One Day In Prague: The Essentials

If you’re on a multi-city or even multi-country tour of Europe and only have one day to spend in the historic and whimsical city of Prague, you may be a bit overwhelmed regarding what sites to see or what attractions to spend your precious hours on. There are just so many things to see and do in this truly unique capital city.

Streamlining your visit and making a list of the essential attractions is a must to ensure that you make the most of your limited in Prague. Airport shuttle services can also save you a significant amount of time and hassle, leaving you more time to enjoy this vibrant city. One great idea is to book a walking tour with one of the many professional tour groups in the city to ensure you see the most important attractions, with the added bonus of interesting commentary and anecdotes from history and travel experts. If you’re the type that prefers to make your own discoveries, however, or want to experience the city on your own, listed below are a few suggestions to get you started.

Charles Bridge

Whatever you have planned for the day, Charles Bridge, located in the centre of the city, is a great starting point (you will pass by this on your Prague airport shuttle so get the driver to point it out). Named after King Charles IV, this 14th century stone bridge is a popular place for locals and visitors alike, and has spectacular views of Vltava River and Prague Castle. This historic bridge (the site of many bloody conflicts) is in itself a fascinating attraction, with its 30 stone statues of saints, each with their own story – for example, one statue is in homage to St Jan of Nepomuk, who is said to have been thrown to his death from the bridge. Locals believe the statue brings luck, and it is common to see someone touch the cross points on it and make a wish.

During the day, thousands of people walk across the bridge on their way from Old Town to Lesser Town, or vice versa, or simply to enjoy the buskers and artists that ply their trade there. Having your portrait or caricature drawn here will provide a treasured memory as well as the perfect souvenir!

Prague Castle

Named by the Guinness Book of Records as ‘the largest coherent castle complex in the world’, the castle is a must on your itinerary (ask your Prague airport shuttle driver for tips as to the best times to visit). The impressive collection of structures sits on a hill presiding over the city; in addition to the Royal Palace, the castle includes other huge and significant buildings, including St Vitus Cathedral, which holds the tombs of a number of kings and emperors. A visit to Golden Lane, a cobblestoned street with small houses that once served as the homes of servants, soldiers, and craftsmen who served at the castle (as well as Franz Kafka, for a time), provides a stunning contrast to the opulence of the castle.

Vltava River

A great way to see more of the city in less time is to take one of the riverboat tours of Vltava River—some even offer meals (and a beer or two) on board. According to locals, the best time for these tours is either very early morning, when the natural light is especially beautiful, or after dark, when the structures by the river light it up spectacularly. If you’re reluctant to end your day in Prague, there are plenty of restaurants and beer spots where you can toast to this amazing city and its people.

With the help of Prague airport shuttle transportation to save time, even 24 hours in this city can be magical and very worthwhile as this itinerary shows.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for a Prague airport shuttle, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.