Prague Hotel Advice: Tips for saving on accommodations
To visit Prague is to visit one of Europe’s most stunning cities. But with so many visitors looking to stay in the famous Old Town, finding a cheap hotel in Prague can be a little trickier than you might think.
Whether you are looking to be inspired by Prague’s rich architectural history, to indulge in eating and drinking in some of the city’s centuries-old taverns, or just want to take some time to relax in the many beautiful parks, Prague is a destination that will leave a distinct and unforgettable impression on you.
Prague travel tips:
• 5 Top budget hotel picks in Prague
• Budget Guide: How to save on your trip to Prague
5 Tips for saving on your Prague hotel
To help you get the most out of your stay, we’ve got a few tips on how to best navigate the Prague hotel scene. There are thousands of properties to choose from (4,917 to be exact), so we came up with five simple ways to help you save and find that perfect hotel room.
1. Be picky about where you sleep in the center
Everyone loves the idea of being in the absolute heart of the Old Town (Staré Mesto). Who wouldn’t want to wake up with a view overlooking the Charles Bridge or with a nighttime glimpse of the illuminated castle? But as with most major cities in Europe, hotels right next to the monuments tend to be pricier, even for much smaller rooms.
Despite the huge number of attractions spread throughout the Old Town, it’s actually not such a large area, with most museums and sights no more than a 10-minute walk from each other. So staying anywhere in the district will put you close to the top things to see and do in Prague. Perhaps you won’t wake up to a view of the main square, but you’ll still be in a centrally-located area with a sizable discount on your hotel bill.
Stay across the river from Old Town in Smichov at the Admiral Botel.
2. Stay outside the center for a more local experience and to save
Prague has much more to offer than just the Old Town, and there are a number of unique neighborhoods that offer their own identity and spirit, while still being a short distance to the center by walking or public transit. Many tourists don’t even know about these areas, but budget travelers should take a closer look.
Try the upscale Vinohrady, the hipster haven of Vrsovice, the quaint residential area of Smichov, or the serenity of green Dejvice. There are a ton of charming neighborhoods in the city located within 15 minutes by metro, tram, or bus to the center. These districts offer you a glimpse into the local culture of Prague — and at a much better price than being in the center. Learn more about Prague neighborhoods.
Even in winter, Prague is spectacular. Photo: Isa
3. Come to Prague during the offseason
Prague is one of Europe’s most popular destinations, with more than 7 million tourists coming to the Czech capital each year. You’ll find throngs of people during the summer between June and August, all of whom are competing for affordable hotel rooms.
If you want to enjoy a more tranquil, snow-covered Prague in the winter, try a visit in November, January, or February. Cheapos will love the better rates at this time of year. A visit in the spring or autumn can also save you money and give you an opportunity to experience the beauty of the shoulder seasons.
Sir Toby’s Hostel in Prague has more than dorms. It also has a number of comfy private rooms.
4. Book a private room in a hostel
For the budget-minded traveler that might be done with sleeping in bunk beds in a shared dorm room full of snoring backpackers, there is a happy medium that exists: private rooms in hostels. Prague is home to dozens of hostels in every imaginable location of the city. This option gives you flexibility in choosing where you want to stay, gives you the privacy you need for a better night’s sleep, and is lighter on the wallet.
Our favorite hostel picks for Prague: Sir Toby’s Hostel | Traveller’s Hostel | Czech Inn| Hostel Emma
5. Consider an apartment for more than two people
For a group of friends or a family, it can be difficult and expensive to find the right accommodations. Taking a short-term apartment can be worth it for a multitude of reasons. You often have a kitchen to cook your own meals, which reduces the cost of eating out all the time, and you can have a living room to unwind in after a long day of sightseeing.
Most importantly, you can expect much cheaper rates for the size of an apartment compared to booking a group of hotel rooms. With thousands of short-term apartments available in Prague, you should be able to find the right space that works for you. Search for apartments in Prague.
Do you have a tip for finding a great room in Prague? Or maybe you have a favorite hotel? Let us know in the comments below.
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