Last updated on January 4th, 2024 at 12:02 pm
If you’re wondering where to stay in Prague, one of our most beloved cities on earth, this guide to the best areas to stay in Prague is here to answer all your questions.
Starting with the fundamental one. Which is the best area to stay in Prague? Well, many have a claim. But with such a breadth of personality, it’s a chance to discover a district that speaks right to your heart. Therefore, don’t waste any time. Proceed to read our guide on the best areas to stay in Prague.
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Understanding Prague’s Districts
Prague is divided into ten municipal districts. This is why you’ll see Praha 1, Praha 2 etc displayed on the city’s street signs, alongside the area’s name. When shown on a map, these districts of Prague make for a beautiful kaleidoscopic look at the city. Each has its own distinct taste and a touch of the remarkable town planning that has occurred over the last 500 years.
However, the ten best places to stay in Prague we explore below don’t correspond to the city’s ten municipal districts. We thought it would be more efficient to use the name of the neighbourhood in question rather than the number attributed to the area because names are easier to remember when trying to tell the best areas to stay in Prague apart.
Our Favourite Hotel in Prague
Before we go into detail about the best areas to stay in Prague, here’s our recommendation for the best hotel in Prague. As you may already know, we’ve been to Prague several times – and we plan to keep going back. Throughout the years, we’ve stayed at various hotels and B&Bs but there’s one that has a special place in our hearts: The Mozart Hotel Prague.
Housed in a Baroque palace, The Mozart Hotel is not only one of the finest luxury hotels in Prague but a part of Prague’s living history. As such, a stay at this historic 5-star hotel is one of the best things to do in Prague in its own right.
Back in the 18th century, the residents of the palace were avid art and music lovers. Their list of famous guests included names such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Giacomo Casanova.
Sleeping within the same walls as eminent personalities of the past doesn’t happen every day. This is why we love The Mozart Hotel Prague so much. But also for its elegantly decorated rooms that have an aura of times gone by. Some of them boast spectacular views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River.
Have a look at all the available room types and book your accommodation at The Mozart Hotel here.
Where To Stay in Prague at a Glance
- Where to stay in Prague for first-timers: Old Town (Staré Město)
- Where to stay in Prague for sightseeing: New Town (Nové Město)
- Where to stay in Prague for couples: Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
- Where to stay in Prague with family: Vyšehrad
- Where to stay in Prague for nightlife: Old Town (Staré Město) or Žižkov
- Where to stay in Prague for Christmas markets: Old Town (Staré Město) or New Town (Nové Město)
- Where to stay in Prague as a digital nomad: Vinohrady or Holešovice
10 Best Areas To Stay in Prague
1. Old Town (Staré Město) & Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
Prague sends its wily charms directly to you as soon as you enter its realm. You’ll find it everywhere, but it’s never as pronounced as it is in Stare Mesto and Josefov. The city’s Old Town and Jewish Quarter are compact and lathered with historic ambience.
Narrow back streets lead you on a whimsical journey by ancient Baroque and Gothic architecture. It’s the perfect place to get lost and simultaneously found as you stumble upon a local watering hole for a thirst-quenching pilsner.
Top Attractions
The Old Town is one of the most popular places in Prague. The major highlight of Staré Město is the Old Town Square and its medieval buildings. Within you’ll find the city hall’s beloved Astronomical Clock that sends you right back to the early years of the 15th century.
Near Republic Square, the Powder Tower, which marks the start of the Royal Route, dates back to 1475. It’s the beginning of a memorable walk, taking you through the heart of Prague’s history and across the delightful Charles Bridge, into Lesser Town.
Within the Jewish Quarter, you’ll find six picturesque synagogues and several museums that trace the area’s history back over 1,000 years. In addition to these historic sights, the Old Town harbours some of the city’s best nightlife.
Pros
- The epitome of Prague’s beauty
- Compact and easy to get around
- History around every corner
- Captivating nightlife
- Ideal for first-time visitors
Cons
- Can get awfully crowded
- Next to zero chances to mingle with locals
- Nightlife can be rowdy
Hotel Recommendations
The Mozart Hotel Prague: Only a very short walk from Charles Bridge, this hotel boasts the best location to stay in Prague. The historic 5-star Mozart Hotel offers unique rooms and suites along with mouthwatering breakfast, lunch or dinner at the hotel’s marvellous courtyard.
Hotel Residence Agnes: What made us add this hotel to our list of the best hotels to stay in Prague Old Town was the impeccable review score on Booking.com. Located in the Jewish Quarter, this 4-star boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, breakfast to die for and super-friendly and accommodating staff.
Allure Hotel Prague: Built in 1909 in the Jewish Quarter, a renovated Art Nouveu building houses today’s Allure Hotel. The hotel features a splendid staircase, a minimal cocktail bar where experienced mixologists create wonders and elegant rooms reflecting the building’s charm.
2. Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
Set across Charles Bridge and along the banks of the Vltava River, Malá Strana is colourfully layered with history and elegance. Cobblestone alleys from the 1200s pave the way for your exploration as you uncover a neighbourhood frozen in time.
The Lesser Town evokes the height of Renaissance romanticism with palaces encased in vibrant gardens, churches whose spires scrape the heavens and the Vltava, which sparkles under the Czech sun. Hence, it’s the best place to stay in Prague for couples in love.
It’s no wonder you’ll find ample fellow travellers right here. Its busyness could be a harbinger of doom for some. But it’s worth persevering with as Mala Strana is captivating, yet only a short wander to other neighbouring districts in Prague.
Top Attractions
Like the Old Town, there’s great value in exploring the Lesser Town without a destination. Quaint streets lead to historic burgher houses and untold surprises. But be sure to make time for Malostranske Square and St. Nicholas Church. The latter is arguably the city’s best example of Baroque architecture and was completed in 1755.
Last, and certainly not least, are the Lesser Town Bridge Towers. Climb to the top of the higher tower for fabulous views of the city.
Pros
- Elegant and romantic
- Walkable
- Packed with history
Cons
- Busy and condensed
Hotel Recommendations
Hotel Nerudova 211: This is our top pick of hotels in Malá Strana for its exquisite style, wooden elements and marvellous frescoes on the ceilings and walls. This family-run boutique hotel is housed in a Baroque building where the famous architect Blažej Santini used to live.
Old Royal Post Hotel: With its excellent location near Charles Bridge, this luxury boutique hotel features 25 modern rooms and suites inspired by Czech prominent figures and artists.
Waldstein Hotel: Housed in a 14th-century historical building, Waldstein Hotel boasts an excellent location next to the Wallenstein Palace and Garden. Its 19 luxury rooms promise a unique stay in Prague.
3. Castle District (Hradčany)
Yes, it’s hard to top the history of the Old Town and Lesser Town. But that doesn’t stop Hradčany from trying. You see, this is the Castle District. It’s a neighbourhood where the dream of being a prince or princess feels like it’s dangling at your fingertips.
Set behind Malá Strana, Hradčany boasts an untold number of noble homes and ancient palaces standing within metres of the largest castle on earth. It’s hard to comprehend the true size of Hradčany as it flows down the sides of Petrin Hill.
But here you’ll find a portal to the past, where museums and galleries hold the fort, while cathedrals and grand buildings create an impeccable skyline.
Top Attractions
Hovering over Malá Strana, Prague Castle is impossible to miss. Taking you on a journey back to the 9th century, the castle is spellbinding and its sheer size helps to spread out the crowds.
Within and around the castle is a wonderful array of sights and activities, including the Sternberg Palace, the largest art institution in the country. Complementing the gallery are St. George Basilica and St. Vitus Cathedral.
Pros
- Jaw-dropping views
- Vibrant atmosphere
- Central position
Cons
- Its narrow streets are busy, especially in the summer
Hotel Recommendations
Golden Star Hotel: Situated right below Prague Castle, the Golden Star Hotel offers panoramic views of Malá Strana. The baroque building features a traditional Czech restaurant on the ground floor, a 270-year-old staircase and comfortable rooms with a modern touch.
Monastery Hotel: Overlooking the Old Town and the Strahov Monastery’s gardens, this 4-star hotel is for anyone looking for the ideal place to stay that’s quiet, cosy and with easy access to Prague city centre.
4. New Town (Nové Město)
The term New Town may have you thinking Nove Mesto is ultra-modern and borne of recent expansion. But you’ll be intrigued to learn the new moniker dates back to 1348 when the district became the newest of the city’s five historic neighbourhoods.
While you’ll find no shortage of history, tales and head-turning architecture, the New Town offers an understated convenience. A modern business hub in its own right, it remains quieter than its renowned counterparts while providing easy access to the best places in Prague, thanks to a breadth of public transport. This makes the New Town the best area to stay in Prague for sightseeing.
Top Attractions
Over 40 striking mobile tiers are placed together to create the 11-metre rotating sculpture of Franz Kafka. The technical marvel has become a highlight of the New Town.
Visitors should also relax and people-watch in Wenceslas Square. As one of Prague’s main squares, it was once at the heart of 1945’s Uprising and its National Museum stands with an unmissable presence on its northern end. You’ll also find a statue of St. Wenceslas in the centre of the square.
Another of Prague’s iconic buildings, the city’s National Theatre, is also in the New Town.
Pros
- Convenient access to other neighbourhoods
- Quieter than the Old Town and the Lesser Town
- Plenty of history and sightseeing
Cons
- Visitors can still expect plenty of other, well, visitors
Hotel Recommendations
Pytloun Boutique Hotel Prague: Topping our list of the best accommodation options in Prague New Town, this hotel belongs to the same Czech family that runs the Pytloun Boutique Hotel we stayed at during our Liberec trip. Situated on Wenceslas Square, this 5-star hotel offers luxury design rooms and a fantastic restaurant bar on the rooftop terrace.
Dancing House Hotel: The famous Dancing House is not only one of the best photo spots in Prague but also a 4-star hotel with modern luxury rooms and an extraordinary rooftop bar and restaurant.
Falkensteiner Boutique Hotel Prague: Situated near the main train station and Wenceslas Square, the 5-star Falkensteiner Boutique Hotel provides luxury rooms, a lovely courtyard, fancy cocktails, a sauna, a steam bath and a fitness room.
5. Vinohrady
Translating to vineyard, Vinohrady is a district filled with charming parks and greenery that adds a layer of hearty green to a city enveloped in ancient creations. While it’s no longer a pure vineyard like it was for its first few hundred years, Vinohrady has still found a way to delight the tastebuds thanks to its plethora of coffee houses.
Visitors will find a rich tapestry of culture thanks to Vinohrady’s youthful vibe and a strong expat community that has provided Prague with a zesty spread of international cuisine.
Top Attractions
As a leafy haven, you can’t spend time in Vinohrady without a visit to Havličkovy Sady, the second-largest park in Prague. The nearby Riegrovy Park offers splendid views of the wider city and a relaxed atmosphere.
In going with its youthful and worldly vibe, Vinohrady has some great restaurants and one of the best bar scenes in Prague. You can find a hint of the former at any of its local markets, with Náměstí Míru, aka Peace Square, being a city favourite.
Pros
- Unique atmosphere
- Colourful and leafy
- Great food and drink options
Cons
- Lacks the same level of history and architecture, so it might be better suited for a second – or third – trip to Prague
Hotel Recommendations
Empirent Garden Suites: A short tram ride from the city centre, this boutique hotel offers several cosy suites with modern amenities in one of the loveliest neighbourhoods in Prague. We stayed there for our second time in Prague and we can’t recommend it enough.
Luma Terra Prague Hostel: Lingering between the New Town and Vinohrady, this 4-star hostel doesn’t only feature dorms – which are definitely not our thing. It also offers comfortable and modern private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and fully equipped apartments. It earned its place on our list of the best hotels in Vinohrady because of the beer bar on the ground floor where you can try 12 different draft beers.
6. Žižkov
Aside from the Old Town, Žižkov is the best place to stay in Prague for nightlife. It makes up for its relatively ragged condition with a slew of fantastic dim-lit cocktail bars, enchanting nightclubs and beer houses. Combine them and Žižkov is said to have the most pubs per kilometre in all of Europe.
Yes, it’s gritty. But you can’t deny its personality. Rundown cobblestone streets have been somewhat revitalised by boutique shops and chic galleries, while there are several unique attractions to complement the adult beverages.
Top Attractions
The neighbourhood is named after Jan Žižkov, and you can find a striking statue of him on horseback at the top of Žižkov’s tallest hill. Alongside him stands the National Monument, home to the Czech History Museum.
For us, the highlight of Zizkov is the Old Jewish Cemetery, a peaceful green space with clear signs of beguiling neglect and the final resting place of Franz Kafka.
You should also climb up the Žižkov TV Tower for some of the best views in Prague. Be warned, the tower is surrounded by statues of babies. Yes, Žižkov is an oddly wonderful place.
Pros
- Great nightlife
- A unique Prague experience
Cons
- Gritty and less charming by Prague standards
Hotel Recommendations
Hotel Prokop Square: This elegant 4-star hotel features bright, stylish rooms and its guests praise the excellent breakfast and the accommodating service.
7. Karlín
Just two centuries ago, this part of Prague was nothing but a collection of rolling green fields. Then came the Industrial Revolution. Today, Karlín is one of Prague’s newest neighbourhoods, a residential area offering a welcoming glimpse into the lives of Prague’s locals.
As it’s without the same amazing main attractions found elsewhere in the city, Karlín is one of those Prague neighbourhoods that’s considered off-the-beaten-path.
If that piques your interest, Karlín evokes visceral authenticity where restaurants, bars and cafés cater to the local crowd, rather than travellers. In addition, great public transit puts you close to the Old and Lesser Towns.
Top Attractions
Aside from experiencing Prague like a local, while in Karlín, take the time to visit the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius. This is one of the largest holy buildings in the Czech Republic.
Pros
- Authentic, local experience
- Well-connected to other districts
Cons
- Lacks major tourist attractions
Hotel Recommendations
The Viaduct – Suites & More: A stone’s throw from the historic centre, this boutique 4-star hotel is designed in a minimalist style and offers luxury and comfortable rooms. We picked this hotel for its in-room breakfast and dog-friendly policy.
Hotel Mucha: Situated near the Florenc Metro Station, Hotel Mucha sits in a convenient location with easy access to Prague’s Old Town. This 4-star hotel offers stylish rooms, retro common spaces and a delicious breakfast buffet.
8. Holešovice – Letná
In the late 20th century, Holešovice and neighbouring Letná transformed from an industrial suburb into much more. Today, travellers wanting to explore a different side of Prague, come to Holešovice and Letná to experience arguably the city’s hippest neighbourhood.
Away from the city centre, there is a quiet ambience in this part of Prague. Yes, it’s atmospheric, but the vibe is driven purely by locals. Bars and cafés ripple with inter-generational conversation. By exploring the local streets you’ll uncover a new evolution, art. Art aficionados should add the former industrial area of Holešovice to their itinerary thanks to its street art alongside its numerous galleries.
Top Attractions
Holešovice and Letná are home to DOX: Center for Contemporary Art along with the National Gallery’s own contemporary art exhibit, found at Veletržní Palác.
Stromovka Park is littered with dog walkers and nightclubs light up the already kaleidoscopic skyline. Letna Park boasts spectacular panoramic views and one of the best beer gardens in Prague. Overlooking the Vltava River, at Lenta Park, you’ll also find the Prague Metronome, which stands almost 25 metres tall and defines Prague’s skyline since 1991.
Pros
- Authentic, local experience
- Up-and-coming neighbourhood
- Wonderful art
- Ideal for digital nomads and young professionals working remotely
Cons
- Not a central Prague location
Hotel Recommendations
Mama Shelter Prague: Surrounded by old-fashioned hotels, Mama Shelter stands out for its colourful and stylish design. Its sophisticated rooms, the playful common areas and the splendid rooftop terrace are some of the reasons to pick Mama Shelter for your Prague accommodation in Holešovice.
9. Vyšehrad & Around
The Vyšehrad district was named after the local fort that stands commandingly on the banks of the Vltava River. Within a stone’s throw from Prague Castle, this is one of the best places to stay in Prague for families.
Legend states that the fort marks the very spot where Prague was founded in the 8th century. Since it has spread evenly from there, families will find themselves with convenient access to other districts of Prague via foot or public transportation.
But what lies within is more than enough to keep you interested. Aside from the fort, with its Baroque design and striking bastions and gates, you’ll find an expansive park with breathtaking views and space to relax. Exploring the neighbourhood is a delight in itself, where historic cemeteries break up the rows of beautiful buildings.
Top Attractions
The Vyšehrad fort will take some time to explore in detail and its position at the top of the hill allows for breathtaking views of Prague’s skyline.
Elsewhere you’ll find the Vysehrad Cemetery, where many famous Czechs have been laid to rest alongside beautiful monuments and statues. The nearby Rotunda of Saint Martin is one of Prague’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back to the 11th century.
Pros
- Historic district
- Central location
- Great for families
Cons
- Average dining and bar scenes
Hotel Recommendations
Hermitage Hotel Prague: Situated within easy walking distance from Vyšehrad Fort and the vibrant Náplavka, the Hermitage Hotel is housed in an impressive Art Nouveau building originally erected in 1907. With its modern interior, comfortable rooms and a fitness centre on the rooftop, this 4-star hotel is ideal for those who seek a unique stay in an alternative area away from the Old Town.
10. Smíchov
Just south of the Lesser Town, Smíchov was once the city’s hub of tram and beer development. Businesses, boutiques and plenty of restaurants have since taken over the space, making Smíchov much like the rest of Prague but without some of the show-stopping buildings and history.
You’ll find some great shopping here, thanks to sprawling malls and busy thoroughfares. Its position within Prague’s public transport network also makes it a hub for those looking to explore the rest of the city without having to stay alongside fellow travellers.
Top Attractions
The visual highlight of Smichov is the Zlatý Anděl. This spectacular, modern-day design is glass from head to toe and is topped by an angel. Nový Smíchov, a former train and tram plant, is now Prague’s central mall, with designer stores and ample restaurants. You’ll find more shopping on the bustling Plzeňská Street.
Yet, for us, the ultimate draw of Smichov is Naplavka, the glorious riverside promenade that flanks both sides of the Vltava River.
Pros
- Central location
- Great access to public transportation
- Very local, authentic vibes
Cons
- Lacks major attractions
- Parts of it can be sketchy at night
Hotel Recommendations
Admiral Botel: We love unique accommodation options and staying in a boat hotel, aka a Botel, right on the Vltava River is a one-of-a-kind experience. The rooms look pretty basic. However, the lavish interior with wooden furnishings contributes to the Botel’s romantic ambience.
OREA Hotel Angelo: Situated near the Anděl Metro Station and the fancy Manifesto Market, this 4-star hotel offers modern and cosy rooms in a stylish setting.
How Many Days in Prague
As much as we want to avoid sounding cliché, Prague is one of those cities where you want to spend a part of your life if not your entire life in. However, before seeing it for yourselves, we recommend spending at least 4 days in Prague for the first time.
Here’s our 4-day Prague itinerary to plan your trip in advance.
Is Prague Safe?
To put it briefly, yes, Prague is totally safe. Petty crime and pickpocketing are the most common crimes. So be wary when riding any metro line, on board buses and tram lines or at crowded places, such as the Old Town Square. We’ve been to Prague many times and never have we felt uncomfortable or unsafe. Even when walking around at night. That said, you should always use your common sense.
Now that you’ve reached the end of this guide to the best areas to stay in Prague, we hope that you have a clear idea of where to stay in Prague next time you’re in the city. If you’ve been to Prague before, which are the best neighbourhoods in Prague according to you? If you’re currently planning your first trip to the Czech capital, where would you like to stay in Prague? Let us know in the comments!
WORDS: Maria & Katerina
IMAGES: Katerina
EDITING: Maria
Disclosure: We were guests at The Mozart Hotel Prague. However, as always, we express nothing but our honest opinion about the experience we had.