48 Hours In Prague, Czech Republic

48 hours in prague
Heyleena
Heyleena 
Updated
| 8 min read

Prague is among the most sought-after European cities which undoubtedly woos many avid travelers, backpackers, and vacationers from around the world. Located in central Europe, the Czech Republic is a culturally and historically rich country and it prides itself on its many revolutions which made it what it is today. From its magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites, notably the Prague Castle, and the breathtaking Gothic architecture of the St. Vitus Cathedral to the majestic Vysehrad fortress clinging to a dizzy pinnacle of rock, Prague is the medieval city you don’t want to miss. Stroll along its cobbled lanes, historical squares, or take a romantic cruise on the stunning Vltava River onboard the popular steamboat, the list is just endless. Let us take you on a wonderful 48 hours of an amazing planned itinerary in Prague.

Day 1: Explore the magnificent historical sites of Prague

Explore some of the fascinating World Heritage Sites of Prague where you will get to learn some interesting stories behind each ancient sites. Marvel at the scenic views of the River Vltava, and stroll along the Old Town.

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Afternoon: Visit Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral

Prague Castle
Source: Pixabay

Acclaimed as being the largest ancient castle in the world with an area covering almost 70,000 m², the magnificent Prague Castle features as a must-visit attraction in the Czech Republic. Take an afternoon tour in this UNESCO World Heritage site which comprises of a large-scale of imposing palaces, museums and galleries dedicated to the country’s renowned artistic legacy, and Romanesque-style building structures dated from the 10th to the 14th century with modified Gothic style. The Prague castle was founded by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty (Přemyslovci) around 880. Since then, it has been home to many Bohemian kings until now serving as the official presidential residence. Take a moment to marvel at the outside breathtaking architecture of the castle contrasted by the surrounding charming orange rooftops. It is pretty much easy to access the castle. Nearby are transport facilities such as the tram stops, and metro stations. You will need to pass through a security check before entering the premises.

Not too far from the castle lies the historic St. Vitus Cathedral located about 120 meters (131 yards) away from the Prague Castle. This stunning gothic cathedral has a spiritual significance to the country. Founded in the year 1344 by Jan Lucemburský and his sons Karel and Jan Jindřich, it took nearly about 600 years to complete the construction in 1929. The cathedral dominates the third courtyard of the Prague Castle with a length of 124 m and a width of 60 m. Its towering height up to the vault is around 33 m. From the inside, you will get the chance to contemplate the tall vaults with sublime diagonal ribs, impressive column designs, and the stained-glass windows, along with intriguing statutes. It was in this very place where the coronations of the Czech kings and queens have taken place. The underground floor has burial chambers for several saints and Roman emperors.

Prague Castle

Address: 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia

Website: Prague Castle

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Evening: Take a dinner cruise on River Vltava


After this pleasant discovery, get ready to set sail for a romantic dinner cruise on River Vltava onboard one of the popular steamboats. Enjoy a memorable cruising experience as the beauty of the illuminating Prague Castle unfolds before you at night, while you relish a scrumptious dinner with live music entertainment. As you cruise, feast your eyes on some of the historical landmarks such as the Rudolfinum. Generally, the cruise is accompanied by an audio guide commentary. You will also cruise under the iconic Charles Bridge, where you will likely get to stop and go on a leisurely stroll.

River Vltava

Address: Vltava River, Prague, Czech Republic

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Night: Stroll on Charles Bridge and enjoy at pubs in Old Town

Charles Bridge
Source: Photo by Flickr user Karel Macalik used under CC BY 2.0

The Charles Bridge is a popular historical landmark of Prague. It was built in the 14th century by Charles IV and King Charles IV. It was the only route used to cross the Vltava River for nearly 500 years. The bridge is adorned with over 30 statutes and consists of towers having impressive gothic influence. It is believed that touching the statues will bring luck.

Finally, after spending a long day of fantastic tours, head to the Old Town to taste a refreshing cocktail or cold brew in one of the bars, or pubs of this charming historical place.

Old Town

Address: Old Town110 00 Prague 1, Czechia

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Day 2: Visit the zoo and museums and enjoy art performances

Visit one of the best zoos in the world, and learn about some of the rare plant species at the Prague Botanical Garden. Visit one of its kind Prague Beer Museum and enjoy a fantastic art performance at the Prague National Theatre.

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Morning: Visit the Prague Zoo


The next day, wake up to the pleasant smell of aromatic coffee and pancakes. Take a moment to savor the delicious meal and get ready to strap on your backpack to head to the exciting Prague Zoo! The zoo is an ideal attraction to spend some quality time with children. It has been rated as one of the five best zoos in the world by TripAdvisor users in 2017. The 60 hectares (148 acres) of wooded grounds is set on the banks of the Vltava River. It opened its door in 1931 and since then, it is home to some 681 species with 293 birds, 167 mammals, and 132 reptiles. These beautiful creatures are classified across 26 zones by climate and terrain. Some of the highlights of the zoo are the elephant pavilion, the Chinese giant salamanders, and the Indonesian jungle zone, one of Europe’s largest animal enclosures hosting the Komodo dragons, and orangutans. The attraction is nestled in the district of Troja and is around 4 miles (6 km) north of the Old Town.

Prague Zoo

Address: U Trojského zámku 3/120, 171 00 Praha 7, Czechia

Website: Prague Zoo

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Afternoon: Visit Prague Botanical Garden and the Trojsky Zamek Museum


After the strenuous trip, opt to spend a rather quiet time strolling around the Botanical Garden of the City of Prague. The 30 hectares (74 acres) of the enchanting garden are a winning project of the academic architects Josef Hrůza and Jiří Navrátil. It lies on the sublime right bank of the Vltava River, in close proximity of the Prague Zoo and Troja Castle. One of its most visited sections is the southern part of its outdoor expositions-the Japanese garden which beckons visitors to rejuvenate in the zen environment. Expect to see lush green shrubs, deciduous trees, and Japanese maples. In the summer season, the central bed is filled with the strikingly beautiful blossoms of a plethora of 300 varied species of trees and plants. Interestingly, there is a wonderful collection of plants from the Mediterranean and places like the semi-deserts and pastures of the central sections of Asia Minor. Do visit the St Claire’s Vineyard, a national heritage site known to be the second largest in Prague. Created around the end of the 17th century, the vineyard has around 60 grape varieties. Visitors can buy the delicious wine at the Wine shop.

The next recommended attraction is the Trojsky Zamek museum, also referred to as the Troja Chateau- a 17th-century Baroque palace built for the Šternberk family as a hunting lodge. This imposing palace is set in coral accent colors, surrounded by well-manicured landscapes with splendid French gardens where you can feast your eyes on some stunning antique sculptures. This is an ideal spot to snap some amazing pictures. The interior of the palace serves as a permanent exhibition gallery where you will find remarkable ceiling frescos by F. and G. Marchetti.

Prague Botanical Garden Prague

Address: Prazska Botanicka Zahrada, Na Slupi 16, Praha 2 - Nove Mesto, Czech Republic

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Evening: Dinner and then visit the Prague Beer Museum


After these fascinating historical encounters, relax and head to one of the nearby restaurants which serve various cuisines, including the local specialties. Tantalize your taste buds as you get to learn more about the local cuisine and its people.

If you’re not too tired, then consider visiting the Prague Beer Museum to enjoy the freshest beer in Prague. The Czech Republic has a passionate culture for beer and it is home to world-famous beer brands. The Prague Beer Museum started with one beer branch in the Old Town. Today, it has about 30 regional Czech beers on tap! Taste the chilled beer and enjoy the unwinding bohemian ambiance.

Prague Museum

Website: Prague Museum

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Night: Catch an art performance at the Prague National Theatre


End the night at the repertory National Theater located at the Ostrovni Street. This neo-renaissance complex plays a significant role in the Czech’s culture and national identity. Regular performance includes plays, ballets, operas, and the most preferred works are the Operas from W. A. Mozart.

Prague National Theatre

Address: Národní 2, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

Website: Prague National Theatre

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Day 3: Visit historical sites and parks

Visit Vysehrad, a historical landmark of Prague where you will get the chance to see beautiful architectures and the rich interior decor of Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul. Enjoy a leisurely stroll at the park of Karlovo Namesti and Wenceslas Square.

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Morning: Explore the Vysehrad

Parník Vyšehrad pod Vyšehradem
Source: Photo by user Stanislav Jelen used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Spend the rest of your time in Prague by starting your day with a delicious morning breakfast and head to Vysehrad to learn about the fascinating legends and historical anecdotes of the alluring fortress. Vyšehrad, which means the “upper castle” in Czech, is a historic fort nestled about 3 km (1.8 miles) southeast of the Prague Castle just on the right bank of the Vltava River. It is believed that the site is subject to the first settlement in Prague, and was probably built in the 10th century on a hill. Legend has it that Princesse Libussa married a plowman, created the Přemyslids dynasty and founded the city of Prague in Vyšehrad. Yet, it is still debatable about its foundation date.

Vysehrad

Address: V Pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00 Praha 2, Czechia

Website: Vysehrad

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Afternoon: Tour at Saint Peter and Paul Basilica, and a tour at Karlovo Namesti

Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Prague
Source: Photo by Flickr user Nan Palmero used under CC BY 2.0

Stroll along the fortress and enjoy the panoramic view of the city-the glistening Vltava River and the nearby historical landmarks such as the Prague Castle. In the afternoon, you can visit the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul situated within the fort. The peaceful stroll to the well-manicured gardens of the church will certainly appease your soul.

You can’t miss the Karlovo Namesti, also known as the Charles Square which is a six-minute drive from the Vyšehrad. The historical square was founded by Charles VI in 1348. The square has some of the oldest buildings such as St. Ignatius Church and the Mladota Palace. The park also consists of some amazing sculptures and a beautiful Baroque fountain.

St. Peter and Paul Basilica

Website: St Peter and Paul Basilica

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Evening: Stroll through Wenceslas Square as you prepare to leave

Wenceslas Square
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ronnie Macdonald used under CC BY 2.0

Another hotspot is the Wenceslas Square which is a five-minute drive from the Charles Square. The Wenceslas Square has seen the remarkable protest against communism in the Velvet Revolution, whereby a 21-year-old student, Jan Palach, burnt himself to death in protest against the Russian invasion of ’68, has become a symbol of the Czech resistance. You can equally find gift shops, restaurants, and strip clubs in the surroundings.

Wenceslas Square

Address: Václavské nám.110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

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A stunning medieval city

Prague
Source: Unsplash

With an endless list of places to visit and things to do in Prague, consider our list of recommended attractions to make the most of your time in Prague.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Heyleena is a passionate travel writer who enjoys writing travel articles for people who seek to explore new places in a more conscious way. From travel guides to recommended vacation rentals, get...Read more

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