How to Buy and Use Your Tram Tickets

Before you board, you must have a valid ticket. Prague uses an integrated transport system. This means one ticket works for trams, buses, and the metro. You can buy tickets at yellow vending machines or through the PID Lítačka mobile app.

Physical tickets must be validated as soon as you step onto the tram. Look for the small yellow boxes near the doors. Insert your ticket into the slot to get a time stamp. If you use the app, activate your ticket before the tram arrives.

1. Step 1: Purchase your ticket. Time: 2 minutes. Typical cost: 40 CZK for 30 minutes or 120 CZK for 24 hours. Where: Yellow machines at stops or inside newer trams with a card. Common mistake: Trying to use large bills in older machines that only take coins.
2. Step 2: Locate the tram stop. Time: 5 minutes. Where: Look for the red and yellow sign with the number 22. Common mistake: Standing on the wrong side of the street going the opposite direction.
3. Step 3: Board and validate. Time: 1 minute. Where: Any door of the tram. Common mistake: Forgetting to validate a paper ticket, which leads to a heavy fine from inspectors.

• Before you go checklist:
• Check if you have small Czech coins for older machines.
• Download the PID Lítačka app for easy digital tickets.
• Ensure your phone is charged if using a mobile ticket.
• Carry a physical map or use a digital GPS app.

Finding the Best Route for Sightseeing

The 22 line is widely known as the best tram route for sightseeing in Prague. It runs from the residential areas of Hostivař to the White Mountain. However, the most scenic part is between the Vinohrady district and the Castle district. This section takes you through the very heart of the historic center.

Start your journey at Náměstí Míru in the Vinohrady neighborhood. This area features a stunning neo-Gothic church and local cafes. From here, the tram heads toward the city center. It passes through I.P. Pavlova, a major transport hub with many shops.

As the tram moves toward the river, the views become more dramatic. You will see historic buildings and narrow streets. The tram runs every 4 to 10 minutes during the day. This high frequency makes it very convenient for hopping on and off.

Major Landmarks Along the Tram 22 Line

As you ride, keep your camera ready for iconic sights. The tram crosses the Vltava River near the National Theatre. This building has a beautiful golden roof that shines in the sun. You can find more details about these sites on the Prague official tourism portal.

After crossing the river, the tram enters Malá Strana, or the Lesser Town. You will pass the Church of St. Nicholas, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The streets here are narrow and paved with cobblestones. The tram then begins its climb up the hill toward the castle.

The most popular stop is Pražský hrad. This is the entrance to the Prague Castle complex visiting guide area. Stay on for one more stop to Pohořelec to reach the Strahov Monastery. This allows you to walk downhill through the castle grounds instead of climbing up.

Practical Tips for Riding the Tram in 2026

To get the best views, try to sit on the right side of the tram. This side offers better angles of the river and the castle as you climb. In 2026, many trams are low-floor models, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Older high-step trams still run, so wait for the next one if you need easier access.

Avoid riding the tram during morning and evening rush hours. Between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, locals use it to get to work. The cars can become very crowded, making it hard to see the sights. Mid-day or early evening is much more relaxed for tourists.

Check the official Prague city website for any planned track maintenance. Sometimes the route changes slightly due to repairs. Always give up your seat to elderly passengers or people with disabilities. This is an important part of local etiquette in the Czech Republic.

Troubleshooting Your Prague Tram Trip

Even with a good plan, issues can happen. If a ticket machine is broken, look for a contactless terminal inside the tram. These terminals allow you to buy a ticket using a credit card. Do not ride without a ticket, as inspectors are very common on line 22.

Sometimes the tram may end its journey early at a depot. Listen for the announcement "Služební jízda" or look for a half-filled symbol on the display. This means you must get off and wait for the next tram. Most drivers do not speak fluent English, so use a translation app if needed.

• Common problems to avoid:
• Getting on a tram with a "X" prefix, which indicates a temporary detour.
• Losing your validated paper ticket before the end of your trip.
• Blocking the doors, which prevents the tram from departing.
• Ignoring the direction of the tram on the digital display.
• Falling victim to pickpockets in crowded tourist cars.
• Missing your stop because you did not press the stop button if required.
• Assuming the tram runs 24 hours; night trams have different numbers.