Prague is one of the easiest European capitals to navigate: a compact historic core you can walk across in 30 to 45 minutes, wrapped in one of the best-value public transport systems on the continent. Most visitors use a combination of walking and trams and never need anything else.
Tickets First #
One integrated ticket covers trams, metro, and buses. A 90-minute ticket costs CZK 40; a 24-hour pass CZK 120; a 3-day pass CZK 330. Buy from the yellow machines at metro stations and many tram stops, or through the DPP app.
The critical step visitors most often miss: validate your ticket in the yellow validator when you board, not just buy it. An unvalidated ticket counts as no ticket, and inspectors issue on-the-spot fines of CZK 1,000 to 1,500.
Trams #
The most useful mode for visitors, because they run on the surface and show you the city as you travel. Tram 22 is the single most useful route: Vinohrady through the New Town and Old Town, across the Vltava into Malá Strana, and up to Prague Castle. Trams run 24 hours, with a reduced-frequency night network after midnight. Note that tram 22 is also the most worked route for pickpockets, precisely because it’s full of tourists.
Metro #
Three lines: A (green, east-west through the centre, connecting the Old Town, Malá Strana, and Vinohrady), B (yellow), and C (red, north-south, serving the main train station and Vyšehrad). Fast and frequent, running 5am to midnight, with trains every 2 to 4 minutes at peak. Best for longer cross-city journeys where trams would be slow.
Walking #
The historic centre is genuinely walkable: Old Town Square to Charles Bridge is about seven minutes. Two things to plan for, though: the cobblestones are hard on unsuitable footwear, so bring flat, grippy shoes, and the castle district is a real uphill climb from the river, which matters on a hot day or with luggage.
Rideshare #
Bolt and Uber both operate throughout the city and are the right choice for late nights, heavy bags, or destinations awkward by transit. Use these rather than hailing a taxi on the street; the scams guide covers why.
Cycling #
Prague has improving bike infrastructure, but the cobblestones, hills, and tram tracks in the historic centre make it less pleasant than in flatter European cities. Better suited to riverside routes and the outer parks than to sightseeing in the old town.
The full Prague transport guide covers tram routes, metro stops, and airport connections in detail.
Related: Getting Around Prague | Prague Transport | Prague Hub
