Where to stay in Prague in 2026?

2. Lesser Town (Malá Strana)

BEST FOR: Couples, peaceful stays, and sightseeing.

HIGHLIGHTS: Scenic neighborhood with a romantic atmosphere. Beautiful streets and gardens, quieter at night but still central. Charming historic streets and peaceful spots with beautiful city views. Right next to the Charles Bridge. Close to Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world, home to St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. See St. Nicolas Church, a stunning Baroque masterpiece.

LOCAL TIP: Visit Kampa Island in the Vltava River, with a stunning view of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.

THINGS TO CONSIDER: Fewer dining and shopping options. Some streets have steep inclines.

PRICE RANGE: $$ – $$$

4. New Town (Nové Město)

BEST FOR: Travelers who want a central location with a modern vibe.

HIGHLIGHTS: Central location, comfort, and convenience. Close to both Old Town and Vinohrady, with good public transport connections. Offers a more local feel and is less touristy than the Old Town. Plenty of shopping and dining options. Mid-range hotels and apartments provide good value for visitors seeking a central location without the Old Town price tag. Suitable for solo travelers and longer stays. Great for travelers who want to be close to everything but avoid tourist crowds and high prices.

LOCAL TIP: Visit Dancing House, a modern architectural landmark and one of the most photographed buildings in Prague.

THINGS TO CONSIDER: Busy streets, especially during peak hours. It can be noisy during the night. Fewer historical sights. Avoid areas around the main train station.

PRICE RANGE: $$

6. Karlín

BEST FOR: Travelers looking for a calm, modern, affordable base. Visitors who want to avoid tourist crowds but stay close to the action.

HIGHLIGHTS: One of Prague’s coolest up-and-coming neighborhoods. Once an industrial zone, Karlín has transformed into a trendy area with a mix of 19th-century houses and modern architecture. Lots of green spaces and parks. Less touristy with a calm residential feel. Excellent tram and bus connections, close to Old Town (15-20 minutes walk). Slightly more affordable than Vinohrady. Great value for travelers looking for modern comforts, affordability, and easy access to the city center.

LOCAL TIP: Visit Přístav 18600 (Cultural Waterfront Space), a lively cultural venue along the Vltava River. Watch concerts, experience local culture, and enjoy riverside views.

THINGS TO CONSIDER: No major tourist attractions within the neighborhood. Quieter at night. Some uphill streets.

PRICE RANGE: $ – $$

Areas to avoid in Prague

Prague is generally safe for travelers. However, as in any major city, it’s wise to stay alert to petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Be especially cautious in crowded areas like Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and on trams. Avoid certain areas late at night, as they may feel less secure after dark.

Main Train Station area (Hlavní Nádraží)

• Why avoid: It can feel unsafe, especially at night, with homeless people and drug activity. It’s not the cleanest area and has few attractions.
• Suggestion: Stay in areas like Vinohrady or Karlín for a safer, more pleasant experience.

Main Bus Station area (Florenc)

• Why avoid: Known for pickpockets and a higher crime rate. The area is mostly industrial, with few points of interest.
• Suggestion: Consider staying in Žižkov or Karlín, which are nearby but safer.

Some parts of Žižkov

• Why avoid: While Žižkov is lively, certain areas near the train station can feel rough and unsafe at night.
• Suggestion: Stick to central parts of Žižkov, especially near Jiřího z Poděbrad Square for a more relaxed experience.