UPDATED 3/24/24

Kafka, castles, beer, oh my! Prague is as diverse and charming a European city like none other I’ve visited. With cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and quaint cafes along the famous Charles Bridge, this vibrant and budget friendly Czech city is begging to be explored by solo travelers.

Compiled from my first-hand, Prague solo travel, this guide has all things Prague travel tips with bonus budget travel tips, eco-travel tips, and more throughout.

If you have been thinking of visiting Prague alone, then my ultimate Prague Solo Travel Guide will surely entice you to start making your solo travel in Prague reservations.

This Prague Solo Travel Guide is intentionally written for the solo traveler, the first time Prague traveler, and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been solo traveling FOREVER) in mind. Yet, anyone can use this travel guide it to plan and book Prague travel.

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For more Czech Republic travel tips to supplement your Prague travel planning, consult my ultimate Czech Republic Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more to plan Czech Republic solo travel.

Also, don’t forget to check out my amazing 3 Days in Prague Itinerary perfect for first-time travel in Prague.

What is Prague Known For?

Praha (“Prague”), the capital of the Czech Republic (“Czechia” for short), is one of the lucky European cities to have escaped the destruction of WWII, leaving in-tact it’s architecture and charm to represent its long history.

Blessed with a stunning historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Staré Mesto (“Old Town”) is the epicenter of the historic city center’s tourist attractions, like the medieval Old Town Hall and Tower housing the world’s oldest Astronomical Clock (installed in 1410) still in operation.

East of the Vltava River is the Malá Strana district of the city center (“Little Side (of the River)” or “Lesser Town”), but is by no means less in attractions. Overseeing Lesser Town is the Prague Castle, the largest castle in the world, from which its establishment in 880 the city of Prague was founded.

The largest city in Czechia, Prague is home to over 100 towers and spires, more beer drinkers per capita than anywhere else, Czech style ‘comfort food’, and from where famous people like Franz Kafka, Madeleine Albright, and Martina Navratilova (my favorite tennis player) hail.

Is Prague worth visiting?                    

If Prague doesn’t hold you in awe, then I don’t know what city would. It is one of the prettiest cities I have ever visited.

Prague’s history, art, culture, cuisine, and people, not to mention its colorful buildings that glow at sunset, are bound to hold your attention.

So, yes, Prague solo travel is a must. Keep reading to see why and start planning your travel to Prague.

Best Time to Visit Prague

When to visit Prague as a single traveler may be subjective, but mostly relies on weather, costs, and activities offered.

Prague Weather & Costs

The warmest time of year for visiting Prague is in the summer months (June through August). However, these are also when tourist crowds are at their heaviest, which can drive up travel costs, and Prague’s rainiest months. Consider bringing an eco-friendly travel umbrella if you go during this time.

The winter months (November through February) are drier but also the coldest. These months could be best for budget solo travel to Prague.

Is Prague expensive?

Prague may be more expensive than other Czech Republic city, but Prague is not going to break your bank.

Prague ranks 335 out of 578 cities in cost of living (at time of writing), making it very budget friendly for solo travel.

What is the best month to visit Prague?

For this Prague Solo Travel Guide, I recommend traveling to Prague in late May or early September.

Costs are not as high as summer, and, as you can see from my beautiful photos, it was still shorts and t-shirt weather with few tourists.

I did my last Prague solo travel in September and enjoyed long day light hours with not too chilly nights.

Prague Events

Still, you may wish to travel by yourself to Prague around a holiday, such as enjoying the Prague Christmas Market, or a festival, like the Prague International Music Festival.

I suggest checking events in Prague to help determine which month is best for your solo trip to Prague.

Getting to Prague

Flying Into Prague

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), formerly Prague Ruzyně International Airport, is the main airport in Prague. It is commonly referred to as the Prague Airport or Prague International Airport.

The Prague Airport is serviced by most major and European airlines. Flights from within the Schengen Zone arrive at Terminal 2. All other international flights arrive at Terminal 1.

How To Get to City Center from the Airport

If you do not have access to an airport shuttle by your hotel, there are multiple ways to get from the Prague Airport to Prague city center.

Prague Airport Car Services

Yes, Prague has Uber. It also has Bolt. I believe a rideshare is the easiest and most cost effective way to get to the city center from the Prague Airport.

My Uber from the Prague Airport to Old Town took approximately 30 minutes. Prague Airport to city centre Uber cost (in 2021) was 480 CZK ($23 USD including a 10% tip).

The Uber app will confirm the pick-up location, but when I hailed my Uber, it picked me up at the upper level of the airport.

It could 20 minutes for the Uber to arrive at the airport. Conversely, if you Uber back to the airport, allow at least 20 minutes for the Uber to pick you up in the city center.

Prague Airport Taxi

An airport taxi cost is approximately 694 CZK ($30 USD) but also a convenient and fast way to get to the city center.

Prague Airport Private Transfer

Book a Prague Airport private transfer in advance or an airport shared transfer in advance (for less) for faster service.

Car Rental at Prague Airport

I do not recommend renting a car for solo travel in Prague. With all other options above, limited parking in the city center, and a variety of day trips from Prague available, it is not worth it.

How to Get to Prague Airport by Public Transportation

There is no direct Prague Airport train to Old Town or other part of the city center.

Therefore, the cheapest transportation from the Prague Airport to the city center is by bus and metro as there is also no direct Prague Airport metro or bus to the city center.

From Terminal 2, you can catch the Prague Airport bus 119 to the Nadrazi Veleslavin metro station then switch metro lines to the Muzeum metro station near Wensceslas Square. From there you can either walk to your hotel or switch to another metro line to ride closer to your hotel.

Although tickets may cost a few dollars max, allow for an hour to get to your hotel from the airport. 

You can buy Prague public transportation tickets online in advance, and get tickets good for multiple days.

Since you’re mostly likely walking in Prague, I would recommend purchasing only a one-way airport to city center ticket. Make sure to validate your ticket when taking public transportation in Prague.

Prague Airport Express

The Prague Airport Express is another budget-friendly method of transportation for solo travel from the airport. It picks up at Terminal 1 and 2 and goes direct to the Prague Main Railway Station in about 40 minutes.

Prague City Pass

Purchasing the Prague City Pass before arrival is a great option for airport to city center transportation plus attractions.

There is a Prague Card but I’ve had continual problems accessing the site, so I recommend the Prague City Pass instead.

The Prague City Pass covers unlimited travel on public transport throughout Prague, including round trip airport transportation on the Airport Express, and access over 60 attractions in Prague, including:

• Prague Castle (including the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, Cathedral of St. Vitus, and Golden Lane)
• Old Town Hall with Astronomical Clock (elevator included)
• Petřín Lookout Tower and Mirror Maze
• Petřín Funicular
• Powder Tower
• Old Town Bridge Tower
• Tours and a lot more

It can be activated for 3 options: 48, 72, or 120 hours (it is not based on days, which is better). This card can also be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

I recommend getting the Prague City Pass in advance for a short or long visit to Prague and get airport travel and top attraction entries worry-free.

Trains to Prague

The trains can be an inexpensive way to travel solo to Prague. Prague receives many regional and international trains.

Trains will arrive at Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague Main Railway Station) within the city center.

Buses to Prague

Same goes for regional and international buses to Prague. There are variety of buses to take you to central Prague. The Flixbus Prague stop is at Prague Florenc Bus Station, close to the main train station and Old Town.

How to Get Around Prague

Is Prague Walkable?

The proximity of top Prague sights and activities in different neighborhoods makes Prague very walkable. City sidewalks and pedestrian streets are extensive in Prague.

To save time on your Prague itinerary, walk Prague by neighborhoods.

Note, most of the East of the river side attractions are on flat ground. The further you go out from the river, the hillier it gets.

The West side, however, is pretty hilly from the start. Steep hilly.

Prague will keep you in shape walking its hills, crossing bridges, and, of course, climbing steps to the many towers the city holds to get the best views of Prague. I recommend bringing a pair of comfortable, eco-friendly walking shoes.

If you want to learn more about Prague history and culture, or its food, wine or beer, take a historic walking tour or food walking tour of Prague. There are private and group tours available. Again, group tours do provide that additional chance to meet others when traveling Prague alone.

For faster, fun, and eco-friendly ways to travel in Prague, consider renting a bike, an e-bike or electric scooter. Have some fun!

If you want to learn more about the city by tour, take a Prague bike tour, e-bike tour, e-scooter tour, or even a Prague segway tour. Broaden your Prague solo travel horizons with any of these eco-friendly tours, learn a lot, have fun, and meet other single travelers.

Prague Public Transportation

If you need assistance, or have a very short time in Prague, or just want to rest your feet, Prague’s public transportation includes an extensive tram system.

Trams are above ground so you won’t miss out on the beauty of Prague while zipping between neighborhoods. Buy tickets at the yellow machines in metro stations for 30 or 90 minute increments. Don’t forget to validate your ticket.

Still, you’re not going to be able to get past walking for the majority of the Prague top attractions.

The Prague City Pass

Don’t forget the Prague City Pass as another way to access to unlimited Prague public transportation for 48 hours or more with access to 60+ Prague attractions.

Prague River Cruises

Split by the Vltava River, the longest in the Czech Republic, why not enhance your Prague solo travel with a Prague river cruise?

River cruises run day or night. They are a very pretty way to see and learn about the city, or even have a nice dinner out.

There are multiple Prague river cruises to choose from to suit your solo travel budget, tastes and itinerary.

Is Prague Safe to Travel Alone?

The Czech Republic has been given the rank of 9^th safest country in the world, and Prague has been placed in the top 100 safest cities to live in.

Crime in Prague is very low. Prague is also considered very safe to walk alone at night, so you don’t need to worry about safety in Prague as a solo female traveler. I never felt unsafe walking alone in Prague.

As always, practice general safety measures, such as walking on well-lit streets and keeping your belongings on you at all times, especially in crowded or touristy areas.

Other than that, you should consider Prague one of the best places to go by yourself.

Best Area to Stay in Prague Solo

Prague is divided into 22 districts. Like Paris, the lower the number, the more central the district is. The most central districts are Prague 1 and Prague 2, which consist of the following neighborhoods: 

1. Staré Mesto (Old Town) – Prague 1
2. Malá Strana (Lesser Town / Little Quarter) – Prague 1
3. Nové Město (New Town) – Prague 2
4. Vinohardy – Prague 2
5. Vyšehrad / Albertov – Prague 2

Whether you’re staying a week or a weekend in Prague, or on first time travel to Prague, the best areas to stay in Prague are in the Old Town, Lesser Town (Little Quarter) and New Town neighborhoods as noted on the map below.

Old Town Prague is going to be the pricier of the three areas, but you can find budget deals if you plan ahead.

Prague Hotels and More

There are multiple Prague city center accommodations across all budget types to choose from. Going in the off season, or booking well in advance, will get you the best Prague prices.

Consider booking at a property that either is eco-friendly or sustainably rated, or at least employs these methods into their business to reduce your travel carbon footprint.

Prague Hotels

Hotels in Prague range from budget to luxury.

For location, price, amenities (including free-cancellation), eco-friendly and sustainable operations, and customer reviews and ratings, here are my Prague Solo Travel Guide recommendations (i.e., where I would stay):

• Cloister Inn Hotel
• Hotel CUBE Prague
• Hotel Leon D´Oro
• AMEDIA Express Praha
• Charles Bridge Palace

I last stayed at Cloister Inn Hotel conveniently located between Old Town and the river. My room and bed were large and comfortable, the hotel staff friendly and helpful, and the breakfast was amazing. I love having a large, European breakfast.

2023 update: Cloister Inn Hotel is now Travel Sustainable rated through Booking.com. I knew it was a matter of time considering their sustainable initiatives (below).

Prague Hostels

A hostel can be a budget accommodation for Prague solo travel. Using the same conditions above, and the ability to get a private room, my Prague hostel for solo travel recommendation is Hostel One Míru. It is a family run hotel in a decent location that employs some sustainability initiatives.

What would a Prague Solo Travel Guide be without providing best things to do in Prague?

Here are some of the opportunities to enjoy a quiet and relaxing solo trip, or meet others on fun activities on your Prague solo travel. Just don’t miss the Prague must do items.

Start with this 5 Prague must dos video to discover top Prague sights and activities. You’ll see what a wonderful Prague solo trip you’ll have.

MORE Best Things to Do Alone in Prague

Now for the fun part of the Prague Solo Travel Guide… things to do in Prague.  Prague is full of wonderful places and activities to do alone. You won’t be bored, trust me.

There is no way to list everything, so here are but some of the best things to do on a solo trip to Prague.

If you don’t want to get the Prague City Pass for entry to Prague attractions, you can get single entry tickets. Just get them in advance, especially if your Prague solo travel is during peak season.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Prague landmarks are plentiful and can be free things to do in Prague.

• Staromestske namesti (Old Town Square) – colorful facades of the Old Town Hall and Tower, Astronomical Clock, Týn Church and shops and restaurants with the imposing Jan Hus Memorial centered.
• Karlův most (Charles Bridge) – stone bridge crossing the Vltava river
• Václavské náměstí (Wenceslas Square) – long boulevard and plaza in heart of Prague named after the Czech king
• Zlatá ulička u Daliborky (Golden Lane)
• Namesti Republiky (Republic Square)
• Petřín Tower – 478 meter Eiffel Tower replica offers the best views of Prague. It is so worth it.
• Jewish Quarter & Old Jewish Cemetery – multiple synagogues
• Franz Kafka statue  (by Jaroslav Róna)
• John Lennon Wall
• David Černý sculptures – Czech sculptor known for his provocative creations

Churches, Cathedrals and Castles

• Pražský Hrad (Prague Castle) – founded in 880, it’s the largest coherent castle complex in the world
• Old Royal Palace – at the Prague Castle
• St. Vitus Cathedral – Czechia’s most important church with climbable tower and Art Nouveau stained glass winder by Alfons Mucha
• Church of Our Lady before Tyn – Old Town Square
• Church of St. Nicholas Jesuit – centerpiece of Little Quarter Square, with ultimate High Baroque decor and a climbable bell tower
• St. George’s Basilica – at the Prague Castle
• Katedrální chrám sv. Vavřince (St Lawrence Church)

History and Architecture

• Old Town Hall Tower
• Prague Astronomical Clock – 1410 clock in medieval Old Town Hall Tower
• New Town Hall – boasts Prague views (but not as good as from Petrin Tower)
• Klementinum – National Library with lavish Baroque Hall and Observatory Tower
• Vyšehrad – 10^th century fort on the east bank of the Vltava River.
• Strahov Monastery & Library – 1143 abbey and monastery
• Stavovské divadlo (The Estates Theatre) – one of the oldest theaters in Europe
• Obecní Dům (Municipal Building) – Art Nouveau building with Prague’s largest concert hall, eateries and bars
• Prašná brána (Powder Tower)
• Tančící dům (Dancing House)

Museums, Observatories and Zoos

• Kafka Museum
• Mucha Museum – Mucha’s art nouveau works
• National Gallery Prague, Kinsky Palace
• National Gallery Salm Palace
• Národní Museum (National History Museum)
• Národní technické museum (National Technical Museum)
• Museum of Communism
• National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror
• Židovské Muzeum v Praze (Jewish Museum)
• Museum Kampa
• Prague Zoo
• Štefánik Observatory

Parks, Gardens, Plazas and Promenades

• Wallenstein Palace Gardens
• Prague Botanical Garden
• The Vrtba Garden
• Petrin Park (access by foot or the Funicular Railway)

Prague Dining and Shopping

Solo travel in Prague would not be complete without sampling the local Prague food and drink. This is where you treat yourself for walking those hills in Prague.

Prague is known for its traditional sweet and savory meat dishes with sauces and dumplings, pastries, beer and wine. For the best solo trip in Prague experience, drop your ‘no carb’ diet, or any diet for that matter.

These are only some of the must-eat Czech food on dining solo in Prague either at breakfast, a restaurant, beer hall, or as grab-and-go while you wander Prague.

There are a lot more, so don’t be afraid to ask the waiter, waitress or a local for recommendations. 

What to eat in Prague?

• Guláš (goulash) a spicey or non-spicey chicken, duck, turkey, fish, rabbit or lamb dish (traditionally Hungarian made popular in Czechia) served in sauce with side of potatoes and dumplings. A must to wash it down with a Czech beer.
• Svíčková (braised beef with dumplings) in a sweet sauce with the traditional dumplings. Ask how long this dish takes to prepare before ordering.
• Koleno (pork knuckle) slow marinated and roasted with herbs and beer served on the bone with horseradish or mustard.
• Raiska omáčka (beef with sweet tomato sauce) soup served with dumplings.
• Knedliky (bread dumplings) made from flour, boiled, rolled and sliced, they look like slices of bread and absorb all of those sweet and savory sauces so well.   
• Smažený Sýr (fried cheese) served with potatoes and tatarská omáčka (tartar sauce)
• Cibulačká (onion soup)
• Česneková polévka (garlic soup)
• Gulášová polévka (goulash soup)

• Nakládaný hermelín (pickled cheese)
• Utopenci (sausages) pickled in vinegar, oil, onion, red pepper, or other spices.
• Grilované  Klobásy (grilled sausages) served with horseradish, mustard and brown bread.
• Palačinky (Czech pancakes) filled with ice cream, whipped cream, fruit or jam and topped with whipped cream, sugar or almonds. Roll them up or eat with a fork.
• Ovocné Knedlíky (fruit dumplings)
• Kolač (Czech cakes) filled with jam, fruits, or curds.
• Trdelník (Chimney Cake) pastry wrapped around a stick, baked over a fire flame, powdered with sugar, then filled with your favorite sweet fillings, like ice cream, chocolate and fruit. These shops can be found in any neighborhood. You can’t escape the smell of sugar.

What to drink in Prague?

Popular Czech drinks to try are:

• Beer – it’s everywhere and the Czech drink. Popular beers are Pilsner Urquell, Krusovice, Bernard, and Staropramen. Beer doesn’t settle as well with me as it used to, but even I had to sample the delicious brews with the traditional meals. When in Rome. Er, Prague.
• Moravian wine – a local wine from local vineyards outside of Prague. Try the Burčák, a sweet bubbly that reminds me of mimosas.
• Svarak (hot wine) – popular in winter time.
• Slivovice (plum brandy) – best chilled, it’s consumed by the shot.
• Karlovy Vary (herbal liquor)
• Fernet – served as stock (bitter) or citrus (lemon) chilled or over ice.

Where to eat alone in Prague?

So, now that you got the goods on the Czech goodies, here are some of the cool places to go in Prague for eats as well as what to do in Prague at night:

• Old Town Square rest with some coffee or refreshments outside while soaking in the architecture. This area, of course, is not as budget friendly as other areas.
• Strahov Monastery Brewery – dine outside on traditional dishes and beer (of course) and on your way to Petrin Hill. You’ll have walked it off before you eat it.
• Lokál – pub-style restaurant in Old Town with long stretch of tables serving serving traditional dishes to tourists and locals alike. Prices are good and it’s possible to dine without a reservation.
• Kavárna Obecní dům – beautiful beautiful café in the Municipal House

• Letna Beer Garden – a great outdoor stop for beer in Petrin with views of Prague
• Vinograf Senovazne – wine bar with great selection of local wines.
• Bokovka– great for tasting local wines with charcuterie plate. Try the boiled grape juice dipping sauce.
• Hotel U Prince – rooftop bar in Old Town Square with fantastic views.
• Ameriky Bar (American Bar) – very old European bar also within the Municipal House.
• Hemingway Bar – popular spot for sipping absinthe cocktails

Prague Shopping

For more food options with a little shopping, try:

• Havelská Market – wonderful open-air market for snacks, produce and gift shopping
• Náplavka Farmers Market – huge outdoor market on the river with multiple vendors and entertainment (Saturdays only).

Wenscaslas Square and Na Příkopě are also great ways to do some shopping while seeing more of Prague.

Beyond Prague

If you have time or want to explore more of Czech Republic on your Prague trip, try a day trip from Prague.

Prague is within hours to fantastic locations and activities, such as wine tasting in the Monrovian wine region or visiting the Auschwitz concentration camp or Terezin concentation camp.

There are also more UNESCO World Heritage sites that are all possible day trips from Prague:

• Historic center of Český Krumlov
• Kutná Hora Historical Town Centre with the Church of St Barbara and the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec
• Historic Centre of Telč
• Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora

Here is a summary of the best booking sites I recommend you use to successfully book your travel to Prague. I use just about all of these for most travel locations. I even gave you my suggested Prague city center hotel.

These booking sites give you multiple travel options and awesome travel deals for all travel budgets. They will certainly help get a jump on starting your trip to Prague.

For the best travel deals, always book early.

Don’t forget to check out Prague ecotourism ideas and use my ultimate Czech Republic Travel Guide complete your Czech Republic travel planning and booking.

Get THE BEST of Prague in 3 Days

Now that you’re ready for your Prague solo travel, let me provide you a fabulous Prague first time visit solo travel itinerary.

My 3 days in Prague travel itinerary covers all of the best things to in Prague in 3 days, with a suggested 4 day Prague itinerary option, that is perfect for first-time solo travel over 50. Check it out.

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if my ultimate Prague Solo Travel Guide was helpful in planning your solo travel over 50. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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