There’s something about Prague that’s impossible to capture in a stock photo or a glossy travel ad. This city is a wild mix of medieval spires, street art, craft beer, and nightlife that sometimes keeps you out until the trams start running again. And yet, you’ll find quiet corners and hidden gardens that feel like secret chapters in a storybook.
If you’re planning your first trip, or coming back to dig a little deeper, let me walk you through everything that matters – no boring lists, no tourist traps, just the stuff that actually makes your visit better.
When to Go to Prague? Season, Weather & Best Times
Every month has its own mood in Prague. Summer is the busiest, with festivals, outdoor concerts, and the riverbanks buzzing until late at night. Expect highs around 25°C (75°F), and the kind of light that makes even grumpy locals linger on beer gardens.
If you’re after smaller crowds and better prices, come in the spring or fall – April and October are honestly underrated. And if you love Christmas markets, Prague’s December is straight-up magical: fairy lights, hot wine, roasted ham, and freezing nights that’ll make you want to hug a mug of grog for hours.
Winter: Expect anything from +5°C down to -5°C (23°F), pack a proper jacket!
Biggest events: Czech Beer Festival in May, Signal Light Festival in October, epic Christmas markets all December.
How to Get to Prague (and Around the City Like a Local)
Flights
Václav Havel Airport Prague is well connected to the US, Canada, and pretty much all of Europe. Pro tip: Book flights via comparison platforms like Booking, Expedia, or Kiwi to hunt down cheap fares. I always check a few options because last-minute deals to Prague do pop up (especially outside summer).
From the airport, take the Airport Express bus or local bus 119 to reach the city’s Metro system. Uber and Bolt both work great and save the headache of negotiating with a taxi.
Trains & Buses
If you’re coming from Vienna, Budapest, or other Central European cities, the main station (Praha hlavní nádraží) makes it super easy – trains are comfy, and you’re dropped off right in the center.
Getting Around
Taxis/Uber/Bolt: Uber and Bolt are super reliable, way better than hailing a cab on the street.
Public transport: Prague’s trams, metro, and buses run from 5:00 a.m. to after midnight. Buy tickets at the station or via app – one ticket covers all forms, including the cute funicular up to Petřín hill.
Walking: Central Prague is totally walkable, but bring good shoes – the cobblestones are beautiful but brutal.
Bikes: The city isn’t Amsterdam, but you’ll find e-bikes and rentals (Freebike, Rekola) if you want to try cycling.
Money, Payments & How Much Things Really Cost in Prague
Official currency? Czech koruna (CZK). Some hotels and restaurants take euros, but you’ll almost always get a worse rate. Cards are widely accepted, ATMs are everywhere, and it’s totally normal to pay by card, even for coffee or street food. Tipping isn’t required, but 10% is always appreciated for good service.
- Typical costs: Lunch menus start at 150–250 CZK, a decent beer is 40–80 CZK, coffee is around 60–90 CZK, and nice hotel rooms range from $80–$200 per night in the center.
- Money-saving tip: Lunch deals are big here – lots of restaurants offer affordable set menus (called „denní menu“) that cost less than à la carte.
Accommodation: Best Places to Stay (and How to Find Deals)
Booking Sites
If you want to keep things simple and flexible, Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com all have huge selections – from boutique hotels to apartments and quirky hostels. I’ve personally found great last-minute rates, especially outside of the high season.
My favorite hotel picks in Prague (2025):
- BoHo Prague Hotel – Modern, ultra-comfy, right near Old Town. Fantastic breakfast.
- Aria Hotel Prague – Gorgeous rooftop views, music-themed rooms, pricey but unforgettable.
- Golden Well Hotel – Intimate, perfect for couples, steps from Prague Castle.
- NH Collection Prague Carlo IV – Grand historic style with modern comforts.
- Hilton Prague Old Town – If you want US-style luxury and a pool.
There are also amazing boutique options and apartments, especially if you want more space or a kitchen. Pro tip: The area around Karlín and Vinohrady is trendier (think hipster cafés, street art, and bakeries), while Old Town (Staré Město) puts you at the center of all the action.
- Cheapest options: Hostels can go as low as $20–$30 a night. For longer stays, try apartments via Booking, or even Airbnb for unique local experiences.
Booking hacks
- Compare prices across different platforms.
- Look for free cancellation and „pay at property“ deals.
- Sometimes emailing the hotel directly gets you a small discount or a free upgrade – worth a try!
Flight Tickets: How to Score a Cheap Flight to Prague
If you want the best fares, start looking 2–3 months ahead. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are usually cheaper. Use flight comparison sites like Kiwi, Momondo, and Expedia – all of them are easy to use and can alert you when prices drop.
Personal tip: If you have a VPN, use it to check fares from different countries – sometimes you’ll get different prices depending on your virtual location. It’s a sneaky but totally legal hack that’s saved me real money, especially on international routes.
Digital Safety in Prague: Why I Always Use a VPN
Free public Wi-Fi is everywhere in Prague – cafés, hotels, train stations, even some parks. But let’s be honest, public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s dream. I never connect without turning on a VPN (I usually go with ExpressVPN or NordVPN, but Surfshark is great too). Not only does it protect your data (think: emails, banking, personal info), but it also lets you access your favorite streaming platforms from home.
Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, DANZ, BBC iPlayer etc. – with a VPN, you won’t get that annoying „not available in your region“ message. Plus, if you’re watching a Champions League game or a live event on your home country’s streaming service, a VPN is a lifesaver.
Quick tips:
- Don’t trust any „free Wi-Fi“ that doesn’t require a password.
- Use a VPN anytime you log in to sensitive sites.
- Check that your hotel’s Wi-Fi has proper encryption (WPA2 at least).
| My 5 Best VPN for Prague | Offer + Discount | URL |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 77% off + 3 months free | Try NordVPN |
| ExpressVPN | 61% off + 6 months free | Try ExpressVPN |
| SurfShark | 87% off + 2 months free | Try SurfShark |
| CyberGhost | 83% off + 2 months free | Try CyberGhost |
| PIA VPN | 82% off + 2 months free | Try PIA VPN |
Explore fun in Prague
Quick Comparison Table: Essential Prague Travel Info (2025)
| Category | What to Expect / Average Price | My Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Airport to City | 40–60 min, 1.50–2.00 EUR | Use Bus 119 + Metro, or Bolt for groups |
| Public Transport | 1 ride: ~1.50 EUR (40 CZK) | 3-day pass saves money |
| Hotel (center) | 80–200 EUR/night (double) | Book early for best rates |
| Beer (pub) | 1.50–3.00 EUR (40–80 CZK) | Try local microbreweries |
| Coffee | 2.50–4.00 EUR (60–100 CZK) | EMA Espresso, Můj Šálek Kávy |
| Lunch menu | 6–10 EUR (150–250 CZK) | Look for “Denní menu” |
| SIM/eSIM | 10–20 EUR (5–15 GB) | Saily, Airalo, Vodafone |
| Wi-Fi | Free in most cafés & hotels | Use VPN for security |
| Entry to Top Sights | 10–20 EUR | Prague Card if you plan multiple visits |
| Tipping | Not obligatory, 10% for good service | Round up the bill is fine |
Why use this table?
It’s a cheat sheet for everything you’ll actually spend money on in Prague, plus my honest hacks. For anyone landing for the first time, this makes budgeting and planning way easier.
What to Actually Do in Prague? My Real Tips for 2025
The worst thing you can do in Prague is treat it like a checklist city. Sure, there are “must-see” spots, but the real charm is in the wandering, the coffee breaks, the surprises. Here’s my honest guide on how to spend your time here (and what to skip if you hate crowds).
The Essential Sights—But With a Twist
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
You can’t come to Prague and not walk the Charles Bridge. It’s epic at sunrise—almost empty except for the occasional photographer, mist rolling off the river, and statues silhouetted against the sky. Pro tip: Don’t even bother during midday unless you love being packed in with a thousand other tourists. Early morning or late evening is magical.
Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral
The largest castle complex in the world. It’s not just a single building but a city within the city—palaces, gardens, tiny medieval streets, and a Gothic cathedral that’s an absolute showstopper inside and out. The views from here stretch across the rooftops and the river. Go for the history, stay for the Instagram shots.
- Hack: Enter the castle complex from the back side (via the Old Castle Stairs) for fewer crowds and a much better vibe.
- Don’t miss: The Golden Lane (tiny, colorful old houses) and the guards changing ceremony.
Old Town Square & The Astronomical Clock
Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, everyone is holding up a phone. But standing in the middle of Old Town Square when the clock strikes on the hour, you can’t help but feel the centuries. Wander off into the side streets immediately after—you’ll find quirky shops, hidden bars, and way better food than on the main drag.
Beyond the Usual: Hidden Gems and Cool Neighborhoods
Letná Park & Beer Gardens
If you want that classic view over Prague’s Old Town, this is it. Grab a local beer at the Letná Beer Garden, watch the sun go down, and you’ll start to get why locals love living here. Bonus: It’s a favorite hangout for students and digital nomads, and the vibe is ultra-chill.
Karlín & Vinohrady
If Old Town is fairy-tale Prague, these neighborhoods are where the cool kids (and expats) hang out. Think: street art, specialty coffee, bakeries, farmers’ markets, indie bookstores, and more locals than tourists. Karlín especially is a foodie hotspot—try Eska for brunch or Můj Šálek Kávy for a seriously good coffee.
Vyšehrad
This historic fortress flies under most tourists’ radar, but it’s worth a visit for the peaceful parks, ancient church, legendary cemetery, and panoramic river views. If you like a little legend and mystery, Vyšehrad is full of it.
Prague for Foodies: What and Where to Eat
Czech cuisine is more than just dumplings and pork (though, let’s be real, those are awesome too). Prague’s food scene has exploded in recent years, and you can eat like a king on any budget.
- Traditional: Try svíčková (marinated beef in creamy sauce), roast duck with cabbage, or classic goulash. Lokál is a chain that serves it all, but honestly, even small pubs do these well.
- Modern Czech: Field Restaurant (Michelin-starred), Eska, or Café Savoy—think local ingredients, inventive presentation.
- Bakeries and Cafés: Prague is now a city of pastries, sourdough, and flat whites. Bakeshop, Artic Bakehouse, or EMA Espresso Bar—top picks.
- Veggie/Vegan: Prague is surprisingly friendly to plant-based eaters. Try Moment, Maitrea, or Vegan’s Prague.
My Honest Advice on Eating Out
- Lunch menus (denní menu) are a lifesaver for budget travelers. Served from 11:00–15:00, they’re how locals eat well without breaking the bank.
- Don’t be afraid to walk a bit away from the center—prices drop and quality often goes up.
- Tipping: 10% is polite, but no need to overthink it.
Beer in Prague: More Than Just Pilsner
Czech beer is famous for a reason—the original Pilsner was born here, and Czechs drink more beer per capita than anyone else on Earth. But it’s not just about quantity; Prague’s beer culture is genuinely world-class.
- Best Classic Pubs: U Hrocha (for unfiltered Pilsner), U Fleků (oldest brewery in town—try the dark lager), and U Medvídků (historical, atmospheric).
- Craft Beer Bars: Dva Kohouti (great for IPAs and sours), BeerGeek, Vinohradský Pivovar (local microbrewery).
- Beer Gardens: Letná, Riegrovy Sady, and Stromovka Park—nothing beats a cold one with a sunset view.
My Beer Survival Guide
- Most places serve half-liter pours (“pivo” is beer in Czech), and you can order “malé pivo” if you want a small one.
- You’ll often get a coaster on your glass, and the server will mark each beer with a pen as you go—old school but awesome.
- If the place feels too touristy, just keep walking—there’s always a better pub a block away.
Nightlife: From Jazz Cellars to Rooftop Bars
Prague’s nightlife is wild, but also diverse. You can go from a cozy wine bar to an underground techno club or catch live jazz in a candle-lit cellar.
- Best live music: JazzDock (right on the river), Reduta (legendary jazz), Cross Club (steampunk, techno, events), Roxy (big-name DJs and indie bands).
- Chill bars: Hemingway Bar (creative cocktails), Bukowski’s (laid-back, local crowd), Vzorkovna (the “Dog Bar”—you’ll see why).
- Rooftops: T-Anker, Glass Bar, or the terrace at Lucerna Palace for the best cityscape photos.
Safety & Getting Home
Prague is generally very safe, even at night. Uber/Bolt are the best way to get home after dark. Pickpockets are rare but do exist in crowds—watch your bag in the busiest tourist zones.
Practical Hacks: Making the Most of Your Stay
- Public Transport: Grab a 3-day ticket if you’re staying a while—it works on all trams, buses, and metro. Download the PID Lítačka app for real-time schedules.
- ATMs: Always use official bank ATMs (avoid Euronet/yellow machines—they charge extra).
- Language: English is widely spoken in tourist spots, but learning a few words of Czech (“Dobrý den” for hello, “Děkuji” for thank you) will earn you smiles.
- Sim Cards & eSIMs: Grab a local SIM or use an eSIM for cheap data—Vodafone and T-Mobile shops are everywhere.
Prague: Day Trips, Events, Digital Life & More (Real-World Guide)
So you’ve walked the cobblestone streets, caught sunset at a beer garden, and maybe lost track of time in a jazz cellar. But Prague isn’t just about what’s within the city limits. Some of the best experiences are just a train ride away—and trust me, the Czech countryside is one of Europe’s most underrated secrets.
Best Day Trips From Prague (That Are Actually Worth It)
Český Krumlov
If you want a town that feels like a movie set, hop on a direct bus or train to Český Krumlov. Twisty medieval streets, a huge castle above the river, and riverside cafés that are made for lazy afternoons. It’s the most popular day trip for a reason, but still manages to feel authentic, especially early in the morning or after the day-trippers head home.
Kutná Hora
History buffs, this is your jam. Kutná Hora’s bone church (Kostnice) is decorated with actual human bones (yup, you read that right), and the town’s medieval center is UNESCO-listed. Trains run every hour—no need to book ahead.
Karlštejn Castle
An easy half-day adventure: Karlštejn is one of the Czech Republic’s most iconic castles, perched above forests and rivers. The hike up is half the fun, especially in spring or fall. Grab a picnic and enjoy the views!
Terezín Memorial
For a powerful and sobering experience, visit Terezín, the WWII-era concentration camp and memorial. It’s not “fun,” but it’s important history and very well presented. Buses go direct from Prague’s Florenc station.
Local tip: Trains and buses in the Czech Republic are clean, cheap, and generally run on time. Buy tickets online or at the station (use IDOS.cz or the official České dráhy app).
Seasonal Events & Why Timing Your Visit Matters
Prague packs its calendar with events, festivals, and random happenings that can make your visit unforgettable—or even reshape your trip if you’re not prepared.
- May: Czech Beer Festival (giant tent city, endless beer and local food)
- June: Prague Proms, United Islands of Prague (outdoor music, totally free)
- September: Dvořák’s Prague Festival (world-class classical music)
- October: Signal Light Festival (the whole city turns into a neon playground)
- December: Christmas markets, old-fashioned carols, ice skating in the center
Even off-season, there’s always something going on. Just check the city events calendar, and you’ll stumble across everything from food fairs to vintage car parades.
Digital Nomad Life: Remote Work, Wi-Fi & Streaming in Prague
More and more people are coming to Prague with a laptop and a suitcase, not just a camera. If you’re planning to work remotely—or just need solid internet for Netflix after a long day—here’s what you need to know:
Wi-Fi & Co-Working
- Wi-Fi is everywhere: cafés, restaurants, libraries, trains, parks… you name it.
- Co-working spaces are booming: Check out Impact Hub, Locus Workspace, Opero, or the remote-work-friendly “Můj Šálek Kávy” in Karlín.
- Most hotels and Airbnbs have fast fiber, but double-check the reviews if you plan on working from your room.
VPNs & Digital Safety
If you care about your privacy (and you should), always use a VPN on public Wi-Fi. Prague is safe, but public networks are public networks. Bonus: with a VPN, you’ll unlock your favorite content from home (streaming, sports, etc.) no matter where you’re logging in from.
- My picks: ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN. All easy to set up and reliable.
- Streaming hack: Want to watch US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu from Prague? Log in with your VPN set to your home country—it just works.
Sim Cards & eSIMs
- SIM cards are cheap—Vodafone, O2, and T-Mobile all offer solid prepaid data.
- If your phone supports it, eSIMs are even easier. I usually set up a local eSIM before arrival (check out Saily, Airalo, or Nomad).
Final Tips for a Perfect Prague Trip
- Pack good walking shoes (cobblestones are brutal).
- Carry cash for small shops—but cards are accepted nearly everywhere.
- Don’t rush—the best moments are unplanned.
- Try the local food, local beer, and don’t be afraid to get off the tourist trail.
- Say “Děkuji” (thank you)—it goes a long way.
Ready for Prague?
Prague is the kind of city that grabs you when you least expect it—maybe in a hidden garden, a smoky jazz bar, or while watching the sunrise from a centuries-old bridge. There’s something for every traveler: history, food, art, nightlife, or just the simple joy of wandering beautiful streets with nowhere particular to go.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Prague
Is Prague expensive?
For a European capital, Prague is very budget-friendly. Public transport, beer, and even nice restaurants cost less than in Western Europe. Hotels are more affordable off-season, and even attractions rarely break the bank.
Is Prague safe?
Absolutely. It’s one of Europe’s safest big cities. Watch out for the occasional pickpocket in crowded tourist zones, but otherwise just use common sense and you’ll be fine—even late at night.
Do I need to speak Czech?
No, but learning a few words makes things easier and locals appreciate the effort. Most young people and all tourism staff speak English.
What’s the best way to get from the airport to the city?
Take the Airport Express bus, local bus 119 (connects to the Metro), or order an Uber/Bolt. Easy, cheap, and quick.
Should I book tours or explore on my own?
Honestly, Prague is best enjoyed by wandering. Walking tours are a fun intro (especially for Prague’s legendary history or food), but don’t feel pressured—just get lost in the Old Town, and you’ll discover your own favorites.
