Where to Stay in Prague (6 Best Places, By a Local)

👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Prague | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQs

I’ve lived in Prague for the last two years and hosted many visitors who have stayed with me as well as in other areas of the city. 

If it’s your first time visiting Prague, you’ll want to stay close to the action in the Old Town. This area is lively, full of fairytale-like architecture, and within walking distance of the majority of the main attractions. My recommended hotel here is Hotel Kings Court, which is in a perfect location and offers comfortable rooms and amenities like a spa, on-site restaurant, and more. 

However, if you prefer a quieter neighborhood or are looking to stick to a budget, I’ve got you. Keep reading for my favorite areas and hotels, tips for your stay, and more.  

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Best Places to Stay in Prague

If you’re short on time, these are my top picks: 

Ok, now scroll down for a deep dive into the pros (and cons) of each area in Prague: 

6 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Prague Get a free custom Google Map of all my recommendations (instructions) Best Area For First-Time Visitors Best Area For Families & Groups Best Area For Foodies & Longer Stays Best Area For Digital Nomads & Young Travelers Best Area For a Local Vibe

Prague is made up of 22 districts, but the majority of the main attractions and accommodation are scattered throughout the historic center in Prague 1. The city is divided by the Vltava River and connected by 18 bridges, including the iconic Charles Bridge, which connects the Old Town and the Lesser Town — the two most charming neighborhoods in the city. 

No matter where you stay in Prague, you’ll be well-connected thanks to the city’s comprehensive public transportation system, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond the touristic areas. 

That said, the historic center is truly magical and worth spending time in, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll start by walking you through all you need to know if you’re keen on staying in the center, and then provide alternative options for those looking for a change of pace. 

Old Town (Staré Mesto)  The view of Prague’s Old Town neighborhood from the Old Town Tower

👉 Best Area For First-Time Visitors | ✨ Best Old Town Hotels: Hotel Kings Court • Iron Gate Hotel & Suites • The Emblem Hotel • Hotel Mozart Prague • Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Prague’s Old Town is the best neighborhood for first-time visitors and those who want to feel like they are in the middle of a fairytale. It’s home to the city’s most stunning architecture — from the Gothic towers to the Baroque churches to the Art Nouveau buildings. The narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets transport you back in time.   

The Old Town is also home to my #1 overall hotel pick, Hotel Kings Court. Its prime location, comfortable rooms, and spa amenities make it the perfect home base for your trip. If you’re looking for something more romantic, Hotel Mozart Prague is an elegant option just 1 minute from the Charles Bridge. 

You will not run out of places to eat and drink in Old Town. The neighborhood is teeming with restaurants, bars, and classic Czech pubs. You’ll need to watch out for overpriced tourist traps, though. 

Wander into hidden side streets to uncover many gems. My favorite stops are Skautský Institut for a coffee and a Bokovka for a glass of wine. Both are tucked away inside courtyards that make for great escapes from the crowds. If you’re looking for nightlife, head to Dlouha Street. 

Old Town is extremely well-connected to other areas of the city. Staying here will ensure that you are within walking distance of main attractions as well as neighborhoods like Lesser Town and New Town. And with its stellar location, you may not need to use public transportation much.

Pros of Staying in Old Town Neighborhood: Central and walkable Lively restaurants, bars, and nightlife  The best of Prague’s architecture and historical charm Well-connected by public transportation Cons of Staying in Old Town Neighborhood: Crowded and noisy during peak seasons  Narrow, cobblestone streets can be tough for accessibility  Restaurants and bars can be overpriced  

📚 Old Town Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for First-Time Visitors
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Hotel Kings Court • Iron Gate Hotel & Suites • The Emblem Hotel • Hotel Mozart Prague • Four Seasons Hotel Prague

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Old Town

🍽️ Where to Eat – Restaurant Mlýnec ($$$), Marie B ($$$), Restaurace Mincovna ($$), Marina Ristorante ($$), Maitrea ($$), La Bottega Linka ($$), Naše Maso ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Teresa U Prince, Black Angel’s Bar, Skautský Institut, Bokovka Wine Bar, Střídačka, Lokál Dlouhá, AnonymouS Shrink’s Office

🎟️ Top Attractions – Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter (Josefov) 

Lesser Town (Malá Strana) Lesser Town rooftops from St. Wenceslas Vineyard / Villa Richter

👉 Best Area For Couples | ✨ Best Lesser Town Hotels: Augustine • Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa • Three Storks • Appia Residences • Golden Well

I’ve seen few neighborhoods as romantic as Prague’s Lesser Town. The winding streets filled with quaint terraces and gardens make it the perfect neighborhood for couples. This area is known to be the pricier of the historic neighborhoods, but it’s the best place for a luxury stay. 

While elegant hotels like Augustine and Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa provide 5-star experiences, accommodations like Appia Residences provide more affordable options without sacrificing the Lesser Town’s charm. 

One of the main draws of Lesser Town is its proximity to the Prague Castle and its surrounding neighborhood, Hradčany, which is one of the most beautiful areas of the city and only a quick 10-minute walk (granted, a steep one) from Lesser Town. 

You’ll find an abundance of fine dining options in the Lesser Town. If you feel like splurging, Kampa Park’s riverside terrace makes for an incredible sunset dinner. You can also reserve a private boat ride before your meal. 

Lesser Town’s excellent location does come with the drawback of more restricted access to public transportation. The neighborhood is still connected, but public transportation options are limited to the main streets. 

Pros of Staying in Lesser Town Neighborhood: Central and walkable Greenery and parks  Charming atmosphere   Luxury accommodation and fine dining  Cons of Staying in Lesser Town Neighborhood: More expensive Fewer public transportation connections  Narrow, cobblestone streets can be tough for accessibility 

📚 Lesser Town Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Couples
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Augustine • Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa • Three Storks • Appia Residences • Golden Well

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Lesser Town

🍽️ Where to Eat – Kampa Park ($$$), BRICK’S ($$$), Host ($$$), Kuchyn ($$), Noi ($$), Nerudova 211 Café ($$), Cafe Savoy ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – St. Wenceslas Vineyard / Villa Richter, Bar Monk, Strahov Monastery Brewery, Alenka Cocktail Bar, Bluelight Bar

🎟️ Top Attractions – Prague Castle, Lennon Wall, Kampa Island, Royal Gardens, Petřín Hill, and Tower

New Town (Nové Město)   The Dancing House building in the New Town

👉 Best Area For Families & Groups | ✨ Best New Town Hotels: Novotel Praha Wenceslas Square • NH Collection Prague Carlo IV • Mosaic House Design Hotel • BoHo Prague Hotel 

Prague’s New Town is for you if you’re willing to venture outside of the Old Town and the Lesser Town, but still looking to stay close to the action. This area is a blend of historic and modern influences, making for more spacious and affordable accommodations that are perfect for families and larger groups. 

Novotel Praha Wenceslas Square offers large family rooms, a breakfast buffet, and a swimming pool, making it ideal for families. For larger groups, I recommend looking at apartment rentals in the area through MN6 Luxury Suites by Adrez, which offers 3-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to 8 people.

The New Town may not have the same fairytale feel as the Old Town and the Lesser Town, but its riverside location, quirky art, and lively nightlife make for a great experience. Escape the Wenceslas Square crowds by heading to Naplavka, a river embankment lined with cafes and bars that also hosts a weekly farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. During the summer months, Čapadlo Summer Terrace is the best spot for riverside sunset drinks and live music.

The New Town is also one of the best-connected parts of the city and home to the central train and bus station. If you’re looking to use Prague as a base for day trips, this neighborhood makes it very convenient.  

Pros of Staying in New Town Neighborhood: Walkable and accessible  Spacious and affordable Well-connected by public transportation Central train and bus station Cons of Staying in New Town Neighborhood: Modern architecture with less historic charm Commercialized   It can be noisy during peak season

📚 New Town Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Families & Groups
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Novotel Praha Wenceslas Square • NH Collection Prague Carlo IV • Mosaic House Design Hotel • BoHo Prague Hotel 

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in New Town

🍽️ Where to Eat – Červený jelen ($$$), Restaurant Alma ($$$), Kantýna ($$), Ginger and Fred ($$), San Carlo ($$), Café Slavia ($$), Střecha ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Naplavka Farmer’s Market, LaB, Lucerna Cafe and Music Bar, Fly Vista Rooftop, Čapadlo Summer Terrace, Loď Pivovar

🎟️ Top Attractions – Wenceslas Square, National Museum, Dancing House, Naplavka Riverbank  

Vinohrady  Riegrovy Sady is the go-to sunset spot in Vinohrady

👉 Best Area For Foodies & Longer Stays | ✨ Best Vinohrady Hotels: Le Palais Art Hotel Prague • Mamaison Residence Belgická • Eight Secrets Boutique Residence • Czech Inn

I may be slightly biased after living here for two years, but Vinohrady is my personal favorite neighborhood in Prague — and it’s not just because I’m a foodie (although that’s a big part). 

Vinohrady was once filled with vineyards, a history that is still recognizable in the abundance of sleek wine bars. Its vibrant wine culture and diverse food scene make it the perfect neighborhood for foodies who are ready to explore Prague one bite at a time. 

Vinohrady is just the right distance from the city center, well-connected by public transportation, and full of people from all over the world. Its quiet-but-not-too-quiet atmosphere is best for those interested in longer stays. 

Although options are more limited, Vinohrady still has cozy accommodations. Le Palais Art Hotel Prague, a restored 19th-century palace, is tucked away in a quiet corner of the neighborhood with easy access to a direct tramline to the center. 

The Czech Inn is an affordable, but stylish hostel in the middle of the neighborhood that also features larger room options. Depending on the length of your stay, this neighborhood is more suited to apartment rentals than hotel accommodations. 

The best part of Vinohrady is its lush greenery, plazas, and parks. Every evening, people head to the neighborhood’s outdoor spaces like Riegrovy Sady and Havlíčkovy Sady (Grébovka) for sunset picnics. The parks also hold programming like movie screenings, concerts, and festivals that make for a warm, community feeling. 

Pros of Staying in Vinohrady Neighborhood: Away from the crowds Greenery and parks Trendy restaurant and bar scene Well-connected by public transportation  Cons of Staying in Vinohrady Neighborhood: Further from the main attractions Fewer accommodations Slow-paced 

📚Vinohrady Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Foodies & Longer Stays
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Le Palais Art Hotel Prague • Mamaison Residence Belgická  • Eight Secrets Boutique Residence •  Czech Inn

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Vinohrady

🍽️ Where to Eat – Aromi ($$$), Bruxx ($$), Mamam Bistro ($$), Ô Mai ($$), Blumery ($$) Kavarna Zanzibar ($$), Art Bianca ($), Kus Koláče ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Riegrovy Sady Beer Garden, Vinohrad, Lokál Korunní, Grébovka Vineyard, La Cave D’ D’Adrien, Le Caveau Kavárna, Vila 63

🎟️ Top Attractions –  Náměstí Míru, Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, Havlíčkovy Sady (Grébovka) Grotta, Riegrovy Sady, Vinohrady Theater, National House of Vinohrady

Holešovice Views from Letna Beer Garden in Holešovice

👉 Best Area For Digital Nomads & Young Travelers | ✨ Best Holešovice Hotels: Art Hotel • Mama Shelter • Plaza Prague Hotel • Hotel Expo

If you’re a digital nomad looking for a neighborhood with ample workspace, or a young traveler looking for a high-energy area away from the crowds, Holešovice fits the bill. 

Holešovice is known to be one of the coolest neighborhoods in Prague (and some say Europe). Its industrial, hipster vibe is perfect if you’re looking for an alternative Prague experience. It’s filled with galleries, parks, secondhand shops, flea markets, and super cool cafes. 

Similar to Vinohrady, hotel accommodations are limited. But Art Hotel and Mama Shelter are both in quiet areas in close proximity to nearby parks, Letenské sady, and Stromovka. Both are just minutes from a direct tram line that can get to the center in 20 minutes or less. 

The neighborhood is a great place to explore Prague’s art scene. Check out what’s on at DOX Center for Contemporary Art or the National Gallery, and then peek into smaller galleries like Trafo Gallery in Holešovice Market. End the day by gazing over the river at Letna Beer Garden or dancing the night away at Sasazu or Cross Club.

Holešovice is not for everyone, and I would not recommend it if you’re keen on immersing yourself in the medieval atmosphere of the center, but it’s undoubtedly a very cool place to call home, even for a couple of days. 

Pros of Staying in Holešovice Neighborhood: Local vibe   Hip cafes and second-hand shops Greenery and parks Well-connected by public transportation Cons of Staying in Holešovice Neighborhood: Further from the main attractions Fewer accommodations Starting to feel the effects of gentrification

Holešovice Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads & Young Travelers
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Art Hotel • Mama Shelter • Plaza Prague Hotel • Hotel Expo

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Holešovice

🍽️ Where to Eat – Sasazu ($$$), The Eatery ($$$), Holešovice Market Food Truck Point ($$), Erhart Café ($$), Chop Chop Chili ($), Onigirazu ($) 

🍸 Where to Drink – Letna Beer Garden, Vnitroblock, Bio Oko, Acid Coffee, Cafe Letka, Cross Club

🎟️ Top Attractions – Holešovice Market, Letenské sady, Stromovka, DOX Center for Contemporary Art, Výstaviště

Karlín Believe it or not, this stunning building in Lyčkovo náměstí is an elementary school!

👉 Best Area For a Local Vibe | ✨ Best Karlín Hotels: Hilton Prague • The Hotel Fitzgerald • Hotel Mucha • Hotel PULSE8 • Hotel Florenc

For travellers seeking a local vibe without too much sacrifice when it comes to location, Karlín may be the answer.This neighborhood is within easy walking distance of Old Town and has multiple public transportation lines that keep it well-connected to other areas of the city.

Karlín, the “effortless cool kid” of Prague’s neighborhoods, is an increasingly popular hangout for locals. 

Community spaces like Kasarna Karlín, a restored courtyard surrounded by abandoned military barracks, host summertime events like movie screenings and beach volleyball. During the winter, the River Rink’s pop-up ice rink and heated après-skate tents are perfect for chilly evenings. 

The neighborhood boasts more accommodation options than Holešovice at far more budget-friendly rates than Old Town and Lesser Town. Visitors prioritizing comfort, location, and full amenities should stay at Hilton Prague.The sleek rooftop bar is a welcome bonus! For a cozy, boutique stay, consider The Hotel Fitzgerald or Hotel Mucha. 

Despite its trendy flair, Karlín is not for every traveller. Many areas still feel “up-and-coming” although it’s largely been revitalized. Like Holešovice, Karlín lacks the Medieval charm and energy of the historic center. However, Karlin will make for a memorable stay if you’re looking for a true taste of life in Prague.

Pros of Staying in Karlin Neighborhood: Cool, local vibe  Affordable accommodation and dining  Walking distance of Old Town Well-connected by public transportation  Cons of Staying in Karlin Neighborhood: Further from the main attractions Still “up-and-coming” Starting to feel the effects of gentrification

📚 Karlin Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for a Local Vibe
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Hilton Prague • The Hotel Fitzgerald • Hotel Mucha • Hotel PULSE8 • Hotel Florenc

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Karlín

🍽️ Where to Eat – Spojka Karlín ($$$), Eska ($$$), Etapa ($$), Akemi Karlín ($$), The Miners Coffee Bakery ($), Antonínovo pekařství ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Dva kohouti, Veltlin, Pivo Karlin, Přístav 18600, Lokal Hamburk, Pivovarský klub Benedict

🎟️ Top Attractions – Lyčkovo náměstí, Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Kasárna Karlín, River Rink, Forum Karlin

Tips for Staying in Prague Use Public Transportation  Prague’s tram system is clean, affordable, and easy to navigate

Prague has a comprehensive public transportation system composed of three metro lines, 26 tram lines, and over 100 bus routes that can get you just about anywhere within the city, as well as just outside of the city. 

Tickets grant you access to all three modes of transportation. You can buy tickets in metro stations and at ticket kiosks inside trams and buses. But I recommend downloading the PID app and buying a long-term pass to cover the length of your visit. Tickets are checked sporadically, so be sure to purchase and activate your ticket before riding. 

The historic tram 42’s line runs a circular route through the Old Town and the Lesser Town, stopping at main attractions along the way and allowing you to hop on and off as you like. You must purchase tickets on the tram. 

Keep Cash The Mint Market features local designers and artists

The majority of businesses do accept card payments, but it’s wise to keep some cash on you while you explore the city. Many of the markets, food trucks and stands, and other smaller businesses often require cash. Remember, Czechia uses the Czech Koruna, not the Euro.

Consider the Prague Visitor Pass or Combination Ticket

The Prague City Tourism Office offers a variety of visitor passes. Many popular Prague attractions also offer combination tickets that will grant you access to multiple sites at discounted rates. Be sure to check out these options before purchasing one-off tickets. 

Skip (Some) Paid Entrances The Prague Castle grounds and gardens are free to enter

Prague is not an overly expensive destination as far as European capitals go; however, entrance fees to many of the main attractions can be quite steep and add up. 

Attractions like the Prague Castle complex, Vyšehrad, and many parks and gardens are free (and still stunning) if you do not enter the interior of the buildings. It’s a tough call, but this tip could go a long way in keeping the trip budget-friendly. 

Beware of Parking Zones

If you’re renting a car during your trip and do not have parking through your accommodation, be aware of Prague’s parking zone laws. 

There are three color-coded zones — blue zones are only for residents, purple zones are mixed and allow visitors to park for limited times, and orange zones are for visitors and short-term parking. 

You can easily pay online or at streetside kiosks. Download the EasyPark app to view zones and restrictions. Parking is free on weekends. 

Don’t Wait for Summer The Czech Republic is a magical wintertime destination

Believe it or not, Prague really is a year-round destination. Beat the summer crowds and heat (most buildings do not have AC here!), and book your trip during the off-season. 

Come in the fall for gorgeous hikes and medieval festivals, the winter for the ultimate holiday vibe and plenty of mulled wine, and the spring for blooming gardens and Easter markets. No matter when you come, you’ll find plenty to pack your Prague itinerary.

Take Home a Unique Souvenir  The vintage photobooth in Kasár­na Karlín

If you’re tired of taking home keychains and magnets from your travels, Prague’s vintage analog photobooths are the perfect alternative for a memorable souvenir. There are less than 50 functioning analog photobooths in the world today, and Prague is home to three of them. Take home a strip of black and white film portraits as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. 

Don’t Get Stuck Inside Naplavka on a summer evening

Prague is known to be one of the greenest cities in Europe with countless outdoor spaces and parks that are perfect for a picnic. If you’re getting tired of the pubs, grab a blanket, choose a location, and enjoy the air, views, and energy. 

My favorite spots are Riegrovy Sady in Vinohrady and StRomovka in Holešovice. 

Bring Your Pup My pup Riško and I at Zlute Lazne

Czechs may not be known as the warmest people, but there’s no arguing that they have a soft spot for pups. The majority of cafes, restaurants, and bars welcome dogs (and even provide water bowls and treats). 

Dogs are allowed on public transportation and inside many main attractions. Additionally, many parks have designated off-leash areas. If you’re looking for a trip for your furry friend, Prague is the perfect place.

👉 Read Next: Where to Stay in Český Krumlov

FAQs About Where to Stay in Prague What are the best areas to stay in Prague for first-timers?

The Old Town is the best area for first-timers. Its convenient location, public transportation, and medieval charm make it unmatched for a first-time experience. Although it is pricier than areas outside of the historic center, it still has an abundance of accommodations for a range of budgets.  

What are safe areas to stay in Prague?

Prague is an incredibly safe city and consistently ranks among the world’s safest cities for tourists. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams can occur in high traffic areas like Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, but the vast majority of areas in the Old Town, Lesser Town, and New Town are overwhelmingly safe for visitors, even late at night. 

What are the best parts of Prague to stay on a budget? 

The Old Town has plenty of budget-friendly hostels, but more local neighborhoods like Holešovice and Karlin provide the full combination of budget accommodation, cheap eats, and free and low-cost activities like beer gardens and parks. 

What are the best parts of Prague to stay with kids?

The New Town is the best area for families and larger groups. Accommodation is much more affordable and spacious than the Old Town, but the area is still within walking distance of the main attractions. It is also well connected by public transportation lines and close to the central train and bus station, making day trips from the city easy. 

What are the best parts of Prague to stay in for a long stay? 

Vinohrady is the best area for a long stay. It’s just far enough from the center to get away from the crowds and tourist traps, but still has plenty of public transportation as well as a large community of foreigners that makes day-to-day easier to navigate, especially for English speakers. The neighborhood has plenty of spacious apartment rentals that make long stays comfortable. 

How much time do I need to explore Prague? 

No trip will ever be long enough, but I recommend at least 3 full days in Prague to ensure you hit the must-sees and have time to enjoy a beer along the way. 

Is English spoken widely? 

Prague is a super English-friendly city, especially in the historical center and other neighborhoods close to the center. Even outside of these areas, you are almost always sure to find someone who speaks English. It’s always considerate to learn the basics of a country’s language when travelling, so while this should not deter you from making an effort to engage with locals in their own language, English speakers will not have a problem navigating the city. 

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I hope you enjoyed this glimpse at a few of Prague’s best neighborhoods. No matter where you end up, Prague has plenty to offer you. Once you’ve chosen your base, check out my list of 60+ things to do in Prague to start to fill your days!

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