Why Tram 22 is the Best Tram Route for Sightseeing in Prague

Tram 22 is more than just public transport; it is a moving sightseeing tour. It starts in the leafy suburbs and travels directly into the UNESCO-listed city center. You will see the red rooftops of Malá Strana and the spires of the Old Town. This route is widely considered the best tram route for sightseeing in Prague because it passes the most iconic landmarks. It is the easiest way to reach the castle hill without a long, uphill hike.

Using the tram is very efficient for modern travelers. You can hop on and off at various points of interest throughout the day. This flexibility is perfect for those following a detailed Prague sightseeing guide. Unlike expensive hop-on-hop-off buses, the tram is used by locals and tourists alike. It provides an authentic glimpse into daily life in the Czech capital. You get to see the city's rhythm while enjoying world-class views from your window.

The route also offers incredible value for money. A single ticket allows you to ride for 30 or 90 minutes. For more freedom, consider a 24-hour or 72-hour pass. These passes are valid on all trams, buses, and the metro system. This makes it simple to transition from a scenic ride to a walking tour. Always remember to validate your paper ticket when you first board to avoid fines.

10 Must-See Stops on Prague’s Scenic Tram Lines

To make the most of your journey, you need to know where to get off. Here are the top stops along the scenic tram lines for Prague sightseeing. These locations offer a mix of history, culture, and nature. Each stop provides a unique perspective of this beautiful city.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Prague Castle Complex
• Best for families: Petřín Lookout Tower
• Best rainy-day: National Museum
• Best free: Letná Park Viewpoint

1. Name: Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Hradčany district. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Free to enter grounds; paid tickets for interiors. Getting there: Take Tram 22 to the Pražský hrad stop. Tip: Visit the official Prague Castle site to check for special event closures.
2. Name: Strahov Monastery (Strahovský klášter) Type: Unique local experience Why go: Famous for its stunning baroque library and its own brewery. Best for: Culture and craft beer lovers. Where: Pohořelec. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for library entry. Getting there: Tram 22 to Pohořelec stop. Tip: Try the St. Norbert beer brewed on-site.
3. Name: National Theatre (Národní divadlo) Type: Iconic sight Why go: A symbol of Czech national identity with a beautiful golden roof. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: New Town riverbank. Time: 30 minutes for photos. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Tram 22, 9, or 17 to Národní divadlo stop. Tip: Look across the street to see the modern "New Stage" glass building.
4. Name: Malostranské náměstí Type: Neighborhood Why go: The heart of the Lesser Town, surrounded by baroque palaces. Best for: Exploring narrow streets. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 22, 12, or 15. Tip: Visit St. Nicholas Church nearby for incredible frescoes.
5. Name: Letná Park (Letenské sady) Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: Offers the most famous view of Prague's bridges over the Vltava. Best for: Sunset views and relaxation. Where: Letná hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 17 or 12 to Letenské náměstí. Tip: Head to the Metronome for the best photo angle.
6. Name: National Museum (Národní muzeum) Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Recently renovated building housing vast natural and historical collections. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Tram 11 or 13 to Muzeum stop. Tip: The view from the museum dome is one of the best in the city.
7. Name: Vyšehrad Fortress Type: Day trip (in-city) Why go: A peaceful alternative to the main castle with great river views. Best for: Escaping the crowds. Where: Vyšehrad. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free for grounds. Getting there: Tram 17 or 18 to Výtoň or Albertov. Tip: Visit the UNESCO-listed historical cemetery where famous Czechs are buried.
8. Name: Dancing House (Tančící dům) Type: Iconic sight Why go: A world-famous piece of modern architecture by Frank Gehry. Best for: Modern art lovers. Where: Rašínovo nábřeží. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside; paid for gallery/bar. Getting there: Tram 17 to Jiráskovo náměstí. Tip: There is a bar on the top floor with a terrace.
9. Name: Loreto Prague Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful pilgrimage site with a famous carillon and treasury. Best for: Religious history. Where: Hradčany. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Tram 22 to Pohořelec. Tip: Listen for the bells that chime every hour.
10. Name: Naplavka Riverbank Type: Local experience Why go: The most popular spot for locals to walk, drink, and visit markets. Best for: Saturday mornings. Where: New Town riverbank. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 17 to Výtoň. Tip: The farmers' market on Saturday is a must-visit for local food.

Practical Tips for Scenic Tram Lines for Prague Sightseeing

Riding the tram is simple once you know the rules. First, you must have a valid ticket before boarding. You can buy tickets at yellow machines, newsstands, or via the PID Lítačka app. Many trams now allow you to buy a ticket with a contactless credit card inside the vehicle. For more detailed instructions, see our guide on how to use Prague Tram 22 for sightseeing.

Prague trams are very punctual and run frequently. During the day, most lines arrive every 8 to 10 minutes. At night, special night trams (numbered 91-99) take over. Be aware that Tram 22 can get very crowded during peak tourist hours. To enjoy the best views, try riding early in the morning or later in the evening. This will help you secure a window seat for better photography.

Safety and etiquette are important on public transit. Always offer your seat to the elderly or those with disabilities. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets. When the tram is moving, hold onto the railings as the stops can be sudden. For more general advice, check out our scenic tram lines for Prague sightseeing overview. This will help you navigate the city like a pro.

Exploring Alternative Scenic Tram Routes in Prague

While Tram 22 is famous, other lines offer unique views. Tram 17 is known as the "river line" because it follows the Vltava for much of its route. It provides a flat, scenic ride past the Dancing House and the National Theatre. This is a great choice if you want to see the city's waterfront. You can find more information on the official Prague tourism portal.

For a truly nostalgic experience, look for Tram 42. This is a historical sightseeing loop that uses vintage tram cars from the early 20th century. It operates on weekends and holidays. While it requires a special ticket, it is a fun way to see the center in style. The route passes by the Powder Tower and the Jewish Quarter. It is a favorite for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Finally, Tram 9 is excellent for crossing the city from east to west. It takes you through the bustling Wenceslas Square and across the Legion Bridge. From the bridge, you get a magnificent view of the Vltava and the Castle. It is a reliable line that connects many shopping districts and local parks. Exploring these different routes allows you to see the many faces of Prague beyond the main tourist trail.