Tram
In the city centre, the tram is a fun attraction. There's no need to board the hop-on hop-off bus for €31. That’s a tourist trap and a waste of money. The tram is clean, relaxing, cosy, and takes you almost everywhere within the centre and far beyond. When it’s quiet, you can see a lot of the city this way. The Czechs use the tram to commute to and from work. Tourists, like myself, use the tram for sightseeing.
There are too many tram lines to mention. But I’d like to make an exception for tram 17, tram 22, and the funicular. These trams take you along the most famous landmarks.
Personal Tip
"Tickets for the Public Transport in Prague are very cheap and valid for tram, bus and metro.
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History of Prague's tram
The history of Prague's trams dates back to 1875 when the first horse-drawn trams started operating in the city. Initially, these trams served only a few routes, but as Prague grew, so did the network. In 1891, electric trams were introduced, marking a significant turning point. Prague was one of the first cities in Europe to adopt electric tramways, thanks to the innovative work of Czech engineer František Křižík. His electric tram ran from Letná to Stromovka and soon became a popular mode of transport.
Throughout the early 20th century, the tram system expanded rapidly, connecting more distant neighborhoods to the city center. During the interwar years, trams became the backbone of Prague's public transport, serving as a lifeline during the city's industrial growth. Despite damage during World War II, the network was quickly restored and modernized in the post-war era.
The iconic red and cream Tatra trams, introduced in the 1950s, became a symbol of Prague and continued to operate for decades. Today, while many sleek modern trams have been introduced, some of the older models still run, maintaining a link to the city's rich past. The trams remain an essential and beloved part of Prague's identity.
Line 17
This tram runs along the banks of the Vltava River, passing the Vyšehrad Rock, the Dancing House, the National Theatre, Charles Bridge, and the Rudolfinum, then crossing the bridge to Vystaviste – the exhibition grounds – and continuing on to Stromovka Park.
Line 22
This tram follows a (tourist-friendly) route along Prague's major landmarks, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, the National Theatre, and Petřín Hill. You can take part of the route and stay seated until you reach the northern side of Prague Castle (stop Pražský hrad).
From there, you can head towards the castle complex and slowly descend back to Charles Bridge.
On Malostranske Namesti you can take the tram to Prague Castle or go by foot
Petřín Funicular: closed until 2025
You can also use the 510-meter-long funicular from Újezd to Petřín. A ticket costs 60 Kč, but it's free if you have a public transport ticket valid for 24 hours or more. A single ticket is only available at one of the three stops. Don't forget to validate it, as inspectors love to fine tourists without hesitation if the ticket isn't stamped.
Halfway up Petřín Hill, there is the Nebozízek stop. You can get on or off there and continue your walk into the park. Alternatively, you can ride all the way to the top and then explore further from there.
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