Best Areas to Stay in Prague: Complete Neighborhood Guide

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and its largest city, often regarded as one of the most beautiful metropolises globally. Among Europe’s largest cities, Prague has historically served as the Bohemian Capital. The city is characterized by exceptional medieval architecture, including striking church domes, enchanting bridges, and breathtaking cathedrals, which grace the banks of the sparkling, swan-filled Vltava River.

As home to the world’s largest castle (as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records), Prague also holds the distinction of being the first European city to publish a book about the legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Interestingly, Prague’s Jewish Quarter remained intact during World War II, as it is believed that Hitler intended to retire there and convert the area into a museum dedicated to “the extirpated race.”

When contemplating a visit to the city, it is beneficial to recognize that Prague is divided into 10 numbered districts, from Prague 1 to Prague 10. With this in mind, let us delve into some of the most popular neighborhoods in the city to assist in determining your accommodation during your stay in Prague.

Old Town (Prague 1)

The geographical nucleus of Prague, and arguably its most significant neighborhood, the Old Town area attracts the highest volume of visitors. At its historic heart lies the Old Town Square, a former 10th-century marketplace that now hosts the city’s most pivotal political, religious, and entertainment events. When visiting the Square, you will observe some of the most important and remarkably preserved architecture in Prague, including the Old Town City Hall and the Church of Our Lady before Tyn. However, the most notable landmark in this neighborhood and the entire city is the astronomical clock, which was added to the Old Town City Hall in 1410 and has attracted visitors ever since. While here, a climb up the tower is essential to enjoy a captivating view of the city, which illustrates why Prague is dubbed the ‘city of 1000 spires.’

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights:
Kinsky Palace, The House at the Black Madonna, Karolinum, Estates Theatre, The Stone Bell House, Klementinum, and Rudolfinum Gallery

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Cerny Slon – Located within a short walking distance from the Orloj Astronomical Clock, Hotel Cerny Slon offers beautifully designed guest rooms set in a historical building from 1359. The hotel features a range of Czech and international delicacies at the on-site restaurant, and guests can enjoy a glass of wine at the bar. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hotel U Prince – Found in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel U Prince offers well-appointed guest rooms with modern amenities, a 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site bar and restaurant. This pet-friendly establishment features a showcase of refurbished period-style decor and authentic Meissen porcelain. Prague Castle is within walking distance. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• Grand Hotel Praha – Just a 10-minute walk from the beach, this building, renovated from the 12th century, welcomes guests with a glass of wine. Luxurious rooms feature antique furnishings along with modern amenities, such as satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Guests enjoy stunning views of the Golden City from the hotel’s roof terrace. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Lesser Town (Prague 1)

Known as ‘the Baroque Pearl of Prague,’ Lesser Town is arguably the most romantic and enchanting neighborhood in the city. Most buildings in this area were rebuilt following a devastating fire in the 16th century. Locally referred to as Mala Strana, the neighborhood is home to several significant landmarks. The Charles Bridge, constructed in 1357, was commissioned to unite the two banks of the Vltava River. Legend has it that King Charles IV, an enthusiast for numerology and astrology, mandated the construction of the bridge to commence precisely at 5:31 am on July 9th, 1357. A carving of 135797531 can be found on the Old Town Bridge Tower. Another prominent site is the John Lennon Wall: a small, graffiti-covered wall celebrating John Lennon. Additionally, the Lesser Town Square, highlighted by the magnificent St. Nicholas Church, which boasts a 70-meter dome and a fresco of the Holy Trinity, has served as the focal point for tourist activities for over ten centuries, showcasing the best architecture and numerous tourist attractions in the area.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights:
Waldstein Palace, Museum Kampa, Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague, and Hradčanské náměstí.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Three Storks – Featuring an elegant lobby bar and a pub specializing in gourmet Czech dishes and fine wines, this luxury designer property offers ultra-modern guest rooms with stylish furnishings, satellite TV with DVD players, and ensuite bathrooms equipped with complimentary toiletries. Some rooms offer spectacular views of the Prague Castle. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Luxury Family Hotel Royal Palace – Set inside a Neo-Renaissance building, this luxurious hotel includes a spa with free sauna access, a fitness center, and a wonderful restaurant and bar. All accommodations feature historic-style furnishings and modern amenities, including satellite TV, complimentary tea and coffee, and ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Hotel Hoffmeister & Spa – Situated just below Prague Castle, this opulent 5-star boutique hotel offers a Michelin-starred restaurant, a relaxing spa with a stone bath, a range of massage and beauty treatment options, plus an on-site restaurant and bar. Charles Bridge is a mere 10-minute walk from the hotel. A hearty complimentary breakfast is available daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Vinohrady (Prague 2)

Covering areas of Prague 2, 3, and 10, Vinohrady is primarily a residential district that derived its name from the 14th-century vineyards that once flourished here. Previously known as the Royal Vineyards, this area is now home to numerous expatriates and affluent residents. The magnificent Vinohrady Theatre, which opened its doors to the public in 1907, exemplifies Art Nouveau architecture and has hosted countless significant historical and contemporary performances. St. Ludmilla, another notable structure in the neighborhood, is a captivating Neo-Gothic church built in the late 1800s, renowned for its impressive exterior and breathtaking interiors. If visiting during December, the Namesti Miru Christmas Market is an excellent destination for acquiring souvenirs and experiencing holiday festivities, featuring primarily handcrafted products, including wooden toys, handmade bath products, and scarves.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Saloun’s Villa, Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord, Rieger’s Park, Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, and Havlíčkova – Grébovka Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Alton – Located within a five-minute walking distance of Wenceslas Square, Alton offers spacious, well-appointed guest rooms with modern amenities, such as satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms equipped with complimentary toiletries. Guests can commence their day with a fulfilling complimentary buffet breakfast before participating in one of the many guided tours offered by the hotel. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Clarion Hotel Prague City – Set within a historic building in the city center, Clarion Hotel Prague City features beautifully designed guest rooms with top-notch facilities located within a five-minute walking distance from Wenceslas Square. This pet-friendly hotel also offers in-room Thai massages upon request. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Deminka Palace – Positioned within a few hundred meters from I.P. Pavlova Metro Station, Deminka Palace showcases individually decorated rooms boasting Italian decor and modern amenities, such as soundproofing, satellite TV, tea/coffee maker, and kitchen area (in selected rooms). Guests can enjoy stunning views of the city from the terrace. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Vysehrad (Prague 2)

Approaching Vysehrad, one immediately identifies the iconic twin Gothic spires of The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, reputed as the birthplace of Prague. Serving as the seat of the first Bohemian king, Vysehrad maintained its importance in the city’s royal circle even after the monarchy relocated to Prague Castle. King Charles IV even mandated that every Bohemian King visit Vysehrad the day prior to their coronation. Situated atop a cliff overlooking the mystical Vltava River, this neighborhood is tranquil yet otherworldly. Vysehrad Fortress, established in the latter half of the 10th century, houses the Roman rotunda of St. Martin, constructed in the 11th century, marking it as the oldest surviving structure in Prague. With its ancient architecture and meticulously maintained green areas, this locale is ideal for a leisurely Sunday picnic brunch.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Kovarovic Villa, Vyšehrad National Cultural Monument, and Cihelná brána.

Hotel Recommendations:

• U Semika – This charming family-run hotel is located directly beneath Vyšehrad Castle and offers well-appointed guest rooms equipped with amenities such as satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Guests benefit from a 20% discount on food and beverages at the on-site restaurant, which specializes in Czech and international cuisine. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• King Charles Boutique Residence – Situated at the base of Vysehrad Castle Hill, this residence provides well-decorated rooms featuring antique furnishings and marble bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the establishment, and a complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Vyšehrad Castle Suite – Located within a 10-minute walk from Prague Congress Center, Vysehrad Castle Suites offers spacious, luxury guest rooms within a historic building situated below Vysehrad Castle. The suites and apartment units are equipped with a kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Ideal for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to six people.

Žižkov (Prague 3)

Žižkov is a popular residential neighborhood in the heart of Prague, renowned for its vibrant nightlife culture. Replete with tourist attractions, delightful restaurants, and energetic bars, this area was formerly a separate city and a historic working-class district often stigmatized by the surrounding community. Now affectionately referred to as the “free republic of Žižkov,” this neighborhood has transformed into one of Prague’s trendiest up-and-coming areas. The Žižkov Television Tower, built between 1985 and 1992, stands at 216 meters, making it the tallest structure in the city. While initially resented by locals for its disruption of a section of the Old Jewish Cemetery, the tower gained fame in 2000 when Czech artist David Cerny installed a striking art piece featuring ten bronze babies with air-conditioning vents for faces ascending the tower.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: National Memorial on Vitkov Hill, Jiříd z Poděbrad Square, The Zizkov Television Tower, and Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Three Crowns Hotel – Nestled in an Art Nouveau-style building, this hotel features spacious, well-decorated guest rooms outfitted with modern conveniences including flat-screen TV with satellite channels, telephone, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests traveling by car can utilize the underground parking facility. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Congress & Wellness Hotel Olsanka – Boasting a substantial sports center inclusive of a pool, badminton courts, tennis courts, a well-equipped fitness center, and a hair studio, this hotel offers contemporary accommodation in the tranquil area of Žižkov. This pet-friendly property also offers aqua aerobics lessons, in addition to a spa and wellness center. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hotel Columbo – Featuring elegant wooden furnishings, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, and private bathrooms equipped with bathtubs or showers, selected rooms offer specialized facilities for guests with disabilities. Guests are free to enjoy a game of chess or cards on-site. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Smíchov (Prague 5)

Renowned for its breweries, industrial architecture, and diverse shopping and entertainment venues, Smíchov is located along the west bank of the Vltava River. The National Museum’s Musaion Ethnographic Exhibition, nestled within the lush Kinsky Garden, is dedicated to showcasing the country’s ancient regional culture, focused particularly on village farming, housing, and folk crafts. Providing insight into the vibrant folk art culture of the Czech Republic, this space also includes a library and a reading room with outdoor seating available during the summer months. Another distinguished structure in the area is the Angel building, a modern architectural masterpiece designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, which features a striking etched angel inspired by Wings of Desire, directed by Wim Wenders.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Musaion Ethnographic Exhibition, Kinský Gardens, Staropramen Brewery, and MeetFactory.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel General – Situated mere minutes from the beach, Hotel General is an exclusive 5-star property housed in a historical building from 1890. Positioned alongside the sparkling riverside, the hotel welcomes its guests with a complimentary drink upon arrival and features elegantly designed, lavish guest rooms equipped with modern amenities. The on-site bar offers a fine selection of wines as well as authentic Czech beer. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Wellness & SPA boutique Hotel pod lipkami Prague – Offering a world-class spa and wellness center, a 24-hour front desk, manicured garden areas, and complimentary on-site parking, this exceptional hotel is housed within a historical building dating back to 1924. Guest rooms feature state-of-the-art amenities such as satellite TV with pay-per-view channels, laptop safes, tea/coffee makers, and private bathrooms. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Akcent hotel – Located in a 1930s office building, Akcent Hotel offers stylish accommodations with functionally designed interiors located adjacent to the Anděl metro station, providing stunning views of the city. The hotel includes an on-site restaurant, bar, and 24-hour front desk, and is situated conveniently near various shopping and entertainment venues. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Holešovice & Letná (Prague 7)

This former industrial district, now recognized as the artistic hub of Prague, is located in the northern part of the city. Situating alongside the Vltava River, the neighborhood encompasses numerous notable attractions, cafés, restaurants, outdoor markets, nightlife venues, and the largest green space in Prague, Stromovka Park. Presenting an alternative perspective of the beautiful city of Prague, the area includes various designer stores and upscale boutiques. Nádraží Holešovice is the city’s second-largest train station. Veletržní Palace, which is part of Prague’s National Gallery, was formerly utilized for trade fairs and housed several international establishments until a devastating fire in 1974, after which a restoration in 1995 transformed it into a center for Modern and Contemporary art, displaying works by Rodin, Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Industrial Palace, Lapidary of the National Museum, Dox Center for Contemporary Art.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Love to Live Apartments – Located a couple of kilometers from the Old Town and the iconic Charles Bridge, Love to Live Apartments offers well-furnished units equipped with soundproofing, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, tea/coffee makers, and fully-equipped kitchenettes. Most rooms include a balcony with views of the city. Ideal for couples, families, and larger groups up to 14 people.
• Luxury Apartment Letna – Featuring free Wi-Fi throughout, an on-site bar and restaurant, and private parking, this property provides excellently designed apartments within close proximity to multiple key attractions in Prague. This pet-friendly hotel also boasts a playground. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Residence Hermanova – Each apartment unit at Residence Hermanova is furnished with satellite TV, kitchens, washing machines, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms stocked with complimentary toiletries. Additionally, rooms at the property afford captivating views of the enchanting city. Ideal for all types of travelers.

Karlín (Prague 8)

Previously an independent town until 1922, Karlín allows visitors to experience the authentic local lifestyle of Prague. The district has transformed dramatically in the last decade, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere replete with excellent dining and drinking establishments. This district is the only one in Prague defined by a grid layout, positioned between the Vltava River and Vitkov Hill. Art aficionados will appreciate Karlín Studios, a venue within a converted factory hall, hosting 17 individual studios exhibiting collections and artworks by local and international contemporary artists. The Karlín Farmers’ Market, operational every Saturday morning year-round except during winter, is one of Prague’s oldest and most popular farmers’ markets.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: National Monument on Vítkov, St Cyril and Methodius Church, The Army Museum Žižkov, Karlín Musical Theatre, Museum of Communism, and Jerusalem Synagogue.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Adeba Hotel – Featuring a rejuvenating spa and wellness center complete with a sauna and hot tub, complimentary Wi-Fi, and on-site parking, Adeba Hotel is just a five-minute walk from Florenc Metro Station. The establishment offers well-equipped guest rooms featuring amenities such as satellite TV, refrigerators, and private bathrooms. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to six members.
• Jurys Inn Prague – Located directly across from the Florenc Metro Station, Jurys Inn Prague features an extensive range of stylish guest rooms, a fully-equipped fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and bike rental services. Guests may dine at the on-site restaurant and recharge at the all-day coffee bar. The 24-hour front desk offers assistance with airport shuttle bookings. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hilton Prague Hotel – A short distance from several notable attractions, including the Palladium shopping mall, Hilton Prague Hotel offers bright and spacious guest rooms with modern facilities. Patrons can indulge in fine dining at the on-site restaurant and enjoy a drink at the award-winning Cloud 9 Sky Bar. The property also includes a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa and wellness services. Ideal for luxury travelers.