Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is one of the most enchanting cities in Europe. You can fly into the Václav Havel airport which is connected to the city via a public bus service, shuttles and taxi services. But where should they take you? How do you decide where to stay in the capital of the Czech Republic?
It has to be said that Prague benefits from a good public transportation system. The centre can be reached easily either by tram or on the subway and the outlying areas are also well served by a comprehensive network of buses. If you decide to stay in the more central area of the city, it is then quite easy to reach the majority of the main places of interest on foot.
Most of the accommodation, bars and restaurants are concentrated in the area which is known as Prague Municipal District No. 1 which includes a substantial part of the historic medieval centre of the Czech Republic’s capital. The Old Town, (Staré Město, which is the geographical centre of the city) is one of the most popular districts. It is here that you can see the famous Astronomical Clock, designer shops, galleries and museums and this is also where the night-life happens. However, as a result of its popularity, it is also one of the more expensive options when it comes to accommodation. That being said, there is no lack of choice ranging from hostels to 5 Star hotel so there is something for everyone and something which will suit everyone’s budget.
Staying in Prague’s No. 1 District, it is also possible to find somewhere to stay in the New Town (Nové Město) which includes the famous Wenceslas Square. This part of the city is characterised by the presence of numerous bars and shops by the main railway station of the Czech capital and the National Museum.
For those who prefer to stay in an area that is a little quieter, you may opt for the really historic centre of the city known as the Little Quarter, (Malá Strana). Museums, shops and restaurants abound too in this district which is considered to be one of the most picturesque in Prague. The night-life is mostly concentrated around Malostranské Náměstí but it is only a few minutes on foot to the Old Town if you want to experience the night-life there instead.
The area around the Castle (Hradčany) is suitable for those looking for somewhere to stay in a quiet area which is still close to the centre. There is less traffic here than in other parts of the city and there is something for every budget. You can also find independent apartments to rent here.
Moving a little further from the capital of the Czech Republic, it would also be possible to stay in Vinohrady, an Art Deco district which is full of green spaces, cafes and restaurants that offer international cuisine. The prices are a little high but it is still possible to find hostels and independent apartments here which are suitable for those who are travelling with pets.
For those who are looking for the most economical solution, you are likely to find this in the former industrial areas of Smíchov or in Žižkov – these are decidedly less glamorous areas but they are still close to Vinohrady – or in the popular district of Karlin. All of these areas are connected to the city centre by both tram and the subway networks.
And finally, for those who wish to stay close to the airport, you will probably find some accommodation in Dejvice which is in Prague’s Municipal District No. 6 and from where you can easily reach the centre with various different tram lines or with Line A of the subway.
