Experience the magic of Prague in just 24 hours. Even if you only have one day in Prague, there are many things to see and do.
For a city with such a deep and rich history, we recommend 2 or 3 days, but only if you are on short time, this article is designed to help you to find the must-see things with only one day in Prague. Here you can buy your tickets online so that you can spend a perfect 24 hours without the risk of standing in line or tickets being sold out.
While preparing this article, we assume that you have already arrived in Prague and have a place to stay.
If you have just arrived in Prague, you can take a look at our airport guide. If you are not sure where to stay, you can take a look at our article about where to stay in Prague for first timers, where we have carefully selected and recommended hotels for you. Take a look at our restaurants guide, Prague shopping guide, and most importantly, our eSim article to ensure your communication for your one day in Prague.
If you're ready, let your perfect day in Prague begin!
How to Get Around Prague
1. By Walking
Prague is a very compact and walkable city, and walking is the ideal way to explore the city's many secret jewels and enjoy its authentic beauty.
However, if you want to make the most of your one day in Prague by travelling quickly or visiting more distant landmarks, public transit is an excellent alternative.
However, many of the city's major attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.
Useful Tip: Many streets in Prague are brick-paved with cracks and irregular angles. They also become slippery when wet. It is best to wear a comfortable pair of sneakers rather than heels, which can become trapped in the concrete.
2. With a City Pass
A city pass that gives you access to the best attractions and activities and public transportation while saving you time and money is a wise investment.
The Prague Visitor Pass is the official city card of the city of Prague. It is an all-inclusive sightseeing pass that offers two options to choose from a physical card or an electronic version called the e-Pass, which can be conveniently stored on your smartphone.
The Prague Vistior Pass is available in three variations (48, 72 and 120 hours) and costs between €96 and €155 for adults.
3. With Public Transport: Buses, Trams, and the Metro
Trams, buses, and the underground (metro) system make up Prague's public transit system, which is safe, reliable, clean, and affordable.
The tram and metro are possibly the easiest and most enjoyable forms of transportation for moving about the city. You're unlikely to use a bus because buses are not allowed in the city center due to the narrowness of the streets.
There are several ways to purchase public transport tickets for getting around Prague.
If you only have one day in Prague, buying all your transport tickets online will save you time and money. But first, let's see what are the ticket options in Prague.
Public Transport Ticket Options in Prague
With only one day in Prague and if you are a regular tourist visiting Prague, you will most likely use regular paper tickets that must be validated before using public transit.
In Prague, there are many kinds of tickets. The good news is that you can use a single ticket to get to Petrin Hill via metro, tram, bus, boat, or even funicular. The cost of a ticket is determined by how long you intend to use public transit.
- 30-MINUTE TICKET: The cheapest ticket costs 30 CZK ( > 1 ExxUR), and you can travel around Prague for 30 minutes.
- 90-MINUTE TICKET: This ticket costs 40 CZK ( < 2 EUR) and allows you to use transport for 90 minutes.
- 24-HOUR TICKET: This ticket costs 120 CZK ticket is valid for one day in Prague (24 hours from when you validate the ticket),
- 72-HOUR TICKET: This ticket costs 330 CZK, and you can use Prague public transport for three days (72 hours from when you validate the ticket).
Caution!
If are travelling with a dog or large luggage (more than 25cm x 45cm x 70cm), you should buy an additional ticket for 20 CZK. The additional charge does not apply if you've purchased a one-day or three-day ticket.
Where to Buy Your Public Transport Ticket in Prague
Vending Machines
The most common way to purchase a ticket is from the yellow or orange vending machine located at metro vestibules, bus stops, and tram stops.
Alternatively, a ticket can usually be purchased in cigarette stores, tourist information centres, and staffed ticket booths in the metro.
Keep in mind that vending machines are available in all metro vestibules but not at every bus or tram stop. It is also not possible to purchase a ticket from the driver.
Some vending machines only accept coins, while others accept credit cards.
On Board Ticket Machines
All trams and specific buses allow you to buy a ticket inside the vehicle and pay with a contactless credit card, which is incredibly handy. This ticket does not need to be verified again because it already contains the necessary information.
If you're taking the bus and want to buy your ticket on the bus, keep in mind that not all buses provide this kind of service, and you won't know which bus has the terminal until it comes and you see the sign on the doors.
Caution!
Validate your paper tickets only with yellow validators.
A controller can fine you even if you purchased your ticket but did not validate it. When detected travelling without a ticket or with non-validated ticket will be fined a minimum of 1500 CZK.
By SMS
The last but not least method for purchasing Prague public transport tickets is to send an SMS.
To do so, you must have a local SIM card with either a plan or credit, and text DPT31 or DPT42 (depending on the ticket you wish to purchase) to 90206.
It takes around one minute to obtain the ticket through text message; once again, you should wait and not enter the vehicle until you get payment confirmation.
Types of Public Transport in Prague
Metro
There are three lines in Prague: A (green line), B (yellow line), and C (red line). Florenc, Muzeum, and Mustek are transfer points. The metro system is the least likely to have delays, making it ideal for short-term travellers.
Between midnight and 4:30 a.m., the metro is closed. The metro is the quickest and most efficient method to move about Prague.
Tram
Trams are often more appropriate for short-term trips. Trams are great for shopping and getting to the attractions.
If you are going to Westfield Chodov for shopping or the O2 Arena for a concert, then take the metro.
Bus
Travelling by bus in Prague's city centre is not convenient, and for regular tourists, we believe there is no need to use bus routes at all.
Buses usually serve the outskirts or districts on the way to the outskirts, and we feel this is the least reliable mean of transport in Prague because the schedule can be affected by heavy traffic or accidents
One Day in Prague Itinerary
Welcome to Prague, where centuries of history and architectural treasures, such as historic towers to famous bridges showcase the rich culture of this stunning European jewel.
Don't worry if you only have a little time! Follow this well-planned schedule to explore the top things to do during your one day in Prague.
1. Breakfast
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More InformationWe recommend starting your day with a traditional Czech breakfast at KAVÁRNA MÍSTO with its extensive cuisine, stylish and cosy interior design, and clean, kind service, it is the perfect place to start the day with an extensive or light breakfast and say welcome to the day with delicious coffee.
2. Prague Castle
A 15-minute walk will to take you to the world's oldest ancient castle, which was built in 870.
The castle complex includes a number of different buildings, including the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, the Romanesque Basilica of St. George, a monastery, and several palaces. There are also gardens, defense towers, and other interesting features to explore.
A visit to Prague Castle is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply beautiful scenery. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague.
Entry to Prague Castle is free, but if you want to explore the museums, you must buy tickets.
If you do not purchase your tickets online, you may have to wait in line.
Check the Top-Rated Prague Castle Tickets compared for you here !
3. Waldstein Garden
With in 10 minutes of walking through the Baroque streets you will find yourself in Waldstein Garden.
This garden is home to a variety of different plants and trees, including roses, lilies, and chestnut trees. There are also many fountains and statues in the garden, as well as a small lake.
Waldstein Garden's admission is free of charge and it is a popular spot for relaxation and reflection.
4. Lunch
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More InformationAfter all this walking around, you might be hungry. If you want to taste some unique Czech brews after seeing Waldstein Garden, head over to the must-try U Tří jelínků. They offer traditional and international cuisine, as well as several handcrafted brews and it is only 8 minutes from the garden.
If you are a vegetarian or vegan, Prague is an excellent place to be. Vegan's Prague is a must-try and is located only 5 minutes from Prague Castle.
5. John Lennon Wall
After a 7-minute walk from U Tří jelínků, you will arrive at John Lennon Wall, a landmark in Prague. The wall was created in 1980, shortly after Lennon's murder. It quickly became a symbol of freedom of speech and non-violent resistance.
Today, the wall is still a popular place for people to express their creativity and share their messages of peace and love. It is a reminder of Lennon's legacy and his message of hope for the world.
6. Charles Bridge
In 5 minutes you will reach Charles Bridge one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague, Czech Republic. The bridge spans the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
The bridge was built in the 14th century and is named after Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. It is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is decorated with 30 statues of saints and religious figures.
7. Trdelník Dessert
On your way to your next stop at the Clementinum just on the corner, you will find the most popular and traditional Trdelnk dessert place, only a 3-minute walk from Charles Bridge.
Take a minute for yourself with a wonderful Trdelnk, an iconic Czech pastry. As you meander through Prague's cobblestone streets, savour the warm, cinnamon-coated dough.
8. Clementinum
After a 5-minute walk you will reach a marvellous library and a centuries-old science house.
The complex was built in the 16th century and was named after Saint Clement, the patron saint of students. It was one of the most important centres of learning in Central Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Clementinum is home to a number of beautiful Baroque buildings, including the Clementinum Library, the Mirror Chapel, and the Astronomical Tower. The library is one of the largest in the Czech Republic and contains over 2 million books.
The best way to see Clementinum is with a guided tour.
9. Astronomical Clock
A 5-minute walk will take you to the Astronomical Clock, located next to the Old Town Hall.
The clock was built in 1410 and is one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world. It is a complex mechanism that shows the time, the position of the sun and moon, and the signs of the zodiac.
The clock is also known for its moving figures that come out every hour to perform a short show. The figures include the Twelve Apostles, Death, and a skeleton
Popular Ticket Options:
10. Old Town Hall
Next, within only a 6-minute walk you will make your way to the Old Town Hall, a historical masterpiece that will leave you in awe.
The hall was built in the 14th century and is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It is home to the Astronomical Clock.
The Old Town Hall is also home to the Prague City Museum, which tells the story of the city's history. You can explore the hall's beautiful rooms, learn about the city's history, and see the Astronomical Clock in action.
11. Powder Tower
Within another 4 minutes of walking, you can start exploring the Powder Tower.
The Powder Tower is a medieval gatehouse in Prague, Czech Republic. It is located at the beginning of the Royal Route, which leads to Prague Castle.
The tower was built in the 15th century and was originally used to store gunpowder. It is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague.
Useful Tip: As previously mentioned, we suggest purchasing all of your tickets online to avoid waiting in line or the risk tickets being sold out.
12. Dinner
Whether you want to be in a particular area of town for dinner, or if there are specific Czech cuisine you want to taste, check out our article about Czech cuisine for additional Czech culinary ideas you may not know. We recommend participating in a medieval dinner experience!
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More Things About Prague
If you don't have any further details or plans for the city, don't forget to check out our comprehensive Prague guide.
If you want to do something different in the city, meet new people, perhaps explore the city again or don't want to return to locations you've previously visited, we've selected some of the most popular and useful tours and events with tickets below.
- Best of Prague: City tour by boat, bus and on foot (Recommended)
- City Sightseeing: 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off city tour of Prague with optional boat tour
- Sightseeing Dinner Cruise on Open-Top Glass Boat
- Beer Spa with unlimited beer + optional massage
- Prag: Pub Crawl & international Party
- Beer and Wine Spa Bath with Salt Cave Experience
- Prague: Old Town, Medieval Underground & Dungeon Tour
- 1.5-hour guided tour of Prague: ghosts and legends of the Old Town (Bestseller)