This guide comes from Sivan, our Student Travel Expert Contributor!
Travelers rave about Prague. This ancient city features stunning architecture and iconic sights, and it’s also remarkably affordable—making it an ideal destination for anyone watching their wallet.
Prague is compact enough to explore in just a few days. If you’re in Europe and craving a low-cost, quick escape, this destination fits the bill perfectly.
Your budget-friendly Prague itinerary starts here!
For travelers within the European Union, reaching Prague by train is straightforward. If you plan to hop between multiple European countries, the Eurail pass offers significant savings.
This pass grants unlimited rail travel across your chosen countries and duration.
Alternatively, you can fly into Prague International Airport—compare fares on GoEuro or Skyscanner. Budget carriers like RyanAir, EasyJet, and Transavia keep costs low.
Once you arrive, the public transit system is simple to navigate. Most of the city is accessible via the tram, which is free to ride. Watch out for taxis that sometimes overcharge tourists; for longer trips, Uber is a safer bet.
Prague offers several affordable lodging options that won’t drain your budget.
Sophie’s Hostel: The sister property of Miss Sophie’s Hotel, this trendy boutique hostel provides a calm retreat from the city buzz. Accommodation choices include private apartments, single rooms, and dorms sleeping up to five. Most rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Breakfast is available at the on-site café. Located a short tram ride from the center, this cozy hostel is a smart budget pick.
Post Hostel, Prague: Just outside the city center, this hostel includes many extras at no charge. The space is modern, bright, and comfortable. Guests can use the open kitchen, enjoy free coffee and tea around the clock, and play games in the lounge.
Prague1918 Apartments: For more privacy at a reasonable price, these simple apartments are a solid choice. Each unit sleeps up to six people and has its own bathroom.
Hotel Klaret: Your stay here includes a buffet breakfast, daily housekeeping, and fresh towels. A short metro ride takes you to the city center. This budget hotel offers single, double, triple, and family rooms at low rates.
Hostel One Home: Located right downtown, this hostel is perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Every evening, guests enjoy a free family-style dinner and can relax in one of five common rooms. The staff also helps plan daily activities.
St. Christopher’s Inn Prague: If you want a social atmosphere and access to Prague’s famous nightlife, this is your spot. Housed in a restored 19th-century building, it offers various custom-designed dorms and private suites. Kick off your evening at the Basement Bar in the brick cellar.
Prague is famous for fruit dumplings, potato soup, roast pork, and goulash. The local cuisine is hearty and perfect for warming up during cold winters.
The city also shines with excellent beer and sweet treats like the traditional pastry trdelnik (also called chimney cake).
Caféfin: Ready for the biggest avocado toast you’ve ever seen? This Asian-fusion café serves great breakfasts and is known for its specialty latte art.
Lokal: For an authentic local experience, stop here for a beer and classic Prague dishes that won’t strain your wallet.
Good Food Coffee and Bakery: Located near Charles Bridge, this bakery stands out from the crowd. As you wander downtown, you’ll see trdelnik sold everywhere; you can’t leave Prague without trying one here.
Pernickuv Sen: Step inside this tiny pastry shop and you’ll be enveloped by the sweet scent of freshly baked gingerbread. Choose from various shapes and sizes, and grab a packaged one to take home.
Koala: Goulash is a staple dish in Prague, and this spot is the best place to sample it. For a very low price, you can enjoy traditional beef stew with homemade bread dumplings, paired with a local beer.
Prague is quite small; it’s easy to navigate and see all the highlights in a single day. Spread out your main activities and fill the rest of your time with aimless wandering.
Charles Bridge: This historic bridge dates back to the 14th century and spans the Vltava River. It’s one of Prague’s must-see sights, offering a superb view of the old town. Walk across and enjoy the artisans, musicians, and street performers.
For just three euros, climb the Charles Bridge tower for a fantastic 360-degree panorama of the city.
Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock: Recently under renovation, this landmark is still visible from one side. On the hour, you can watch the animated display as the clock face changes. It will reopen for entry in 2018.
Letná Beer Garden: Perched in Letná Park along the Vltava River, this prime spot overlooks the city. Grab a seat at a picnic table and enjoy beer on tap. It’s an excellent place to gather with friends and unwind while taking in the view.
Budget Tip: The beer garden has a limited menu, so stop by a grocery store to buy your own drinks and snacks before heading up to the park. You’ll save money and get exactly what you want.
Prague Castle: This medieval castle towers above the city and is a beautiful landmark. You can explore the exterior for free or take an inside tour for X dollars.
John Lennon Wall: In the 1980s, teenagers gathered here to express their frustration with war and government through graffiti. Over time, it became an explosion of art filled with symbols of peace, love, and Beatles references. It’s an iconic photo spot—and completely free!
Hit The Town: Prague boasts a wide variety of themed bars and pubs, from fancy rooftop lounges (Cloud 9 Sky Bar & Lounge) to Irish pubs (The Dubliner). Drinks can add up, so consider joining the Prague Pub Crawl.
The Prague Pub Crawl runs every night. For 22 euros, you get drinks and entry to multiple bars and clubs. Cover charges at a single club can reach 15 euros; if you’re on a budget, this deal is well worth it. Besides saving money, it’s a fun way to meet new people.
Shop my looks for Prague in the winter!
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Exploring Prague Without Breaking the Bank is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
