Cheaper than Western Europe but prices have risen. Beer is still incredibly cheap (€1-3), food is reasonable, but tourist areas charge tourist prices. Eat where locals eat.

How do I get around the city?

Walk. The center is compact and beautiful. Public transport is excellent (€1.20 per ride) but you'll miss the architecture. Trams are scenic if your feet hurt.

Do I need to speak Czech?

No. Most people in tourist areas speak English. Learn 'děkuji' (thanks) and 'prosím' (please/you're welcome). Germans will find it easier - many locals speak German.

What about the crowds?

Summer and weekends are packed. Early mornings are magical - you'll have Old Town Square almost to yourself at 8am. Avoid July-August if possible.

How to Spend a Weekend in Prague

Prague is perfect for a weekend trip. You can see the main sights, eat excellent food, and get a real feel for the city in 2-3 days. Focus on Old Town, the Castle, and one neighborhood walk.

Day 1 Morning: Start in Old Town Square. Get there by 9am before tour groups arrive. See the Astronomical Clock (hourly shows), Týn Church, and St. Nicholas Church. Walk the cobblestones, grab coffee at Café Savoy. Budget 3 hours here.
Day 1 Afternoon: Cross Charles Bridge to Lesser Town. Walk Charles Bridge (allow 30 minutes for photos and street performers). Explore Lesser Town - climb Petřín Hill for city views, or visit Kampa Island. End at a traditional pub like U Fleků.
Day 2 Morning: Prague Castle Complex. Buy tickets online to skip lines. See St. Vitus Cathedral, Royal Palace, and Golden Lane. Start early (8am) - you need 4-5 hours. The complex is huge and crowded by noon.
Day 2 Afternoon: Pick one neighborhood. Choose Vinohrady for local life and parks, Žižkov for alternative culture and cheap beer, or Jewish Quarter for synagogues and history. Don't try to do everything - Prague rewards slow exploration.
Day 3 (if staying): Wander and taste. Hit a farmers market (Saturday at Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad), try a traditional coffee house like Café Louvre, or take a day trip to Český Krumlov (2.5 hours by bus).

Is Prague expensive?: Cheaper than Western Europe but prices have risen. Beer is still incredibly cheap (€1-3), food is reasonable, but tourist areas charge tourist prices. Eat where locals eat.
How do I get around the city?: Walk. The center is compact and beautiful. Public transport is excellent (€1.20 per ride) but you'll miss the architecture. Trams are scenic if your feet hurt.
Do I need to speak Czech?: No. Most people in tourist areas speak English. Learn 'děkuji' (thanks) and 'prosím' (please/you're welcome). Germans will find it easier - many locals speak German.
What about the crowds?: Summer and weekends are packed. Early mornings are magical - you'll have Old Town Square almost to yourself at 8am. Avoid July-August if possible.