A complete guide to where to stay in Prague, Czech Republic (+ the best places for first-timers and hotels in the Old Town, near Charles Bridge, and the Christmas markets).
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city that feels straight out of a storybook. Known as the City of a Thousand Spires, it’s full of cobblestone streets lined with historical buildings. It’s no surprise that more than 8 million tourists visit this beautiful city every year.
I’ve created this guide to help you find the best place to stay in Prague based on what you’re looking for. Whether it’s sightseeing, nightlife, or the Christmas markets, I’ve got you covered. You’ll also find a selection of great hotels with spa or ones near the train station and airport for extra convenience.
Where I stayed in Prague
I’ve been to Prague several times, and my last trip was all about the Christmas markets. I have to say, the Old Town is my favourite place to stay. I always choose this area because it’s where most of the historical sites and nice restaurants are located. It’s easy to get around, and the Central Railway Station is just a short walk away, making it ideal for day trips!
💖 My favourite hotel in Prague: Allure Hotel & Residence
Perfect for: sightseeing – 10-minute walk from Old Town Square and a metro station
What I loved: spacious comfy rooms, excellent breakfast
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
I discovered Allure Hotel & Residence on my last trip when I was searching for a place close to Old Town Square but still in a quiet area. The hotel felt really cosy, and the bed was super comfortable. The best surprise? A plate of handmade Christmas cookies, waiting for me in the room (they were so good), plus a glass of prosecco on arrival.
Readers’ most booked hotel in Prague
Looking for excellent accommodation with great facilities right in the heart of the city? Then check out the Metropolitan Old Town Hotel – with over 9,000 reviews, it is one of the most booked hotels in Prague.
Metropolitan Old Town Hotel – Most booked hotel
The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the Old Town, on a quiet street in the historic Jewish quarter. You’ll be within walking distance of everything, including the famous Astronomical Clock. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants around, and the Palladium shopping centre is nearby as well. For excellent beer, head to the hotel’s two traditional Czech pubs, and be sure to visit the rooftop bar for stunning views of the city.
Where to stay in Prague (My top picks)
- Old Town – the best area for first-timers (Josephine Old Town Square Hotel – best hotel)
- Charles Bridge – for sightseeing (MOODs Charles Bridge – best hotel near Charles Bridge)
- Best hotel in Prague with Spa – Hotel Paris
- Havelská – for Christmas markets (Hotel Rott – best hotel near Havelská)
- Best hotel near Prague Railway Station – Miss Sophie’s Downtown
- Old Town Square – for nightlife (Hotel Leon D´Oro – best hotel near Old Town Square)
- Best hotel near the airport – Courtyard by Marriott
Tips for booking a hotel in Prague
Book early – Prague is one of the most popular European destinations, and trust me, it can be tough to find good accommodation during the peak season. This is especially true in the summer and throughout December for the Christmas markets. My advice is to book your hotel as early as possible to avoid compromising on price or location.
Visiting Prague for the first time? Then check out my complete itinerary for 3 days in Prague, which includes all popular attractions, a map and my favourite restaurants.
Don’t stay in Malá Strana – I personally recommend avoiding Lesser Town (Malá Strana) unless you’re staying right near Charles Bridge. The area is quite hilly, and it can be a challenge to reach your hotel with all the uphill walking.
Old Town – best area to stay in Prague for first time
The Vltava River splits Prague into two halves. On the eastern bank, you’ll find the Old Town (Staré Město) and the New Town (Nové Město). This area is home to the famous Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and most of the city’s museums. The Jewish Quarter is also here, adding to the area’s rich history. On the other side of the river is the stunning Prague Castle in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), which has a more peaceful vibe.
For first-timers, I’d say the Old Town is definitely the best area to stay in Prague. It’s the heart of the city, full of history and charm. It’s where you’ll find some of the most iconic landmarks, like the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge. Plus, the cobblestone streets and the cosy cafés make it such a charming place to stay and explore.
Another great thing about staying in the Old Town is that everything is within walking distance. So you won’t have to spend time figuring out public transport or dealing with long commutes. If you love exploring on foot, this is the area for you. The Astronomical Clock is just a 5-minute walk away, Charles Bridge is about 10 minutes away, and Prague Castle is only 20 minutes away.
Don’t miss out! Book your Prague Castle skip-the-line ticket. With over 3 million visitors each year, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.
Why stay in the Old Town for first-timers
- this is the city’s most central location, perfect for all first-time visitors, especially if you’re short on time
- walking distance to all popular attractions, including Powder Gate Tower, Old Town Hall Tower, Astronomical Clock, Church of Our Lady before Týn and Charles Bridge
- great area for shopping as well – just head to Palladium shopping centre (one of the largest in the city), Na Příkopě Street, Pařížská Street or Wenceslas Square
- the Central Railway Station (Praha hlavní nádraží) is a 10-15min walk away, perfect if you’re looking to explore the Czech countryside as well
When someone asks me where to stay in Prague, I always recommend the Old Town. For me, it’s the best area, whether you’re here for sightseeing, nightlife, the Christmas markets, or just spending a night. I absolutely love how it’s packed with great restaurants and cafés. Some of my personal favourites are Sad Man’s Tongue Bar & Bistro, Choco Café U Červené židle, PEKÁRNA Nostress, Bistro Monk, and Pauseteria.
Best hotels in Prague Old Town
Hotel Leon D´Oro – Most popular 4-star
Hotel Leon D’Oro is located in a renovated historic building next to the famous Havel Market. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Astronomical Clock, Wenceslas Square, and Můstek metro station (with metro line A taking you straight to Prague Castle). The rooms are spacious and mix luxury furniture with an Italian style. Make sure to check out the hotel’s restaurant, Kogo, which serves tasty Italian dishes.
Josephine Old Town Square Hotel – Best rated 4-star
This hotel is in a quiet area, conveniently located between Republic Square and Old Town Square. Palladium Shopping Centre is just a short walk away, making it easy to shop. Even though it’s in a historic building, the rooms are spacious and have a nice old-world charm to them. There are also lots of great restaurants nearby, so you won’t run out of options for a meal.
Hotel Kings Court – Most popular 5-star
This luxury hotel is in the perfect spot, right next to the lively Na Příkopě shopping street and Palladium Mall. The spa area is a real gem with a relaxing pool, jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, and a range of massages and beauty treatments. And don’t forget to check out the Italian restaurant – it has delicious food and lovely views of Republic Square!
Grand Hotel Bohemia – Second best 5-star
With nearly 100 years of history, the Grand Hotel Bohemia is one of Prague’s iconic historic hotels. It’s right in the heart of the city, overlooking the red roofs of the Old Town. You’re also just a short walk from the Palladium Mall, the Powder Gate, and Náměstí Republiky metro station, super convenient for exploring. And definitely check out the stunning neo-baroque Boccaccio Bar, perfect for enjoying cocktails or champagne.
U Medvidku-Brewery Hotel – Best 3-star
U Medvidku-Brewery Hotel is a great budget-friendly choice in a central location. It’s home to one of the city’s oldest restaurants, dating back to 1466, as well as a historic brewery. The hotel’s restaurant features a large traditional beer hall and a beer garden. And if you’re up for something different, there’s even a beer spa on-site!
Golden Angel Suites by Adrez – Best apartments
If you want the comfort of home right in the heart of the Old Town, this aparthotel is the perfect choice. Just a short walk from Old Town Square, it offers self-service apartments with a fully equipped kitchenette, including a microwave. Plus, there’s private parking nearby and luggage storage available if you need to leave your bags after check-out.
Charles Bridge – best place to stay in Prague for tourists
If you’re visiting Prague for the first time, Old Town is a great place to stay. It has everything you’d want – famous attractions, museums, nice restaurants and bars. However, depending on where your hotel is, you may need to take the metro (green line A) or walk for about 30 minutes to reach Prague Castle. So, if your main focus is sightseeing and you want to be within a 15-minute walk from all the key spots, I’d recommend staying near Charles Bridge instead.
Staying near Charles Bridge puts you right next to one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a great spot for exploring, as the bridge connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana). You’ll be less than a 15-minute walk from Prague Castle in Malá Strana, and just a 5-minute stroll from the famous Astronomical Clock. It’s the perfect location to discover the best of both sides of the city!
On my first trip to Prague, I stayed near Charles Bridge, and honestly, I couldn’t have been happier. The location was perfect – everything I wanted to see was just a short walk away, and I didn’t have to rely on public transportation at all.
However, I’d suggest staying on the right bank of the Vltava River (the Old Town), as this is where you’ll find most of the city’s attractions and restaurants. As I mentioned earlier, it’s best to avoid staying in the Lesser Town unless you’re right by the bridge, since the area is quite hilly.
Why stay near Charles Bridge as a tourist
- Charles Bridge is the most convenient area for tourists, as it’s so easy to explore both the Old Town and Lesser Town from here
- just a 15-minute walk to numerous attractions, including Prague Castle, the Old Town Hall Tower, the Astronomical Clock, and the Church of Our Lady before Týn
- easy access to Central Railway Station (Praha hlavní nádraží) via the green metro line A
Best hotels near Charles Bridge
Little King U Malvaze – Most popular 4-star
This lovely hotel is set in a historic 14th-century building right next to the Charles Bridge. The spacious rooms are all unique, each with its own character and charm. The hotel’s restaurant serves both international and Czech dishes (the goulash is fantastic) along with a great selection of beer.
MOODs Charles Bridge – Best rated 4-star
MOODs Charles Bridge Hotel is a charming boutique hotel just steps from the famous bridge. Its prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring both the Old Town and Lesser Town. You’ll be just steps away from everything! The hotel itself blends modern style with comfort, offering spacious rooms with excellent amenities.
Four Seasons Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re looking for a luxurious escape, the Four Seasons Hotel is an excellent choice. Just steps from the iconic Charles Bridge, it offers stunning views of both Prague Castle and the bridge itself. Make sure to check out the hotel’s restaurants CottoCrudo (Italian) and Miru (Japanese), both with fantastic river views.
Betlem Club Hotel – Best 3-star
This is a fantastic budget-friendly option in a prime location, just steps from the Charles Bridge. Housed in a medieval building, the hotel offers boutique-style rooms. The breakfast is fantastic, with a mix of hot and cold options to kick off your day.
Old Town Square & Parizska Apartments – Best apartments
If you’re looking for a place that’s central but still quiet, I’d highly recommend this property. It’s just steps away from Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and the iconic Pařížská Shopping Street. These self-service apartments are really cosy, with high ceilings and a fully equipped kitchenette. Plus, they offer luggage storage so you can leave your bags after checkout.
Best hotels in Prague with spa
Prague has so much to explore, so you’ll definitely be walking a lot. After a long day of sightseeing, I can’t think of anything better than a hot sauna or a relaxing massage. This is especially true in the winter when the weather can get quite cold, even freezing at times.
Choosing a hotel with a Spa in Prague is a fantastic way to relax and make the most of your trip. Many hotels offer special spa treatments based on local traditions. Some even feature the city’s famous beer baths (yes, beer baths!) or herbal infusions, inspired by Czech remedies. Additionally, thermal baths boost your immune system, which is great for long trips.
Here are the best hotels in Prague with spa.
BoHo Hotel – Best 4-star
BoHo Hotel is ideally located in a quiet spot between the Old and New Towns. The hotel features a lovely wellness centre with a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi. Be sure to check out the on-site restaurant for international cuisine and the bar for delicious cocktails.
Hotel Paris – Most popular 5-star
For a stay with real charm and character, Hotel Paris is the perfect choice. The building’s Neo-Gothic exterior with Art Nouveau details is just stunning. The Spa is great, there’s a jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, and even Thai massages to help you relax. And you can’t miss Tony’s Café & Bar. It has this charming Parisian feel from the 1930s, and fantastic cocktails as well.
The Grand Mark – Best rated 5-star
If you’re looking for a mix of space and luxury, I’d recommend The Grand Mark. This 5-star hotel, set in a beautifully 17th-century palace, offers spacious suites with separate living areas and full kitchenettes. It’s perfect if you like a little extra room to relax. The Spa is a real treat, with a mini pool for hydro massage, a Finnish sauna, and a steam bath. And the food? Le Grill serves some fantastic Czech and international dishes. I’d definitely plan to have at least one meal there.
Havelská – where to stay in Prague for Christmas markets
The main Christmas markets in Prague are located in Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) and Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). There are also a few smaller ones at Peace Square, Marianske Square, Republic Square, and Tyl Square. While most are easy to reach on foot, the market at Peace Square requires a quick ride on public transportation.
The best place to stay in Prague for the Christmas markets is Havelská Street. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, it’s just a short walk from the main markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Plus, the Můstek metro station is nearby, making it easy to reach other markets. The green line A takes you to Peace Square and Tyl Square, and the yellow line B will get you to the Republic Square market.
Moreover, it’s your first time in Prague, you’ll love how close everything is from here. You can easily walk to iconic spots like the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge in just a few minutes. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, the famous Na Příkopě Street is just around the corner!
Check out my complete guide to the best Christmas markets in Prague, where you’ll find everything you need to plan your holiday.
Why stay near Havelská for the Christmas markets
- Havelská Street is the most convenient area, sitting right between the two main Christmas markets
- easy access to the rest of the markets via metro lines A and B (from Můstek metro station)
- the famous Na Příkopě Shopping Street is just a few steps away
Best hotels near Prague Christmas Market
Hotel Rott – Best 4-star near Old Town Square
Set on Malé náměstí (Little Square), Hotel Rott is just a few steps from the main Christmas market at Old Town Square. The market at Wenceslas Square and Můstek metro station are only a 5-minute walk away. The hotel combines the charm of a historic building with spacious, modern rooms. Plus, the breakfast is fantastic, offering a great selection of tasty dishes to start your day.
Hotel Liberty – Best 4-star near Wenceslas Square
Hotel Liberty is perfectly situated just right by Wenceslas Square Christmas Market, in a pedestrian area. It’s within walking distance of many attractions, including Old Town Square and Charles Bridge. Plus, Můstek metro station is just around the corner, with metro line A taking you straight to Prague Castle. The rooms are spacious, featuring elegant furnishings and comfortable beds.
Art Nouveau Palace Hotel – Best 5-star
Ideal location, just a 2-minute walk to the main Christmas market at Wenceslas Square and Můstek metro station. Also, you’re only 10 minutes away from the Old Town Square market. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with comfortable beds for a great night’s sleep. And don’t miss the hotel’s impressive Café Palace Restaurant – the food is fantastic!
Old Prague Hotel – Best 3-star
Old Prague Hotel is a great budget-friendly option. Set in a historic building from 1895, it has a charming, old-fashioned feel. The location is great – tucked away on a quiet street but just a short walk from the Old Town Square Christmas Market and Můstek metro station. You’re close to everything without the noise!
Residence St Havel Prague Old Town – Best apartments
These self-service apartments are a great option if you want a quiet stay just steps from the Old Town Square Christmas Market. They’re spacious and come with a fully equipped kitchen, including a dishwasher. Plus, check-in is super easy with a code, so no need to worry about keys!
Best hotels near Prague Railway Station
Prague’s main railway station (Praha hlavní nádraží) is a key hub for both domestic and international travel. It provides direct train connections to major cities like Vienna and Budapest, along with regional services across the Czech Republic.
Prague Main Station is just a 15-minute walk from the city centre, so it’s super easy to get there on foot. Or, if you prefer, you can take the green metro line A from Muzeum station and hop off at Staroměstská. Then it’s just a short walk to Old Town Square.
However, unless you’re just staying for one night and have an early train to catch, I wouldn’t recommend staying near the station. While it’s close to the Old Town, the train station is located in New Town (Nové Město), which doesn’t have the same charm as the historic town. Plus, getting to Prague Castle takes about 30 minutes by public transport. If you’re in Prague for sightseeing, it’s not the most convenient base for exploring the city in my opinion.
That said, if you’re looking for a convenient overnight stay with excellent transportation links, the station is a great choice. Here are the best hotels near Prague Railway Station.
Miss Sophie’s Downtown – Best 4-star
Miss Sophie’s Downtown is an excellent choice if you’re arriving by train. It’s perfectly situated just across from the main railway station. The rooms are modern and spacious. And despite being so close to the station, it’s surprisingly quiet, ensuring a restful night’s sleep!
Falkensteiner Hotel – Best 5-star
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay near the train station, Falkensteiner Hotel is the perfect spot. It’s tucked on a quiet street right across from the station, making it super convenient. The hotel boasts a fantastic Spa with a sauna and steam bath. Be sure to check out The Monkey Bar on-site, famous for its amazing cocktails!
Exe City Park Hotel – Best 3-star
If you’re after a budget-friendly place just across from the Central Railway Station, this is a great option. The rooms are comfy, modern, and soundproof, so you’ll get a good night’s sleep. Plus, the breakfast is good and has a great selection.
Old Town Square – where to stay in Prague for nightlife
Prague is famous for its budget-friendly nightlife. You can enjoy amazing beers like Pilsner Urquell or Kozel for just a few euros! And honestly, they’re some of the best I’ve ever had. Cocktails and wine are a great deal too, especially compared to other European cities. And if you’re up for trying something unique, go for absinthe. It became very popular here after being banned in much of Western Europe in the early 20th century.
If you ask me, the best place to stay in Prague for nightlife is Old Town Square. It’s right in the heart of the city, and you’ll find a mix of cool bars, historic pubs, and lively clubs all around. For a fun night out, make sure to head to Dlouhá, Michalská, and Melantrichova streets. They’re home to some of the best nightlife spots in the city.
The best part? Everything is within walking distance! You can easily hop from one spot to another without worrying about transportation. Staying near Old Town Square also means you can stroll back to your accommodation after a night out. The streets around the square are well-lit and lively, so it always feels safe and welcoming.
A word of warning: be extra cautious around the clubs near Wenceslas Square. While they feature loud music and multi-level dance floors, they also have a bit of a shady reputation, with rumours of illegal activity. It’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on your drink while you’re there.
Why stay near Old Town Square for nightlife
- Old Town Square is the best place to stay for nightlife, with a great mix of bars and pubs, all while feeling safe at night
- Karlovy Lázně (one of Europe’s biggest nightclubs) is just a short walk from Old Town Square
- some of my favourite bars in the area include Green Devil’s Absinth Bar, Black Angel’s Bar, L’Fleur, Hemingway Bar, and Absintherie
Best hotels near Old Town Square
Hotel Leon D´Oro – Best 4-star
Hotel Leon D’Oro is tucked away on a quiet street, just beside the famous Havel Market. With plenty of bars and restaurants right on your doorstep, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying the city. For a real treat, book a suite with a terrace, which offers amazing views of the city from the rooftop. And be sure to visit the hotel’s restaurant, Kogo, where you can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.
Hotel Cerny Slon – Second best 4-star
This charming hotel, set in a historic building from 1359, is just a short walk from Old Town Square. The hotel’s restaurant is a highlight, with a gorgeous 14th-century Gothic vault that gives it so much character. You can enjoy a delicious mix of Czech and international cuisine, and their wine list is fantastic.
Buddha-Bar Hotel – Best 5-star
This luxury hotel is located on a quiet street, just a short walk from the famous Pařížská Shopping Street. The rooms are super spacious with a cool Asian-inspired style, featuring dark red lacquer and unique bathtubs. There are two great Asian restaurants on-site – Siddharta and Buddha Bar Prague. Plus, the breakfast buffet is delicious and served until 1 PM, which is perfect after a night out!
Residence Bene – Best 3-star
This budget-friendly spot on Dlouhá Street is a great find. You’ll be just steps away from local restaurants and pubs, plus the Astronomical Clock and Náměstí Republiky metro station. The modern rooms are a good size and come with comfortable beds.
Best hotels in Prague Airport
Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG) is the city’s main international airport, located about 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) west of the city centre. To get to the city centre, you can take the Airport Express shuttle (40 minutes ride to reach the Central Railway Station), or grab an Uber, costing around €40.
I wouldn’t suggest staying near the airport unless you have an extremely early morning or late-night flight. Even then, I’d say just stay for one night, since it’s pretty far from the city centre and you’ll spend a lot of time commuting. Still, if you do need a hotel close to the airport, here are my recommendations for the best hotels near Prague Airport.
Courtyard by Marriott – Best rated 4-star
Located just a 2-minute walk, right between Terminals 1 and 2, this is the closest hotel to Václav Havel Airport. The rooms are modern, and spacious, and feature comfortable beds with excellent amenities. Don’t miss their Oléo Pazzo Bistro, where you can enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Holiday Inn – Most popular 4-star
Holiday Inn is another great choice if you’re looking to stay near the airport. The rooms are stylish, spacious, and quiet, with super comfy beds. Plus, they offer a free airport shuttle (make sure to book it in advance) and have a fantastic restaurant with traditional Czech dishes.
FAQs about where to stay in Prague
The best place to stay in Prague is MOODs Charles Bridge Hotel. It’s a stylish, modern hotel right next to the iconic Charles Bridge. You’ll be just a short walk to all the popular attractions and restaurants.
The Old Town is the best area to stay in Prague. It’s the most central location, with nearly all the iconic attractions and top restaurants just a short walk away. You’ll be right in the heart of it all!
If you’re visiting Prague for the first time and want to be in the heart of the action, the Old Town is your best bet, with all the historical attractions and great restaurants nearby. Opt for the New Town if you’re only here for a short time, travelling by car, or prefer being close to public transport and the Central Railway Station.
Stay in on the right bank of the Vltava River (Old Town, Staré Město) if you’re in Prague for sightseeing, nightlife, or the Christmas markets. I’d recommend avoiding the left bank (Lesser Town, Malá Strana) unless you’re near Charles Bridge, as the area can be quite hilly.
Pin for later
