11 Budget-Friendly Ways to Explore Prague

Prague has long been regarded as an excellent destination for budget travelers. While the days of shockingly low prices have passed, the Czech capital remains easier on the wallet compared to many other European cities.

Part of its affordability stems from the low costs of essential elements for a great city escape—specifically public transportation, food, and beer. Plus, the city’s medieval core serves as a stunning open-air gallery, showcasing Gothic architecture, unexpected street art, and historic gardens that can all be enjoyed for free.

However, having a few budget-friendly tips at your disposal can help you save even more during your visit. Here are some strategies to reduce your expenses while in Prague.

Daily Expenses in Prague

• Hostel dorm bed: 500–900Kč

• Standard double room: 1100–2200Kč

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): starting at 1700Kč

• Public transport fare: 30Kč for 30 minutes, 330Kč for a 3-day ticket

• Coffee: 60Kč

• Traditional open-faced sandwich (chlebíček): 40Kč

• Dinner for two at a local Czech eatery: 500–1200Kč

• 500ml glass of Pilsner Urquell at a bar: 45–60Kč

Flying is often the most affordable way to reach Prague

Many major European airports, as well as some smaller regional ones, offer regular low-cost flights to Prague. To secure the best prices, book your tickets well in advance, and keep in mind that some routes may not operate during the winter months. If you're connecting through another European capital, do some research before booking a budget flight from an airport on the other side of the city, as transfer costs might outweigh any savings on your ticket.

Flying is usually more affordable than traveling by train. However, if you want to enjoy scenic views and visit multiple cities along the way, consider checking train fares; a one-way ticket from Berlin to Prague can cost as low as €35. Intercity buses, such as Flixbus, also operate between many major European cities and Prague, but their prices are often comparable to train tickets.

Use the bus and metro to travel from the airport to downtown Prague

Prague’s public transport system is safe, efficient, and offers great value. Traveling from the airport to central Prague takes about 50 minutes, and although you’ll need to transfer from bus to metro, the journey costs just 40Kč. Tickets can be purchased at the visitor information office or from machines located at the terminals.

Travel during winter for discounted lodging

Aside from the festive month of December, winter in Prague is chilly and relatively quiet. This peaceful atmosphere not only reduces the number of tourists in your photos but also leads to significant savings on accommodation, with some hotel rates dropping to half their peak prices in August. However, these winter bargains come with a caveat: shorter days and cold temperatures can limit your enjoyment of the city’s outdoor attractions. A good strategy is to invest in a warm winter wardrobe and budget for cozy stops at a warming beer cellar or café.

Opt for accommodations outside the center

No matter the time of year, you can find attractive lodging prices by booking a few months in advance and exploring areas beyond Prague's charming cobblestone center. The neighborhoods of Karlín and Holešovice are well-connected by trams and the metro, featuring colorful apartment buildings that offer a variety of straightforward holiday rentals and lively hostels. Staying in either area allows easy access to some exciting nightlife while avoiding typical tourist traps.

Adjacent to Nové Město (New Town), the green Vinohrady district is among the most sought-after (and pricey) areas for locals and expats, but it also boasts a range of clean, budget-friendly accommodations. OneFam Míru Hostel provides guests with free city tours and hosts complimentary family-style dinners.

Determine which transport ticket suits your needs

Public transport tickets are valid for either 30 or 90 minutes, and there are also one-day and three-day passes available. Once validated, these tickets let you transfer between metros, trams, buses, and ferries during the specified time. The one- and three-day passes even cover the Petřín funicular railway, which normally costs 60Kč.

It's beneficial to compare prices and do some rough calculations based on your itinerary to get the most value; no matter which ticket you pick, you're sure to find a great deal. Keep in mind that the winding streets of Staré Město (Old Town) and Malá Strana (Little Quarter) are compact and enjoyable to navigate on foot.

Go for a stroll

Bring along a comfortable pair of shoes and explore Prague from street level – at no cost. If you’d like some guidance, you can join walking tours that operate on a tips-only basis. Prague Extravaganza will take you through the stunning art nouveau buildings and enchanting Gothic towers in Prague’s Old Town and Jewish Quarter. Their experienced guides also regularly lead walks across Charles Bridge and through the free-access courtyards and gardens of Prague Castle.

Try the weekday lunch special

The concept of weekday lunch specials emerged to cater to Prague’s office workers who often receive food vouchers as perks. Fortunately, you don’t need to be in a suit to enjoy these budget-friendly meals. Look for the short denní menu (daily menu) available at many restaurants between 11:30am and 2pm, where a soup typically costs around 50Kč and a small main dish ranges from 110 to 140Kč.

Enjoy affordable Vietnamese cuisine

Prague boasts a vibrant Vietnamese community, ensuring you’re never far from a delicious and affordable bowl of pho. Visit Phở Bar on Národní or try the bustling Pho Vietnam Tuan & Lan in Vinohrady for some of the finest noodle soups in the city. Alongside hearty broths, Bao Bao offers budget-friendly bao buns and generous main dishes. Deli Viet, located near Wenceslas Square, is known for its quick service and hearty portions.

Savor local brews

Czech Republic is renowned for producing some of the finest beers globally, all at incredibly competitive prices. Popular choices include Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, Gambrinus, and Kozel, with a large 500ml glass of these local lagers costing around 50Kč in a city center bar. For even better deals, venture into the outskirts: the student-filled district of Žižkov is famous for its budget-friendly and lively nightlife.

Prepare a picnic with local goodies

While many Czech restaurants offer great value, you can still save some korunas by packing a picnic. Look for Albert, Billa, or Tesco supermarkets for affordable snacks. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a farmers market. On Saturday mornings at Naplavka, you’ll find seasonal fruits, fresh bread, jams, honey, and a variety of pastries. Don't miss exploring smaller markets as well. Enjoy your feast on the grassy slopes of Riegrovy sady while taking in the stunning skyline filled with spires.

If assembling your own meal feels like too much effort, grab a chlebíček. These traditional open-faced sandwiches are the quintessential inexpensive Czech fast food. The offerings from Sisters Bistro and Ovocný Světozor are worth the lunchtime wait. You can also find meatloaf sandwiches at the popular butcher Naše Maso for 110Kč, along with cooked sausages and homemade mustard starting at 95Kč.

Choose your attractions carefully

Both the Prague City Pass and Prague CoolPass offer free and discounted entry to major museums and sightseeing tours. While you might debate which pass provides better value, neither offers significant savings unless you plan to visit most of the included attractions during your stay.

Free museums in Prague are a rarity, with a few exceptions like the National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror and many temporary exhibitions at Galerie Rudolfinum. However, most museums provide great value, particularly the large national ones. For instance, while entry to a small private museum might cost around 300Kč, you can access the extensive collections at the National Museum for just 280Kč, and children under 15 get in for free. If you’re under 26, you can enjoy all permanent exhibitions at the National Gallery of Prague at no cost (just remember to bring your ID). Additionally, there are several days throughout the year when admission is free as well.