for a family is 120Kč ($6).
Franz Kafka Rotating Head
The ninth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Franz Kafka Rotating Head. This kinetic sculpture is a 20-minute walk from the Emmaus Monastery. This sculpture was made by David Černý.
The sculpture seeks to physicalize the ever-changing pieces of the writer’s mind. Forty-two individually rotating layers are mechanized using the traditional gears of the astronomical clock at Old Town.
Day 3: Malá Strana (Lesser Town)
On Day 3 of our 4 days in Prague itinerary, we explore Malá Strana or Lesser Town as it is commonly known. This area was founded by King Ottokar II of Bohemia. He created it to amalgamate several settlements into a single administrative unit.
Wallenstein Palace
The tenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Wallenstein Palace. The palace was built by Albrecht von Wallenstein who was the Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Forces during the Czech Thirty-Years War.
Today, the palace houses the Senate of the Czech Republic. The Senate Chancellery does not provide sightseeing tours to any travel agencies. Although the palace has entry restrictions, the gardens are open to the public and do not have any entrance fee.
Lennon Wall
The eleventh of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the John Lennon Wall. This wall is an 8-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from Wallenstein Palace. The wall is located at a small square across the French embassy and continuously changes.
The wall is owned by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and is known as a symbol of peace and freedom. To prevent vandalism, members of the public can only mark the wall using pencil, chalk, or markers. Spray painting is not allowed to ensure that the artistic portion is not defaced.
Why is the Lennon Wall in Prague?
The Lennon Wall in Prague is a symbol of non-violent rebellion and freedom of speech of Czech youth against the Communist regime. Read Prague’s Famous John Lennon Wall and Imagine No Graffiti to know more.
Church of Our Lady Victorious
The twelfth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Church of Our Lady Victorious or Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné. The 16th century of the Infant Jesus holding an orb and a cross was donated by Polyxena, the 1st Princess of Lobkowicz.
While the church is now a UNESCO Heritage Site, the monastery is now the office of the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports.
What is the significance of the Child of Prague?
According to the Irish Post, the Child of Prague is believed to have a beneficial effect on the weather.
There is a custom where the statue of the Child of Prague would be placed outside the bride’s house, under a hedge as a cue to a sunny day before the nuptials. Read BBC’s Religious Statue Believed To Guarantee Good Weather to know more.
Petrin Lookout Tower
The thirteenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Petrin Lookout Tower or Petřínská rozhledna. This tower is about a 25-minute walk from the Church of Our Lady Victorious. The walk is through Petrin Hill that is covered in parks.
The tower was built to resemble Eiffel Tower and is used as an observation and transmission tower. There is a permanent exhibition on how the tower has changed through the centuries.
How many steps does Petrin Tower have?
Petrin Tower has 299 steps to the two observation platforms. The tower stands at 63.5 meters in height and the design of its lowest cross beams is similar to Eiffel Tower.
How much does it cost to get into Petrin Tower?
The entrance fee to Petrin Tower is 150Kč ($7) for adults and 350Kč ($17) for a family.
Day 4: Castle District (Hradčany)
The last of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is visiting the Castle District. This is the district that surrounds Prague Castle. The two main sights here are Prague Castle and the St Vitus Cathedral.
Prague Castle
The fourteenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Prague Castle or Pražský hrad. This castle complex was built in the 9th century and was the seat of power for the Bohemian Kingdom, the Holy Roman Emperors, and the presidents of Czechoslovakia.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world with a surface area of 18 acres.
𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐥𝐞
- 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐉𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐬. No thief can get the Crown Jewels as they are locked behind a closed chamber door with seven locks whose keys are held by seven people. All seven have to be present to open the door.
- 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫. During the Nazi Occupation, the protector of the Reich, Reinhard Heydrich loved to put the crown on his head and pretend that he was the king of the land. The local legend mentions that if a usurper places the crown on his head, he would die within a year. True enough, Heydrich was killed in an ambush on his way to the castle in less than a year, while his son was killed in an accident a year later.
- 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫. The castle boasts 4 palaces, the Old Royal Palace, the New Royal Palace, Lobkowicz, and Belvedere. To complement these 4 palaces, there are 4 churches, St Vitus Cathedral, St George’s Basilica, All Saints Church, and the Holy Cross Chapel.
How much does Prague Castle cost?
The Prague Castle Circuit Ticket costs 250Kč ($11) for adults and 500Kč ($23) for families. This ticket allows entry to the Old Royal Palace, St George’s Basilica, the Golden Lane, and St Vitus Cathedral. Visitors with this ticket can enter Château Park in Lany for free.
A single ticket to the Château Park in Lany costs 15Kč ($0.70¢) while an Audioguide for 1 device for 3 hours costs 200Kč ($10) while Tours with Licensed Professional Guides of the Prague Castle Administration costs 100Kč ($5).
Read the 7 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Prague Castle and A Brief History of the Prague Castle to know more.
St Vitus Cathedral
The fifteenth and last in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is St Vitus Cathedral. This church is the largest and most important in the country. The cathedral is the third to be built on-site. This church is within the St Wenceslas Chapel.
Is St Vitus Cathedral free?
Entry to the cathedral is free if you have purchased the Prague Castle Circuit Ticket. Entry is 150Kč ($7) for adults and 300Kč ($14) for families.
The Great South Tower is about 100 meters in height and offers a panoramic view of Prague and the bells of the cathedral. There are 280 steps to reach the top.
𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒁𝒊𝒌𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑷𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒆?
During the pealing on the occasion of the feast of St Vitus on 15 June 2002, the clapper of Zikmund cracked. According to local legends, this meant a disaster was coming. In August 2002, the largest flood in Prague’s history struck and destroyed more than 1,000 houses.
What is the best part of Prague to stay?
Whether you are visiting Prague for the first time or are a frequent visitor, Prague has a range of beautiful places worth staying in. In this post, we visit the 3 common areas that are suitable for first-timers, nightlife, and families.
Old Town (Staré Mesto) For First-Timers
This is an ideal place for first-timers as major historical sights are all within reach. If you have time, head north to the Jewish Quarters.
Read Inside Prague’s Jewish Quarter and the 10 Epic Things To Do In Prague Old Town to know more. Prague’s Old Town is also home to many places to stay, from luxury accommodations to budget stays. And, our recommended accommodation are:
Luxury
Mid-range
Budget
New Town (Nové Mesto) For Nightlife
The main commercial activities are in this part of the city. Prague’s New Town essentially wraps the Old Town to the east, southeast, and south. This is one of Prague’s coolest neighborhoods as the cobblestones turn into boardwalks and amidst the parks. And, our recommended accommodation are:
Luxury
Mid-range
Budget
What is the best month to go to Prague?
The spring months of March to May are one of the best times to visit Prague. Spring brings with it milder weather, and reasonably priced hotels minus the summer crowds. Although the days are longer and warmer, don’t underestimate the power of a cold chill.
The summer months from June to August bring sunny days and large crowds everywhere. You would be fighting for space as thousands flock to Prague for its sights. It is best to make a booking of at least 3 months for accommodation.
Another best time to visit is during the autumn months of September to October. The weather becomes colder as the summer crowd thins. Although it is not as busy as the summer months, booking accommodation is preferable.
Winter comes to Prague from November to February. The crowds have dispersed as the city becomes free of tourists. Temperatures drop to the 20s and are in the mid-30s most of the time. With beautiful holiday decorations, December is a busy month to visit.
Prague Travel Essentials
There are several travel essentials when packing for a trip to Prague. These are:
- Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag. This bag has an adjustable cut-proof strap, several compartments, and made using dirt-resistant fabric.
- Extra Large Thick Soft Cashmere Wool Shawl. This shawl keeps your neck and chest warm during the autumn and winter months of Prague and is suitable for all sizes.
- Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes. Are you still fumbling with your luggage while unpacking? Get these packing cubes to sort, organize, and find your things in a flash.
- Vegan Activated Charcoal Capsules. With these capsules, you do not have to worry about bloating or gas during your travels. You can try the 10 Traditional Czech Dishes and not worry at all.
- International Plug Adapter. This compact travel adapter is suitable for use in the Czech Republic and can charge 4 devices at once. It comes with a voltage indicator that ensures you do not plug a 110V device into a 220V socket.
How much money do I need for 4 days in Prague?
According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily cost per person per day is 2,042Kč ($94) which results in an average cost for one person for one week being 14,293Kč ($658). The cost of accommodation for one person is 1,240Kč ($57) while the average cost of food per day is 489Kč ($23).
The average cost of tips and handouts is 39Kč ($1.80). The expected amount for tipping is usually between 5% to 15% of the total bill.
Is Prague worth visiting?
Yes! Not only is this city walkable, but it is also perfect for those who want a short break. The city is safe, public transportation is cheap, and it has picturesque buildings that are postcard perfect.
RELATED:
Itinerary For Cancun In 3 Amazing Days