Where To Stay In Prague? Six Best Neighborhoods And Our Hotel Picks

Planning a trip to Prague? Good for you! Prague is, justly, one of the most authentic, cozy, and stunning European cities. From Medieval castles to post-communist constructivism architecture, from hot chimney cake (a.k.a. trdelnik) to all sorts of beer, from funicular rides to river boat trips, — Prague has a lot to offer! The city appeals to history geeks, insta-bloggers, art lovers, young-and-broke students on their summer break, families with kids, photographers from all over the globe, and it will most certainly appeal to you!

For must-visit locations in Prague, you can refer to our other article, which will help you put together a perfect itinerary. Here, we would like to discuss an equally pressing question — where to stay in Prague as a tourist?

Where to stay in Prague for the first time?

It is important to remember that Prague is the Czech Republic capital, which means pricey accommodation, more so in high season. Still, speaking from experience, we would recommend booking (using the one and only Booking.com) something as close to the Old Town as possible, especially if it is your first time in the city.

• Hotel Salvator (from €90 a night) — both affordable and charming, this hotel is a true gem in Prague’s Old Town. Set within a five-minute walk from the main square, Hotel Salvator guarantees you will be seated front and center to the show that is enjoying Prague’s enchanting and somewhat eerie Medieval streets. The on-site restaurant has a well-liked menu of Czech comfort foods, and the cozy rooms will readily embrace you after a busy day of sightseeing.
• A cheaper accommodation option in the area is A Plus Hostel-Centrum (from €30 a night) — adjacent to another iconic sight, Wenceslas Square, this hostel provides such services as airport pickup or boat trip booking (nice add-ons to a uniformly pleasurable experience). A Plus Hostel will also be great for just one day in Prague, as it is close both to the city center and to the metro station (Můstek). Therefore, you can plan your sightseeing marathon really tight and not waste time on transportation.

Now, for those of you who want wider selection and detailed overview, let's delve into our list of the best areas to stay in the city; followed by our guide on hand-picked Prague accommodations!

The best areas to stay in Prague

First things first, you need to get familiar with the city's layout. If you google districts of Prague, you will get a motley map that might bewilder even most experienced travelers. In our opinion, Prague`s organization resembles the moving stairs of Hogwarts — it’s very confusing to navigate. Yet, we are here to help you out, so welcome to Prague Planning 101!

As of now, the city is divided into 22 administrative districts, which, honestly, don`t have precise logic behind their numbering. These districts, in their turn, consist of cadastral areas, but you can skip this part for now. When you look for an accommodation in Prague, you are likely to pay attention to the 10 districts which are closest to the center, as others are set too far to promise a comfortable stay.

The confusion doesn’t stop here: Addresses in Prague are not quite simple either. Each building has two plaques, colored blue and red. The blue plaque is related to the number of houses in the land registry, which is not the thing you will be looking for; so you should bother only with the red ones. They are called reference numbers (or číslo orientační), and they will help you find your way around the city.

Now that you have a basic understanding of what Prague’s city composition looks like, it’s time to get into the details. In this article, we describe six best neighborhoods in Prague (in our humble opinion), which include:

• Staré Město and Malá Strana (Prague 1),
• Nové Město (Prague 2),
• Žižkov (Prague 3),
• Podolí (Prague 4),
• and Dejvice (Prague 6).

Our summary takes a look at hotels, transportation, food, and attractions in each area, so you know exactly what to expect. Let's dive right in!

Staré Město (Old Town) — where to stay for a first-time visitor

• Staré Město is a jumble of Gothic architecture and crowds of tourists that clog the little cobblestone streets; its medieval charm all the more palpable the closer you get to the main square.

If you like to play by the book and want to check the main sights off your Prague bucket list in an orderly manner like a good student you are, then what can be better than literally living amid iconic squares, churches, and castles? Prague’s Old Town is home to all the main city gems, such as the Old Town Square and the famous Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, and counting. The neighboring Jewish Quarter (Josefov) is also a worthy mention; a must-see if you stay in the Old Town.

Having these attractions within walking distance allows you to dive into the busy atmosphere of the city and visit as many places as possible. Waking up and going outside is a treat when you stay in Staré Město: Every little backstreet here is brimming with history, each corner is looking majestic, and the surroundings are always, always photo-worthy! Most guided tours in Prague start in Staré Město, which is also quite convenient.

Now, the disclaimer is due — Staré Město, set in the Prague 1 district, is the most expensive area of the city (even in the off season). During peak summer months, the prices for stays in Prague’s Old Town simply skyrocket. Even so, the hotels in the area are almost always at full capacity; we recommend booking your stay well in advance to score the best deal on the most sought-after accommodation.

Ancient haunts and cultural landmarks aren’t the only things that occupy tourists in Staré Město: The area has plenty of chic boutiques, fancy restaurants, mainstream clubs and bars, and even some shopping centers. Note that the prices for ordinary goods and cute trinkets and souvenirs will be higher here than, say, at some larger stores set in the districts further away from the city center.

Our hotel picks in Staré Město:

• Old Town Home Prague (from €170 a night) — if you are traveling with family, booking a spacious apartment in the heart of Prague might turn out cheaper than a hotel. Old Town Home, for example, offers two-bedroom apartments in a residential building. You can comfortably stay here for a week or more, as they have a kitchen, parking, Wi-Fi, and other amenities, and can fit up to 6 (!) people. The room prices at Old Town Home seem reasonable considering that the residence is 2 minutes away from the Old Town Square.
• Jungmann Hotel (from €150 a night) — set within mere six minutes’ walk from Wenceslas Square and the Můstek metro station, it is yet another great choice of a stay in Prague. Rooms here are modern and stylish, and the service is excellent. Moreover, you can enjoy a nice breakfast or a romantic dinner on the hotel terrace or in a cafe downstairs, with a view of the lively central area (great spot for people-watching!).
• Peter`s Tower Apartments (from €130 a night) — a less expensive accommodation option in Prague’s Old Town. And yet, it is still very close to the main square, and, according to the reviews, is especially convenient for couples. The location makes it perfect for one night or a longer stay. The interior of the hotel is simple and clean, and the suits include small terraces and kitchens. A promised airport shuttle is a great bonus as well.

Staré Město Eats:

• Staré Město is no stranger to worldly cuisine: You can find all kinds of restaurants, serving Indian, Italian, and Asian cuisine here. We particularly loved dining at Alforno Focacceria — one of the best Italian restaurants in Prague that serves the airiest and most golden focaccia in the city.
• For top-notch coffee, we frequented Drip it — a small coffee shop with friendly service and delicious brews!

Staré Město Pros:
+ central location; literally the heart of Prague
+ tons of historical sites at your fingertips
+ plenty of dining options around

Staré Město Cons:
— very expensive stays (actually, pretty pricey everything, from restaurants to shops)
— brimming with tourists, no matter the season
— tends to be on a louder side, especially at nighttime.

Malá Strana (Lesser Town) — where to stay for a comfortable and quiet vacation

• Despite its name, Malá Strana is no lesser in character than its close neighbor — Staré Město. In fact, it has way more to offer: Baroque architecture here is interspersed by beautiful oases of greenery (there are plenty of parks and gardens in Malá Strana to relax and recharge in), and the pastel-colored houses are bookended by grandiose churches and castles.

Malá Strana is situated on the other side of the Vltava River and is connected to Staré Město by the famous Charles Bridge. Though not lacking in its own noteworthy sites (St. Nicholas Church is an eye-catcher, that’s for sure), the beauty of Malá Strana lies in its closeness to Prague’s most important landmarks: The gorgeous Prague Castle complex, as well as Petřín Hill (one of the most sought-after viewpoints in Prague) are all within a short walk away! Speaking of hills, get your calf muscles ready: Malá Strana has some serious elevation, only getting worse the further from the district’s center you go.

Malá Strana is considered to be a quieter alternative to Staré Město, making it a perfect area to consider staying in if you’re traveling with children. The overall landscape, however, won’t leave a single member of your family impartial: Malá Strana is objectively gorgeous, with red roofs, greenery, and paved roads creating a fairytale-like setting. Considering all its main advantages, you might’ve guessed the general pricing range already: It’s an upscale district, so get ready to drop some serious money on your stay (unless you’re booking your hotel room way in advance, which can significantly cut costs, especially when you encounter a good deal).

Our hotel picks in Malá Strana:

• Hotel Malá Strana (from €70 a night) — a posh but approachable hotel that offers clean and cozy rooms for good value. It also has a winter garden, where you can spend time after the day spent sightseeing. Hotel Malá Strana is situated very close to the river, in an original historical building, — a beautiful sight in and of itself!
• Boutique Hotel Constans (from €100 a night) — situated on the slope below Prague Castle and three minutes away from St. Nicholas Church, Boutique Hotel Constans is a truly fascinating Baroque building on the main square. The hotel has underground parking, facilities for people with special needs, and large family rooms. The area is quiet and cozy, and there are plenty of cafes and coffee shops to get by.

Malá Strana Eats:

• One of Malá Strana’s most buzzing destinations — Kampa Park, an elongated waterfront green area, is full of exclusive restaurants and cafes (and some more affordable eateries to boot, of course!). One of the finest gourmet options in this location is Kampa Park Restaurant — elegant French-style restaurant that serves exquisite fish dishes and fine wine, along with a view of Charles Bridge.
• Not far away from the park, there is the iconic John Lennon Wall that is accompanied by The Wall Pub — a legendary haunt that is decorated with all sorts of Beatles-related stuff (a Yellow Submarine-themed dining hall is a sight you cannot miss).
• For your general caffeination purposes, look no further then Kafe & Hrnky — a hidden gem of a coffee shop with a relaxing atmosphere, tasty desserts, and a whole garden in the yard! Get yourself a cup of Joe and a handmade coffee mug to bring home as a souvenir — the coffee shop sells beautiful ceramics in addition to serving some damn good coffee!

Malá Strana Pros:
+ great location, set close to some of the Prague’s main tourist sites
+ very scenic, with lots of green areas to relax in
+ great public transport infrastructure
+ less crowded when compared to Old Town
+ also way quieter!

Malá Strana Cons:
— virtually no nightlife (hence the quietude)
— very steep in some places; the hills will be the death of you after a few days of living here.

Nové Město (New Town) — where to stay for shopping

• Nové Město is where Old Prague and New Prague meet: Authentic cobblestone streets give way to modern-day boardwalks filled with uniquely decorated window displays on either side. Castles here change into museums, and the architecture of the area takes a turn as well: The Dancing House shows you how more daring and artistic choices cripple in closer and closer to the Prague’s center.

The heart of Nové Město is Wenceslas Square — Prague’s business and administrative center that saw plenty of important historical events. It is actually not a square, but more of a boulevard, with two lanes of exquisite hotels, offices, currency exchanges, restaurants, and retailers all leading to the main building — the National Museum (one of our favorite museums in Prague; and that’s saying a lot, since we’re not usually big on exhibitions of any kind).

Nové Město is a perfect location for shopping, as it has no shortage of retail therapy-related spots: From souvenir stores to elegant boutiques, — we see your wallet is shaking in fear already! Nové Město has a great public transport system: From here, you can get anywhere in Prague via the metro, and the tram network is very excellent as well. There is also Prague's Main Train Station, and you can easily buy a ticket to more distant destinations, such as Karlovy Vary or Kutná Hora — our personal picks for best day trips from Prague!

Lacking the quieter atmosphere of Malá Strana, Nové Město is still a very convenient and lively neighborhood. Hotels in this area are cheaper in comparison to average accommodation prices in the Prague center.

Our hotel picks in Nové Město:

• Hotel Tivoli (from €50 a night) — located right next to a metro station, this hotel offers big bright rooms and private parking. The interiors here are quite simple, but with a touch of royal grandeur, and the staff is said to always go the extra mile for guests` comfort. There are plenty of pharmacies, restaurants, and shops nearby, so you will always have the modern-day comforts at your fingertips.
• Hostel EMMA (from €45 a night) — might be your best choice if you’re traveling to Prague on a budget. The rooms here are much less extravagant, yet they have everything a tourist needs. Kitchens and bathrooms are shared, but, according to the reviews, all facilities are well-maintained. Moreover, from this hostel you can reach the Dancing House in mere three minutes, and Charles Bridge is set just a 10-minute walk away. The location is surrounded by bars and coffee shops, so gastronomical discoveries await.

Nové Město Eats:

• If you haven't yet become a fan of Czech cuisine (although we believe the love is guaranteed to come after your first initiation), and still want to have a taste of home, look no further than Beers & Cheers restaurant. They have quite an on-the-nose take on American cuisine, and that’s what people love about them: Delicious burgers, wings, and, obviously, beer are all the rage in the heart of Prague. It is also quite cheap.
• We would, personally, also like to visit Richy Happy Bar — a hard-to-define spot that offers beer, homemade pastries, coffee, and artisanal cocktails. Moreover, the place is a whole art gallery, filled with paintings and modern installations: Perfect for art lessons that sometimes take place here!
• Comeby is a great bubble tea chain in Prague; we always loved to pop by one of the locations in Nové Město for a delicious cool drink in the middle of a busy day of sightseeing!

Nové Město Pros:
+ central location (belting the Old Town on one side, with waterfront access as well)
+ lively and more urban atmosphere
+ plenty of transportation options
+ a plethora of shopping and dining opportunities

Nové Město Cons:
— less historical charm compared to the previously mentioned districts
— can be quite noisy and crowded.

Žižkov — where to stay for nightlife

• Rumored to have more pubs per square mile than any other area in Prague (or even the whole of Europe), Žižkov is the place to come for the most authentic local experience. Gritty at times (some might call it Chicago of Europe), but mostly eccentric and eclectic, Žižkov will surprise you from every angle (and with every detail: Just look at the babies crawling up the Žižkov Tower!).

Now that we’re moving away from the Prague’s center, it’s getting harder to navigate the lesser-known districts. Thankfully, Žižkov area is pretty easy to locate: Just look out for Žižkov TV Tower — a tall construction that some refer to as ugly-looking (same was once said about the Eiffel Tower, so we wouldn’t pay such negative descriptions much attention), but that is surely avant-garde.

Žižkov is more of a residential district, but this fact doesn’t mean that there aren’t any notable tourist attractions in the area: Going up Vítkov Hill (or running up, per Kate Bush’s instructions), one of Prague's highlights, is by far the most exciting thing you can do in the city en plein air. The imposing statue of Jan Žižka (the largest bronze equestrian statue in the world; of the historical figure that gave name to the neighborhood) is a beautiful sight, but we encourage you to look around instead: The view from the top of the hill is truly unforgettable! We advise you to pack a picnic (local farmers’ markets will hook you up with fresh produce and yummy baked goods), but make it an early bird outing, before the crowds start pouring in.

Speaking of crowds, you should know that Žižkov district will never be as packed as Staré Město. The area isn’t as popular as the Old Town among first-time Prague visitors, but it is quite favored by travelers with experience: Be it young people, families, or even expats. The younger crowd is also lured in by the promise of varied cultural scene and kick-ass nightlife: When the sun goes down, the party starts in Žižkov!

Because Žižkov is set further away from the city center, prices for accommodation here are a lot more manageable. Because of this, you can treat yourself to a nicer hotel (a five-star option here is in the same range as a three-star hotel in Old Town).

Our hotel picks in Žižkov:

• Hidden Art Boutique Residence (from €120 a night) — perfect for a week-long stay, as each unit has a kitchen, laundry, a TV, a balcony, and whatever else a hotel needs to have for you to feel like home. From linen sheets to flower bouquets, the service and attention to details here is amazing. Moreover, if you travel as a family, there are plenty of playgrounds and parks nearby.
• Pension Jana (from €65 a night) — located at a distance from the buzzing tourist area, the hotel lets you enjoy some peace and quiet. The interiors here are warm and cozy, and the backyard garden is equipped with tables and chairs, where you can spend time with your kids or read a book in the morning.

Žižkov Eats:

• The neighborhood is filled with pubs, bars, and clubs to the brim: You can find a place to your liking here, from authentic locations to something grand and fancy. Bar Behind the Curtain is famous for having the best cocktails in Prague (the title that it has confirmed time and time again). You can come here to get an excellent drink or socialize. Planeta Žižkov serves not only Czech beer, but also quite affordable food, mainly BBQ. Some classic Czech dishes are on the menu, as well as mysterious “Žižkov specialities”.
• If you are looking for trendy cafes in Žižkov, stop by Kafe Atrium — a vegan-friendly coffee place in a stylish venue of Atrium center, which also hosts various events. Coffee, desserts, and cocktails are a must-try here! If you combine your trip with work, this is also a perfect place to sit down with a laptop for a couple of hours.

Žižkov Pros:
+ more affordable accommodation options
+ vibrant nightlife
+ quieter atmosphere
+ more authentic vibes

Žižkov Cons:
— not as close to the city center
— can be pretty louche
— some consider the area to be less safe than the rest (it’s all those wasted pub-crawlers, who, for the most part, are harmless).

Podolí — where to stay with family

• Podolí’s laid-back vibes are what draws people in-the-know to its premises. Hidden further down the Vltava River, the area is famous for its serene landscape, a giant swimming pool complex, and easy access to Vyšehrad Castle.

Podolí Swimming Stadium is the crown jewel of the area — if you’re traveling with family, this will be the place to come to to burn off some pent-up travel energy your younglings might have! The waterfront promenade is also a great way to spend your evenings in the district.

Podolí offers quite affordable accommodations. If you decide to stay here, you will enjoy undisturbed local life: Perfect for families or anyone who is not in a hurry and prefers to be immersed in the less touristic vibe of the city. Its major drawback is the distance from the Old Town; commutes can be long if you don’t live near the metro station. However, now you will be close to Vyšehrad — the iconic castle complex with rich history and ritzy buildings. If you’re staying in Podolí, you will not spend a long time in transit; you can even walk there! Get a pair of comfortable shoes, grab a camera, and set out on a beautiful stroll!

Our hotel picks in Podolí:

• Minihotel Vitex (from €45 a night) — a nice place near the river. The hotel is clean, quiet, and cheap, and set within 15 minutes of the nearest metro station. Many guests mention the kindness of the owner, and welcoming service earns this location extra points in our book.
• POINT flat (from €90 a night) — a more expensive and luxurious option. The apartment has a bedroom, a bathroom, and a kitchen. POINT flat`s main feature is the amazing view of Prague Castle, so if we were to stay here, we would totally set up a nice dinner on its spacious terrace and take in the beauty of the city.

Podolí Eats:

• Remember that you don’t necessarily need to go to the city center to enjoy gastronomic delights. The adorable Cheecup Café, for example, sells delicious cupcakes and cheesecakes. Each item on the menu is mouthwateringly tasty, so get ready for a sugar rush!
• If you’re looking for a cozy meal, Podolská Kotva should be your top pick in the area. This lovely restaurant is situated next to the Vltava River and offers homestyle food, draft beer, and lemonade made from scratch.

Podolí Pros:
+ peaceful and scenic landscapes
+ family-friendly, with lots of opportunities for outdoor activities
+ more affordable accommodation options

Podolí Cons:
— set further away from the Old Town
— fewer dining options.

Dejvice — where to drop your roots if want to stay in Prague long-term

• Dejvice is upscale in every sense of the word; however, the area doesn’t seem stuck-up: It is both sophisticated and inviting. The district’s beautiful green spaces are overshadowed by the stunning views of the Prague Castle, while the quaint residential streets of the area house a multitude of trendy cafes and restaurants.

Dejvice, Prague 6 district, is right on the way from the Prague airport into the city. Extremely popular among international visitors, this residential area consists of embassies, villas, hotels, universities, and the finest restaurants. The refined feel of the manicured side streets of the district gives way to serenity of verdant outdoor areas: Stromovka Park and the Royal Garden, where you can take a beat from the hustle and bustle of Prague’s city center, are your top choices for a day spent outside.

While prices for accommodations in Dejvice are almost on par with those in the Old Town, the surroundings are more peaceful and luxurious, adding to the overall allure of the area.

Our hotel picks in Dejvice:

• Vienna House Diplomat Hotel (from €80 a night) — if we wanted to imagine ourselves as foreign officials coming to Prague, we would, without question, book a suite in this hotel. With 24-hour taxis, a business center, and concierge services, it is very easy to spoil yourself here. The downstairs bar and lounge are exceptional, and the design of the interior is both high-tech and stylish. The hotel is meters away from the metro station, and you can actually walk (!) to Prague Castle from here.
• Hostel Fontána (from €10 a night) — a great choice of accommodation in Prague should you prefer to save money for city tours and good food (full support on this one!). A bed in a room, a shared bathroom, and a small kitchen are everything you need if you’re traveling on a strict budget.

Dejvice Eats:

• One of our favorite restaurants in the area is Dejvicka 34: Its varied menu is described as “impeccable”, and we agree with the statement wholeheartedly!
• Another great spot in this district is Café Perfect Day, which serves coffee and classic European breakfasts. If you are craving avocado toast with a side of scrambled eggs, this is a place to hit up.

Dejvice Pros:
+ great location close to the city center
+ varied transportation options
+ the air of exclusivity and refinement
+ tons of gorgeous green spaces

Dejvice Cons:
— not that many tourists
— high prices on accommodation and everything else.

Our list of 10 coolest Prague hotels and hostels (sorted by price)

As you can see, there’s no one area in Prague that suits everybody: Each of the districts has some unique characteristic that most defines it. Because of that, we encourage you to weigh out all the pros and cons of every area to find the one that answers best to your needs and expectations.

If you want to shoot blind though (that is, choose a hotel and then try and get used to the area you find yourself in), then we can make your choice even more effortless: We want to give you our list of ten hotels that we feel will resonate with your Prague trip itinerary the most. Here we go:

• The MadHouse Prague (from €40 a night) — one of the most unforgettable hostels in Prague, MadHouse truly lives up to its name. With its wild design choices (colorful wall murals catch your eye the second you walk through the door) and a packed calendar of social events and celebrations, it is suitable for young travelers coming to Prague. This is where you find friends for life!
• Theatrino Hotel (from €50 a night) — set in a former theater in Žižkov area, this hotel is a real trip for the mind: Starting with a breakfast service held in the original high-ceiling theater hall, all the way to Shining-esque red-carpeted narrow hallways, — you will not forget your stay here! This jazzy hotel is surrounded by trendy bars on all sides; coming back to your room a little buzzed will only add to the surreal experience!
• Hotel International Prague (from €65 a night) — a grand Art-Deco building of the hotel is reminiscent of New York’s very own hotel roster; and the connection doesn’t stop here: Hotel International is set in the most refined NYC-like area of Prague — Dejvice. Spacious rooms and tranquil surroundings guarantee a comfortable stay, no matter how many days you spend here.
• Design Metropol Hotel Prague (from €100 a night) — a modern four-star hotel, ideal for young people and couples, situated a few minutes from the metro station and Wenceslas Square. An amazing feature of the hotel is a rooftop sun deck. Take a minute to imagine yourself sipping your morning coffee with a view of Prague’s main streets… have you booked the room already?
• Welcome Hostel (from €100 a night) — a great budget hostel. You can opt for rooms with either private or shared bathrooms. For a hostel, the place is actually exquisite, with amazing owners and modern furniture. As its visitors say, the hostel is “in the middle of everything”, which sounds like a great perk to us. There is also a restaurant and a grocery store downstairs, so you will not go hungry.

• Mamaison Residence Downtown Prague (from €110 a night) — a wonderful hotel set close to the Wenceslas Square. The location in the heart of all the action promises easy access to a plethora of historical landmarks, as well as all of the best shopping and dining opportunities in Prague. The understated and clean design of the rooms offers a perfect backdrop to relax in and download your day, without the usual overwhelm of statement pieces one would expect from a hotel not too far from Prague’s city center.
• Grand Hotel Bohemia (from €110 a night) — a luxurious five-star hotel. You can expect detail-oriented service, elegant decor, and fantastic breakfasts. The hotel is located in the center of Prague, with a convenient distance from the main attractions, bars, and restaurants. The hotel can also provide a ball room if you decide to hold an event or a high-end birthday celebration. Coming to such a hotel alone and indulging in dolce far niente sounds like a great plan to us as well.
• Mosaic House Design Hotel (from €110 a night) — hidden away from the hustle and bustle of New Town, this hotel has the chicest and most exciting design of the bunch. A secret lush garden at Mosaic House Hotels offers a peaceful retreat where you can come and relax in after a busy day of sightseeing. Pay close attention to the little details: Whether it’s the lovely breakfast buffet spread, or a cozy blanket set by the chair on the terrace, — each component shows just how perfect this well-oiled service machine works!
• Hotel Meda (from €150 a night) — set in the Prague 6 area, it is a very appealing place to stay in. Hotel Meda is close to a few tram stops, which means you can easily get to all the landmarks. Beds are huge, and the dining area is very nice here. There are parks nearby where you can take a stroll in the evening. Another perk is Mazelab Coffee next door — the place promises to give you the best specialty coffee of your life, and the modern interior is just stunning. Working, chilling, or hanging out with your trip-mates — whatever you want to do, it will be a pleasant experience.
• Hotel U Prince (from €180 a night) — do you want a front-row seat to the Astronomical Clock show? Well, look no further: Hotel U Prince is set right opposite this sought-after attraction, and you can see all the action from the stunning rooftop terrace (with a glass of bubbly in hand). The medieval charm of the hotel’s surroundings is copied in the elegant design of the rooms. The service here is exceptional: You would think that the number of guests that stay here each year would make the staff lazier and not that focused, but you’d be wrong! You will be treated here as though you’re the closest family member or a celebrity in town on a press trip!

*Honorable mention: Do you like Airbnb accommodations more than hotels? Consider booking Hlavní město (from €80 a night) — probably the best Airbnb in Prague, especially for young people, with stylish spacious rooms and cheap prices. Most visitors praise its location, right in the heart of the city. Facilities here are clean and well-maintained, and the dining area is super trendy.

If you decide to look for other options, we would highly recommend using Booking.com and checking the reviews of each place thoroughly. They say, all that glitters is not gold, and a super cheap accommodation might actually cost you your peace of mind and good mood.

Things to do and sights to see in Prague

So far, we have discussed the best areas and neighborhoods in Prague, with overviews of five-star hotels, cute hostels, and everything in between. Now, how about a short summary of things to do in Prague? After all, no matter how good your accommodations are, you are not going to stay inside 24/7, are you?

Prague is breathtaking in every possible way. The moment you step onto its paved medieval streets is the moment you fall in love. And if you are free-spirited and endlessly curious, you will want to explore every corner and get the most incredible and unique experience right away. While we have an entire article dedicated to our road-tested Prague itinerary (and a whole separate one that focuses just on the best viewpoints in Prague), we feel it’s fair to give you a little taste of what you can expect right here:

• To make your trip as memorable as possible, we recommend doing at least a bit of planning. Main attractions of Prague are all within walking distance of each other. And yet, if you only have two or three days, you’ll really want to have a route planned so that your tour doesn’t turn into a do-or-die marathon. Our must-visit list includes St. Vitus Cathedral, Petřín Hill, Malá Strana, and the entire Prague Castle area. Finally, while many sights are actually free of charge, it would be wise to buy museum and church entrance tickets online in order to skip the lines (GetYourGuide and Viator services will help you with the entire process).

Speaking of online tickets, it is also way easier to book a guided tour than plan your itinerary yourself, especially if you don’t have much time in Prague. Our favorite options in the city include, but are not limited to, the following activities:
🔹50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise,
🔹Ghosts and Legends of the Old Town Evening Tour,
🔹and even Communism History and Nuclear Bunker Guided Tour!

• You might also want to dedicate a whole day for a field trip to the neighboring towns, which boast their own historical attractions. For example, Kutná Hora is famous for its Bone Church, which is fully decorated with bones (there’s even a huge bone chandelier). A train to these towns takes about an hour, but it’s an hour filled with beautifully scenic landscapes of rural Prague.
• A most special experience would be coming to Prague for Christmas. Europe knows that winter holidays are all about magic, so what could be better than diving into that festive spirit at the local Christmas Market? If you are not sure where to stay in Prague at Christmas, look for hotels in the Staré Město or Malá Strana areas. Yes, the streets will be packed with locals and tourists, but you don’t want to miss all the fun, right? Having your base here will allow you to stay out all night long or even see the New Year’s Eve fireworks from your balcony.
• While Prague is not really famous for street food, one thing you should try for sure is Trdelník, or chimney cake. This pastry is served all around the city, and if you want to taste it, just follow your nose: The divine smell of sugar and cinnamon should easily guide you. Czech cuisine as a whole is a combination of local, German, and Eastern European food. One thing you might want to try is soup in a bread bowl. Soup can be made of tomatoes, cheese, meat, or seafood. Kozlovna Apropos in the Old Town is a good restaurant where you can give this dish a try. Also, don’t forget the legendary Czech beer! One of the most hyped bars/restaurants in Prague is Výtopna, where drinks are delivered in little trains.

Our tips for traveling to Prague

If you have already checked out our other articles on Prague, you can consider yourself an expert on the topic. If not, then we’re here to give you some basic pointers that you can add onto as the time goes on:

• Mind the crowds: Prague’s city center gets particularly packed, especially during peak tourist season (summer months). If you’re not a fan of feeling like a sardine in a can while exploring the local sites, then either come during shoulder season (May, September) or start your days early: The earlier, the better! Also, beware of pickpockets: Keep your valuables super close to you and never leave your belongings unattended.
• Learn some Czech, if possible: It’s always nice to know at least a few most commonly used phrases when coming to a new country. Start with “Dobrý den” (Good day) and “Děkuji” (Thank you), the locals will appreciate you trying!
• Speaking of locals, try and show some respect whenever possible: Enter the churches and cathedrals with covered shoulders, and mind the quiet hours (between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., when you’re not supposed to make noise in most residential areas of Prague).
• One of Prague’s main unique characteristics is its fairytale-esque cobblestone streets. Our advice (after a few trips to Prague and a couple busted ankles later) is to pack comfortable shoes and avoid wearing heels altogether. Trust us, in Prague, footwear should be comfortable first and fashionable second. Your feet will thank us later!

And there you have it: We hope that we helped you pick an area of Prague you’ll stay in during your next trip to the City of a Hundred Spires, or at least pointed you in the direction that sounds best to you. Makes sure to use our map to have a clear visual representation of the districts we’ve been talking about in here.

If you have any further questions on the neighborhoods or hotels mentioned, feel free to leave them in the comments down below. Plus, if you would like us to add onto our list some place or area in Prague that you feel is noteworthy and useful for the rest of our readers, please, share your expertise and experiences with us as well! Na shledanou!