Accommodation options with prices
The main currency in Prague is the Czech krona (1 CZK=2.87 rubles): The Czech Republic is not part of the euro zone. In tourist places (stores, cafes) euros are accepted for payment, but the exchange rate is unfavorable.
Officially, Prague consists of 22 districts. You can hardly get confused: Prague 1, Prague 2 and so on up to Prague 22. The first through eighth districts are ideal for living. In this part of the city the main attractions, many accommodation options, easy access to public transportation.
Historically, the districts of Prague have other names. For example, Malá Strana (Malá Strana), Staré Město (Staré Město) and Hradčany (Hradčany) are located in Prague 1. Both variants (tourist and official) are listed on the accommodation booking portals.
Prague’s central districts have pros and cons. The main plus is that the main sights, cafes, restaurants and beer halls are literally on your doorstep. Minuses — expensive, no parking lots and quite noisy.
Accommodation options with prices per week:
- 3* hotels — from CZK 15,000;
- hostels — from CZK 9,500;
- apartments — from CZK 16,000.
You can save money on accommodation in Prague if you stay in the districts adjacent to the center. Public transportation in the city is well developed and fares are low. You can get to the center in 15 minutes. There are subways, buses, round-the-clock streetcars. It is not a problem to return to your neighborhood at any time of the day.
The best areas to live in the center of Prague
Prague’s central districts are ideal for tourists. Here you will find the main sights, viewpoints and the most photogenic places. Everything interesting is within walking distance and public transportation is not required. The special atmosphere of the medieval city is a bonus.
Hradčany (Hradčany)
This area is the oldest and the most popular with tourists. It is the starting point for sightseeing tours. It unites two hills: Prague Castle and Petřín. Even despite the crowds of tourists, it will be quieter here than in Stare Mesto.
In Hradcany you can stay at the castle on the hill, then other sights will be at your feet. Some hotels and apartments are located in ancient chapels, mansions with elegant decor and unrivaled views from the window. Lodging in the Hradcany neighborhood is highly rated (8.4—9.5) on Booking for atmosphere and quietness, and the buildings are usually restored and comfortable.
Advantages of Hradcany:
- the very center;
- Cafe and entertainment prices are lower;
- relatively quiet.
Hradcany can be uncomfortable for those who have a hard time constantly going up and down the hill.
Malá Strana (Malá Strana)
The historic district at the foot of Prague Castle is perhaps ideal for those who want to stay in the center. The first houses appeared here in the 8th century, and then the settlement grew after the foundation of Prague Castle.
The streets of Mala Strana are crowded during the day, but in the evening it is quiet and cozy. The historic Nerudova Street is particularly atmospheric. It runs from St. Nicholas Church to Prague Castle. You can see coats of arms above the door of every house on this street: this is how buildings were labeled when there was no numbering (before 1770).
Benefits of Mala Country:
- central part of the historic district;
- near Prague Castle;
- it’s not as busy at night as Stare Mesto.
Almost all streets in Mala Strana are located on slopes. Those with mobility problems should choose streets closer to the river — they are located in the flat part of the district.
Staré Město (Staré Město)
The most beautiful and touristy district of Prague. There is medieval architecture, special atmosphere and entertainment everywhere. It is designed for those who love history, culture, nightlife, a large concentration of cafes, beer halls and clubs.
Stare Mesto is an excellent choice if you have only 2—3 days to explore Prague. Everything interesting is within walking distance: the Charlemagne Bridge is 10—15 minutes away, Prague Castle is 20 minutes away. All three metro lines are close by.
Stare Mesto Benefits:
- central neighborhood;
- flat terrain;
- a lot of fun.
Before staying in Stare Mesto, it is important to know that it is rarely quiet. The streets are noisy and full of tourists as early as 8am.
Nové Město (Nové Město)
New Town is outside the bustling life of Prague, it is a prestigious neighborhood. Nearby are the main attractions of the Old Town and its own cultural and historical monuments, such as the Dancing House, the National Theater and Wenceslas Square.
Nové Město is connected to the center by public transport. Nearby is the promenade that leads to the old neighborhoods (it takes about 20—25 minutes to walk to Charles Bridge). There are many cafes and bars in this part of town, and menu prices are lower. You can rent a room in one of the most photogenic places — the Dancing House.
Advantages of Nove Mesto:
- the center, but not far from the train station;
- transportation;
- lots of bars and restaurants.
The Nove Mesto neighborhood is quite expensive. It is not far from Prague railway station, where trains from all over Europe and buses from the airport come.
The best areas to live in Prague outside the historic center
In 15—20 minutes by public transport you can reach the historical center from the neighboring districts. Accommodation in such places gives you the opportunity to save money and get to know authentic Prague.
Grapes (Vinohrady)
Vinohrady is located between two metro stations: Náměstí Míru and Jiřího z Poděbrad (Line A) and a short walk from Wenceslas Square. It is the closest residential area to the Old Town. The center can be reached on foot and can be reached by metro or streetcar.
Vinohrady is chosen by those who do not like noise but want to be close to the tourist center. There are cafes, restaurants and beer halls in this part. Nearby is the second largest park in Prague — Havlíčkovy sady.
Benefits of Winograds:
- nice and quiet;
- close to the center;
- cheaper than Old Town;
- subways and streetcars.
Some people find this neighborhood too quiet, but it’s peaceful, fresh and clean all around.
Žižkov (Žižkov)
This neighborhood starts where Vinohrady ends. It is quiet and not crowded. There are two metro stations nearby: Flora and Jiřího z Poděbrad. It takes only 15 minutes by metro to the center of Prague, faster by streetcar. If you walk along the streetcar tracks towards the center, you can reach the Powder Tower in 25 minutes.
Žižkov is a great place for economical tourists: inexpensive hotels and apartments, transportation accessibility, cafes and pubs with affordable prices.
Here is the Žižkov Tower, a structure that the communists used to block the signal from the West. Now it is an observation deck, restaurant and hotel.
Advantages of Žižkov:
- nice and quiet;
- near streetcars and the subway;
- attractions;
- lots of cafes and entertainment.
According to reviews, the streets in the Žižkov neighborhood are too narrow and not designed for parking.
Karlín
In the early 2000s, the neighborhood suffered flood damage, but it was quickly rebuilt. Old buildings were renovated and new ones were built nearby. This combination gave the neighborhood a special atmosphere.
Karlin is even quieter than Vinohrady and Žižkov. Near the international bus terminal and Křižíkova metro station. It is 3—4 stops to the Old Town.
Carlin’s advantages:
- near the bus station;
- access to transportation;
- cheaper than downtown;
- the atmosphere of modern Prague.
Where to stay in Prague?
- For tourists, districts 1—8 are most suitable: close enough to the main attractions, good tourist infrastructure, 24-hour public transportation.
- If you have 1—3 days to explore Prague, it is better to stay in a hotel in the city center. The Malostransk side is quieter, while the Old Town side is bustling with life.
- Outside the historical center is cozier and quieter. Choose Vinohrady, Žižkov, Vyšehrad, Karlin.
- You can save a lot of money if you stay in an apartment or condo.
