Prague, the city of a hundred spires, medieval charm, and more beer than water, doesn’t have to drain your wallet. From jaw-dropping architecture to hearty eats, this fairy-tale city has plenty of surprises that cost little to nothing. Get ready for some penny-pinching adventures through cobbled streets and castle courtyards—let’s do this!
Getting into Prague Without Selling Your Soul
Prague has one main airport, Václav Havel Airport, and luckily, it’s close to the city. Here’s how to get to the heart of the action:
- Public Transport: Forget pricey airport taxis; hop on the 119 bus to Nadrazi Veleslavín metro station and take the green line straight to the city centre. All this for just 40 CZK (about €1.50). Don’t forget to validate your ticket unless you fancy meeting Prague’s famous ticket inspectors.
- Airport Express Bus: For 100 CZK (€4), it takes you directly to the main train station, Hlavní nádraží. A little pricier, but quick and easy.
Public Transport: A Czech-Inspired Life Hack
Prague’s public transport is cheap, efficient, and as reliable as your grandma’s kitchen clock. Grab a 24-hour pass (120 CZK/€5) or, even better, a 3-day pass (330 CZK/€13). It’ll get you on trams, buses, and the metro, plus some ferries. Bonus: Prague’s trams double as mobile sightseeing tours. Tram #22, in particular, takes you past Prague Castle and other iconic spots.
Prague on the Cheap (or Totally Free)
Prague Castle Courtyards
Who said you need to buy a ticket to see Europe’s largest castle complex? Wandering the courtyards and gardens is free, and the view from the South Gardens is worth a million crowns (but costs zero). Want more royal vibes? St. Vitus Cathedral’s main nave is free to enter.
Charles Bridge at Sunrise
Yes, it’s the tourist magnet of Prague, but head there at dawn, and you’ll have it (mostly) to yourself. Plus, the golden light bouncing off the Vltava River will make your Insta followers jealous.
Parks and Views
- Letná Park: This sprawling park offers more than just a cheap beer (30 CZK/€1.20) from a kiosk. With wide open spaces perfect for a picnic, it’s also a favourite among skaters who gather at the iconic Stalin Plaza for tricks and stunts. Stroll along the Letná beer garden, a local institution, and soak up uninterrupted views of Prague’s bridges stretching across the Vltava River. Perfect for catching golden hour.
- Vyšehrad: This historic fortress feels like a hidden gem. Explore the ancient ramparts, which offer panoramic views of the river, and lose yourself in the peaceful, ivy-covered Vyšehrad Cemetery, the resting place of Czech legends like composer Antonín Dvořák. Don’t miss the neo-Gothic Church of St. Peter and Paul, whose colourful interior will leave you in awe. Entry to the grounds and cemetery is free, and the tranquillity alone is worth the visit.
Quirky Markets
- Havelský trh: Located in the heart of Old Town, this charming market is a treasure trove of affordable souvenirs, from handmade wooden toys (starting at 150 CZK/€6) to intricate glass ornaments (around 250 CZK/€10). Don’t miss the fresh fruit stalls where you can grab a snack for your stroll (20-50 CZK/€0.80-€2). Pro tip: haggle a bit for a better price—it’s part of the experience.
- Naplavka Farmers Market (Saturdays): A local favourite, this riverside market buzzes with energy. You’ll find everything from organic cheeses (50-150 CZK/€2-€6) and freshly baked pastries (40-70 CZK/€1.50-€3) to craft beer (50 CZK/€2) and homemade jams (100 CZK/€4). Live music sets a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely Saturday morning. Plus, the riverside views make it an Instagram-worthy stop. Entry: Free.
Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Watching the hourly show costs nothing, but you’ll pay in crowded elbows and selfie sticks. The mechanical performance, featuring the twelve apostles and the skeletal figure of Death, is a quick but charming display of medieval craftsmanship. Arrive early to grab a good spot or visit late at night when the square is quieter to admire its illuminated beauty. Pro tip: The clock’s exterior, with its zodiac signs and intricate golden detailing, is even more mesmerizing up close.
Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square
These squares are perfect for people-watching and soaking in Prague’s lively atmosphere. Wenceslas Square, lined with historical buildings and modern shops, often hosts cultural events and seasonal markets, like the popular Christmas market in winter. Old Town Square is home to street performers, horse-drawn carriages, and the imposing Gothic towers of Týn Church. Skip the overpriced restaurants and instead grab a Trdelník or a Klobása from nearby stands for a quick, affordable bite while you explore.
Visit the Sex Machines Museum
Quirky, risqué, and downright bizarre, this museum offers an extensive collection of antique erotic devices and vintage films. Admission costs around 250 CZK (€10), and it’s certainly a conversation starter for those seeking an unconventional experience.
Explore Prague’s Bunkers and Nuclear Fallout Shelters
Step into Prague’s Cold War history by visiting hidden underground bunkers and shelters. These tours, starting at about 350 CZK (€14), offer chilling insights into life during the communist era and feature genuine relics from the time.
Budget-Friendly Bites (and Pints)
Prague is a foodie’s paradise, even on a budget. Here’s where to eat like a king (or queen) without emptying your purse:
- Lokal: Classic Czech cuisine with hearty portions. Try svíčková (beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) for around 250 CZK (€10). Pair it with a fresh Pilsner for 69 CZK (€2.75) to complete your authentic Czech meal.
- Beer Gardens:
- Riegrovy Sady: Affordable beer (30-50 CZK/€1.20-€2) with panoramic city views. Bring your own snacks for a perfect picnic vibe.
- Zahradní pavilon: Locals’ favourite spot for drinks in a garden setting. Enjoy craft beers starting at 60 CZK (€2.50) while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
- Letná Beer Garden: Another gem with beers for as little as 40 CZK (€1.50), this place combines great views with a vibrant social scene.
- Street Food Options:
- Palačinky Stalls: Sweet or savoury crepes for around 70 CZK (€2.80) are a quick, filling snack you’ll find at various street corners.
- Klobása Stands: These sausage vendors near Wenceslas Square serve hearty bites with mustard and bread for just 80 CZK (€3).
And let’s not forget… Trdelník (chimney cake): Touristy? Yes. Delicious? Absolutely. Grab one filled with ice cream or Nutella for around 100 CZK (€4). Look for less touristy stalls to snag one for 80 CZK (€3)!
Museum Mania: Free (or Almost Free)
Czech out (pun intended) these spots:
- National Museum: Free entry on the first Monday of each month. Its grand neo-Renaissance building is home to fascinating exhibitions on Czech history, culture, and nature. Even when entry isn’t free, tickets cost only 250 CZK (€10) for adults and 150 CZK (€6) for children, making it a worthwhile stop.
- Lennon Wall:More street art than museum, this colourful tribute to John Lennon and global peace movements changes constantly as visitors leave their marks. It’s a vibrant and inspiring photo op nestled near the Charles Bridge.
- Kampa Museum Grounds: Famous for its quirky, oversized outdoor sculptures by David Černý, such as the crawling babies and penguins. While the museum itself charges a fee, the outdoor art and the riverside views are completely free.
- Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague: For 200 CZK (€8), step into Prague’s mystical past. Discover fascinating tales of medieval alchemy and explore the spooky, atmospheric setting of this unique museum.
- Prague City Museum: This museum offers free entry to its gardens, and inside you can see the intricate Langweil model of Prague—a detailed paper model of the city from the 19th century. Entry is 120 CZK (€5) for adults but often has free days throughout the year.
Budget-Friendly Day Trip: Kutná Hora
For a taste of Czech history beyond Prague, head to Kutná Hora—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and eerie attractions. It’s an easy, budget-friendly day trip just an hour away by train.
- How to Get There: Take a direct train from Prague’s main station (Hlavní nádraží) for around 120 CZK (€5) each way. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes about an hour.
- What to See:
- Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church): A chapel adorned with the bones of over 40,000 people. Entry costs 220 CZK (€8.80), and it’s both haunting and beautiful.
- St. Barbara’s Church: A Gothic masterpiece with stunning frescoes and flying buttresses. Entry is 150 CZK (€6).
- Italian Court: Once the central mint of the Czech Kingdom, this historic site now offers guided tours for 140 CZK (€5.50).
- Local Eats: Enjoy a hearty Czech meal at one of Kutná Hora’s cozy restaurants for about 200 CZK (€8).
This charming town combines history, architecture, and intrigue—perfect for a budget-conscious traveller looking to escape the city for a day.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) bring mild weather, fewer tourists, and all the charm. Winter? If you can brave the chill, Prague’s Christmas markets are magical. Summer? Prepare for crowds but also long days and vibrant energy.
Final Budget Breakdown
- Food: A hearty meal costs around 200 CZK (€8). Beer? Less than bottled water at some places – 30 CZK (€1.20).
- Accommodation: Hostels start at 300 CZK (€12), budget hotels at 1,200 CZK (€50).
- Transport: Daily pass for 120 CZK (€5).
Cheers to Cheap Prague!
Whether you’re into castles, beer, or quirky art, Prague is a treasure trove of budget-friendly fun. Remember to wander off the beaten path, try all the dumplings, and keep an eye out for hidden gems. Na zdraví! (Cheers!)