48 hours in Prague : The Gentleman’s Guide

In May 2023, I was lucky enough to take part in a trade mission to the Czech Republic (or Czechia) to find out more about the region’s wine-making potential, visiting numerous vineyards and tasting the superb products of this Eastern European country. After flying from Montréal to Munich to Prague, I was able to visit the capital. Join me for 48 hours in Prague, this magnificent city at the centre of Europe!

The Arrival : 48 hours in Prague!

Vaclav Havel Airport is the country’s main airport, along with Brno-Tuřany in South Moravia.  There are few direct flights from Canada at the moment, but Lufthansa connects with Air Canada, as does KLM. The airport is small, so it’s hard to get lost.

To get to the center of Prague, you can either take a taxi or public transport (which is everywhere in Prague and not very expensive). And once you’ve got the hang of the bus/metro and tram system, you won’t need a car … or almost. So, from the airport, there are several bus lines that connect to the metro. It may seem disorientating at first, but it’s quite easy. The 100, 119 and 191 runs regularly to the various metro stations.

There’s also a direct line to downtown Prague, which I didn’t know about.

You also have charter buses that go directly to downtown Prague.

Also, the currency in Czechia is the Czech Crown and not Euro. 

Getting around Prague

As I said, it’s extremely easy to get around Prague. There’s an efficient metro system, trams everywhere, buses and so on. A 24-hour ticket costs 120 kc, the equivalent of $7.00 Canadian. All you have to do is validate your ticket (there are no turnstiles in Prague’s public transport system), and that’s it.

The city is also very walkable, which is what I did most of the time.

There are also electric bikes and scooters all over the city.

Where to sleep for 48 hours in Prague

There are a number of large, luxurious hotel chains in Prague, such as Four Seasons (the one in Montreal is superb) and Mandarin Oriental, to name but a few, as well as many independents.

What to visit in 48 hours in Prague

**I didn’t visit all the different places, but the VisitCZ team was extremely generous in helping me to show you around the city. 

Prague Castle – a must for 48 hours in Prague

It’s a must. It’s a tough walk, though, and there are a lot of stairs. You can go through the gardens for an easier route, but you’ll have to pay. As for the site itself, it’s huge! You can take a whole day to visit it all. I only had a few minutes there, as I had to join my group for the city tour.

In addition, in the latter there is the Lobkowicz Palace of Prague Castle, this is the only private building in the complex of Prague Castle, it houses a unique collection of works of art of the Lobkowicz family. From the balcony of the palace, you can see the most beautiful sights of Prague.

Pražský hrad
119 08
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

Visit the website

Vrtbovská Garden

This Baroque terraced garden offers spectacular views of the city. On the slope of Petřín Hill is an Italian-style Baroque terraced garden. Although it is only a short walk from Malostranské Square and Charles Bridge, it takes a large dose of attention to find it. People tend to walk past the entrance to the garden, but if the Vrtbovská garden is really your goal and you follow the signs, you’ll surely get there.

Karmelitská 25
118 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Clementinum

The Clementinum (Klementinum in Czech) is the second-largest group of historic buildings in Prague, after Prague Castle. It has been the home of the Czech National Library for over 200 years, and the most precious manuscripts are kept in its collections.

Křižovnická 190
Karlova 1
Mariánské nám. 5
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

The old town hall with its astronomical clock

As well as the clock itself, which is probably the biggest attraction, we recommend adding a visit to the historic rooms and basement, where you can learn many interesting facts about the city’s history, and of course a climb up the Town Hall Tower, which offers the most beautiful view of the old Town Hall square and the downtown Prague.

Staroměstské náměstí 1/3
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Prague Jewish Museum

Over a hundred years old, but still going strong, it is one of the oldest Jewish museums in the world, and boasts the best-preserved collection of Jewish monuments in Europe.

U Staré školy 1
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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House of the Black Madonna

Discover this unique cubist building, designed by the famous Czech architect Josef Gočár, which houses the permanent exhibition of the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, devoted to Czech cubism.

The Grand Café Orient, which is the only cubist café in the world, is located on the first floor of the building. I’m really sorry I didn’t get the address and didn’t go there.

Dům U Černé Matky Boží (The House of the Black Madonna)
Ovocný trh 19
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

Visit the website

Visit the Grand Café Orient website (inside)

The Municipal House

Immerse yourself for a moment in the magical century of steam at the splendid Municipal House, whose size and good state of preservation make it one of the most precious buildings in the world. Listen to Dvořák or Mozart in the Smetana Hall under the roof of an art nouveau treasure, and enjoy its beauty, not just with your eyes, but with your other senses too.

You can also explore the interior on guided tours. The café is simply magnificent and the food is excellent!

Obecní dům, a.s. (Municipal House)
náměstí Republiky 1090/5
111 21
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Lucerna Palace and its rooftop patio

Located in the centre of Prague, right in the heart of the New Town, the Lucerna Palace is home to many treasures. Among them is a unique place that attracts locals and tourists alike: the roof of the palace, offering a panoramic view of the Czech capital. Discover a versatile place with an Art Nouveau passageway. The arcade is dominated by the statue “The Horse” by popular Czech artist David Černý, a controversial adaptation of the statue of Saint Wenceslas on Wenceslas Square.

Built by the family of former president Václav Havel, the emblematic figure of the Velvet Revolution, the Lucerna Palace is celebrating its 110th anniversary since its opening.

On the roof, you can enjoy a unique view of the city, sipping a drink while watching the sunset. Cultural events are also held here, as well as numerous social gatherings.

Štěpánská 61
116 02
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Visit the patio website

Museum Kampa 

 

On the very shore of the romantic island of Kampa, with its irreplaceable view of the Vltava, Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, the Sova Museum has been home to a collection of modern European art—the Kampa Museum—since the beginning of the third millennium. This museum is one of the best in Europe devoted to modern art, with a vast collection of works by František Kupka, Otto Gutfreund and other important artists.

Museum Kampa — Nadace Jana a Medy Mládkových (Jan andMeda Mládek Foundation )
U Sovových Mlýnů 2
118 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Petřín Tower

One of Prague’s most popular towers is a loose copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, but its top is higher and the view is magnificent.

Petřín Lookout Tower (Petřínská rozhledna)
Petřínské sady 633
118 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Don’t miss Charles Bridge for your first 48 hours in Prague

Several famous film scenes have been shot on this bridge, including Mission Impossible and Van Helsing. You’ll certainly have the opportunity to pass by. A visit to the museum will tell you more about the city and give you breathtaking views.

Křižovnické náměstí 3
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Wallenstein Palace and Garden

As you stroll through Prague’s most picturesque district, Malá Strana, be sure to visit the gardens of the Wallenstein Palace. This is one of the most important complexes of the Czech Baroque period. The palace is now the seat of the Senate of the Czech Republic. The garden has become a popular place for Prague residents to relax in the city centre, and thanks to the activities of the Senate it has also become a cultural venue. The former equestrian centre is also part of the complex, and has been transformed into a gallery hosting high-quality exhibitions. You can see peacocks in the wild and it’s a good place to start your visit to Prague Castle.

Valdštejnské nám. 17/4
118 01
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Where to eat and drink for 48 hours in Prague

Prague is a city where the food is great, and you’ll find several Michelin restaurants here.

Pilsner Urquell — The Beer Experience — perfect for discovering the history of beer during a visit for 48 hours in Prague

A brand new thing to do in Prague, Pilsner Urquell’s three-storey interactive experience is simply incredible. You’ll learn all about the history of beer, as well as having some really interesting and delicious tastings! And don’t forget the shop, where you can stock up on Pilsner Urquell brand accessories. A video will follow soon!

28. října 377/13
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Mlýnec, for a gastronomic experience worthy of the great

This is where we had our first group meal with the delegation. What an experience! A magnificent restaurant, incredible wines, a modern decor and a view of the Charles Bridge.

In short, an evening that will be a success in every way, if you choose this restaurant, I’m sure.

Novotného lávka 9
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Veltlin, a superb wine bar for discovering Czech wines in 48 hours in Prague

A friendly wine bar with exceptional products. Lots of natural wines. You’ll have fun in a very simple setting where the products come first.

Křižíkova 488/115
186 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Vinoteka U Mourenina Wine Bar

I haven’t tried it, but it came highly recommended. Many of the products we tasted during our stay can be found there. A nice stop in the old town.

Malostranské náměstí 23/37
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Where to shop

Depending on what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone, with all the major American and European brands on offer. There’s no Apple Store, but the centre is packed with shops including Lacoste, Nike and many others.

Pilsner Urquell — The Beer Experience

Souvenirs for beer lovers? From the pint to the hoodie to the handle for your keg, it’s all there!

28. října 377/13
110 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

Zegna

A leader in Italian fashion will serve you right in the heart of the Czech capital. From suits to shoes, you’ll find it all.

Pařížská 18
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

Fashion Arena

Just a few minutes from the centre is the Fashion Arena, a shopping centre dedicated to fashion with several department stores. A shuttle bus can even take you there!

Zamenhofova 440,
Štěrboholy, 108 00
Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

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Bon voyage!

Thanks to the Visit CzechRepublic team for the information and to the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Ottawa for the opportunity to discover this magnificent city.