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Prague’s Neighborhoods: Old Town, Lesser Town and More

Prague is divided into a total of 10 different city districts, though tourists usually only get to see a few of them. The infrastructure connecting Prague’s districts is excellent: the metro, trams and numerous buses run throughout the city.

Blick über Prag prag teilt sich in verschiedene Bezirke Photo: Mikhail Hnot

Prague is divided into two distinct areas by the Vltava River. On the eastern bank is the heart of the Old Town, Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí). On the western bank lies the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), whose center is Lesser Town Square (Malostranské náměstí).

Prague’s main neighborhoods are found on both sides of the Vltava. The river is central to the whole city and flows through Prague from end to end. River cruises even depart from here.

Quick facts: Prague’s neighborhoods

  • The Vltava divides Prague into western and eastern areas, each with different routes and views.
  • The Old Town, Josefov, Lesser Town and Hradčany are close to the best-known historic sights.
  • Vinohrady, Žižkov, Holešovice and Smíchov offer different residential, cultural and dining options.
  • Administrative districts and established neighborhoods do not always have the same boundaries.
  • Where you stay, tram and metro connections, hills and your route back at night all influence which neighborhood to choose.
  • Opening hours, construction work, events, traffic and current visitor information are checked.

Well-known neighborhoods in Prague

The most important district for visitors is Prague 1, which includes the Old Town (“Staré Město”), the Lesser Town (“Malá Strana”) and Hradčany. Many of Prague’s sights are located here, along with plenty of traditional pubs and restaurants.

Prague Old Town (Staré Město)

The Old Town (Staré Město) is Prague’s historic core. It lies on the eastern bank of the Vltava and includes the bend in the river immediately east of Charles Bridge. Its boundaries are Revoluční, Národní and Na Příkopě streets.

Malá Strana – the Lesser Town

The Lesser Town, on the western bank of the Vltava, lies below Prague Castle. Kampa Island, by Charles Bridge, is also part of Malá Strana, or the Lesser Town.

Hradčany

The area on the hill around Prague Castle, on the western side of the Vltava, is called Hradčany.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter

Josefov, or the Jewish Town, is Prague’s historic Jewish quarter on the eastern side of the Vltava. It is actually the northern part of Prague’s Old Town, extending between the river and Old Town Square. Tucked away in its old buildings are many cozy pubs and restaurants.

New Town (Nové Město)

The New Town (Nové Město) lies on the eastern side of the Vltava. It begins east of Revoluční and extends as far as Vnislavova.

Vyšehrad

The castle district south of Vnislavova is called Vyšehrad.

Vinohrady

Prague’s old vineyards, Vinohrady, are also lovely for a stroll. They offer wonderful views across the city.
Residential districts and working-class neighborhoods on the eastern side include Vinohrady, Žižkov and Karlín; on the western side of the Vltava are Smíchov, Letná and Holešovice.

Many of Prague’s hotels and vacation apartments are located in the central Old Town districts. This is where you’ll find traditional accommodation. If you’re looking for a newer, stylish hotel with wellness facilities and a spa, you’ll need to look in districts a little farther out.

Plan your Prague neighborhood visits around your routes

The best way to understand Prague’s neighborhoods is through their routes and sightlines. The Old Town, Josefov, New Town, Lesser Town and Hradčany are close together, but the river, changes in elevation and bridges make them feel quite different. If you’re exploring Prague on foot, it’s worth planning sensible sections rather than simply ticking off individual sights. That leaves time for lanes, courtyards, riverside paths and viewpoints without constantly traveling between places far apart.

Compare historic neighborhoods and modern districts

The best place to stay in Prague depends greatly on your plans for the day. The Old Town, Josefov, Lesser Town and Hradčany put historic sights within easy reach, but can be busier. Vinohrady, Žižkov, Holešovice and Smíchov offer different advantages; consider the metro and tram connections, hills and the journey back when choosing.

For an initial overview, explore Prague, sights in Prague and hotels in Prague alongside specific questions about sightseeing and accommodation. Czechia, Mělník, Kutná Hora and Český Krumlov are ideal destinations for day trips or touring itineraries. Culture and history can help you plan your visit.

Before booking, check getting there and getting around and travel preparation. The official Prague tourism information provides additional up-to-date information about sights, events and neighborhoods. Opening hours, reservations, construction work and traffic can change.

FAQ about Prague’s neighborhoods

Which neighborhood is convenient for a first visit to Prague?

The Old Town, Josefov, Lesser Town and Hradčany are close to major historic sights. Still, your choice depends on your budget, how quiet you want it to be, public transport and what you plan to do in the evening.

What is the difference between a neighborhood and a city district?

Established neighborhoods and administrative districts do not always overlap. For planning a trip, the exact location, address and transport connections matter more than the district number.

Where can you stay somewhere quieter?

Vinohrady, Žižkov, Holešovice and Smíchov may offer alternatives to the busy historic areas. Check the specific street and proximity to public transport.

How do you get around between neighborhoods?

On foot, by tram, by metro or a combination of these. Take construction work, crowds, hills and the return journey into account on the day.