What to see in Prague in 3 days
Prague is one of Europe's cheapest capitals and one of the most crowded in its centre. These three days are built to exploit the first and dodge the second.
Day 1: Old Town and Josefov
Old Town Square, the astronomical clock and the surrounding lanes. It's the most touristed area, so go early: at nine in the morning it's nearly empty and by midday you can't walk. In the afternoon, the Jewish quarter of Josefov, with several synagogues and a striking cemetery.
Day 2: the castle and Malá Strana
Go up to the castle in the morning, as it's the complex that needs most time. Walk back down through Malá Strana, the district below, which is quieter and prettier than the centre. Cross Charles Bridge back at dusk.
Charles Bridge, two warnings
It's packed all day. To see it calmly, cross before eight in the morning: a completely different experience. And watch for pickpockets, who concentrate there.
Day 3: neighbourhoods and viewpoints
Vinohrady and Žižkov, where locals live and where you eat and drink at real prices. Letná park has one of the best views of the city and an outdoor terrace. It's the most enjoyable day and the one guidebooks skip.
The currency exchange trap
Czechia doesn't use the euro, and city-centre exchange bureaus charge abusive commissions behind misleading signs. Withdraw crowns from a bank ATM and pay by card always choosing the local currency, never euros.
Eating well and cheaply
Three streets from the main square and prices collapse. Many restaurants have very cheap lunch menus. And beware places listing prices per hundred grams rather than per dish: a common tactic to confuse.
Budget
Between 50 and 80 euros per person per day with simple accommodation, eating well. One of the best-value European capitals, and considerably cheaper off-season.
When to go
May, June, September and October. Summer is hot and crowded. December has some of Europe's best Christmas markets, but prices rise. January and February are genuinely cold, though that's when it's cheapest and emptiest.
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