How to Travel in Prague

The best way to travel in Prague is by public transportation. The Prague metro, trams and buses are cheap, easy to use and very reliable. Prague's little streets really aren't meant for cars so they are less efficient here.

Prague is best explored by walking or by public transportation. This page outlines the basic information you need to travel in Prague hassle free.

Travel in Prague: Basic Information

These are the basics to keep you moving in the city carefree. If you have any trouble just ask someone on the streets. You will easily find someone to help you.

• 3 ways to get around: metro, tram and bus. Each part is very reliable and punctual.

• Buy tickets first. You can buy tickets in metro stations or where most newspapers are sold.

• Tickets are time sensitive. Put them into the little yellow machines on the trams and buses and at the entrance to the metro.

• Ticket inspectors may approach you and ask to see your ticket. If you don't have a ticket or if you didn't use yours properly, they will fine you on the spot.

MY TIP: Mind your things as you travel in Prague. Pickpockets like crowded areas like trams and metros. And, always buy a ticket. It's tempting to cheat the system, but the last thing you want is a problem with ticket inspectors. They aren't always friendly.

Tickets

You can buy tickets in metro stations and in shops where newspapers are sold. This includes most small grocery stores. Or, you can buy them directly from the yellow coin operated machines. See photo.

• Limited Ticket: 18 CZK, 20 - 30 minutes. These are for very short journeys and have limited transfer options. They are valid 20 minutes on trams and buses with no transfer options. They are valid 30 minutes in the metro but cannot exceed 5 stations. They are not valid on the funicular, ferries and night lines.

• Basic Ticket: 26 CZK, 75 minutes. These are your best choice. You can transfer as many times as you'd like and the time allowed is usually sufficient. I always prefer these over the limited tickets.

• 1 Day Ticket: 100 CZK, 24 hours. These are great if you know you're going to use the metro system extensively over one day. But, it's often just better to buy single basic tickets.

• 3 Day Ticket: 330 CZK, 72 hours. These are perfect for a weekend stay, etc. Buy these and you don't have to worry about tickets for awhile. These allow the free accompaniment of one child (6 - 15 years).

• 5 Day Ticket: 500 CZK, 120 hours. Again, these are great for short stays. Remember though, these are strictly by the hour not by the "day" as you might think. These allow the free accompaniment of one child (6 - 15 years).

Download ticket price list (pdf).

Travel in Prague by Metro

There are three metro lines in Prague: A (green on map), B (yellow) and C (red). The metro operates from 5 am to midnight. They are highly efficient with stations near most points of interest.

The metro stations in the center of Prague are quite deep underground. They have long escalators and sometimes stairs going down to the platforms. And, only some have elevators. Most stations have an attendant in a booth upstairs. You can buy tickets here or try to get information. They probably don't speak English though.

Download a Prague Metro Map (pdf)

Read more about the Prague metro.

Travel in Prague by Tram

There are numerous trams that dissect the city. These are great for shorter rides or for a cheap tour of Prague. I particularly like riding the 22. It crosses the city providing lots to see. And, it goes directly to Prague Castle and stops steps from Charles Bridge.

Trams generally run till midnight and then night trams service the city. The night trams have different numbers and consolidated lines. So, they aren't identical to the standard trams.

Strollers and prams go in the back and dogs go in the front. Schedules for each tram are posted at each stop.

Generally younger people stand up and let older people sit down on public transportation. It's common courtesy here.

Nostalgia Tram

The Nostalgia Tram No. 91 crosses the city on weekends from April - October. It starts at the Public Transport Museum and ends in the beautiful Stromovka Park. It's definitely a unique experience and worth taking - and it's great for kids.

The tram goes to various attractions as well including, Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square. Tickets are bought on the tram from the conductor.

Travel in Prague by Bus

Buses are another reliable to travel in Prague. At times they can be crowded during peak times but they service is generally quite good. Prague buses service many smaller areas and suburbs so if you're staying a short time, you probably won't use them.

Buses will take you to harder to reach places outside of the city center. And, they can be great for day trips from Prague. Many villages, castle ruins and chateaus can be found quite readily by bus.

Passengers can buy tickets directly from the driver for 30 CZK. If you are traveling outside of Prague, check the fare schedules to verify which ticket is appropriate.

And, of course, it's particularly nice to stand up for very small children and older people on the bus. It can be a bit harder to hold on then the metro and tram.

Funicular (Cable Car)

Prague's funicular is a great way to access Petřín Park. The route has three stops and is great if you don't want to walk up the hill. Standard tickets apply. The nearest tram stop at the base of the hill is Ujezd.

At the top you'll find a couple of great stops for kids and adults alike. There's a fun House of Mirrors (Bludiště), Prague's version of the Eiffel Tower and Stefanik's Planetary Observatory.

Petřín Park has a number of trails to stroll along and gorgeous views of Prague Castle. and Malá Strana. You can stop in the middle and lounge at the outdoor cafe or grab an ice cream or beer in the garden at the top.

Other Ways to Travel in Prague

Prague Segway Tours - Fun, exciting way to get around.

Biking in Prague - There are a few bike rental shops in Prague. You can either take a tour with them or rent a bike by the hour. It's a great way to get around the city center especially when your time is limited.

Prague Airport Transportation - Need a transfer from Prague Airport? I can easily book a reliable service for you. Just contact us for more information.

Czech Car Rentals - Perfect for day trips out of Prague.

Travel in Prague - More Info!

If you're like me and value all forms of public transportation, you might find the Public Transport Museum interesting. It's not far from Prague Castle and the entrance fee is very small.

It's a great place for adults and kids alike. You will find a variety of old buses, trams and work trucks inside the converted depot. Some even have original posters and advertisements inside.

Have a look around and then hop on the Nostalgia Tram outside. See photo above. It departs the museum once every hour on weekends April - October.

For more information about Prague's public transportation system, try their official web site here.