Where to Stay in Prague: The Best Areas and Hotels
Discover the best places to stay in Prague, the Czech republic’s exciting capital and find out where to stay in Prague for your upcoming trip to one of Central Europe’s most popular destinations.
If you’ve decided to visit Prague you’ve made a good choice but now you’re probably looking for where to stay in Prague. Prague is a beautiful city, with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque charm that can be felt throughout its major sights, institutions and the best hotels in Prague too.
With many famous landmarks, medieval buildings, and tourist attractions all compacted into Prague’s Old town, there’s no better place in Europe for a budget city break.
There are so many great neighborhoods in Prague, from the historic Old Town to the hilly and greener Mala Strana in the centre. If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to get away from the tourist areas you might want to stay in local Vinohrady or authentic Karlín. Whatever you’re preferences are, Prague has a great neighbourhood for everyone and amazing and unique places to stay from historic, luxury 5-star hotels to budget studio rentals.
Prague also has some of the most affordable luxury accommodation in Europe, so if you’ve been meaning to treat yourself and upgrade your stay for a while but find that you can’t quite afford to do so in London or Paris, you’re in for a treat. Prague is definitely the place where raising your accommodation budget just a little, can upgrade your stay in the most maximising way.
Let’s dive into the best places to stay in Prague, the best areas to base yourself in and the best hotels in Prague in each area.
*This ‘where to stay in Prague’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top quality content for free.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PRAGUE
The perfect European destination for a quick city break, Prague is a great idea at any time of the year. Like many other European destinations, the Czech Republic sees four distinct seasons where temperatures and rainfall drastically over the course of the year.
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit where temperatures are at their warmest- an average of 24°C/75°F, parks are full of green trees and blooming flowers and the city comes alive with outdoor eating and drinking and other activities. Spring and summer are also the wettest months so you can expect quite a few showers at this time too.
This is also high season so expect prices of the best hotels in Prague to go up and crowds at the most popular sights.
Autumn and winter are other possible times to visit if you don’t mind the cold. In winter temperatures can go down to about 2°C/35°F but winters are also the driest time of year to visit. Visiting in the winter will mean that there are much fewer crowds around and you’ll be able to score some great deals on hotels and flights. You’ll also be able to experience the amazing Christmas Markets in the Old Town square in December. However, sights do close earlier and daylight hours are also limited.
The high season months in Prague are June, July and August, shoulder seasons is April, May, September and October and the low season is November, December (apart from Christmas and New Year), January, February and March.
Read more: 2 Days in Prague: The Perfect First-Timer’s Itinerary
GETTING AROUND
Getting around all the best places to stay in Prague is pretty easy as Prague has a great public transportation system. The city centre is accessible from pretty much anywhere and it doesn’t take long to get there.
If you choose to stay in the Old Town or Lesser Town (Mala Strana) just over the river, you won’t really need to use public transport at all to access the best sights in Prague as virtually everything is walkable.
Metro – To access neighbourhoods that lie a little further from the center, the most popular way to get around Prague is by metro. The Prague metro has three lines (A, B and C) that cover most neighbourhoods in the city. The metro lines are colour-coded and easy to work out.
Buying a ticket is also an easy feat. Ticket machines work in English and a basic fare which lasts 30 minutes costs 30 CZK. Just remember to insert your ticket into the small, yellow machine so it stamps the time onto your ticket, therefore, validating it before descending down onto the platform.
Tram – Instead of buses, Prague’s residents use trams to get around the city center. Tram routes aren’t the easiest to work out and for this reason, the metro is much easier to use for first-time visitors to Prague. The trams are, however, a great way to sightsee the city. Take tram number 42 or 43 for a local tour of the city.
All public transportation is integrated into one system so the same tickets work and are valid on trams and the metro. You can buy them at metro stations and the large bus stations.
WHERE TO STAY IN PRAGUE: TOP AREAS & HOTELS
When considering where to stay in Prague, you’ll be happy to know that for a European capital, Prague is compact and small. Getting around is easy and there isn’t (too much) traffic meaning that wherever you choose to stay you’ll be able to get around the city fairly easily.
Saying that it does help to stay in the most convenient location for you and what you would like to see and prioritise during your trip. So, where are the best places to stay in Prague you ask?
Let’s look at some of the most popular and best neighborhoods in Prague in a nutshell.
- Old Town (Staré Mesto) – The central heart of the city, staying here means you’re within walking distance from most of Prague’s main sights and close to the buzz, restaurants, cafes and everything you might need. This is the best area to stay for first-timers visiting Prague. Most of the best hotels in Prague are located here.
- Lesser Town (Malá Strana) – Located on the other side of Charles Bridge, a small, quieter neighbourhood also full of amazing cafes and restaurants. Also close to all of Prague’s major sights.
- New Town (Nové Mesto) – Right next door to the Old Town, the New Town is another great area that feels like an extension of the old town.
- Vinohrady – A local neighbourhood very close to the New Town with lots of green spaces and local life.
- Zizkov– A lively neighbourhood great for nightlife
- Karlín– A relaxed neighbourhood on the banks of the Vltava River, great for a local experience and budget accommodation.
Search the map below for a glimpse of accommodation options available in the best neigborhoods in Prague:
PRO TIP: Prague is an extremely popular place and European destination, especially during the weekend and in the summer months. The best places to stay in Prague sell out extremely quickly so I highly recommend booking your stay as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Old Town (Staré Město)
If you’re only in Prague for 2 days or even less you’ll want to stay in the heart of the city to get the most out of your trip which is what makes staying in the Old Town a very good idea.
The Old Town is the best area to stay in Prague for first time visitors and those that want to maximise their time in the city. It provides easy access to almost anywhere in Prague.
Prague’s Old Town or Stare Mesto is completely walkable and you’ll not really need to opt for public transport to get around apart from perhaps going on day trips.
In the Old Town, you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants, many bars, cafes and the majority of the city’s sights such as Charles Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, the Old Town Square and the relaxing banks of the Vltava River.
Some of the best hotels in Prague are located here from 5-star properties to budget hotels and hostels. The Old Town is the most popular neighborhood in Prague and most tourists want to stay here so you can expect prices to be a little higher than in the rest of the city. Having said that, you’ll be able to find the perfect stay in Prague in the Old Town no matter your budget.
Best Luxury Hotels in the Old Town
The Mozart Prague – One of the grandest and most beautiful hotels in Prague, the Mozart was once the home of both Mozart and Casanova. Featuring beautiful rooms with art masterpieces and murals, and 18th and 19th-century furniture this hotel beautifully embodies the culture and flamboyant Baroque style of Prague.
The hotel also has a gorgeous outdoor courtyard, a wellness center that offers a range of beauty treatments, massages and a sauna as well as being located in one of the best areas of Prague- just a stone’s throw away from Charles bridge. The Mozart is a real gem in the city. Check rates and availability here
The Grand Mark Prague – Probably the grandest hotel in Prague, immediately transport yourself to a world of opulent luxury in the best area to stay in Prague. Grand suites, a wellness center and spa that’s open daily, fantastic breakfast and beautiful grounds staying here means you’re in danger of never leaving and exploring the city. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Lippert – It’s hard to beat the central location of this stunning, traditional hotel right on Prague’s Old Town Square. It has beautiful rooms with decorated ceilings of wooden beams in a building that dates back to the 14th Century. The service and breakfast here are amazing too. Check rates and availability
Mid-range Hotels in the Old Town
BoHo Prague Hotel – This beautiful modern hotel with chic decor is a complete vibe. It has a real boutique feel, stylish rooms and bar, a great breakfast and a wellness center offering great treatments and massages. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Leon D´Oro – Classic traditional Czech decor, friendly service, clean, spacious and comfortable rooms and an amazing rooftop terrace perfect for sunset. Check rates and availability here.
Budget Hotels in the Old Town
Miss Sophie’s Downtown – A lovely modern hotel very close to Prague’s main station and other neigborhoods such as Vinohrady and Karlin. Great decor and design, great breakfast in the hip hotel cafe and a lovely rooftop terrace with marvelous views over the city. Check rates and availability here.
Old Prague House– A great budget option with a brilliant location right by Charles Bridge. They offer both private rooms and dorms. Check rates and availability here.
Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
Located on the other side of the Vltava River and Charles Bridge, Mala Strana or Lesser Town is a small neighbourhood with a lot to offer. It’s one of the best places to stay in Prague due to its proximity to everything- the Old Town included- yet it’s a little quieter than the Old Town.
If you also prefer to be closer to Prague Castle to beat the crowds, staying in Mala Strana is a great option.
The neighbourhood has many top-quality restaurants, cafes and hip hangouts. It’s also got a few supermarkets and grocery stores for those who like to self-cater. Staying in Mala Strana also means you’re closer to Petrin Park, Waldstein Garden and Letna Park- perfect for families or those who enjoy outdoor and green spaces in cities.
Best Luxury Hotels in Malá Strana
Golden Well– One of the most exceptional boutique properties in Prague and in the Malá Strana neighbourhood, this hotel has traditional, flamboyant rooms that are just swoon-worthy, with art masterpieces on the walls, exposed wooden roofs and antique furniture that transports you back to the 18th Century. With excellent service and a rooftop restaurant with superb views of the city, this is my top choice in Prague. Check rates and availability here
Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel- Oozing elegance and charm, this Luxury Collection hotel is my top luxury pick for Prague. Located in an off-the-beaten-path location in Mala Strana but still close to everything, this incredible hotel has swoon-worthy decor, spacious rooms with marvellous views and a beautiful outdoor dining area great for warm nights. Check rates and availability here.
Mid-range Hotels in Mala Strana
Golden Star- The perfect balance between modern decor and traditional architecture, the Golden Star is a favourite over the river in the Mala Strana neighborhood. Brightly lit, clean rooms, amazing views from each room and unique architecture in a 270-year-old building, this comfortable, boutique stay ticks all our boxes. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Waldstein- Exposed wooden beam ceilings mixed with modern furnishing and details, this hotel is a lovely, elegant option in Prague. Located in a historical 14th Century building is an ideal part of Mala Strana, this is a great family option as their family rooms are top quality. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Hoffmeister & Spa – For wellness travellers who like to prioritise wellness even on city breaks, Hotel Hoffmeister makes things easy. With elegant and spacious rooms and lobby, a great breakfast selection and one of the best hotel spas in Prague, this is one of the best places to stay in Prague for an unbeatable rate and a wellness focus.
Their spa facilities offer a unique stone bath, hot tub, and sauna in winter. There is also a range of massages and treatments available upon request. Check rates and availability here.
Budget Hotels in Mala Strana
Small Luxury Palace Residence – A great option for those who want to be right by Prague Castle, this lovely boutique hotel offers historical charm and well-presented rooms at a great budget rate. Check rates and availability here.
Charles Bridge Hostel & Apartments – Simple but clean, no-frills hostel offering double rooms (many with a private kitchen) or dorm beds at a great budget rate with an unbeatable location at the foot of Charles Bridge. Check rates and availability here.
Thinking about doing a day trip from Prague? Read Magical Things to Do in Český Krumlov for some inspiration.
New Town (Nové Město)
The New Town occupies a large area around the Old Town that stretched from the Vltava River on one side to the shores on the other. While it’s called ‘New Town’ this part of Prague certainly isn’t new, well, unless you’d you consider buildings from the 14th Century to be new.
The New Town or Nove Mesto, which is still relatively close to the Old Town and all of Prague’s major sights still has an abundance of hip coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, bars etc. As this isn’t the Old Town prices here can be a little more affordable too.
If you’re someone who doesn’t like to see throngs of tourists as soon as you leave your hotel, staying in the New Town might be for you.
The New Town is also one of the best places to stay in Prague for those that want to day trip around the area and the Czech Republic as it’s here that you’ll find Prague’s Central Train Station and bus stations for departures for a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, Karlovy Vary or Brno.
Best Luxury Hotels in the New Town
COSMOPOLITAN Hotel Prague – With a perfect balance of the traditional and modern, this hotel scores top points for style, decor and service and is one of the best places to stay in Prague.
With large comfortable rooms with all the amenities, a great location on the border of the New and Old Town, delicious breakfast and if that wasn’t enough, their restaurant Next Door is located in an 18th Century building with original frescos dating back to 1889. It’s run by celebrity chef Zdenek Pohlreich, making dining here a must when in Prague. Check rates and availability here.
Dancing House Hotel – For a chance to stay in one of Prague’s most architecturally unique sights, staying at the Dancing House hotel fully allows you to explore this unique structure. With modern decor, lots of natural light, and a splendid rooftop with incredible views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle, this is one of the most unique hotel options in Prague. Check rates and availability.
Mid-range Hotels in the New Town
Mosaic House Design Hotel- A beautifully designed hotel, in the heart of the New Town, with stylish rooms, which include a coffee machine and well-lit ensuite bathrooms. At the hotel, you’ll find amazing places to relax like a rooftop terrace, a bar, and restaurants and there’s also a spa on site too to make the most of your evenings. Check rates and availability here
NYX Hotel Prague by Leonardo Hotels – Great service and location, simple, modern rooms with an earthy, masculine touch, clean and great showers. It’s chic and cool and a great place to grab a drink and relax. Check rates and availability here
Budget Hotels in the New Town
Apartrezidence Opletalova- Just 10 minutes from Prague’s Old Town and 10 minutes from the main station, this apart-hotel offers a number of different apartment options as well as double rooms. Apartments are spacious and a great deal for families. The rooms are cosy and nicely decorated and the hosts are very friendly too. Check rates and availability here.
Vinohrady
If you’re looking for a more relaxed neighborhood to stay that’s greener and full of more locals than tourists, Vinohrady is worth considering.
Vinohrady is still not exactly far from the city center but the neighbourhood feels extremely green, and local and has a great community feel about it. Here you’ll find the beautiful Havlíčkovy Sady, a beautiful Italian Renaissance style park and Riegrovy Sady, a hilltop park with great views of the city. It’s also not far from the National Museum and Wenceslas Square.
There are also plenty of super cool restaurants, bars and cafes in Vinohrady, perfect for getting some breakfast before going exploring or grabbing some dinner on the way back.
As you can imagine and because Vinohrady isn’t as touristy as the center there are far fewer hotels to choose from but there are quite a few apartment rentals at great prices.
Luxury Stays in Vinohrady
Eight Secrets Boutique Residence – Simple, minimal and bright studios in a quiet location near the city center. For the best option go for the luxury studio. They also have budget studios available. Check rates and availability here.
Le Palais Art Hotel Prague- Built in a residential palace from 1897, Le Palais will make you feel like royalty from the moment you walk in. With grand, luxurious furniture, a well-equipped gym, a gourmet restaurant and a summer terrace. Check rates and availability here.
Mid-range Hotels in Vinohrady
La Fenice – Warm, homely with a touch of royal glamour, this great stay right by a park and the metro station makes a great stay when in Prague. With a great buffet breakfast and various types of rooms available this lovely hotel is perfect for couples and families and its pet friendly too. Check rates and availability here.
Centre, Terrace and Quiet Delux apartment with excellent ❤ Location – One of the best apartment rentals in Vinohrady, this spacious, modern apartment sleeps 4- perfect for families or a couple visiting Prague.
With a beautiful terrace and private kitchen in a lively part of Vinohrady, this is a great choice for those wanting an apartment rental in Prague. Check rates and availability here.
Budget Hotels in Vinohrady
Hotel City Bell – A well-rated budget option in a great location close to the New Town. rooms are simple and no-frills but comfortable and very reasonably priced. Check rates and availability.
Read more: The Best Viewpoints in Prague: 11 Best Views of Prague You Can’t Miss
Zizkov
For those wanting to stay in one of Prague’s liveliest neighbourhoods, away from the tourists and close to the nightlife, Zizkov is a great option. Still, relatively close to the Old Town, just a 20 minute walk away, Zizkov has a really local feel with many restaurants, bars with beer gardens and nightclubs.
Due to it being a neighborhood a little further away from the center, you can really find some great deals on accommodation here- perfect for more budget-conscious travellers.
The Best Places to Stay in Zizkov, Prague
Courtyard by Marriott Prague City – A standard Marriott hotel in a great location in Prague. Perfect for those that want to spend their Marriott travel points when in Prague. Check rates and availability.
Seven Wishes Boutique Residence – A lovely, modern aparthotel in the heart of Zizkov, these spacious apartments are perfect for short stays in Prague. With fully equipped kitchens with everything, you need for self-catering, a living area, kitchen, and separate bedroom. The apartments are clean, bright and extremely comfortable. Check rates and availability here.
Apartment Lupáčova – For a more budget stay in Zizkov make sure to check out this great apartment. A no-frills, functional option with lovely city views and a large bath to relax in the evenings after a day of exploring. Check rates and availability here.
Karlin
The quiet little suburb of Karlin just to the east of the Old Town is another one of the best areas to stay in Prague. This compact area is super close to the Vltava River and a short walk away from the Old Town.
Karlin is also where you’ll find UAN Florenc bus station, from which buses depart to Cesky Krumlov and other cities in the Czech Republic making it a great place to stay for those who fancy doing a few day trips.
In Karlín you find good value accommodation and restaurants, bars and cafes that are more geared to local tastes than foreign ones. Basing yourself in Karlin is a great way to experience local life while also being close to all the hustle and bustle of the center.
The Best Places to Stay in Karlín, Prague
Botanique Hotel Prague – Probably one of the best places to stay in Prague in the Karlin area, this lovely Scandinavian style hotel has all the swoon-worthy, minimalist decor, in-room coffee machines and modern, well-lit rooms. On-site there’s also a bar, and hotel restaurant for quick bites and the metro is just 5 minutes away. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Mucha- Newly refurbished hotel just 200 yards from Florenc station offering large, modern and comfortable rooms, great breakfast and a great location. Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Royal Prague – Another excellent 4-star choice in Karlin, the Hotel Royal has lovely modern rooms and all the facilities as well as an in house spa in sauna- perfect for relaxing evenings after exploring the city. Check rates and availability.
Adeba Hotel – For a great budget option in Karlin, this hotel has bright and clean rooms, modern bathrooms and great service that’s just a 5-minute walk from Florenc bus station. Check rates and availability here.
Have you decided where to stay in Prague? Want more advice about the best places to stay in Prague? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.
Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!
Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals worldwide
Booking.com for great deals on hotels
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Related posts you might like:
2 Days in Prague: The Perfect First-Timer’s Itinerary
The Best Viewpoints in Prague: 11 Best Views of Prague You Can’t Miss
How to Get from Prague to Cesky Krumlov
Magical Things to Do in Český Krumlov
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