Where to Stay in Prague: The Best Areas for Your Visit
Prague is among the most-visited cities in Europe and for a good reason. A city with a tumultuous and fascinating history dating to medieval times, delectable cuisine, world-famous beer, and an incredible art scene, the Czech capital has a lot to offer. Among the best things to do in Prague is explore its historic and cultural heritage in Old Town, Hradčany, and Malá Strana.
But where to stay in Prague to explore the art scene, delicious gastronomy, and lively nightlife? In this article, we will discuss the best hotel to stay in Prague for travelers with different interests and budgets. We will also try to decide how long to stay in Prague to experience the city in full.
Travelers looking to wander the streets of the Czech capital and marvel at the Gothic and Baroque architecture cannot miss Old Town and Hradčany districts. Start at the Old Town Square, one of the most captivating places in the city dominated by the Gothic Town Hall and Tyn Church. The highlight is of course the Astronomical Clock, the oldest clock in operation. If you’re seeking where to stay in Prague's Old Town, take a walk in this breathtaking neighborhood to find accommodation that fits your budget.
Hradčany is another best area to stay in Prague known for the Prague Castle and incredible views of the Vltava River. Sitting on Petrin Hill the district is full of historic palaces and medieval houses inviting history buffs to roam the streets and learn the country’s past. The Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century and hides numerous treasures, including the National Gallery, the Convent of St. George, and St. George’s Basilica.
Why Old Town and Hradčany: Stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, walking distance to all major historical sites, incredible views of the city
Why not Old Town and Hradčany: Crowded and touristy, higher prices for accommodation.
Best Hotels: The Mozart Prague, Four Seasons, Augustine.
Perfect for: First-timers, sightseers, and history buffs.
Where to stay in Prague to avoid crowds and the city noise? Vinohrady offers a serene break from the capital’s hustle and bustle with just a few subway stations away from the center. The neighborhood is famous for its vineyards which is captured in its name. Although it has transformed into a residential district, the remnants of its leafy past remain visible.
The neighborhood is brimming with boutiques and galleries as well as cozy cafes and restaurants with a local atmosphere and delicious Czech cuisine. Here, you can visit a local market at the Peace Square to find various art pieces, jewelry and clothing, as well as tasty treats. Another notable landmark is the St. Ludmila Church, a neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century.
Why Vinohrady: Central yet quiet and tranquil, full of greenery, a wide selection of cafes and restaurants.
Why not Vinohrady: Lack of tourist-oriented locations, fewer nightlife spots, residential area.
Best Hotels: Hotel Ametyst, Czech Inn, Fleur De Lis Hotel.
Perfect for: Couples, families, foodies, travelers looking for a quiet vacation away from the city’s noise and traffic.
The best neighborhood to stay in Prague for a romantic getaway is Vyšehrad, an area with parks, beautiful sights, and excellent cuisine. The neighborhood will astonish you with medieval gates and fortifications set against the backdrop of gorgeous views of Prague’s skyline. Especially in the evening, head to the castle to enjoy magical views of the sunset overlooking the entire city.
Where to stay in Prague for couples? The streets of Vyšehrad are strikingly green and lush, perfect for romantic afternoon strolls. If the weather allows, pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch among blooming flowers near the neo-Gothic Peter and Paul Basilica. Later, take a walk at the local cemetery to visit the resting places of numerous notable Czechs, including composers Dvorak and Smetana. In the summer, you can also enjoy an open-air concert or theater performance hosted in the neighborhood.
Why Vyšehrad: Stunning views of the skyline, numerous parks and gardens, historical buildings.
Why not Vyšehrad: Limited dining spots, removed from the city center.
Best Hotels: Hermitage Hotel Prague, U Semika, Vyšehrad Castle
Perfect for: Couples, families, romantics.
Families looking for a serene yet dynamic neighborhood should give Malá Strana a chance. Where to stay in Prague for first-timers traveling with children? Malá Strana or Little Quarter is one of the most charming and adorable districts in the whole of Europe. From narrow cobblestone paths to typical fountainous squares, and mesmerizing palaces, Malá Strana is a perfect getaway for families.
Malá Strana answers the question of where is the best place to stay in Prague for sightseeing. Take a stroll along the Vltava river embankment to marvel at the historic buildings and take in the city’s old-world vibe. Since the 17th-century reformation, the district became a hipster place full of aristocrats and philanthropists who invested in mansions and palaces reimagining the entire look of the neighborhood. The highlight is probably Charles Bridge, one of the most famous Czech landmarks surrounded by gardens, churches, river views, and numerous eateries.
Why Malá Strana: Central and well-connected neighborhood, close proximity to most major sites, fairy-tale atmosphere, many parks and gardens.
Why not Malá Strana: Crowded in the high season, higher prices for dining and accommodation.
Best Hotels: Hotel Pod Veží, House at the Big Boot, Appia Hotel Residence.
Perfect for: Families, couples, history buffs.
Finding accommodation in Prague for those seeking unique and special experiences can be quite difficult. Vršovice is a neighborhood perfectly suited for sports enthusiasts with its wide array of spas, gyms, sports clubs, and pools. Start at the Dolicek or Sinobo Stadium to catch a game of soccer and head to the district’s many parks and gardens to spend a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Later, you can treat yourself to a well-deserved facial and mud bath at a local spa resort.
Where to stay in Prague as a tourist looking to immerse themselves in the culture? Although a residential neighborhood on a quiet side, Vršovice still offers a range of cafes and bars for a fun nightcap. If you’re lucky, you can even witness a live music event with soothing jazz or dynamic rock performances. The area is also known for a selection of vintage and boutique shopping by local and international vendors.
Why Vršovice: Sports and soccer clubs, relaxing spas, luscious parks, local atmosphere, numerous dining options.
Why not Vršovice: Far removed from the city center and major attractions.
Best Hotels: Iris Hotel Eden, Residence Trafick.
Perfect for: soccer fans, couples, foodies, nature lovers.
What area to stay in Prague to soak in the charm and magic of the Czech capital city? Karlín is an adorable neighborhood located near the center full of pubs, cafes, and wineries. Despite its present-day appeal, the neighborhood had a rocky past. In 2002, the Vltava River was overflowed which caused a devastating flood and damaged several notable buildings. This situation made the accommodation in the area more affordable which attracted artists and other creatives. Nowadays, the region is full of studios, ateliers, and galleries where local visionaries create their masterpieces.
Karlín is a trendy neighborhood with exciting nightlife, inspiring art galleries and studios, and countless bars and pubs. Stop by one of them to indulge in delectable Czech delicacies, sample world-famous Czech beer, and enjoy the company of friendly local patrons.
Why Karlín: Up-and-coming neighborhood, endless cafes, pubs, and shops, fewer crowds.
Why not Karlín: Limited tourist locations, certain areas are still in development.
Best Hotels: Hotel Royal Prague, Hotel Karlín, Hotel Prague.
Perfect for: Tourists looking for a more quiet yet eventful vacation.
Where is the best place to stay in Prague to experience gourmet dining alongside budget-friendly eateries? Nové Město, or New Town, brims with Art Nouveau architecture, museums, galleries, and theaters. From National Theater and State Opera to smaller local performing arts venues, the district is a treasure trove for art lovers. The area was built in the 14th century when Old Town became too overcrowded. Since then, the neighborhood has been an important place full of modern bookshops, casinos, and boutique stores.
However, the highlight of the area is its countless dining options. Head to Na Prikope Street to feast on traditional dishes, international recipes, and modern creations. At the Wenceslas Square, you will find a slew of places to have lunch where you can sample Czech cuisine, other European meals, international offerings, and anything in between.
Why Nové Město: Central and historical location, numerous shopping opportunities, great variety of restaurants, convenient transport connections.
Why not Nové Město: Crowded during high season, noisy and busy, higher prices for accommodation and dining.
Best Hotels: Grandium Hotel, Ramada, Ibis.
Perfect for: Foodies, shoppers, sightseers.
Holešovice is among the best places to stay in Prague for art lovers. The DOX Center for Contemporary Art, Veletrzni Palac, and endless street art are all nestled in this beautiful neighborhood. The iconic Airship Gulliver is also located in Holešovice, a unique monument inspired by formerly ubiquitous airships placed on the rooftop of the art gallery.
In addition to art, the neighborhood is full of nightlife and clubbing as well as bars, restaurants, and cafes. A hip area, Holešovice invites you to spend an evening discovering exciting nightlife locations, enjoying live music performances, and conversing with locals and tourists over a pint of beer.
Finally, carve out some time to arrange a nice picnic at Královská Obora Stromovka City Park to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and marvel at the breathtaking vistas. The nearby Holešovická Kosa allows adventure seekers to hop on a hiking route to see more of the Czech natural beauty.
Why Holešovice: Home to numerous art galleries, amazing street art, quiet and local vibe.
Why not Holešovice: Fewer accommodation spots, far removed from the city center.
Best Hotels: King’s Residence, Belvedere, Residence Vysta.
Perfect for: Art lovers, nature enthusiasts.
Where is the best area to stay in Prague for a summer vacation? Náplavka is a promenade set along the riverbank full of bars and restaurants overlooking the beautiful Vltava River. About a kilometer long, Náplavka comes alive in the summer, with numerous boats turning into modern cafes and bars. As the beer flows, visitors can enjoy astonishing views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
On a warm sunny day, locals and visitors flock to Náplavka to enjoy sunbathing and people-watching. If you’re looking for a more active summer vacation, try your hand at paddleboarding and rowboating to experience Prague from a different angle. You can also rent a bike to explore the city’s riverside paths and lush greenery.
During summer, the area becomes the center of open-air festivals and events like the Prague International Dragon Boat Festival, Food Festival, and more. At night, the district is illuminated with colorful sunsets, live music performances, and cinema screenings under the sky.
Why Náplavka: Riverside atmosphere, a plethora of bars and events, various water activities.
Why not Náplavka: Noisy nightlife, busy during summer holidays and weekends.
Best Hotels: Hermitage Hotel, Botel Admiral.
Perfect for: Visitors looking for relaxing and fun summer activities.
Wondering where to stay in Prague for nightlife? Look no further, Žižkov is a working-class neighborhood with a vast collection of local pubs. A historically left-wing independent town separate from Prague, Žižkov still offers the remnants of the once Free Republic of Žižkov. Nowadays, the district is proud to have more pubs per square kilometer than any other European neighborhood. Don’t miss a chance to experience this upbeat area on the walking tours in Prague. Stop by Bar Behind the Curtain to indulge in delicious inventive cocktails and Tiki Taky Bar to sample Hawaiian beverages.
Aside from an incredible nightlife scene, Žižkov offers an array of historical and cultural experiences. From the monument of Jan Žižkov perched on top of a hill to museum tours at the Czech History Museum to the Czech Army Museum, the area is full of significant landmarks. Climb the Žižkov TV Tower to get a better view of the majestic city.
Why Žižkov: Lively nightlife, numerous bars and pubs, non-touristy vibe, lower prices for accommodation.
Why not Žižkov: Residential, far removed from the city center, noisy at night.
Best Hotels: Three Crowns, Ariston, Ehrlich.
Perfect for: Pub-crawlers, friend groups, bachelor parties.
Among the top places to stay in Prague, Czech Republic to experience Christmas holidays is the Old Town. The cornerstone of the city’s Christmas celebration is the Old Town Square. One of the most beloved Christmas markets in Europe, it opens in late November and stretches until early January. A massive Christmas tree is surrounded by adorable stalls, festive decorations, and delicious treats.
Old Town Square is the perfect answer to where to stay in Prague for the first time. Here, visitors can purchase hand-blown glass ornaments to adorn their Christmas trees, numerous wooden toys, and masterfully created gingerbread houses. The air is filled with holiday specialties such as mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and Czech finger food. From hearty fish soup and potato salad to sweet trdelnik and medovnik, Czech cuisine never lets down.
The square also hosts various Christmas events, including carols, folk dances, and puppet shows. If you’re looking for a more spiritual holiday activity, head to the Church of Our Lady before Týn for a midnight church service.
Why Old Town: Home to the main Christmas market, magical decorations and atmosphere.
Why not Old Town: Higher prices for accommodation, crowded during the holiday season.
Best Hotels: Karlova 25 Apartments, Jungmann, Astoria.
Perfect for: Christmas market enthusiasts, first-timers.
The best place to stay in Prague for visitors on a tight budget is Smíchov. A formerly industrial area full of factories and mills, Smíchov has been transformed into a creative hub. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local and international art scene at Futura Gallery, Vystava Fotografii, XPgallery, and others. Here, you can also experience local theater performances at MeetFactory and Jazz Dock.
Despite being far removed from the center, Smíchov offers numerous public transport connections allowing you to travel anywhere. The main appeal of the neighborhood is its affordability. The area is brimming with budget-friendly hotels and rentals enabling travelers on a budget to take advantage of more luxurious facilities without breaking the bank.
Smíchov also offers a wide range of eateries and shopping opportunities alongside low-cost attractions. From public parks and observation towers to charming cobblestone streets, you will certainly find where to spend your time.
Why Smíchov: Lower prices for accommodation and dining, great public transportation system, numerous shopping spots.
Why not Smíchov: Fewer tourist attractions, residential area.
Best Hotels: Occidental Praha, Julian, Bohem Prague.
Perfect for: Budget travelers.
All in all, Prague is home to many districts each offering a unique experience. From historical landmarks in Old Town and Malá Strana to the excellent art scene in Holešovice and the romantic feel of Vyšehrad, the Czech capital has something for everyone. But how long to stay in Prague to take advantage of all its perks? It’s recommended to dedicate at least four to five days to explore the city to its fullest. The charming streets of Karlín and the dynamic nightlife of Žižkov are awaiting you in this majestic Eastern European city.
But where to stay in Prague to explore the art scene, delicious gastronomy, and lively nightlife? In this article, we will discuss the best hotel to stay in Prague for travelers with different interests and budgets. We will also try to decide how long to stay in Prague to experience the city in full.
Where to Stay for Architecture and History: Old Town and Hradčany
Travelers looking to wander the streets of the Czech capital and marvel at the Gothic and Baroque architecture cannot miss Old Town and Hradčany districts. Start at the Old Town Square, one of the most captivating places in the city dominated by the Gothic Town Hall and Tyn Church. The highlight is of course the Astronomical Clock, the oldest clock in operation. If you’re seeking where to stay in Prague's Old Town, take a walk in this breathtaking neighborhood to find accommodation that fits your budget.
Hradčany is another best area to stay in Prague known for the Prague Castle and incredible views of the Vltava River. Sitting on Petrin Hill the district is full of historic palaces and medieval houses inviting history buffs to roam the streets and learn the country’s past. The Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century and hides numerous treasures, including the National Gallery, the Convent of St. George, and St. George’s Basilica.
Why Old Town and Hradčany: Stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, walking distance to all major historical sites, incredible views of the city
Why not Old Town and Hradčany: Crowded and touristy, higher prices for accommodation.
Best Hotels: The Mozart Prague, Four Seasons, Augustine.
Perfect for: First-timers, sightseers, and history buffs.
Where to Stay for a Quiet Stay: Vinohrady
Where to stay in Prague to avoid crowds and the city noise? Vinohrady offers a serene break from the capital’s hustle and bustle with just a few subway stations away from the center. The neighborhood is famous for its vineyards which is captured in its name. Although it has transformed into a residential district, the remnants of its leafy past remain visible.
The neighborhood is brimming with boutiques and galleries as well as cozy cafes and restaurants with a local atmosphere and delicious Czech cuisine. Here, you can visit a local market at the Peace Square to find various art pieces, jewelry and clothing, as well as tasty treats. Another notable landmark is the St. Ludmila Church, a neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century.
Why Vinohrady: Central yet quiet and tranquil, full of greenery, a wide selection of cafes and restaurants.
Why not Vinohrady: Lack of tourist-oriented locations, fewer nightlife spots, residential area.
Best Hotels: Hotel Ametyst, Czech Inn, Fleur De Lis Hotel.
Perfect for: Couples, families, foodies, travelers looking for a quiet vacation away from the city’s noise and traffic.
Where to Stay for Couples: Vyšehrad
The best neighborhood to stay in Prague for a romantic getaway is Vyšehrad, an area with parks, beautiful sights, and excellent cuisine. The neighborhood will astonish you with medieval gates and fortifications set against the backdrop of gorgeous views of Prague’s skyline. Especially in the evening, head to the castle to enjoy magical views of the sunset overlooking the entire city.
Where to stay in Prague for couples? The streets of Vyšehrad are strikingly green and lush, perfect for romantic afternoon strolls. If the weather allows, pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch among blooming flowers near the neo-Gothic Peter and Paul Basilica. Later, take a walk at the local cemetery to visit the resting places of numerous notable Czechs, including composers Dvorak and Smetana. In the summer, you can also enjoy an open-air concert or theater performance hosted in the neighborhood.
Why Vyšehrad: Stunning views of the skyline, numerous parks and gardens, historical buildings.
Why not Vyšehrad: Limited dining spots, removed from the city center.
Best Hotels: Hermitage Hotel Prague, U Semika, Vyšehrad Castle
Perfect for: Couples, families, romantics.
Where to Stay for Families: Malá Strana
Families looking for a serene yet dynamic neighborhood should give Malá Strana a chance. Where to stay in Prague for first-timers traveling with children? Malá Strana or Little Quarter is one of the most charming and adorable districts in the whole of Europe. From narrow cobblestone paths to typical fountainous squares, and mesmerizing palaces, Malá Strana is a perfect getaway for families.
Malá Strana answers the question of where is the best place to stay in Prague for sightseeing. Take a stroll along the Vltava river embankment to marvel at the historic buildings and take in the city’s old-world vibe. Since the 17th-century reformation, the district became a hipster place full of aristocrats and philanthropists who invested in mansions and palaces reimagining the entire look of the neighborhood. The highlight is probably Charles Bridge, one of the most famous Czech landmarks surrounded by gardens, churches, river views, and numerous eateries.
Why Malá Strana: Central and well-connected neighborhood, close proximity to most major sites, fairy-tale atmosphere, many parks and gardens.
Why not Malá Strana: Crowded in the high season, higher prices for dining and accommodation.
Best Hotels: Hotel Pod Veží, House at the Big Boot, Appia Hotel Residence.
Perfect for: Families, couples, history buffs.
Where to Stay for a Special Occasion: Vršovice
Finding accommodation in Prague for those seeking unique and special experiences can be quite difficult. Vršovice is a neighborhood perfectly suited for sports enthusiasts with its wide array of spas, gyms, sports clubs, and pools. Start at the Dolicek or Sinobo Stadium to catch a game of soccer and head to the district’s many parks and gardens to spend a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Later, you can treat yourself to a well-deserved facial and mud bath at a local spa resort.
Where to stay in Prague as a tourist looking to immerse themselves in the culture? Although a residential neighborhood on a quiet side, Vršovice still offers a range of cafes and bars for a fun nightcap. If you’re lucky, you can even witness a live music event with soothing jazz or dynamic rock performances. The area is also known for a selection of vintage and boutique shopping by local and international vendors.
Why Vršovice: Sports and soccer clubs, relaxing spas, luscious parks, local atmosphere, numerous dining options.
Why not Vršovice: Far removed from the city center and major attractions.
Best Hotels: Iris Hotel Eden, Residence Trafick.
Perfect for: soccer fans, couples, foodies, nature lovers.
Where to Stay for Charm: Karlín
What area to stay in Prague to soak in the charm and magic of the Czech capital city? Karlín is an adorable neighborhood located near the center full of pubs, cafes, and wineries. Despite its present-day appeal, the neighborhood had a rocky past. In 2002, the Vltava River was overflowed which caused a devastating flood and damaged several notable buildings. This situation made the accommodation in the area more affordable which attracted artists and other creatives. Nowadays, the region is full of studios, ateliers, and galleries where local visionaries create their masterpieces.
Karlín is a trendy neighborhood with exciting nightlife, inspiring art galleries and studios, and countless bars and pubs. Stop by one of them to indulge in delectable Czech delicacies, sample world-famous Czech beer, and enjoy the company of friendly local patrons.
Why Karlín: Up-and-coming neighborhood, endless cafes, pubs, and shops, fewer crowds.
Why not Karlín: Limited tourist locations, certain areas are still in development.
Best Hotels: Hotel Royal Prague, Hotel Karlín, Hotel Prague.
Perfect for: Tourists looking for a more quiet yet eventful vacation.
Where to Stay for Foodies: Nové Město
Where is the best place to stay in Prague to experience gourmet dining alongside budget-friendly eateries? Nové Město, or New Town, brims with Art Nouveau architecture, museums, galleries, and theaters. From National Theater and State Opera to smaller local performing arts venues, the district is a treasure trove for art lovers. The area was built in the 14th century when Old Town became too overcrowded. Since then, the neighborhood has been an important place full of modern bookshops, casinos, and boutique stores.
However, the highlight of the area is its countless dining options. Head to Na Prikope Street to feast on traditional dishes, international recipes, and modern creations. At the Wenceslas Square, you will find a slew of places to have lunch where you can sample Czech cuisine, other European meals, international offerings, and anything in between.
Why Nové Město: Central and historical location, numerous shopping opportunities, great variety of restaurants, convenient transport connections.
Why not Nové Město: Crowded during high season, noisy and busy, higher prices for accommodation and dining.
Best Hotels: Grandium Hotel, Ramada, Ibis.
Perfect for: Foodies, shoppers, sightseers.
Where to Stay for Art Lovers: Holešovice
Holešovice is among the best places to stay in Prague for art lovers. The DOX Center for Contemporary Art, Veletrzni Palac, and endless street art are all nestled in this beautiful neighborhood. The iconic Airship Gulliver is also located in Holešovice, a unique monument inspired by formerly ubiquitous airships placed on the rooftop of the art gallery.
In addition to art, the neighborhood is full of nightlife and clubbing as well as bars, restaurants, and cafes. A hip area, Holešovice invites you to spend an evening discovering exciting nightlife locations, enjoying live music performances, and conversing with locals and tourists over a pint of beer.
Finally, carve out some time to arrange a nice picnic at Královská Obora Stromovka City Park to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and marvel at the breathtaking vistas. The nearby Holešovická Kosa allows adventure seekers to hop on a hiking route to see more of the Czech natural beauty.
Why Holešovice: Home to numerous art galleries, amazing street art, quiet and local vibe.
Why not Holešovice: Fewer accommodation spots, far removed from the city center.
Best Hotels: King’s Residence, Belvedere, Residence Vysta.
Perfect for: Art lovers, nature enthusiasts.
Where to Stay for Summer Fun: Náplavka
Where is the best area to stay in Prague for a summer vacation? Náplavka is a promenade set along the riverbank full of bars and restaurants overlooking the beautiful Vltava River. About a kilometer long, Náplavka comes alive in the summer, with numerous boats turning into modern cafes and bars. As the beer flows, visitors can enjoy astonishing views of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
On a warm sunny day, locals and visitors flock to Náplavka to enjoy sunbathing and people-watching. If you’re looking for a more active summer vacation, try your hand at paddleboarding and rowboating to experience Prague from a different angle. You can also rent a bike to explore the city’s riverside paths and lush greenery.
During summer, the area becomes the center of open-air festivals and events like the Prague International Dragon Boat Festival, Food Festival, and more. At night, the district is illuminated with colorful sunsets, live music performances, and cinema screenings under the sky.
Why Náplavka: Riverside atmosphere, a plethora of bars and events, various water activities.
Why not Náplavka: Noisy nightlife, busy during summer holidays and weekends.
Best Hotels: Hermitage Hotel, Botel Admiral.
Perfect for: Visitors looking for relaxing and fun summer activities.
Where to Stay for Nightlife: Žižkov
Wondering where to stay in Prague for nightlife? Look no further, Žižkov is a working-class neighborhood with a vast collection of local pubs. A historically left-wing independent town separate from Prague, Žižkov still offers the remnants of the once Free Republic of Žižkov. Nowadays, the district is proud to have more pubs per square kilometer than any other European neighborhood. Don’t miss a chance to experience this upbeat area on the walking tours in Prague. Stop by Bar Behind the Curtain to indulge in delicious inventive cocktails and Tiki Taky Bar to sample Hawaiian beverages.
Aside from an incredible nightlife scene, Žižkov offers an array of historical and cultural experiences. From the monument of Jan Žižkov perched on top of a hill to museum tours at the Czech History Museum to the Czech Army Museum, the area is full of significant landmarks. Climb the Žižkov TV Tower to get a better view of the majestic city.
Why Žižkov: Lively nightlife, numerous bars and pubs, non-touristy vibe, lower prices for accommodation.
Why not Žižkov: Residential, far removed from the city center, noisy at night.
Best Hotels: Three Crowns, Ariston, Ehrlich.
Perfect for: Pub-crawlers, friend groups, bachelor parties.
Where to Stay for Christmas: Old Town
Among the top places to stay in Prague, Czech Republic to experience Christmas holidays is the Old Town. The cornerstone of the city’s Christmas celebration is the Old Town Square. One of the most beloved Christmas markets in Europe, it opens in late November and stretches until early January. A massive Christmas tree is surrounded by adorable stalls, festive decorations, and delicious treats.
Old Town Square is the perfect answer to where to stay in Prague for the first time. Here, visitors can purchase hand-blown glass ornaments to adorn their Christmas trees, numerous wooden toys, and masterfully created gingerbread houses. The air is filled with holiday specialties such as mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and Czech finger food. From hearty fish soup and potato salad to sweet trdelnik and medovnik, Czech cuisine never lets down.
The square also hosts various Christmas events, including carols, folk dances, and puppet shows. If you’re looking for a more spiritual holiday activity, head to the Church of Our Lady before Týn for a midnight church service.
Why Old Town: Home to the main Christmas market, magical decorations and atmosphere.
Why not Old Town: Higher prices for accommodation, crowded during the holiday season.
Best Hotels: Karlova 25 Apartments, Jungmann, Astoria.
Perfect for: Christmas market enthusiasts, first-timers.
Where to Stay for Budget Travelers: Smíchov
The best place to stay in Prague for visitors on a tight budget is Smíchov. A formerly industrial area full of factories and mills, Smíchov has been transformed into a creative hub. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local and international art scene at Futura Gallery, Vystava Fotografii, XPgallery, and others. Here, you can also experience local theater performances at MeetFactory and Jazz Dock.
Despite being far removed from the center, Smíchov offers numerous public transport connections allowing you to travel anywhere. The main appeal of the neighborhood is its affordability. The area is brimming with budget-friendly hotels and rentals enabling travelers on a budget to take advantage of more luxurious facilities without breaking the bank.
Smíchov also offers a wide range of eateries and shopping opportunities alongside low-cost attractions. From public parks and observation towers to charming cobblestone streets, you will certainly find where to spend your time.
Why Smíchov: Lower prices for accommodation and dining, great public transportation system, numerous shopping spots.
Why not Smíchov: Fewer tourist attractions, residential area.
Best Hotels: Occidental Praha, Julian, Bohem Prague.
Perfect for: Budget travelers.
Conclusion
All in all, Prague is home to many districts each offering a unique experience. From historical landmarks in Old Town and Malá Strana to the excellent art scene in Holešovice and the romantic feel of Vyšehrad, the Czech capital has something for everyone. But how long to stay in Prague to take advantage of all its perks? It’s recommended to dedicate at least four to five days to explore the city to its fullest. The charming streets of Karlín and the dynamic nightlife of Žižkov are awaiting you in this majestic Eastern European city.
