Where To Stay in Prague [2026 Guide]

  • By David Cieślar

Published: Thursday, January 1, 2026

Planning a trip to Prague and wondering where to stay? As a Prague local born and raised in this beautiful city, I've helped thousands of travelers find the perfect neighborhood for their visit. Let me share insider knowledge about the best areas to stay in Prague.

🎯 Quick Answer: Where Should You Stay in Prague?

The best area to stay in Prague depends on your priorities:

  • First-time visitors (1-3 days): Old Town or Lesser Town (Prague 1) — be in the heart of everything
  • Best value + authentic experience: Vinohrady, Žižkov, or Karlín (Prague 2-3) — local neighborhoods with great connections
  • Budget travelers: Prague 5-8 districts — affordable and still well-connected by metro
  • Romantic getaway: Lesser Town (Malá Strana) — quiet, charming, fairy-tale atmosphere

    Local's rule: Stick to Prague districts 1-8 and stay within 10 minutes of a metro station. This way, you'll reach the city center in under 30 minutes from anywhere.

Jump to sections quickly:

  • Prague 1: The Historic Center Districts

  • Local Neighborhoods: Prague 2-8

  • How to Choose Your Perfect Neighborhood

Prague 1: The Historic Center Districts

Prague 1 is the most central district, encompassing the city's most famous historic neighborhoods. Here's what you need to know about each area:

Old Town (Staré Město)

Picture yourself waking up to magical cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and the famous Astronomical Clock just steps from your door. Old Town puts you in the absolute heart of Prague's history.

Pros:

  • Walking distance to all major attractions
  • Stunning architecture everywhere you look
  • Countless restaurants, cafes, and shops
  • Perfect for first-time visitors

Cons:

  • Can be noisy at night due to nightlife and tourist activity
  • Higher accommodation prices
  • Crowded during peak season

Best For: First-time visitors, tourists who want to maximize sightseeing time

Price Range: €€€€ (€100-300+ per night)

Local Neighborhoods: Prague 2-8

Want to experience Prague like a local? These neighborhoods are further from the city center but offer authentic experiences, better value, and excellent public transport connections.

 

Vinohrady (Prague 2)

Trendy, residential area popular with expats and foodies. Excellent restaurants, cafes, and craft beer bars. Beautiful parks and 15-20 minutes to city center by tram/metro.

Price: €€ (€50-120 per night)

 

Žižkov (Prague 3)

Bohemian, artistic neighborhood with character. Famous for alternative bars and clubs. Very local atmosphere with more affordable prices.

Price: €-€€ (€40-90 per night)

 

Karlín (Prague 8)

Up-and-coming hipster neighborhood with excellent modern restaurants and cafes. Renovated historic buildings and just 10-15 minutes to Old Town by metro.

Price: €€ (€55-110 per night)

 

Dejvice (Prague 6)

Quiet, green residential area close to Prague Castle. Popular with families and professionals with excellent transport connections.

Price: €€ (€50-100 per night)

 

Smíchov (Prague 5)

Major transport hub with metro and trams. Shopping centers and entertainment. Very good value for money.

Price: €-€€ (€45-95 per night)

 

Holešovice (Prague 7)

Creative, industrial-chic neighborhood with art galleries, Letná Park beer gardens, and local markets.

Price: €€ (€50-105 per night)

My Local's Tip: The 30-Minute Rule

Here's my golden rule for choosing accommodation in Prague:

Stick to districts Prague 1-8 and stay close to a metro station.

 

Why? 

 

This ensures you can reach the city center in under 30 minutes, even from the most "local" neighborhoods. Prague's public transport (metro, trams, buses) is excellent, affordable, and runs frequently until midnight, with night trams continuing through the night.

How to Choose Your Perfect Neighborhood

Choose Old Town if you:

  • Are visiting Prague for the first time
  • Have limited time (1-3 days)
  • Want to maximize sightseeing time
  • Have a higher budget

Choose Lesser Town if you:

  • Want a romantic, quiet atmosphere
  • Are visiting as a couple
  • Love photography
  • Don't mind hills

Choose New Town if you:

  • Want to balance budget and location
  • Enjoy nightlife
  • Need good public transport access
  • Are staying longer (4+ days)

Choose Local Neighborhoods (Prague 2-8) if you:

  • Want authentic Prague experience
  • Are on a tighter budget
  • Don't mind 15-30 minute commute
  • Want excellent local restaurants
  • Plan to stay a week or more

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