Ever wondered how to explore a fairytale city like Prague without blowing your budget or getting lost? Here’s a secret: Prague’s public transport isn’t just a way to get from A to B—it’s part of the city’s magic. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a month, mastering the metro, trams, and buses will open up a completely different, truly local side of Prague.
And I promise, it’s way easier (and more fun) than it sounds.
Why I Fell in Love with Prague’s Trams and Metro
Before moving here, I was that classic tourist, shuffling around the Old Town, Google Maps glued to my hand, convinced only “tourist buses” could get me anywhere useful. Big mistake.
In Prague, trams are the lifeblood of the city—they’re clean, frequent, and actually take you to places locals love. The metro is even faster. Honestly, it’s the backbone of every successful city adventure.
I’ve tested every connection, every ticket, and even the ferry (yes, you can cross the river by public boat—more on that later). If I can do it, anyone can!
All-in-One Ticket: One Pass, Every Ride
Let’s clear up one thing first: One ticket covers almost everything—metro, tram, bus, and ferries. There are no complicated zones or peak/off-peak pricing. Just pick your time, and you’re set.
Quick Overview: Prague Public Transport Ticket Types
| Ticket Type | Price (CZK) | Price (EUR) | Validity | Included Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30-minute | 30 | 1.2 | 30 min | Metro, tram, bus, ferry |
| 90-minute | 40 | 1.6 | 90 min | Metro, tram, bus, ferry |
| 24-hour (1 day) | 120 | 4.9 | 24 hours | Metro, tram, bus, ferry, funicular |
| 72-hour (3 days) | 330 | 13.5 | 72 hours | Metro, tram, bus, ferry, funicular |
| Luggage ticket | 20 | 0.8 | Unlimited | For large suitcases on any line |
Arriving in Prague: The Best Way from the Airport
The first question most visitors ask: How do I get from the airport to the city center? Good news: it’s simple, fast, and cheap—if you know the trick!
How to Get from Prague Airport to the City Center: Options Compared
| Option | Travel Time | Price (CZK/EUR) | Comfort | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trolleybus 59 + Metro A | 30 min | 40 / 1.6 | ★★★★★ | Fastest & cheapest, runs often, aircon. |
| Bus 100 + Metro B | 35–40 min | 40 / 1.6 | ★★★★☆ | Good for west side (Anděl), fewer tourists. |
| Airport Express | 40 min | 100 / 4.1 | ★★★☆☆ | More expensive, comfy with heavy bags. |
| Uber/Taxi | 25–35 min | 600–900 / 25–37 | ★★★★☆ | Pricey—best with heavy luggage or at night. |
My local tip: Unless you’re traveling with three suitcases or arrive at 2am, public transport is best. Download the PID Lítačka app, buy your ticket, and you’re ready to go!
Metro, Trams, and Buses: How to Ride Like a Local
Prague Metro
Three simple lines (A, B, C), color-coded green, yellow, red. Clean, fast, easy transfers. You’ll use transfer stations (Můstek, Muzeum, Florenc) to switch lines, all signed in English and Czech.
Prague Trams
Want to see the real Prague? Trams are the way! They zigzag through neighborhoods, past castles and riverbanks, and deep into hipster districts locals love.
Prague’s Must-Ride Tram Lines (My Top Picks)
| Tram Line | Key Stops/Attractions | Frequency | Why Ride It? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | National Theatre, Malostranská, Prague Castle, Pohořelec | 6–8 min | The classic tourist line—iconic views, main sites |
| 9 | Národní třída, Anděl, Žižkov | 8–10 min | Perfect for local bars, hipster Prague, nightlife |
| 41 (Historic) | Central city loop (April–Nov, weekends) | 30–60 min | Vintage tram for photos & retro experience |
| Night Trams | All of Prague (lines 91–99) | 20–30 min | You’ll never get stranded—even after midnight! |
Buses & Ferries
Buses are best for reaching outer neighborhoods or if you’re staying near Prague Zoo or Troja Castle. And if you’re looking for something unusual, hop on a ferry (included in your ticket!) to cross the Vltava like a local.
How to Buy Tickets (and Not Get Fined!)
Buy your ticket before you board (or activate it in the app two minutes ahead). Here’s how:
- PID Lítačka app: Buy, activate, and plan routes all in one app (download here).
- Vending machines: All metro stations, many tram stops, accepts coins/cards.
- Contactless terminals: Inside every tram and bus (card only).
- Tobacco shops & newsstands: For those who love the old-school vibe.
Validation:
- App: Activate your ticket before boarding.
- Paper: Validate once in the yellow machine (not again after transfers!).
Bonus: Survival Table for Ticket Validity & Fines
| What You Need to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Ticket validation | Paper: validate once in the yellow machine. App: activate in advance! |
| Ticket inspectors | Fines 1,000 CZK if paid on spot. |
| Free rides | Under 15 & over 65 years with ID |
| Luggage ticket | 20 CZK for large suitcases |
Planning Your Journey: Best Apps & Tools
These make Prague travel (and ticket buying) ridiculously easy:
| App Name | What It Does | Platform | Personal Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| PID Lítačka | Route planning, buy/activate tickets | iOS, Android | ★★★★★ |
| Google Maps | General navigation, directions | iOS, Android | ★★★★☆ |
| Moovit/Citymapper | Timetables, alternate routes | iOS, Android | ★★★★☆ |
| Uber/Bolt | Ride-hailing (taxi alternative) | iOS, Android | ★★★★☆ |
Accessibility and Safety: What You Should Know
Prague’s public transport is very safe, even late at night. Pickpocketing does happen—especially on crowded trams—so keep your bag zipped and phone deep in your pocket.
Accessibility has improved dramatically: most metro stations and almost all trams/buses are wheelchair-friendly. Just check the PID Lítačka app or maps for specific station info.
When to Use Public Transport vs. Taxi/Uber
Confused if you should ride the metro, call an Uber, or walk? Here’s my honest cheat sheet:
| Situation | Public Transport | Taxi/Uber | My Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daytime, light luggage | YES | Only if in a big rush | Metro/tram is quicker & cheaper |
| Night (after midnight) | YES (night lines) | Yes | Trams/buses run late, taxi for outlying areas |
| Heavy luggage, 3+ people | Can be a hassle | YES | Taxi/Uber for comfort, AE bus is a backup |
| Looking for unique city views/experience | YES (tram 22/41) | Not needed | Trams are a must—way more fun! |
Insider Tips for the Best Prague Transport Experience
Book your hotel near a tram/metro stop for the easiest mornings. Some of my handpicked favorites:
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Don’t sleep on night trams—they’ll get you home safe, and the ride through a quiet city is its own adventure.
Ferries and funiculars are included in longer tickets—try them for a unique city view!
Need a quick escape? Buy a 3-day ticket and just ride—every Prague neighborhood has its own character.
Bonus: Key Metro Transfer Stations
| Metro Lines | Transfer Station | What’s Nearby | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| A (green) + B (yellow) | Můstek | Wenceslas Square, Old Town | Yes |
| B (yellow) + C (red) | Florenc | Bus terminal, Karlín, Main Bus Station | Yes |
| A (green) + C (red) | Muzeum | National Museum, city center | Yes |
FAQ: Prague Public Transport
Is it safe to ride at night?
Absolutely. Just watch your bag, especially in crowded trams.
Can I pay with card everywhere?
Yes! Most machines, all app purchases, and trams/buses have card terminals.
What if I get lost?
Don’t panic! Use the PID Lítačka app or Google Maps—everything is well-signed.
Are Ubers reliable?
Yes, and airport pick-ups are regulated now. But honestly, public transport is usually faster and much cheaper.
Final Thoughts
You really don’t need a car in Prague. Public transport is fast, safe, affordable, and actually fun to use. Start your adventure with a tram ride, get lost on purpose, and see what Prague reveals. With the right ticket (and maybe a bit of local curiosity), you’ll discover a side of the city most tourists miss.
Ready to book your trip, plan your route, or find the perfect Prague tour?
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- GetYourGuide – best Prague tours
Need more tips or want help with your Prague itinerary? Leave a comment or send me a DM—I answer every question!
