Walking Through Prague’s Past: A History Buff’s Itinerary

When you’re as history-obsessed as me, your vacation always ends up turning into a small-scale history expedition. Sounds like you? Then you should pack your bags and dust off those walking shoes, because Prague’s history has been waiting to be explored for thousands of years now.

Prague is the place where the past comes alive, one cobblestone street at a time. This city is like a living, breathing history book, except way more fun. From medieval castles to hidden gems, this is the ultimate 3-day itinerary for enjoying all of Prague’s historical goodness.

Day 1: Kick Off at Prague Castle

Start your adventure at the big kahuna of Prague’s historical sites: Prague Castle. This isn’t just a castle; it’s the largest ancient castle in the world. Yep, Guinness World Records and all that. Wander through its courtyards, snap a pic of the gothic masterpiece that is St. Vitus Cathedral, and don’t miss Golden Lane, which once housed alchemists, medieval goldsmiths and Prague’s most famous son of the twentieth centuryFranz Kafka himself. The Changing of The Guard at the castle is also a sight to witness.

Lunch Break: Old-School Czech Eats

For chow time, head down to Malá Strana (Lesser Town) and grab a bite at one of the traditional Czech restaurants. Order a plate of svíčková (beef in creamy sauce) or goulash, and don’t skip the dumplings. It’s hearty, it’s delicious, and it’ll fuel you for the rest of the day of exploration.

Afternoon: Charles Bridge and the Old Town

Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, built in the 14th century. This beauty is lined with statues, street performers, and artists. Each statue has a backstory, and if you rub the bronze plaque of St. John of Nepomuk, it’s supposed to bring good luck.

On the other side, you’ll find yourself in Old Town Square, a picture-perfect medieval plaza. You can’t miss the Astronomical Clock, which has been wowing crowds since 1410. If you time it right, you can watch the clock’s mechanical show.

Day 2: Lesser-Known Gems

It’s time to hit the “hidden gems”, or moderately hidden gems, because virtually nothing in this tourist hotspot ever stays hidden.

Morning: Vyšehrad Fortress

Skip the crowds and head to Vyšehrad, an ancient fortress perched above the Vltava River. It’s said to be even older than Prague Castle. Explore the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, the final resting place of Czech legends like composer Antonín Dvořák.

Afternoon: Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Dive into Prague’s Jewish history with a visit to Josefov, the Jewish Quarter. Highlights here include the Old-New Synagogue, the oldest in Europe, and the Jewish Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful spot where tombstones seem to grow from the ground like mushrooms. For the full picture, the Jewish Museum ties it all together with artifacts and stories from the community’s rich past.

Dinner: For dinner with a view, try the seafood at Marina, the water-borne restaurant near Charles Bridge. It’s expensive, as you would expect from a restaurant that also alternates as a big boat. For a pint of beer, you can stroll on to the Craft Beer Spot, which is a minute walk from the bridge.

Day 3: Get Off the Beaten Path

Another day of exploring the moderately hidden gems of Prague that will give you no less amount of exhilaration for discovering it.

Morning: Lennon Wall and Kampa Island

Okay, this one’s a little newer (think 1980s), but it’s still steeped in history. The Lennon Wall started as a tribute to John Lennon and, under a lot of paint and spray, became a symbol of freedom during the communist era. It was covered in colorful graffiti, quotes, and messages of peace, at least until it was renovated recently, and turned into an open-air gallery with a designated space for people to leave messages.

From there, wander the rest of Kampa Island, you’ll love it if you’re the type of person to love quiet, artsy spots. Stroll or bike around the island and soak up some serenity and snap a few photos by the iconic “Babies” sculptures.

Afternoon: National Museum and Wenceslas Square

End your historical deep dive at the National Museum at the top of Wenceslas Square. The museum is a treasure trove of Czech history, from prehistoric artifacts to modern exhibits. And the square itself? It’s been the stage for countless pivotal moments, from protests to celebrations.

Your history lesson is awaiting you (or not, if you didn’t like history in school), whatever works. Prague isn’t just a city; it’s where you would go in search for a figurative time-machine.