In this guide, I tell you about the best areas of Prague to stay in and recommend proven hotels in these areas. There is a lot to choose from, because Prague is a place where you get excellent value for money.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Prague 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- 🔮 Boutique hotel: The Emblem
- ✨ 5-Star: Four Seasons Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Century Old Town Prague - MGallery Hotel Collection
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Adeba Hotel
- ✈️ Near Airport: Courtyard by Marriott Prague Airport
- 🌇 Best Views of the City: Hotel U Prince Prague by BHG
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Corinthia Hotel Prague
Prague is divided into 22 districts – the bigger the number, the farther from the center. So as a tourist it makes sense to stay in the city center, but there is a lot of interesting things to do outside of it as well. And accommodation is cheaper.
Let’s dive into the different neighborhoods of Prague. I thought I’d tell you about the 8 best neighborhoods in Prague, and recommend some great hotels in those areas.
Quick Guide to the Best Areas in Prague, Czech Republic 📃
- 📍 For Sightseeing: Staré Město
- 👦🏻 For Families: Malá Strana
- 💃🏻 For Nightlife: Žižkov, Vinohrady
- 💖 For Couples: Hradčany
- 🌟 For Local Vibe: Karlín, Smichov
1. Old Town (Staré Město) – Where to Stay for Sightseeing, Prague 1 🕍
As one of the best preserved medieval city centers in Europe, Staré Město allows you to step back in time while still enjoying modern conveniences.
📍 Well-located: The neighborhood is centrally located, making it easy to access the city’s major sights. Wenceslas Square and the Museum Station metro stop sit on the southeast corner, while the iconic Charles Bridge provides a pedestrian pathway to Malá Strana and Prague Castle to the northwest.
🚶♂️ As you explore, be sure to admire sights like:
- The historic Prague Astronomical Clock, first installed in 1410
- The elegant Art Nouveau Municipal House, which hosts concerts and events
- The soaring Jan Hus Memorial in Old Town Square, commemorating the influential religious reformer
Also don’t miss the huge Gothic Tyn Cathedral, located on the same square.
🚌 Get around: When your feet tire, hop on tram 17 which circles the perimeter or take advantage of the affordable taxi stands scattered around the edges.
🍻 Relaxing evenings: Come evening, relax at one of Staré Město’s many cafés and restaurants. Or sip a beer from local brewery Pilsner Urquell while admiring Prague’s stunning scenery.
Where to stay in Old Town?
Expensive hotels:
- The Mozart Prague – an elegant hotel in a historic building with exquisite interiors and upscale service.
- The Emblem Prague Hotel – a stylish boutique hotel with unique design, located in the heart of the Old Town.
- Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague – a fashionable hotel with oriental charm, known for its restaurant and spa center.
Medium price category:
- Antik Hotel Prague – a cozy small hotel in a historic building with an authentic atmosphere.
- EA Hotel Royal Esprit – a comfortable hotel with a good location and reasonable prices.
- Residence Bologna – apartments in the city center with a fully equipped kitchen and homely comfort.
Budget hotels:
- High Heaven – a simple hostel with a friendly atmosphere ideal for young people.
- Apartments in the heart of Prague – cheap apartments with basic amenities in the heart of Prague.
- Women's Only Hostel – a hostel for girls only with clean and safe rooms at an affordable price.
2. New Town (Nové Město) – Cheaper Access to Main Attractions 🏯
🏰 Historic hub: Nestled between Prague’s historic Old Town and the Vyšehrad fortress lies the expansive district of Nové Město, meaning “New Town” in Czech. Despite its name, much of this neighborhood dates back over 700 years, though it was considered “new” when founded in 1348.
🚶🏻♀️ Walkable streets: Prague was made for walking, and Nové Město offers exceptional accessibility. Trams and metro stations provide quick connections across town, with three metro lines and major surface routes converging at Wenceslas Square.
🔥 Top attractions and architectural marvels:
- Dancing House, also known as Ginger & Fred
- Wenceslas Square, a vibrant public space in the heart of Prague
- National Theater, showcases stunning neo-Renaissance architecture
- National Museum, imposing structure that houses extensive collections spanning from natural history to arts
- Mucha Museum, dedicated to the renowned Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha
- Municipal House, hosting concerts and events
Trendy cafés and eateries proliferate roads like Vodičkova Street and Spálená Street, providing sustenance during your urban wanderings.
While Old Town magnetically draws most tourists, Nové Město rewards those seeking local flavor.
Where to stay in New Town?
Expensive Hotels:
- Andaz Prague - a Concept by Hyatt – an elegant premium hotel with a sophisticated interior and panoramic views of Prague.
- Prague Marriott Hotel – a comfortable hotel of a well-known chain with good value for money.
- The Grand Mark Prague – a luxurious 5-star hotel in a historic building with excellent service and a central location.
Medium price category:
- H7 Palace – a modern design hotel with upscale amenities located in the heart of Prague.
- Apartment House – a city center apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and a homely atmosphere.
- Hotel Prague Star – a small cozy hotel with friendly staff and a great location.
Budget Hotels:
- Ibis Praha – an economical hotel from a well-known chain with simple and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
- Cozy modern studio – a compact studio apartment in the heart of Prague, the best option for budget travelers.
- Vincanto Rooms – a guest house with basic amenities in a historic building, excellent value for money.
3. Malá Strana – Where to Stay Close to the Prague Castle 👪
Nestled below Prague Castle on the left bank of the Vltava River lies the charming district of Malá Strana.
🗺️ Central spot: Malá Strana sits just across Charles Bridge from the Old Town, putting you right in the heart of Prague’s top attractions. From the neighborhood, you can easily walk to:
- Prague Castle (10 minutes)
- Old Town Square (20 minute)
🦶 On foot: Many travel blogs rank Malá Strana among the most walkable districts in Europe, with its flat terrain and compact size perfect for pedestrian exploring.
🔝 You won’t want to miss top sights like:
- St. Nicholas Church – Stunning example of High Baroque style with impressive bell tower
- Wallenstein Palace – Houses fantastic Wallenstein Garden in rear
- Kafka Museum – For literature buffs, full of literary curiosities
- Petřín Lookout Tower – Sweeping views of the city from atop Petřín Hill
And also John Lennon Wall, colorful graffiti & Beatles lyrics memorializing Lennon
🍻 Come evening, beer gardens like Malostranská beseda become perfect spots to unwind after a day exploring this unforgettable riverside neighborhood.
Where to stay in Malá Strana?
Expensive Hotels:
- Mandarin Oriental – a premium luxury hotel with exquisite design, top-notch service and panoramic views of Prague Castle.
- Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel – elegant boutique hotel in a historic 13th-century building with an authentic atmosphere, spa and gourmet restaurant.
- Aria Hotel Prague – a modern design hotel with a convenient location, stylish interiors and friendly staff.
Medium price category:
- Appia Hotel Residences – premium aparthotel with spacious apartments, kitchen and views of Prague Castle.
- Hotel Ikona – art Deco boutique hotel with panoramic views of Prague Castle and friendly staff.
- Residence Dvorak – apartments in a historic building with a fully equipped kitchen and a convenient location.
Budget Hotels:
- Hostel Little Quarter – mini hostel in a cozy historic building with a friendly atmosphere and economical rooms.
- Charles Bridge Hostel & Apartments – a hostel with basic amenities and apartments with kitchens near Charles Bridge.
- Greg Apartments – apartments in a picturesque neighborhood with a fully equipped kitchen at an affordable price.
4. Žižkov – Where to Stay in Prague for Nightlife, Prague 3 🍸
🏘 Quirky hood: The Žižkov district emerged as an independent township in the late 19th century before being incorporated into the city of Prague. Today, this neighborhood retains its characteristic gritty charm.
🚇 Well-connected: Getting to Žižkov is easy – it sits just above the famous Prague Metro Line A, with stations Jiřího z Poděbrad and Flora providing direct access points.
👀 Some top attractions not to miss in Žižkov include:
- Žižkov Television Tower – communist-era tower with crawling baby statues climbing the structure
- Army Museum – housed in a 14th century fort, traces Czech military history with tanks and artillery on display
- Olšany Cemeteries – known for Art Nouveau tombstones and lovely landscaped paths for strolling
Pop into one of Žižkov’s legendary dive bars or quirky cafés, many filled with an artsy, alternative crowd. Sample Czech pub grub and Pilsner Urquell from tanks at atmospheric local watering holes.
🛍 Vintage shopping: Browse the district’s many vintage shops and indie boutiques selling everything from Midcentury furniture to Soviet-era memorabilia.
Where to stay in Žižkov?
Expensive Hotels:
- Hotel Prokop Square – a modern premium hotel with elegant interior design and a great location on Prokop Square.
- Theatrino Hotel – stylish boutique hotel in a historic building with individually decorated rooms and a restaurant overlooking Prague.
- Hotel White Lion – a cozy hotel in traditional Czech style with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
Medium price category:
- Gesto Apartments – an apartment hotel with spacious studios, fully equipped kitchens and a convenient location near the center.
- Apartment CONTINENTS – economy apartments with basic amenities and good value for money.
- Hotel Amadeus – a small hotel with simple but clean and tidy rooms at a reasonable price.
Budget Hotels:
- Pension SKLEP – a simple and inexpensive mini hotel with basic amenities for budget travelers.
- Gregory House – a hostel with shared rooms and facilities at a very reasonable price.
5. Vinohrady – Hipster Vibe in Prague 2 👨🏻🎨
🌇 Charming area: This popular district charms visitors with its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, leafy streets perfect for strolling, and abundance of cafes, shops, and restaurants.
📍 Well-located: Vinohrady lies close to the city center, making it very accessible. The district borders Prague’s central Wenceslas and Naměstí Míru squares, connected via the main artery of Vinohradská Street.
👍🏻 Top sights and activities:
- Foodies will enjoy meandering the Riegrovy Sady, popping into cozy bistros and lively pubs
- For green spaces, tree-filled Havlíčkovy Sady contains grassy lawns and a vineyard, perfect for relaxing or jogging
- History buffs can view beautiful 19th and 20th century buildings like the Vinohrady Theater and National house of Vinohrady, or walk along Francouzská street’s “Vegetable Boulevard”
🚡 Easily navigated: Getting around Vinohrady itself is a breeze. Compact in size, most attractions are reachable on foot. For those wanting to venture farther, trams 11 and 10 zip frequently through the district, while Line A’s Jiřího z Poděbrad and Flora stations bracket either end.
With its vibrancy, accessibility, and wealth of sights, Vinohrady makes an excellent base for any Prague exploration.
Where to stay in Vinohrady?
Expensive Hotels:
- Le Palais Art Hotel Prague – an elegant boutique hotel in a historic building with exquisite designer interiors and personalized service.
- Ametyst Hotel Prague – modern premium hotel with luxurious rooms, gourmet restaurant and spa center.
- Prague Season Three Stars – a premium hotel with elegant rooms in a modern style and excellent service.
Medium price category:
- Apart Hotel Susa – a comfortable apart hotel with spacious studios and apartments, ideal for longer stays.
- VINOHRADSKY DUM Residence – apart hotel in a quiet neighborhood with fully equipped kitchens and home-like atmosphere.
- Hotel Claris – a cozy hotel in a picturesque area with comfortable rooms and attentive staff.
Budget Hotels:
- Anna Hotel – a budget hotel with basic amenities, good location and friendly staff.
- Hotel Lunik – budget hotel with simple but cozy rooms, suitable for short trips.
- Pension Jana - Domov Mládeže – affordable student hostel with shared kitchens and bathrooms.
6. Hradčany – Best Area for Romantic Trip 🌹
Hradčany is a historic neighborhood offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
👀 Must-see views: Perfectly situated across the Vltava River from Old Town, Hradčany occupies an elevated plain northwest of the city center. Its lofty location affords views over the river and red-tiled rooftops towards Old Town Square.
🌟 Must-see attractions include:
- Prague Castle, this sprawling castle is the largest ancient castle in the world. Enter to see St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, and more
- St. George’s Basilica, a stunning red-roofed church founded in 920 AD
- Loreta Monastery, an elegant Baroque monastery complex with one of Prague’s most beloved sites, the Loreta Treasury
- Strahov Monastery, founded in 1143, this monastery boasts one of the world’s most valuable libraries, home to over 200,000 volumes
🚶♂️ Walkable terrain: Despite the hilly terrain, Hradčany remains eminently walkable. Metro line A stops at Malostranská station right at the district’s southern edge for easy access. From there, a 10-15 minute uphill stroll leads straight to the castle gates.
Hradčany is an absolute must-see district for anyone visiting this storied European capital.
Where to stay in Hradčany?
Mid-range hotels:
- Questenberg Hotel – elegant boutique hotel in a historic building with panoramic views of Prague Castle.
- Monastery Hotel – cozy hotel in a 17th century monastery with atmospheric rooms and attentive service.
- Hotel Savoy Prague – a luxurious hotel with Art Deco elements, fine dining and an excellent location.
Budget Hotels:
- Romantik Hotel U Raka – a charming small hotel with a homely atmosphere and friendly staff at a reasonable price.
- Aparthotel Tycho de Brahe – an aparthotel with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for longer stays.
- Garden Residence Prague Castle – a guest house with a picturesque courtyard and reasonably priced apartments near Prague Castle.
7. Karlín – Where to Stay for Local Vibe 🔮
🌆 Trendy area: Karlín is an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its trendy cafés, shops, and restaurants. Once an industrial area, Karlín has transformed into a hip hub perfect for those looking to experience Prague like a local.
🚊 Well-connected: Karlín is located just a 10-15 minute tram ride from popular sites like Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and the Charles Bridge. Trams and metro lines connect Karlín directly to the city’s top attractions.
🏙️ Charming streets: What Karlín lacks in historical sites, it more than makes up for in atmosphere. Spend an afternoon wandering through Karlín’s streets:
- Specialty coffee shops and roasteries
- Farm-to-table bistros focusing on fresh, local cuisine
- Boutiques selling handmade fashions, crafts, and goods
- Street art and graffiti murals covering former industrial buildings
Stop for lunch at one of Karlín’s acclaimed restaurants, like Eska for its inventive tasting menus or Javánka for Thai-inspired dishes. Or grab a craft beer at Pivovarský Dům to sample their homebrews.
💃🏻 Lively nights: As evenings roll around, Karlín transforms into one of Prague’s nightlife capitals. You’ll find no shortage of cozy wine bars, lively pubs, and bohemian cafés packed with locals.
Stay in this up-and-coming district to experience Prague at its trendiest.
Where to stay in Karlín?
Expensive Hotels:
- Hilton Prague Hotel – a fashionable international chain hotel with excellent service, luxurious interiors and a wide range of restaurants and bars.
- Seven Wishes Boutique Residence – chic luxury apartments with panoramic city views, upscale interior design and personalized service.
- The Viaduct – apartment hotel with spacious studios and lofts, good value for money.
Mid-priced hotels:
- The Hotel Fitzgerald – elegant boutique hotel in a historic building with a high level of comfort, personalized service and fine cuisine.
- Hotel Royal Prague – a comfortable hotel in a historical building with a convenient location and affordable prices.
- EMPIRENT Karlin Apartments – modern apartments with all amenities and an excellent location close to the center.
8. Smichov – Hidden Gem in Prague 5 💎
🏙️ Trendy hub: Though Smichov lacks the medieval architecture of Old Town, its convenient location and mix of trendy cafés, microbreweries, and shopping outlets has transformed this formerly industrial neighborhood into an eclectic hub bustling with locals and visitors alike.
🚋 Well-connected: Just a 10-15 minute tram ride from Wenceslas Square or Charles Bridge, Smichov provides easy access to Prague’s most famous sites.Just a 10-15 minute tram ride from Wenceslas Square or Charles Bridge, Smichov provides easy access to Prague’s most famous sites.
Yet you need not leave Smichov to experience the flavor of Czech culture. The neighborhood boasts these highlights:
- Anděl City Complex – This shopping and entertainment center contains a cinema, supermarket, international chains like KFC, and local boutiques
- Náplavka Embankment – Walk, cycle or rollerblade along the Vltava riverbank or relax in one of many waterfront cafés and bars
🍺 Beer heaven: If you are a beer lover, you should check out the Staropramen Brewery. The Staropramen Brewery is the second largest beer producer in the Czech Republic and produces up to half a million bottles of beer a day, as well as thousands of kegs.
With its authentic local vibe and proximity to major sights, Smichov gives tourists a great home base.
Where to stay in Smichov?
Expensive Hotels:
- Figaro Suites – elegant apartments in a historic building with modern design and high level of comfort.
- OREA Hotel Angelo Praha – modern premium hotel with panoramic city views and high-class service.
- NH Collection Prague – a stylish hotel in the city center offering comfortable rooms and good service.
Mid-range hotels:
- Apartments near Lesser Town – comfortable apartments with a convenient location near the historic center.
- Angelis – cozy small hotel with friendly staff and reasonable prices.
- Andel Centre SPIRIT – simple and inexpensive rooms near the shopping center and metro.
Budget hotels:
- Arbes – modest economy hotel with basic amenities at a reasonable price.
- Anděl Apartments Praha – apartments with simple rooms at an affordable price.
- Hotel Petr – small hotel with simple rooms, suitable for budget accommodation.
Best Hotels near Prague Airport 🛫
🌟 Convenient Elegance: Courtyard by Marriott Prague Airport
Just a stone’s throw away from Vaclav Havel Airport, this hotel is your ticket to convenience. Imagine landing after a long flight and within minutes, you’re in a cozy room, ready to kick off your shoes.
The Courtyard by Marriott doesn’t just stop at the basics—it’s got a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and a terrace to soak in some sun. Perfect for both business travelers and leisure seekers.
🛌 Airport Comfort: Holiday Inn Prague Airport
Flying into Prague? Why not land straight into comfort? The Holiday Inn at Prague Airport is your haven for a worry-free stay. With modern rooms and a complimentary shuttle service, you’ll be navigating the city in no time.
Don’t worry about jet lag—there’s a 24-hour gym to stretch those post-flight legs. Plus, the restaurant serves up a delightful mix of local and international flavors.
💆♂️ Stylish Retreat: Ramada Airport Hotel Prague
Need a blend of style and convenience? Ramada Airport Hotel has your back. Just a quick ride from the airport, this gem offers spacious rooms, a wellness center, and even a sauna to melt away that travel stress.
And guess what? If you’re itching to explore, the city center is a mere 20-minute drive away.
Top Tips for Your Prague Trip 🔝
👀 Watch your belongings: Keep an eye on your stuff, especially in crowded areas. Pickpocketing is a bit of an art in touristy spots, so go for a crossbody bag and stay alert, whether you’re on the Charles Bridge or in Old Town Square.
🚍 Master public transport: Prague’s public transport is efficient and your ticket to hassle-free exploration. Get a travel pass for unlimited tram, bus, and metro rides. Learn major stops, and you’ll confidently navigate your way to Prague Castle or the vibrant neighborhoods.
🍽 Explore diverse cuisine: Move beyond goulash – Prague’s food scene is diverse. Try svíčková or indulge in trdelník. Venture to local spots for an authentic experience beyond touristy restaurants.
⌚ Time your sightseeing: Beat the crowds at major attractions like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a more serene experience and better photo opportunities.
☕ Connect in cafés: Experience Prague’s local life by spending time in neighborhood cafés. Engage with locals over coffee in Vinohrady, Žižkov, or Smíchov. You might uncover hidden gems and authentic recommendations beyond the typical tourist spots.
Best Places to Stay in Prague on a Map 📍
FAQ: Czech Capital for Tourists ❔
Is it better to stay in Old Town or New Town Prague?
Choosing between staying in Old Town or New Town in Prague depends on your preferences. If you prefer a historic atmosphere with cobblestone streets and charming architecture, Old Town is the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more modern and vibrant atmosphere with trendy shops and nightlife, New Town might be more suitable.
How long is ideal to spend in Prague?
The ideal duration to spend in Prague largely depends on your interests and the pace at which you prefer to travel. However, a well-rounded visit typically spans 3 to 4 days. This allows you to explore major attractions, indulge in the local cuisine, and soak in the rich culture without feeling rushed.
What is the most beautiful district in Prague?
Regarding the most beautiful district in Prague, many would argue that Lesser Town (Mala Strana) holds this title. Its picturesque streets, colorful Baroque buildings, and proximity to Prague Castle create a charming and enchanting atmosphere.
How to stay safe in Prague?
Be vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night, and be cautious with your belongings. It’s advisable to use reputable transportation services and be aware of your surroundings. In case of emergency, the local emergency number is 112.
