Prague, a city of 1.3 million people, is spread across 10 sprawling districts that radiate from a historic core. Visitors will find that most attractions are conveniently located within a compact area along the scenic Vltava River. Consequently, the excellent public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city.
Cover Long Distances Fast on the Metro
The metro, or subway, is an affordable, efficient, and the fastest way to travel long distances across Prague. It conveniently connects the main train station (Hlavní nádraží) and bus station (Florenc), with an easy transfer to public buses that take you to and from Prague Airport. The metro operates daily from 5 am to midnight.
Tips for Taking the Metro: The A line (green) is particularly useful for visiting major sites. It connects key locations like Wenceslas Square, Old Town Square, and the historical Prague Castle. This makes it a great option for anyone looking to explore the city’s highlights quickly.
Make the Most of the Extensive Tram Network
Prague boasts an impressive tram network that extends throughout the city, making it ideal for both short and long-distance travel. During peak times, trams arrive every 4 to 8 minutes, while the normal service operates from around 5 am to midnight. Venturing beyond this timeframe? A limited number of night trams are available.
Tips for Taking the Tram: Tram 22 follows a scenic route that passes many of Prague’s top attractions. This tram is a must for those looking to capture stunning views of the city while making their way from one site to another.
Use Buses for Unexplored Areas
While Prague’s bus network primarily serves outlying districts, some lines are particularly relevant for travelers. For example, Bus 119 efficiently connects Prague Airport to the Nádraží Veleslavín metro station, and Bus 112 links the Nádraží Holešovice metro station to the Prague Zoo.
Explore Central Prague on Foot
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes! Much of central Prague is pedestrian-friendly, with areas like Staré Město (Old Town) and Malá Strana (Little Quarter) being largely closed to vehicle traffic. Walking provides an excellent opportunity to absorb the architectural beauty and ambiance of the city.
Rent a Bike for a Unique Experience
Cycling in Prague is enjoyable and gaining popularity, thanks to the establishment of a growing network of bike lanes. However, it’s essential to be cautious while navigating the congested streets filled with pedestrians and trams. Various companies offer bike rentals, and local favorites include pink Rekola bikes found at stands around the city. Start your ride with an app, and rates are competitive.
Catch a Ferry for Scenic Views
The public transit authority operates several commuter ferries that cross the Vltava River, providing both convenience and breathtaking views of the cityscape. Some ferries run year-round, while others are seasonal, operating mainly from April to October.
Tips for Taking the Ferry: A picturesque ferry runs year-round, connecting the eastern bank of the river at Výtoň to the Císařská louka stop in Smíchov, making it a delightful mode of transport.
Take the Funicular to Petřín Hill
The Petřín funicular railway is an entertaining way to reach the summit of Petřín Hill, offering stunning views of Prague. The funicular saves visitors from the long uphill trek and is fun for all ages. The lower station is conveniently located near the Újezd tram stop, providing easy access.
Analyze the Need for a Car
For most visitors, driving in Prague may not be necessary or practical. The older sections of the city are characterized by narrow, one-way streets, and traffic congestion can be a significant concern. Moreover, finding legal parking can be challenging, so public transport is preferable.
Utilize Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-share apps like Uber, Bolt, and Liftago are popular and relatively affordable options for taxis in Prague. Traditional taxi services, such as AAA Taxi, are also available. To avoid potential issues with dishonest drivers, it’s advisable to book rides through an app or over the phone.
Accessible Transportation in Prague
Prague’s public transit system has made considerable improvements in ensuring accessibility. While many metro stations have lifts, not all do, and accessibility may vary among trams and buses. For detailed information on barrier-free travel, consult local resources.
Transport Tickets and Passes
The Prague Public Transit Authority (DPP) operates an integrated transport network. For current information on timetables and fares, the DPP website is the most reliable source.
Single-ride tickets are available for short (30-minute) and long (90-minute) durations, along with one- and three-day passes. Children under 15 and seniors over 64 can travel for free. Tickets are valid for all forms of transportation, including metros, trams, buses, and ferries, allowing for easy transfers. For those holding a travel pass, rides on the Petřín funicular are included.
Don’t forget to validate your tickets in yellow stamping boxes before starting your journey. These can be found at escalators in metro stations and aboard trams and buses.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be purchased at self-service machines in metro stations or at select newspaper kiosks. Most machines accept both cash and credit/debit cards. Many trams are equipped with automated ticket machines for convenient purchases.
Tip for Buying Public Transport Tickets: It’s wise to buy tickets in advance, especially if you plan to use public transport frequently during your stay.
