Prague Metro System: Your Complete Guide to Navigating the Czech Capital
Prague’s metro system stands as one of Europe’s most efficient and comprehensive urban transportation networks. Since opening in 1974, the Prague Metro has become an essential part of daily life for residents and tourists exploring the beautiful Czech capital.
Prague Metro Overview
The Prague Metro operates three distinct lines covering 65 kilometers with 61 stations throughout the city. This underground railway system serves over 1.6 million passengers daily, making it the backbone of Prague’s public transportation network. The metro connects seamlessly with buses, trams, and funicular railways, creating an integrated transport system that reaches every corner of the city.
The Three Metro Lines
Line A (Green Line) runs from Nemocnice Motol in the west to Depo Hostivař in the southeast, spanning 17 stations. This line serves major tourist destinations including Wenceslas Square (Muzeum station) and Prague Castle area (Malostranská station).
Line B (Yellow Line) extends from Zličín in the southwest to Černý Most in the northeast, featuring 24 stations. Key stops include Náměstí Republiky for shopping and Anděl for modern business districts.
Line C (Red Line) connects Letňany in the north to Háje in the south through 20 stations. This line provides access to Prague’s main train station (Hlavní nádraží) and the historic city center (Muzeum station).
Operating Hours and Frequency
Prague Metro operates daily from 5:00 AM to midnight, with trains running every 2-3 minutes during peak hours and 5-10 minutes during off-peak times. Late-night transportation is available through night buses and trams after metro closure.
Ticketing and Pricing
The metro uses an integrated ticketing system valid for all Prague public transport. Tickets range from short-term 30-minute passes to annual subscriptions. Visitors can purchase tickets at metro stations, tobacco shops, or through mobile apps. Standard adult tickets cost approximately 24 CZK for 30 minutes or 32 CZK for 90 minutes.
Metro Stations and Architecture
Prague Metro stations showcase remarkable architecture and design. Many stations feature unique artistic elements, including mosaics, sculptures, and distinctive lighting. Notable stations include Náměstí Míru with its deep escalators and Střížkov with its modern glass design.
Tourist-Friendly Features
The Prague Metro system caters excellently to international visitors. Station names appear in Czech with Latin script, making navigation straightforward for tourists. Clear signage, multilingual announcements, and tourist information points enhance the user experience.
Safety and Accessibility
Prague Metro maintains high safety standards with 24/7 security presence and modern surveillance systems. Most stations feature accessibility improvements including elevators and tactile guidance systems for visually impaired passengers.
Connecting to Major Attractions
The metro provides convenient access to Prague’s top attractions. Staroměstská station connects to Old Town Square, while Malostranská serves Prague Castle and Lesser Town. Muzeum station offers access to both Wenceslas Square and the National Museum.
Prague’s metro system represents efficient urban planning and remains an affordable, reliable way to explore this magnificent European capital city.
