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 were never meant for cars so they are less efficient here.

So, if you're not walking, Prague is best explored by using its excellent metro system. It's relatively cheap and very easy to use.

This page outlines the basic information you need to travel in Prague hassle free.

You will soon find out that it's all about buying tickets, stamping the tickets and following your route - very simple indeed.

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. prague metro tram

• 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.

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 often includes most small grocery stores too. Or, you can buy them directly from the yellow coin operated machines in every metro station. See photo.

You can also buy tickets via SMS on your mobile phone. Phone codes here

All tickets are valid on all parts of the metro system, tram - metro - bus and funicular.

Make sure you validate your ticket before going down the steps or escalators of the metro and when you board a bus or tram.

NEW TICKET INFO, valid from July 1, 2011

Ticket machines in metro station

• Short Term Ticket: 24 CZK, 30 minutes. These are for short journeys, but can be very useful since you might only need to go one direction before returning later in the day. They are valid 30 minutes you may transfer within the system freely.

• Basic Ticket: 32 CZK, 90 minutes. These tickest are the most common choices. If you go to a shop and ask for tickets, these are the standard ones. You can use them up to 90 minutes which makes them very flexible. But, if you're going just one way to the castle, for example, you might consider the cheaper short term ticket above.

• 1 Day Ticket: 110 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: 310 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).

Tickets for Children

To be honest, many young children and seniors are often overlooked by ticket controllers. But technically they need tickets too. Children means someone between 6 and 15 years and Senior is anyone over 60.

Rates for Children and Seniors:

• Short Term Ticket - 12 CZK, 30 minutes
• Basic Ticket - 16 CZK, 90 minutes
• 1 Day Ticket - 55 CZK, 24 hours
• 3 Day Ticket - 310 CZK, 72 hours (no discount available)

SMS Tickets

You can now buy single tickets via SMS on most mobile phones, making travel in Prague even easier.

Send the corresponding codes to the number 902 06 and you will receive an SMS with your ticket details.

DPT24 for 24 CZK, 30 minutes
DPT32 for 32 CZK, 90 minutes

Travel in Prague by Metro

There are three metro lines in Prague: A (green on map), B (yellow) and C (red). prague metro 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)

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.

We 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. prague metro tram

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

prague metro historical 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? We can easily book a reliable service for you. Just contact us for more information.

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.