Exploring Prague, Czechia: A Detailed 2-Day Travel Guide

Prague, the capital of Czechia, offers a mesmerizing blend of Gothic architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. This guide provides a detailed itinerary to explore the best of Prague over two days, including transportation options, accommodation suggestions, restaurant details, currency information, and a budget breakdown. The estimated total cost for this trip is around 150-200 Euros per person, including accommodation, meals, and entry fees.

Understanding Czech Koruna (CZK)

The official currency of Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Although some tourist spots may accept Euros, using the local currency ensures you get the best value, especially for small purchases, transportation, and meals. It’s advisable to have some Koruna in hand or use a travel card that supports local currency withdrawals.

Where to Exchange Currency:

• ATMs: Widely available throughout Prague. Look for ATMs from local banks such as Česká spořitelna or Komerční banka to avoid high withdrawal fees or poor exchange rates.

• Currency Exchange Offices: Choose reputable exchange offices like Exchange.cz or eXchange near tourist areas like Old Town and Wenceslas Square. Avoid street-side exchanges or those with unclear rates.
  Recommended Exchange Office: eXchange – Offers competitive rates with no commission.
  Address: Kaprova 14/13, 110 00 Staré Město, Prague.
  Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Current Exchange Rate: 1 Euro ≈ 24-25 CZK (Rates may vary, so check before your trip).

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Prague’s Old Town

Morning

Arrival in Prague: Begin your journey by arriving at the Prague Main Bus Terminal (Florenc) via FlixBus or the Main Railway Station (Hlavní nádraží) if traveling by train from Germany.

Transportation Options:

FlixBus from Germany: FlixBus offers comfortable and affordable options from cities like Berlin, Munich, and Dresden.

• Berlin to Prague: Takes around 4.5 hours; cost is approximately 20-30 Euros.

• Munich to Prague: Takes around 5 hours; cost is approximately 30-50 Euros.

Booking Reference: FlixBus

Deutsche Bahn Trains: Offers frequent train connections from German cities to Prague.

• Berlin to Prague: Journey takes about 4.5 hours; cost is around 40-60 Euros.

• Munich to Prague: Journey takes around 6 hours; cost is around 50-70 Euros.

Booking Reference: Deutsche Bahn

Check-in at Plus Prague Hostel: Drop your bags and check in at Plus Prague Hostel, a budget-friendly accommodation that offers dormitory beds, private rooms, and amenities like a sauna, indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

• Address: Privozni 1, 170 00 Prague, Czechia.

• Price: 15-20 Euros per night for a dorm bed or 35-50 Euros for a private room.

• Booking Reference: Plus Prague Hostel

Nearby Hostel Alternatives:

• Hostel Downtown: Centrally located in the Old Town, offering clean rooms, organized events, and an inclusive breakfast option.
  Address: Národní 19, 110 00 Prague 1, Czechia.
  Price: 18-25 Euros per night.
  Booking Reference: Hostel Downtown

• Czech Inn Hostel: A chic hostel with stylish interiors and excellent service, located in the trendy Vinohrady neighborhood.
  Address: Francouzská 76, 101 00 Prague 10, Czechia.
  Price: 15-22 Euros per night.
  Booking Reference: Czech Inn Hostel

Lunch at Hurry Curry Indian and Bangladeshi Restaurant: Recharge with a meal at this cozy eatery offering a variety of Indian and Bangladeshi dishes like Butter Chicken, Vegetable Biryani, and Lamb Curry.

• Address: Bubenské nábř. 306/13, 170 00 Praha 7-Holešovice, Czechia.

• Price: 10-15 Euros per meal.

• Recommended Dishes: Paneer Butter Masala, Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Samosa.

Afternoon

• Wenceslas Square (Approx. 1 hour): Start your exploration at this vibrant square, which is home to historical monuments, cafes, and the iconic National Museum. It’s a symbol of Czech national pride and has witnessed many significant events.
  Address: Václavské náměstí, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• Old Town Square (Approx. 1.5 hours): Wander through the heart of Prague’s historical center, admiring the medieval architecture, the Old Town Hall, and its Astronomical Clock, the oldest still-working clock of its kind.
  Address: Staroměstské náměstí, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• Týn Church (Approx. 30 minutes): Admire the Gothic spires of this iconic church that dominate the Old Town skyline. The church has a history dating back to the 14th century and boasts a stunning interior.
  Address: Staroměstské náměstí 604/14, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• Municipal Library of Prague (Approx. 30 minutes): Visit this library for its fascinating “tower of books” installation, a visual spectacle that seems to extend infinitely.
  Address: Mariánské náměstí 1/98, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• Old Jewish Cemetery (Approx. 1 hour): This 15th-century cemetery is one of the oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds in Europe. It serves as a somber reminder of Prague’s Jewish heritage.
  Address: Široká, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia.

• Old-New Synagogue (Approx. 30 minutes): A Gothic masterpiece and the oldest active synagogue in Europe, it’s a key part of Prague’s Jewish history.
  Address: Červená 2, 110 01 Praha 1, Czechia.

Evening

• Jewish Quarter (Josefov) (Approx. 1 hour): Stroll through this historic neighborhood, home to beautiful synagogues, historical landmarks, and museums like the Jewish Museum, which delves into the history and culture of the Jewish community in Prague.

• Spanish Synagogue (Approx. 45 minutes): Marvel at the stunning interior of this synagogue, known for its intricate Moorish design, vibrant colors, and detailed patterns.
  Address: Vězeňská 1, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• St. Agnes Convent (Approx. 45 minutes): End your evening at this peaceful convent, featuring a collection of medieval and early Renaissance art. It’s a calm and serene place to reflect on the day.
  Address: U Milosrdných 17, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

• Dinner at U Fleků: This historic brewery and restaurant serves traditional Czech dishes like svíčková (marinated beef in creamy sauce), roasted pork, and koleno (roasted pork knee). Enjoy your meal with one of their house-brewed beers.
  Address: Křemencova 1651/11, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia.
  Price: 10-15 Euros per meal.

• Return to Plus Prague Hostel for a good night’s rest.

Day 2: Castle District and Cultural Exploration

Morning

• Prague Castle (Approx. 2-3 hours): Begin your day at the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Explore the Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George, and the beautiful gardens. The castle offers a stunning view of the city from its vantage point.
  Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Praha 1, Czechia.

• St. Vitus Cathedral (Approx. 1 hour): Located within the castle complex, this Gothic masterpiece is a must-see with its towering spires and stunning stained-glass windows. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
  Address: III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1, Czechia.

Total Estimated Cost for 2 Days in Prague

• Transport: 20-60 Euros (FlixBus/Train)

• Accommodation: 15-20 Euros per night (Hostel)

• Meals: 40-50 Euros (2 days)

• Entry Fees: 30-40 Euros (total for major attractions)

• Miscellaneous/Shopping: 20-30 Euros

Total Estimated Cost for 2 Days: 150-200 Euros per person.