Prague's awesome public transportation

Prague trams - old and new

The envy of the world?

Anyone who has ever lived in Prague or has spent a significant amount of time here knows that the city’s public transport system is world class.  In fact, on the whole it is probably one of the best public transport networks in the world.  It has everything you want in public transport - it’s:

• Safe,
• Reliable,
• On time,
• Frequent,
• Extensive, and
• Cheap.

prague's trams are great for sightseeing

And not only is Prague’s system wonderful n a practical sense, its tram network is a great way to see the city, including the historical parts that you’ll want to see on your visit.  As I mention in my guidebook, “Prague Travel Tips:  An American’s Guide to Her Adopted City,” certain tram routes are especially beautiful, such as the 17 and 18 along the river and the 22 up to Prague Castle and out to beautiful Náměstí Míru in the trendy Vinohrady neighborhood.

Some of the network’s older trams date to the early 1960s and are great examples of classic Czech design.  And in 2017, part of the old 23 route was revived especially to run only the older trams in their fully original condition – including the original seats that are not only much more comfortable than the newer seats, but are also heated in the winter, a real plus!

prague has a metro, too!

Prague's Metro

Prague also has a metro system that speeds commuters rapidly underneath the city and out to the housing estates that were built under communism.  The original metro stations, which date to the 1970s, offer a glimpse of retro design from the socialist era.
 
The metros are not only very fast and efficient, but in summer they are quite cool, giving riders a chance to beat the summer heat.  One reason they are so cool is that most of them are VERY deep – as they were meant to serve as nuclear fallout shelters in case of a nuclear attack from the West!

the price is right

And using Prague’s public transportation is easy on the wallet.  We locals get unlimited use of everything (trams, metro and bus) for an entire year for under $200.  If you’re a visitor, a single ride lasting not more than 30 minutes will cost you about $1.10 and a 24-hour pass will cost you about $5.  See my guidebook for more information on buying tickets.

Of course, the best way to see Prague is on foot, but when you need to get from one area to the next, or if you want to visit one of the ‘burbs, or if your feet just need a break, you can sit back, relax and ride around this beautiful city while taking in some of the most beautiful scenes in the world.