Prague has a way of captivating you at first sight—the historic townhouses, the sea of spires, the scent of roasting trdelník, and the view of the Vltava draw travelers from all over the world. But before you set off to explore the city, it’s worth preparing a bit to avoid disappointments and the small traps that visitors often fall into. Here are the most important facts and practical tips to make your stay in the Czech capital more comfortable and enjoyable.
Getting Around – Metro, Trams, and Apps
Prague’s public transport system is simple, fast, and affordable. The metro has three lines: A (green), B (yellow), and C (red). On top of that, there is a dense network of trams and buses. Tickets are time-based, meaning that with one ticket, you can use all modes of transport:
- 30 CZK – 30-minute ticket,
- 40 CZK – 90-minute ticket,
- 120 CZK – 24-hour ticket.
The most convenient method is the PID Lítačka app – you buy tickets online and have them always at hand on your phone. Tip: if you want to soak up the city’s atmosphere, take tram number 22 – it passes by many landmarks, including Prague Castle.
Public Transport Discounts in Prague (Current for 2025)
If you are planning a trip to Prague with children or seniors, it’s worth knowing the details regarding public transport discounts. The PID (Prague Integrated Transport) system offers various discounts and free rides that can help you save significantly.
Children
- Under 15 years old – travel free throughout Prague (metro, trams, buses, trains within the city zone).
- During inspections, a document proving age is required (e.g., ID card, passport, or the PID Lítačka app).
Seniors
- Over 65 years old – can use public transport completely free, provided they confirm their age with an ID card or PID card.
- Aged 60 to 65 – a reduced fare applies: tickets are about 50% cheaper (e.g., a 30-minute ticket for ~15 CZK instead of 30 CZK).
Example Ticket Prices (2025)
| Passenger Group | 30-min ticket | 90-min ticket | 24-hour ticket | Notes | |-----------------------------|---------------|---------------|--------------------|-------| | Adults (15–60 years) | 30 CZK | 40 CZK | 120 CZK | standard rate | | Seniors 60–65 years | ~15 CZK | ~20 CZK | ~60 CZK | reduced rate | | Seniors over 65 years | 0 CZK | 0 CZK | 0 CZK | free ride | | Children up to 15 years | 0 CZK | 0 CZK | 0 CZK | free ride |
New PID Tariffs from January 2026
From January 1, 2026, the prices for single tickets in Prague will rise significantly:
Compared to current prices: paper tickets are 30 CZK and 40 CZK; via app – about 15-20% cheaper.
- 30-minute: paper 39 CZK, via app 36 CZK, SMS 42 CZK
- 90-minute: paper 50 CZK, via app 46 CZK, SMS 55 CZK
24- and 72-hour tickets will also become more expensive, but buying via the app remains the cheapest option.
The city is switching to 3 tariff zones instead of 4, which will soften the price increase outside Prague’s borders.
Discounts for children and seniors will remain unchanged – tickets for 0 CZK for under 15s and over 65s will continue to apply.
Other important changes:
- Luggage and pets: electronic 23 CZK, paper 25 CZK, but still free with 24h+ tickets.
- Airport Express: from 100 CZK → 200 CZK.
- Fines for riding without a ticket: 1,200 CZK (on the spot), 1,500 CZK (within 15 days), 2,000 CZK (after deadline).
More information: https://pid.cz • https://dpp.cz
Currency and Payments
The official currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Most places accept cards, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand – especially at markets, small cafes, or kiosks. Euros are accepted in some shops and restaurants in the center, but the exchange rate is usually unfavorable, so it’s best to pay in korunas. Apps like Revolut, Curve, or N26 work well – they help avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Language and Useful Phrases
In central Prague, you can easily get by in English, but a few words in Czech can work wonders – especially in smaller establishments and at markets. Useful phrases:
- Dobrý den – Good day,
- Prosím – Please,
- Děkuji – Thank you,
- Účet, prosím – The bill, please,
- Kde je toaleta? – Where is the toilet?
Czechs appreciate it when someone tries to speak their language, even with an accent.
Key Sights and How to Avoid… the Crowds
Prague is full of architectural icons: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square, and the Astronomical Clock (Orloj) are must-sees. However, they can be crowded during the season – if you want to take photos without hundreds of tourists in the background, it’s best to visit them:
- in the morning (before 9:00),
- in the evening (after 18:30).
Beyond the classics, it’s worth checking out less obvious places: Vyšehrad, Letná, or Kampa Island offer beautiful views and significantly fewer crowds.
Traditional Cuisine and Czech Beer
Prague is a paradise for foodies. Be sure to try:
- Svíčková na smetaně – beef in cream sauce with dumplings,
- Goulash – the Czech version is spicier than the Polish one,
- Smažený sýr – fried cheese with fries and tartar sauce,
- Kulajda – thick mushroom and dill soup,
- Česnečka – aromatic garlic soup.
And of course, beer: Pilsner Urquell, Kozel, Staropramen. In local pubs, a mug often costs less than a bottle of water.
Weather and What to Pack
Prague lies in a temperate climate zone. Summers are warm (25–28°C), but nights can be cool, so a light jacket is always useful. Winters can be freezing, but exceptionally charming – especially during the Christmas markets on Old Town Square.
Safety in the City
Prague is a safe city, but like any place full of tourists, you need to watch out for pickpockets. The most “risky” places:
We recommend keeping documents in an inner pocket or a crossbody bag.
- trams during rush hour,
- metro stations in the Florenc, Můstek, and Staroměstská areas,
- the surroundings of Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square.
Tipping and Service in Restaurants
In Czech restaurants, a tip of about 10% is standard. If you pay by card, tell the waiter how much you want to pay in total – the terminal doesn’t have an option to add a tip after authorization, so it’s better to state the sum including the tip before accepting the payment.
Footwear – Forget the High Heels
Prague’s center is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are essential. Even for dinner at an elegant restaurant, it’s worth choosing flat shoes – cobblestones are unforgiving.
Phone, Roaming, and Internet
Traveling from Poland, you can use your phone number without extra fees – EU roaming is free. If you need more data transfer, local eSIM cards available online can be a cheaper alternative.
Summary
Prague is a city full of history, art, and excellent cuisine, but also convenient transport and many hidden places worth discovering. If you want to get to know Prague at a leisurely pace, with local trivia and routes avoiding the biggest crowds, check out our tours in Prague. Most of them start in the center, and you can easily reach the meeting point by public transport.