Why Trams are the Best Way to See Prague

Prague boasts one of the best public transport systems in the world. The tram network is the heart of the city. It is reliable, frequent, and very affordable. You can reach almost every major landmark using a tram. This makes finding the best tram route for sightseeing in Prague very easy for visitors.

The trams run through narrow streets where buses cannot go. You get a front-row seat to stunning architecture. The large windows are perfect for photography. You can hop off whenever you see something interesting. This flexibility is perfect for independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace.

Trams are also a great way to save money. A standard ticket costs much less than a taxi. You can buy passes for 24 or 72 hours. These passes allow unlimited transfers between trams, buses, and the metro. It is the most cost-effective way to see must-see historical monuments in Prague without breaking the bank.

10 Scenic Tram Lines for Prague Sightseeing

Prague has dozens of tram lines. However, some are much more beautiful than others. These routes take you past castles, over rivers, and through lush parks. Here are the top 10 scenic tram lines for Prague sightseeing to add to your itinerary.

1. Name: Tram 22 Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the most famous route in the city. It passes the National Theatre and climbs up to the castle. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: From Vinohrady to Prague Castle. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Catch it at I.P. Pavlova or Malostranská metro stations. Tip: Read our guide on how to use Prague tram 22 for the best experience.
2. Name: Historic Tram 42 Type: Experience Why go: This is a special tourist line with vintage wooden cars. It follows a circular route through the historic center. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Circular route starting at Dlabačov. Time: 40 minutes per loop. Cost: Approximately 300 CZK for a 24-hour tourist ticket. Getting there: Board at any stop along the route in the Old Town. Tip: Check the schedule on the Prague official tourism portal before you go.
3. Name: Tram 17 Type: Viewpoint Why go: It follows the Vltava river for most of its journey. You get amazing views of the bridges and the riverbank. Best for: Sunset views. Where: From Modřany to Holešovice. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Board at Staroměstská or Palackého náměstí. Tip: This line connects many of the best panoramic viewpoints in Prague.
4. Name: Nostalgic Line 23 Type: Experience Why go: It uses the classic T3 red-and-cream tram cars from the 1960s. It covers the most scenic part of the Line 22 route. Best for: Retro photography. Where: I.P. Pavlova to Prague Castle. Time: 25 minutes. Cost: Standard public transport fare. Getting there: Board at Karlovo náměstí. Tip: These cars are smaller, so travel mid-day to avoid crowds.
5. Name: Tram 12 Type: Neighborhood Why go: It passes through the charming Lesser Town and the industrial-chic Holešovice. It offers a mix of old and new Prague. Best for: Exploring local districts. Where: Smíchov to Holešovice. Time: 35 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Start at Anděl metro station. Tip: Use this line to visit the Prague Castle district from the north side.
6. Name: Tram 9 Type: Sight Why go: Known as the "backbone" of the city. It crosses the Vltava over the Legion Bridge with views of the National Theatre. Best for: Crossing the city quickly. Where: Žižkov to Smíchov. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Catch it at Wenceslas Square. Tip: This line is very frequent, arriving every few minutes.
7. Name: Tram 1 Type: Viewpoint Why go: It makes a steep climb up to Letná Park. You get a great view of the city's many bridges from above. Best for: Park lovers. Where: Holešovice to Petřiny. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Board at Vltavská metro station. Tip: Get off at the Sparta stop to walk through Letná Park.
8. Name: Tram 2 Type: Nature Why go: It is a quiet route that leads to the Hvězda Game Reserve. It is much less crowded than the central lines. Best for: A peaceful afternoon. Where: Podbaba to Petřiny. Time: 25 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Board at Dejvická metro station. Tip: It is a great alternative to Line 22 for reaching the castle area.
9. Name: Tram 6 Type: Neighborhood Why go: This line explores the trendy Vinohrady district. You will see beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and local cafes. Best for: Foodies and architecture fans. Where: Kubánské náměstí to Palmovka. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Board at I.P. Pavlova. Tip: Stop at Náměstí Míru to see the stunning Church of St. Ludmila.
10. Name: Tram 18 Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It passes the National Theatre and several university buildings. It has a very academic and artistic feel. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Pankrác to Petřiny. Time: 35 minutes. Cost: 30-40 CZK. Getting there: Board at Karlovo náměstí. Tip: This line is perfect for reaching the Charles University area.

Practical Tips for Your Prague Tram Journey

Using the tram is easy once you know the rules. Always buy your ticket before you board. You can buy them at yellow vending machines or newsstands. Most trams now allow you to buy tickets inside using a contactless credit card. Look for the orange terminal in the middle of the tram car.

Validation is the most important step. If you have a paper ticket, you must punch it in the orange machines. Do this immediately after stepping onto the tram. Failure to validate can lead to a heavy fine. Inspectors often check tickets on popular scenic routes like Line 22.

Be mindful of local etiquette. It is customary to give up your seat for the elderly or pregnant women. Trams can get very crowded during rush hour. Try to travel between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM for the best views. This will ensure you get a window seat for your sightseeing journey.