Choosing the Best Neighborhood in Prague

Prague is divided into several districts. Prague 1 is the historic heart. It contains the most famous landmarks. This area is perfect for those who want to walk everywhere. You can find more information on the Prague official tourism portal. Other districts like Prague 2 and 3 are very close by.

These outer areas are often cheaper. They also have a more local feel. Prague has an excellent public transport system. You can reach the center from almost anywhere in 20 minutes. Consider your budget and what you want to see most. Each area has a unique personality and history.

Top 10 Areas Where to Stay in Prague for First Time Visitors

Finding the right spot is essential for a great trip. Here are the top 10 specific areas to consider. We have included details to help you plan your 2026 visit. Many of these areas are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Prague.

1. Name: Old Town (Staré Město) Type: Historic Neighborhood Why go: It is the center of everything. Best for: Sightseeing and short trips. Where: Prague 1. Time: 2-4 nights. Cost: €120 - €300 per night. Getting there: Metro Line A (Staroměstská). Tip: Look for hotels on side streets to avoid noise.
2. Name: Lesser Town (Malá Strana) Type: Historic Neighborhood Why go: It is incredibly romantic and beautiful. Best for: Couples and luxury travelers. Where: Prague 1, below the castle. Time: 2-4 nights. Cost: €150 - €400 per night. Getting there: Tram 12, 15, 20, or 22 (Malostranské náměstí). Tip: Read our Old Town vs Lesser Town guide for a deeper comparison.
3. Name: New Town (Nové Město) Type: Commercial District Why go: It offers great shopping and modern hotels. Best for: Shopping and nightlife. Where: Prague 1 and 2, near Wenceslas Square. Time: 2-3 nights. Cost: €80 - €200 per night. Getting there: Metro Lines A, B, and C (Můstek or Muzeum). Tip: Stay near the river for better views.
4. Name: Vinohrady Type: Residential Neighborhood Why go: It is trendy with many great cafes. Best for: Foodies and digital nomads. Where: Prague 2. Time: 3-5 nights. Cost: €70 - €150 per night. Getting there: Metro Line A (Náměstí Míru). Tip: Visit the Riegrovy Sady beer garden for sunset.
5. Name: Karlín Type: Trendy Experience Why go: It has a modern, industrial-chic vibe. Best for: Young travelers and coffee lovers. Where: Prague 8. Time: 2-4 nights. Cost: €60 - €130 per night. Getting there: Metro Line B (Křižíkova). Tip: Try the local bakeries for breakfast.
6. Name: Holešovice Type: Art District Why go: It is home to major art galleries. Best for: Art fans and budget travelers. Where: Prague 7. Time: 3-4 nights. Cost: €50 - €110 per night. Getting there: Metro Line C (Vltavská). Tip: Visit the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art.
7. Name: Vyšehrad Type: Viewpoint/History Area Why go: It offers stunning views and quiet parks. Best for: Families and history buffs. Where: Prague 2. Time: 2-3 nights. Cost: €70 - €140 per night. Getting there: Metro Line C (Vyšehrad). Tip: Walk through the historic cemetery to see famous Czech graves.
8. Name: Žižkov Type: Local Neighborhood Why go: It has the highest density of pubs. Best for: Budget travelers and beer fans. Where: Prague 3. Time: 2-4 nights. Cost: €40 - €100 per night. Getting there: Tram 9, 15, or 26 (Lipanská). Tip: Visit the TV Tower for a unique view.
9. Name: Smíchov Type: Riverside District Why go: It is a mix of shopping and local life. Best for: Business travelers and long stays. Where: Prague 5. Time: 3-5 nights. Cost: €60 - €150 per night. Getting there: Metro Line B (Anděl). Tip: Check out the Staropramen Brewery nearby.
10. Name: Dejvice Type: Upscale Residential Why go: It is clean, green, and near the airport. Best for: Families and those needing airport access. Where: Prague 6. Time: 2-4 nights. Cost: €80 - €160 per night. Getting there: Metro Line A (Dejvická). Tip: Visit the Saturday farmers' market at Kulaťák.

If you only have a short time, follow our 3 days in Prague itinerary to see the best sights from any of these bases.

Prague Accommodation Tips for Beginners

Prague is generally a very safe city for tourists. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas like Old Town. Always keep your bags zipped and close to you. When booking for 2026, try to reserve your room early. Popular hotels in the center fill up months in advance.

Most hotels include breakfast in the room rate. Check if your hotel has an elevator if you have heavy bags. Many historic buildings only have stairs. Taxis can be expensive if not booked via an app. Use our public transport guide to save money and travel like a local.