Where to Stay in Prague: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels in Prague
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links; more info here.
Choosing where to stay in Prague matters more than you think. With its gothic spires, grand castle, and quaint cobblestone lanes, Prague looks like a fairytale. But the neighborhood and hotel you stay in will determine whether it actually feels like one.
Prague’s historic center is compact and walkable, but every neighborhood delivers a different version of the city. The three best options to choose from are Old Town, Malá Strana, or New Town.
Over the years, I’ve stayed in many of Prague’s districts and tested a wide range of hotels. Some were fine. Some were forgettable. And a few were so special that I still daydream about them. Often.
My conclusion? In Prague, a central location is a must, but a generic hotel doesn’t cut it. Your base should be just as enchanting as Prague itself. And the best part? Five-star stays here cost far less than in other European capitals.
Ready to plug the perfect stay into your Prague itinerary? In this guide, you’ll find the best neighborhoods, along with Prague hotels that deliver amazing service, old-world charm, unforgettable views, and yes, Prosecco at breakfast!
Quick Summary: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels in Prague
Short on time? Here’s a quick cheat sheet on where to stay in Prague, along with a few tips!
Prague’s Best Neighborhoods
- Malá Strana (Lesser Town): Quiet and romantic, with incredible views, easy access to Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, and some of Prague’s best restaurants. My favorite neighborhood.
- Old Town (Staré Město): Prague’s iconic medieval quarter, home to Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, the Jewish Quarter, and more. Crowded, but perfect for first-timers.
- New Town (Nové Město): Modern, practical, budget-friendly, and well-connected, with easy access to shopping, nightlife, museums, and the main train station. My least favorite option.
Prague’s Best Hotels
- Aria Hotel Prague (Malá Strana): My favorite city hotel in the world! Luxe, intimate, and music-themed, with exceptional service, rooftop dining, and access to Vrtba Garden.
- Golden Well Hotel (Malá Strana): Historic, moody, and endlessly charming, with incredible views, beautiful rooms, and some of the best fine dining in Prague.
- Hotel Rott (Old Town): Quiet, historic, and steps from the Astronomical Clock, with a fantastic breakfast spread. The ideal Old Town base.
- BoHo Prague Hotel (Old Town): Stylish and luxurious, with serene interiors and top-tier service. A fantastic modern option in the heart of Old Town.
- Dancing House Hotel (New Town): A modern, design-forward, architectural icon with standout views of the Vltava.
Must-Know Tips
- Prague hotels are especially in demand between May and September, and again in December for Prague’s Christmas markets. Book 4 to 6 months ahead!
- In my opinion, the perfect hotel location is no more than a 10-minute walk from Charles Bridge.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Prague
Prague’s historic center is a maze of medieval buildings, colorful squares, cozy pubs, and winding streets that beg you to explore them – especially at sunrise or during a Prague foodie tour. Let’s quickly break down the pros and cons of the three best neighborhoods.
Old Town (Staré Město) – Historic Heart of Prague
Old Town (Staré Město) is classic Prague. It’s the medieval core of the city, filled with more crooked cobblestone lanes, ornate façades, Gothic spires, tucked-away cafés, and history than you can absorb in one visit. It’s home to Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, the Jewish Quarter, the Powder Tower, and one end of the Charles Bridge, so almost everything you want to see is right outside your door.
The downside? Crowds. Huge ones. That said, you’re going to explore Old Town – and encounter those crowds – no matter where you stay. So just embrace it!
The reward? The early mornings and late evenings, when the streets empty out and Old Town finally looks the way you imagined it would. It’s pure magic.
Pros of Old Town |
Cons of Old Town |
|---|---|
|
|
Pros of Old Town
- Most iconic, atmospheric neighborhood
- Walkable to everything
- Ideal for first-timers
- Great cafés, bars, and restaurants
- Magical early mornings and late nights
Cons of Old Town
- The biggest crowds in the city
- High prices in peak season
- Not as tranquil as Malá Strana
- Many tourist traps to sift through
MADDY’S TAKE: If it’s your first visit – and especially if you’re short on time (less than 3 days in Prague) – stay in the heart of Old Town. If you want the perfect Old Town location without sacrificing sleep, Hotel Rott is my top pick.
Malá Strana (Lesser Town) – Romantic Side of Prague
Cross the Charles Bridge to reach Malá Strana – where Prague slows down, and somehow becomes even more beautiful. It’s layered with Baroque architecture, ivy-draped stairways, hidden gardens, and streets that feel suspended in time.
Sitting just beneath Prague Castle, the neighborhood has a moody, storied atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else – not even in Budapest.
The location is nearly perfect, too. You’re just minutes from Old Town on foot, yet evenings feel worlds away. (Think rooftop terraces with gorgeous views, classy cocktail bars, and some of Prague’s best boutique hotels.)
You’ll also find small museums, leafy parks with castle views, the Lennon Wall, St. Nicholas Church, and quiet pathways around Kampa Island.
Pros of Malá Strana |
Cons of Malá Strana |
|---|---|
|
|
Pros of Malá Strana
- Central without the chaos of Old Town
- Quiet and incredibly romantic
- Close to Charles Bridge and Prague Castle
- Stunning views across Prague
- Excellent boutique hotels
- Many of Prague’s best restaurants
Cons of Malá Strana
- Fewer budget hotel options
- Not as many shops or nightlife spots
- May require slight uphill walking
MADDY’S TAKE: Malá Strana is my favorite neighborhood to stay in. You’ll be close to everything but far from the chaos. For a truly special stay, I always recommend the Aria Hotel or the Golden Well.
New Town (Nové Město) – Modern Side of Prague
New Town doesn't have the medieval charm of Old Town or the romance of Malá Strana, but it does have something going for it: practicality.
This is where you’ll find modern hotels, major tram and metro connections, big-brand shopping, the National Museum, Wenceslas Square, more local vibes, and lots of great restaurants and bars.
It’s not the Prague of my dreams. But if you want a more modern or affordable stay, or easy access to public transport, then New Town is for you.
New Town borders Old Town, so you’re still within walking distance of the river, the Charles Bridge, and most major sights. Just expect to encounter more car traffic and commercial buildings.
Pros of New Town |
Cons of New Town |
|---|---|
|
|
Pros of New Town
- More affordable hotel options
- Easy access to public transportation
- Less touristy than Old Town
- Still walkable to Old Town and the river
- Great for travelers who prefer contemporary hotels
Cons of New Town
- Less charming than Old Town or Malá Strana
- More traffic and commercial streets
- Fewer historic buildings and “classic Prague” sights
MADDY’S TAKE: New Town isn’t my first choice, but it works. I stayed in New Town recently (at a hotel I don’t recommend – but I won’t name names) and discovered some great traditional pubs and specialty cafés (all in my guide to the best restaurants in Prague). If I stay in New Town again, I’ll book the Dancing House.
Best Hotels in Prague (My Top 3)
After many trips to Prague – and staying at plenty of different hotels – these are my top three Prague hotels.
Two of them deliver the indulgent, boutique, old-world experience Prague is famous for. The other is a fantastic Old Town base with history, comfort, and an unbeatable location.
Aria Hotel Prague (Malá Strana)
I’ve stayed at the music-themed Aria Hotel Prague twice, and it’s my favorite city hotel in the world. Full stop. It’s glamorous, indulgent, a little whimsical, and so inspired.
And I’m not the only one who thinks so. A reader recently messaged me saying, “Thank you for recommending the Aria Hotel in Prague! Beautiful hotel.”
Each floor is devoted to a different music genre, and each room pays homage to a specific artist or composer. My last stay was in the Divas Junior Suite; it was spacious, beautifully designed (plush and pink!), and full of thoughtful touches.
The service is world-class (think: welcome drinks, concierge service, afternoon tea in the Winter Garden Atrium, turn-down service), and the whole property is warm, polished, and art-adorned. It’s beautiful.
Breakfast is equally fabulous, with a vast buffet and made-to-order dishes. The signature omelet with truffle oil, chives, and comté cheese is my absolute fave (with a side of Prosecco)!
There’s also a gym, a screening room, an expansive music library, and a private sauna.
And then there’s the UNESCO-listed Vrtba Garden, accessible directly from the Aria. It’s Prague’s oldest Baroque garden (a hidden gem!) and features incredible views. Entry is complimentary for guests.
And last, there’s CODA, the Aria’s modern Czech-European restaurant. I’ve dined in the art-filled dining room twice, and still dream about the kulajda soup with chanterelles and dill.
In the summer, CODA moves to the rooftop terrace, with beautiful views over St. Nicholas Church and Malá Strana.
I know you’ll love this five-star Prague hotel as much as I do. Click here to book your stay at Aria Hotel Prague!
Golden Well Hotel (Malá Strana)
Another five-star boutique hotel in Malá Strana, the Golden Well Hotel Prague is one of the most memorable hotels I’ve stayed in.
It’s moody, historic, intimate, and unmistakably Prague.
The hotel is a series of interconnected houses that once belonged to Rudolf II (the Holy Roman Emperor!). You can feel the layered history in the vaulted archways, old wooden details, and tucked-away corridors. It’s luxe and elegant, warm and cozy, all at once.
My husband and I booked a Grand Deluxe room. It was decently sized, full of old-world charm, and perfect after long days out.
The heated bathroom floors, fluffy robes, and Molton Brown products were a treat. And so was the turn-down service – with sweets, calming music, bed-side slippers, a handwritten note, and an offer to bring coffee as a wake-up call or run a bath for us after a day of sightseeing.
Breakfast is served in Terasa U Zlaté Studně, the Golden Well’s award-winning modern European restaurant, which features unmatched views over Prague, exquisite food, and an extensive wine list. For breakfast, there’s a lovely full buffet, plus an à la carte menu.
The Bohemia Lounge is open 24/7 with coffee and tea, along with complimentary wine and other refreshments every evening.
To me, the whole property feels like a refined medieval hideaway. It’s historic, welcoming, a little mysterious, and incredibly special.
Hotel Rott (Old Town)
Hotel Rott is my pick for the best hotel in Old Town. It’s historic and charming, yes. But the location is unbeatable. In the quiet Malé Náměstí Square, Hotel Rott is just seconds from Old Town Square on foot.
I stayed here during Christmastime and loved being able to pop in and out of my room, down to Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market. But of course, the location is wonderful any time of year – especially if it’s your first trip to Prague.
The building is steeped in history, dating back to the 13th century. And in 1855, the Rott Family (hence the hotel name!) ran an ironmongery business there, producing everything from steel beams to skis.
The hotel’s decor stays true to its deep roots, featuring wrought iron details, beautiful wooden accents, original stone walls, and plenty of historic character. Plus, the hotel’s façade features colorful frescoes and Neo-Renaissance architecture.
Our room was spacious and comfortable, with a cozy, traditional feel. Nothing over-the-top, just right.
Breakfast is excellent too, with a generous spread of fresh pastries, fruit, hot dishes, cheeses, and yes, Prosecco.
There’s also a fitness room, a rooftop terrace with views over Old Town and the Church of Our Lady before Týn (hot tip: just ask reception for access!), and some of the best restaurants in Prague nearby.
Other Top Prague Hotels to Consider
If my top picks are unavailable, or if you’re after a different style, these hotels are also great options.
- Mandarin Oriental Prague (Malá Strana): Housed in a former 14th-century monastery in Malá Strana, the Mandarin Oriental Prague is beautiful. I’ve stopped into the Monastiq for cocktails, but I haven’t stayed here yet. Perfect for a tranquil, high-end stay. Click here to book Mandarin Oriental Prague.
- MOOo by the Castle (Malá Strana): This stylish, design-forward hotel near the Prague Castle features spacious apartment-style suites, exposed beams, and contemporary Czech décor. Click here to book MOOo by the Castle.
- BoHo Prague Hotel (Old Town): BoHo is a modern boutique hotel just minutes from Old Town Square. It features calm, minimalist interiors, large guest rooms, and a wellness area. Perfect if you’re into contemporary design over historic charm. Click here to book BoHo Prague Hotel.
- Dancing House Hotel (New Town): I’ve admired the Dancing House’s incredible contemporary façades many times, but I’ve yet to stay there. Its location along the Vltava features unparalleled views, the rooms are modern yet cozy, and the rooftop bar is among Prague’s most popular. Click here to book Dancing House.
- Hilton Prague Old Town (New Town): For a modern hotel with all the amenities (indoor pool, gym, sauna, and spa), the Hilton Prague Old Town is perfect. It’s close to Prague’s train station, and just a short walk to the heart of Old Town. I’ve stayed here before, and while it’s nothing special compared to the other Prague hotels on my list, it’s adequate: well-located and reliable! Click here to book Hilton Prague Old Town.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Prague
So, where will you stay in Prague? Do you want quiet Baroque streets in Malá Strana? The vibrant energy and medieval atmosphere of Old Town? Or something modern and convenient in New Town?
As long as you stay in Prague's historic center, there’s no wrong choice – just the version of Prague you want to wake up in.
Now you’re ready to plan the rest! Start with my Prague itinerary and explore my Prague restaurants guide. Then, plan a Český Krumlov day trip if you have even more time!
Prague Hotel FAQs
Old Town is best for first-time visitors who want to be in the center of everything – as long as they don’t mind crowds. Malá Strana is quieter and more romantic, though it’s connected to the Charles Bridge and just a short walk to Old Town.
Aria Hotel Prague and the Golden Well are my top luxury picks – both intimate, beautiful, and located in Malá Strana (the loveliest neighborhood in the city!).
Old Town is ideal for first-timers thanks to its central location. Most major attractions are within walking distance.
I recommend booking 4 to 6 months ahead to secure great prices and locations – though it’s wise to book even earlier for peak seasons!
Yes, Prague is extremely walkable! If you stay in Old Town, Malá Strana, or New Town, you can walk almost everywhere. Most likely, the only time you’ll use Prague's public transportation or taxis is to get up to Prague Castle – and to/from the airport.
Note: This guide was written in collaboration with Aria Hotel Prague, Golden Well Hotel Prague, and Hotel Rott, however, all opinions are our own! We've tested many other Prague hotels that didn't make the cut.
