Prague has long been considered one of Europe’s best-value destinations, and while it’s not as cheap as it was a decade ago, it still offers excellent affordability compared to many places. A pint costs less than a coffee in some places, public transport is cheap and efficient, and you can eat well for under £10. But knowing where to stay, eat, and explore without overpaying is key. This guide breaks down how to get the best out of Prague on a budget, covering flights, hotels, food, attractions, and insider tips that locals actually use.
Getting to Prague for cheap
Flights from the UK to Prague are often very affordable, especially with Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet offering direct routes from London, Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh. If you book way in advance, return fares are as low as £30-£60. The cheapest tickets are for midweek flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Once you arrive at Václav Havel Airport Prague, avoid the hugely expensive taxis. The Airport Express bus takes you directly to the main train station for 100 CZK (£3.50). Alternatively, the 119 bus to Nádraží Veleslavín metro station and a short metro ride into the city centre costs 40 CZK (£1.40).
When to go for the best value
Winter is the cheapest time to visit, with lower hotel prices and hardly any crowds, but expect cold temperatures and short days. Spring and autumn give the best balance—accommodation remains reasonable, and the weather is mild without peak-season crowds. Summer sees higher prices, but Prague’s beer gardens and open-air events make it a great time to visit.
Where to stay without overspending
For budget travellers, staying in districts close to the centre, such as Žižkov or Vinohrady, offers great value while still being within walking distance of main attractions. Hostels like The RoadHouse Prague and Hostel One Home offer beds from £15-£16 per night. If you prefer a hotel, B&B Hotel Prague City has rooms from £50 per night. For self-catering, Airbnb options in Žižkov or Karlín start from £40 per night.
If you’re after affordable luxury, Hotel Mosaic House offers stylish rooms with sustainable design features from around £90 per night.
Getting around Prague without wasting money
Public transport is cheap and efficient. A single ticket valid for 90 minutes costs 40 CZK (£1.40), while a 72-hour pass is just 330 CZK (£11.50). Trams are often the best way to explore, with Tram #22 offering scenic views of the city’s landmarks for the price of a regular ticket.
Cycling is another great option. The city’s shared bike system, Rekola, offers a day pass for just 120 CZK (£4). Walking remains the best way to explore the city’s historic streets for free.
Eating well for less
Prague’s food scene caters well to budget-conscious travellers. Lokál serves traditional Czech dishes like svíčková (beef in creamy sauce with dumplings) for under 200 CZK (£7).
For street food, try sausages from Václavské náměstí stalls for around £2.50 or a trdelník (chimney cake) for £2. If you prefer a sit-down meal, U Houdků offers massive portions of goulash for 180 CZK (£6.50). If you’re after an affordable Michelin-starred experience, Field offers lunch menus from £25.
Drinking without breaking the bank
Prague is famous for its beer, and you can still find a half-litre for under 50 CZK (£1.75) in non-touristy areas.
- U Medvídků – a historic beer hall with their own brews.
- Letná Beer Garden – great views, cheap pints.
- Vinohradský Pivovar – local craft beer for 60 CZK per pint. Love that they call the beer ‘hazardously drinkable’.
Affordable things to do
Some of Prague’s best attractions are free or low-cost.
- Charles Bridge and Old Town Square are completely free and essential for first-time visitors.
- Prague Castle Grounds are free to explore, with full entrance costing 250 CZK (£8.50).
- Petřín Hill offers incredible views for 150 CZK (£5).
- The John Lennon Wall is a colourful, ever-changing street art spot.
If you have an extra day and want to explore a bit further, there are some fantastic day trips from Prague that are an easy train or bus trip away.
Budget-friendly daytrips from Prague
- Kutná Hora – Known for the eerie Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara’s Cathedral, this UNESCO-listed town is just an hour from Prague. A return train ticket costs around 200 CZK (£7), and entrance to the Bone Church is 160 CZK (£5.50).
- Karlštejn Castle – One of the most impressive castles in the Czech Republic, built by Emperor Charles IV. Trains from Prague take 40 minutes and cost 90 CZK (£3) one way. Entry to the castle starts at 250 CZK (£8.50).
- Český Krumlov – A fairy-tale town with a stunning medieval castle and winding cobblestone streets. Buses cost around 300 CZK (£10) return, making it a slightly pricier but worthwhile trip.
How to save money on Prague attractions
Many of Prague’s attractions charge entrance fees, but there are several ways to save money while still experiencing the city’s best sights.
- Prague City Pass – Offers free entry to Prague Castle, the Jewish Museum, and a Vltava River cruise for 1390 CZK (£47). If you plan to visit multiple sites, this can offer good value.
- Discount days – Some museums offer free entry on the first Monday of the month, including the National Gallery and the Museum of Decorative Arts.
- Combination tickets – Buying joint tickets for multiple sites (like Prague Castle’s different buildings) is often cheaper than paying for individual entries.
Free walking tours and budget-friendly guided experiences
Exploring Prague on foot is one of the best ways to see the city, and free walking tours provide great insight into its history without costing a fortune.
- Sandeman’s New Prague Tour – A free daily walking tour covering Old Town, the Astronomical Clock, and Charles Bridge. Tips are encouraged but optional.
- Prague Extravaganza – Another excellent free tour focusing on Prague’s turbulent past and local legends.
- Self-guided tours – If you prefer to explore at your own pace, use Google Maps to create a custom itinerary or download free audio guides.
For a cheap guided experience, consider a river cruise, where basic sightseeing boats start at 300 CZK (£10) for an hour-long trip down the Vltava.
Final tips for saving money
Taxis from the airport are overpriced—always take the Airport Express bus or metro instead. When eating out, look for small, local restaurants outside tourist areas. Booking attraction tickets online in advance often saves money. For currency exchange, avoid airport booths and use a Revolut or Monzo card, or withdraw cash from an OTP Bank ATM in the city.
