Go beyond the Old Town and explore Prague's 6 best neighborhoods

18.07.2024 - 15:08 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 18, 2024 • 5 min read

There’s much more to Prague than its medieval cobblestone center (yes, really!).

In fact, time spent discovering the Czechia capital’s interconnected neighborhoods can reveal the city’s freewheeling spirit, as well as some of its best restaurants, museums, beer gardens and parks. And Prague’s excellent public transportation system makes zipping around a handful of districts doable in one trip.

From the best areas for family travelers to those with the greatest nightlife, plan your trip with this guide to Prague's best neighborhoods.

Best neighborhood for sightseeing

It’s no coincidence that Staré Město (Old Town) teems with visitors: Prague’s medieval heart is home to the city’s must-see attractions. Staroměstské náměstí (Old Town Square) is fringed by some of Europe’s finest buildings, including the Old Town Hall with its Astronomical Clock. Moments north, there’s the Prague Jewish Museum. Stroll east, and you’ll soon be afoot the ancient stone arches of Charles Bridge.   

Although Staré Město is obligatory for first-time visitors, there’s plenty to lure Prague aficionados and locals too. Amid elegant shopping streets and timeworn alleys, there’s a swell of eclectic places to eat, including the city’s two Michelin-star restaurants, Field and La Degustation. Galerie Rudolfinum, Kinský Palace and Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace, on the other hand, present striking art exhibitions in gilt-edged surroundings.

The high ratio of attractions to cobblestone square footage might suggest staying in Staré Město is top dollar – and sure enough, there are luxury hotels here offering high-end sanctuary. International chains aside, though, you’ll also find some affordable home-grown hotels and hostels.

Local tip: Staying in Staré Město puts you bang in the hubbub, but it also affords early risers a contemplative stroll around the sights before the throngs arrive.

Best neighborhood for couples

Baroque domes and spires rise from a sea of terracotta rooftops in Malá Strana (Little Quarter), creating an ideal setting for couples seeking a fairy-tale escape. Watched over by the Gothic grandeur of Prague Castle, the neighborhood brims with pretty boutique hotels; its winding lanes lead to ancient walled gardens and courtyard cafes.

Malá Strana is connected to Staré Město by Charles Bridge. During the busy summer months, the main route down to the river can rather lose its romantic mini-break charm. Although, by ducking onto the grassy island of Kampa, couples can reclaim a sense of carefree ease and pause for dreamy views across the Vltava.

As you would want and expect from Prague, Malá Strana isn’t without its maverick side. Offbeat sculptures by David Černý, the enfant terrible of Czech contemporary art,