According to a recent ranking published by TimeOut, Prague has the second most efficient public transport system in the world, surpassed only by Berlin in Germany.
This news is certainly a great source of pride for the city and its inhabitants. But why is Prague’s public transport system considered so efficient?
Firstly, Prague’s public transport network is well-developed and extends throughout the city. There are buses, trams and underground trains covering all districts, from the most central areas to the suburbs. This means that citizens can easily reach any part of the city without having to walk long distances or spend a lot of time transferring.
Quality of services
In addition, Prague’s public transport system is very reliable. Vehicles arrive and depart on time, thanks to a modern control system that allows timetables to be monitored in real time and adjusted according to traffic needs. This means that citizens do not have to worry about missing their bus or tram due to delays.
Another element contributing to the efficiency of Prague’s public transport system is its cost-effectiveness. The price of tickets and season tickets is relatively low, which makes public transport a convincing alternative to using a private car.
Finally, the passenger experience is enhanced by the high level of comfort offered by the means of transport. The buses, trams and metros are all modern, clean and air-conditioned, which makes travelling pleasant and comfortable, especially in summer. Each metro line also has its own aesthetic character, from the photogenic bubble facades on the A (green) line to the futuristic designs found at the end of the C (red) line. The yellow B line straddles the two, with some curious communist remnants.
In summary, Prague can certainly be proud of its efficient public transport system, which is a model for many other cities around the world. Thanks to its ability to connect the entire city area quickly and economically, this system is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to move easily and effortlessly within the city.
Info and interesting facts
Let’s take a look at some information and interesting facts about public transport in Prague.
Underground
The fastest and easiest way to get from one area of the city to another is definitely the metro. The Prague metro has 3 lines, runs every day from 5 a.m. to midnight, and is very efficient. For more information, we refer you to a page dedicated only to the Prague metro.
Regular buses
Regular buses cover a network of 400km but are rarely used by tourists to get around the city centre. They are generally used to reach metro stations from outlying areas or at night when the metro is already closed. Public bus lines 119, 100, 179 and 225 connect the airport to the metro, with which you can then reach the city centre. This is the cheapest way to get from the airport to the centre of Prague, but it is not the most comfortable.
Trams
Trams (tramvaje) are the oldest public transport in Prague. They cover an extensive network, run frequently and allow you to see much of the city without walking too much. Daytime trams run from 4.30 am until midnight with intervals of 10 to 20 minutes. Night trams run from 00.30 until 4.30 with intervals of about 30 minutes. They can be recognised by their number, which runs from 51 to 59 and is marked in blue on the stop signs. At each stop there is a sign, on which is marked the stop you are at, the other stops to follow and the numbers of the trams that stop. Newer trams have an electronic display announcing the stops. To get around Prague as a tourist, the most frequently used tram is the 22, which stops at all the most significant places in the city. Other lines that pass by the main monuments, offering impressive views along the way, are 14, 17 and 23.
Tram 91
A special line is the nostalgic tram No. 91 (nostalgická linka c. 91), a historical tram that runs on weekends and holidays from the end of March until mid-November. Tram No. 91 departs from Vozovna Strešovice and continues towards the city centre, running every hour from noon until 5 p.m.
Please note: tickets for public transport are not valid for tram 91, a separate ticket must be purchased.
Sources:
https://www.timeout.com/travel/best-public-transport-in-the-world
