Though the tourist centre of Prague is compact and walkable, there are countless neighbourhoods in the Czech capital that make good bases when visiting this beautiful city. If you’re planning a trip and are wondering what the best area to stay in Prague is, then make sure to check out this guide.
It can be easy to assume that the best Prague neighbourhood to stay in would be in the Old Town, and while this isn’t a bad option depending on what you’re after, there are countless other areas in the city that are worthwhile choices.
From lovely Vinohrady to trendy Zizkov to hip Holesevice, there are countless cool and interesting neighbourhoods in Prague that can give you a great, holistic view of the city beyond the castle and the Charles Bridge.
So if you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Prague and are unsure where to start, use this guide to figure out which of the city’s distinct neighbourhoods is the right fit for you!
Where to Stay in Prague
Stare Mesto (Old Town) – Best Area to Stay for Sightseeing
One of the most obvious additions to a list of the best areas to stay in Prague is undoubtedly Stare Mesto, or the Old Town. The most iconic part of this historic city, this area isn’t home to many locals and is where the majority of concentration of tourists are.
Prices in the Old Town are the highest you will get in the entirety of the city, not only for accommodation but in other areas such as food a restaurant prices.
Because of its popularity, it can also get quite noisy and busy. This is also not the best neighbourhood to choose from if you’re interested in seeing what it is like for locals in the city as many choose not to live in this area – both because of high prices and crowds of visitors.
The Old Town can be a good option if you only have a short period of time in which to see Prague and you want to be as close as possible to the top attractions. It’s also a nice choice if you want to be in the centre of the action, are visiting Prague for the first time and don’t care too much about busyness and crowds.
Where to Stay in Stare Mesto
Miss Sophie’s Downtown – A boutique mid-range hotel in the heart of Prague that offers a range of rooms including single, double and family suites with some rooms having great city views. There is the option to include breakfast in the nightly rate. Click here to check their availability
Grand Hotel Bohemia – A luxury hotel in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, this hotel has beautifully decorated rooms with modern amenities. There is a restaurant and bar at the hotel with breakfast included in the room rate Click here to check their availability
Old Town Boutique Apartments – This place offers a fantastic range of apartments that is perfect if you’re looking for a self-catering option. Choices include studios and lofts that can accommodate larger families. Guests also have access to a shared terrace. Click here to check availability
The RoadHouse Prague – A social hostel located by the Vltava River, they offer a couple of different dorms with many modern comforts such as reading lights and a privacy curtain. Guests have access to a shared kitchen and common room area. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Stare Mesto!
Nove Mesto (New Town) – Best Area for Transport Links
If you want to be in the city centre, within walking distance of all of the top tourist attractions but think that the Old Town isn’t the right fit, then consider basing yourself in Nove Mesto — or the New Town. This area in central Prague is well-connected to the vast majority of main sites in the city and makes for an excellent option.
Nove Mesto is a large area that encompasses such areas as Wenceslas Square where a lot of Prague’s famous nightlife can be found all the way to Naplavka so there are lots of different areas within this neighbourhood to choose from. It has great transport links should you want to hop on a tram or metro but plenty is within easy walking distance, as well.
Though this still isn’t necessarily the least touristy area, you can definitely get a more local vibe here. There are plenty of locals who do live in this area and even more who work here, so both accommodation prices and restaurant prices will likely be lower than those in the Old Town.
It is also a lot easier to avoid tourist traps and scams in this neighbourhood, with the exception of Wenceslas Square.
Where to Stay in Nove Mesto
Mosaic House Design Hotel – A beautifully designed hotel in Prague’s New Town, they offer a range of amenities for guests including free bikes, a garden on-site and a bar. There is also the option to include a buffet breakfast in your nightly rate. Click here to check availability
Hotel CUBE Prague – A modern hotel located within a short walking distance of Prague’s many top attractions, they offer a range of comfortable rooms with breakfast included. Click here to check availability
Aparthotel Wenceslas – A good option if you’re looking to accommodate a larger family or group, this aparthotel has two and three-bedroom apartments with modern facilities. Click here to check availability
The Clock Inn – This hostel offers both dorm and private rooms with the entire floor being allocated to common areas meaning there are plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Nove Mesto!
Mala Strana – Best Area to Stay for Couples
If you want to be situated in one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Prague, be nestled in the foothills of the Prague castle and still be within easy reach of the Old Town, then Mala Strana (Lesser Town) is an excellent option for you. This area is on the other side of the Vltava River from the Old Town and is a beautiful little enclave of the city.
This part of Prague is filled with gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture and is within very close reach of the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle.
It is an area that is popular with tourists and can have a lot of crowds, but as soon as you wander a street or two away from the river or the castle, you will be greeted with quiet streets and more locally-focused shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants.
This is also one of the best areas to stay in Prague for couples, as the streets are incredibly romantic and walks on Petrin Hill can be a great experience.
Where to Stay in Mala Strana
Hotel Ikona – This mid-range hotel in Prague makes for a great option in Mala Strana. Located within spitting distance of the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, they have a number of lovely rooms available and offer a continental breakfast each morning. Click here to check availability
Hotel Pod Věží – If you’re after a luxury option in Mala Strana, then this 4-star hotel is a fantastic choice. Centrally located within easy reach of Prague’s top attractions, they have a range of plush rooms on offer, they are pet-friendly and there is even an on-site restaurant and bar. Click here to check availability
Old Royal Post Hotel – This hotel is another great option if you want some self-catering facilities while still being in a nice and comfortable setting. They have a few suite options complete with furnished kitchenettes and also some lovely regular rooms to choose from. Click here to check availability
Little Quarter Hostel – Located just a few minutes walk from Prague Castle, this hostel has a range of dorms and private rooms. There is a rooftop terrace and plenty of shared common space. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Mala Strana!
Vinohrady – Best Area to Stay for Families
Vinohrady is a very popular neighbourhood for people to live in Prague and it really isn’t hard to see why – it is, in my opinion, the prettiest area of the city.
Adorned with grand, pastel-coloured Art Nouveau buildings, plenty of lovely cobbled streets, inviting parks and a myriad of restaurants and cafes, this is definitely one of the best places to stay in Prague for visitors. There are also a number of parks nearby that make it a great option for families.
Vinohrady isn’t in the Old Town, but it is directly adjacent, meaning that it is incredibly easy to reach the city centre either on foot or via public transit. However, when based here, you can enjoy a much more local side of the city without having to pay tourist prices or dodge crowds.
The neighbourhood is also very quiet but due to its close proximity to the city centre and top attractions, makes for one of the best locations to stay in Prague for tourists.
Where to Stay in Vinohrady
Anna Hotel – This mid-range hotel is an excellent choice for a place to stay in Vinohrady. Located close to Namesti Miru, it is well-situated for exploring Prague and its lovely neighbourhood. They have a range of comfortable rooms to choose from. Click here to check availability
Clarion Hotel Prague City – If you’re looking for a little bit more luxury, then this 4-star hotel makes for a great place to stay in Prague. Located close to metro and tram stops, they have a number of lovely rooms available, breakfast on offer in the morning and they are pet-friendly. Click here to check availability
Eight Secrets Boutique Residence – For those interested to see what it’s like to actually live in this neighbourhood, these apartments are great options. They have a range of fully furnished flats available and a great location within easy reach of the city centre. Click here to check availability
Hostel One Miru – A small hostel with a handful of dorm rooms and a private room, this is another great social place to stay. There are regular activities organised by staff and modern comforts in the rooms such as individual plugs and curtains. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Vinohrady!
Zizkov – Best Area for Budget Travellers
Though it has a central location and is situated directly next to one of Prague’s most in-demand neighbourhoods (Vinohrady), the neighbourhood of Zizkov still struggles to shake its more gritty reputation.
However, if you’re looking for an affordable, unique and central area to stay in Prague that is away from tourist crowds, then Zizkov is a fantastic choice.
This district is about as well-located to the city centre as Vinohrady and you can get countless trams directly from Zizkov to the Old Town in around ten to fifteen minutes. Accommodation prices can also be some of the most affordable in the city without sacrificing quality.
Zizkov also boasts a lot of great restaurants including international and traditional Czech cuisine, cafes and pubs and you’re definitely going to get a very local vibe to the city if you stay here, without sacrificing proximity to the Old Town, Castle and main attractions.
This area is also a good option if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Prague for nightlife that is more local and not as geared towards tourists as the Old Town.
Where to Stay in Zizkov
Theatrino Hotel – Perfect for mid-range travellers, this hotel in Prague is located in a former theatre in a gorgeous Art Nouveau building. Well located a stone’s throw from a tram stop that will take you to the Old Town in just ten minutes, they also have a number of great rooms to choose from and breakfast available each morning. Click here to check availability
Carlton Hotel – Another well-located Zizkov hotel, this is another great place to stay in this cool neighbourhood. There are countless great rooms available, it’s located close to tram stops and they even offer an airport shuttle. Click here to check availability
Vitkov Park Apartment – Located close to Vitkov Hill, this studio apartment is great for those who are looking for a self-catering option in cool Zizkov. It is fully furnished with everything you would need for your stay and close to all of the cool things that this neighbourhood has to offer. Click here to check availability
Hostel Elf – Located in the hip Zizkov neighbourhood and only a short walk from the main train station, this hostel also has both dorms and private rooms with the staff organising events in the hostel and around Prague. Click here to check their availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zizkov!
Holesovice – Best Area To Get Off The Beaten Path
If you’re looking for another super cool area to stay in Prague that is well off the beaten tourist trail, then you can’t go wrong with Holesovice.
Located on the other side of the river from the Old Town, Holesovice is a very cool area filled with beautiful buildings and a lot of cool restaurants, bars, cafes and beer gardens.
In fact, if you’re interested in heading to a beer garden with one of the best views in Prague, Holesovice is located directly adjacent to Letna Park, where you can get a beautiful panoramic view of the city. Holesevice is also home to the Prague Market, a major market hall that sells an array of different things.
Despite not being on the typical tourist path, it is still quite centrally located and you can easily get around to the city centre and Prague’s top attractions.
Where to Stay in Holesovice
Mama Shelter Prague – This 4-star hotel is an excellent choice in the Holesovice area. Located close to Letna Park, they have a number of plush rooms available, two on-site restaurants and plenty of other amenities to ensure your stay is a great one. Click here to check availability
Plaza Prague Hotel – Another lovely 4-star hotel in Holesovice, this is a fantastic option to stay in this area of the city. Well-located to all the neighbourhood has to offer and close to transport links, they have a great breakfast available each morning and plenty of chic rooms to choose from. Click here to check availability
Trendy Local Apartment – Holesovice is a great neighbourhood to pretend you’re a local in Prague and this apartment is a great place to do it in! It is fully furnished, set in a beautiful Art Nouveau building and quite well-located for exploring both the neighbourhood and Prague as a whole. Click here to check availability
Sir Toby’s Hostel – Another great social hostel in Prague offering both dorms and private rooms. There is a large common area and a garden for guests to enjoy. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Holesovice!
Karlin – Best Area for Trendy Visitors
Across the river from Holesovice and on the other side of Vitkov Hill from Zizkov lies cool and trendy Karlin, a great area to stay in Prague for tourists looking for something very close to the old town, but still away from the beaten trail.
Karlin has a lot to offer visitors – like so many areas in Prague, there is beautiful architecture here and lots of cool cafes and restaurants to check out.
There are many pubs and beer gardens to enjoy and these are probably going to be the least popular among foreign visitors – but incredibly popular among young locals.
Karlin is also very well-located for getting to the city centre, with both metro and tram lines taking you to the old town in around ten to fifteen minutes. All in all, it is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cool area that is super well-located for exploring the city.
Where to Stay in Karlin
Seven Wishes Boutique Residence – If you want your own place while staying in Karlin, these apartments are a great option. There are a number of chic and comfortable fully furnished flats to choose from, ranging from studios to those accommodating up to 6 adults. They are also well located for exploring the neighbourhood and the city in general. Click here to check availability
Hotel Royal Prague – This swanky four-star hotel is a great option if you’re looking for a sleek and modern place to stay in Karlin. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from, they have a spa and wellness centre and are even pet-friendly. Click here to check availability
Florenc Hostel – Located next to one of Prague’s major bus stations, this hostel has everything you need for a comfortable stay with smaller dorms compared to many other hostels as well as private rooms available. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Karlin!
Smichov – Best Area for a Local Feel
If you want to stay in quite a local area of Prague that is still very well-located to the top attractions, the Smichov may be a great choice for you. Located across the river from Vysehrad, there is a lot in this neighbourhood to offer and it is a place where plenty of locals call their home, as well.
There are plenty of transport links in this area that can take you anywhere you may want in the city. There is also a wonderful farmer’s market to enjoy some days of the week, a shopping centre and lovely streets to wander without a lot of tourists around.
Smichov is also home to some great restaurants, pubs and cafes that cater far more to locals than to tourists, so you can be sure you will get a true “Prague experience” if you choose to stay in this neighbourhood.
Where to Stay in Smichov
Light Rooms Prague – This mid-range hotel is a great option in the Smichov area. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, some including a hot tub and sauna, and a fantastic location for exploring Prague and the neighbourhood itself. Click here to check availability
Hotel Julian – This grand hotel in Smichov is located only a fifteen-minute walk from the Charles Bridge, but is still situated in quite a local neighbourhood. They have a number of great rooms available, a beautiful rooftop terrace with excellent views of the city and plenty more to offer visitors. Click here to check availability
Aparthotel Austria Suites – This pet-friendly aparthotel is an excellent option for those looking for a self-catering choice in Prague. They have both one and two-bedroom suites available and are well-located for explore this area of the city and for getting to the top attractions in the Czech capital. Click here to check availability
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Smichov!
With so many neighbourhoods to choose from, it can be hard to determine the best area to stay in Prague. Whether you want to be in the centre of the action or want to spend time in a trendy area filled with hip, young locals – there is something for everyone in the capital of the Czech Republic.
Are you wondering where to stay in Prague? Have any questions about these areas? Let us know in the comments!
