5-Day Prague Itinerary: What to See, Tips & Guided Tours
Prague is one of those cities that you keep coming back to — and I certainly did. Over several visits, I explored its iconic sights and hidden corners, and I can confidently say: Prague is best experienced slowly, ideally with someone who knows the city inside and out. In this article, I’ll share my personal 5-day itinerary and explain why joining a guided tour for your first trip is a game changer.
Why a guided tour is the best way to experience Prague the first time
At first glance, Prague may seem easy to explore: the historic center is compact, and public transport is efficient. But behind that simplicity hides a web of logistics, crowds, time slots, and missed opportunities. Here’s why a guided tour can make your first experience smoother and more rewarding:
- A local guide shares stories and places you won’t find online
- No stress over tickets, opening hours, or confusing routes
- Optimized daily plan — see more, waste less
- Often includes exclusive experiences: beer tastings, hidden museums, or skip-the-line entries
My 5-Day Prague Itinerary
Day 1: Old Town & Charles Bridge
Begin your journey in Prague’s heart — Old Town Square. Surrounded by Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque buildings, this square is home to the Astronomical Clock (Orloj), which attracts a crowd every hour. Walk through narrow medieval streets to reach Charles Bridge, lined with statues and offering views of Prague Castle. End your day with dinner along the Vltava River.
Day 2: Prague Castle & Hradčany
Start early at Prague Castle — it’s more than a fortress, it’s a living museum. Don’t miss St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and the Royal Gardens. The viewpoint near the cathedral offers one of the best panoramas in the city. After lunch, explore the peaceful Hradčany district, away from the tourist buzz.
Day 3: Malá Strana & Petřín Hill
Head to the charming Malá Strana neighborhood with its cobblestone streets, palaces, and cozy cafés. Visit St. Nicholas Church, known for its grand dome and concerts. Then take the funicular up to Petřín Hill to enjoy gardens, a mirror maze, and the Petřín Lookout Tower — Prague’s mini Eiffel Tower.
Day 4: Vyšehrad & Alternative Prague
Vyšehrad is one of Prague’s most underrated sites. This historic fortress offers peaceful walks, panoramic river views, and the resting place of Czech legends. In the afternoon, explore the edgy Žižkov district with street art, local pubs, and the iconic TV Tower adorned with crawling baby sculptures by David Černý.
Day 5: Markets, Souvenirs & Relaxed Exploring
Spend your final day shopping and enjoying Prague’s laid-back vibe. Wander through Wenceslas Square, explore the Palladium mall, and pick up souvenirs like Czech garnet, glassware, or beer cosmetics. End your trip with a sunset dinner overlooking the city — you’ll already be planning your return.
Top Things to Do in Prague
- Watch the Astronomical Clock chime from Old Town Square
- Attend a classical concert in a Baroque church
- Climb Petřín Hill for the best city views
- Stroll through the romantic Vrtba Garden
Common mistakes to avoid
- Eating near tourist spots without checking menus — prices can be inflated
- Exchanging currency at the airport or in unverified kiosks
- Starting your Prague Castle visit after 11 AM — crowds are massive by then
- Assuming everything is within walking distance — Prague is hilly!
Helpful travel tips
- One public transport ticket covers tram, metro, and bus — validate it once
- Download an offline map (Google Maps works great)
- Prague Card is worth it if you plan to visit several paid attractions
- Weekend dining? Book your table in advance
Frequently Asked Questions About Prague
Is 5 days in Prague enough?
Yes — 5 days is perfect to explore the historical center, visit major landmarks, discover hidden gems, and still enjoy the local pace without rushing.
What is the weather like in summer?
Expect 22–28°C (72–82°F) during the day and cooler evenings. June and early September offer ideal conditions with fewer crowds than peak July-August.
Is a guided tour in Prague worth it?
Absolutely. A guided tour saves time, reveals deeper cultural insights, and makes your trip more efficient — especially for a first-time visit.
Conclusion
Prague blends romance, history, and culture in a way few cities do. Whether it's the haunting beauty of its Gothic towers or the charm of riverside cafés, it leaves a lasting impression. And if you truly want to make the most of your first visit — go with a tour. You’ll cover more, stress less, and enjoy a richer experience. I’ve done both solo and guided — and I always recommend starting with the latter.
Author: Nataliya Sharov, travel blogger
