8 DAYS IN PRAGUE FOR UNDER $1,250
Even though it is still the summer, now is the best time to plan a trip to Europe to explore the iconic Christmas Markets. Flights and hotels in December are still affordable, so book your trip now.
Prague is one of the best cities to experience the festive holiday spirit. It has a number of Christmas markets all with a historic backdrop and plenty of charm.
Price per person based on 2 people can be as cheap as $1,250, but to splurge on some nicer hotels the cost comes in around $1,600 per person. See below for recommendations for each budget.
The budget below is based staying in Prague for the full 8 days. Below is a sample itinerary.
Day 1: Arrive in Prague
Day 2: Explore Old Town
Day 3: Christmas Markets and Gingerbread Fun (visit the Gingerbread Museum)
Day 4: Discover Prague's hidden gems by visiting the Jewish Quarter and wandering the beautifully decorated streets
Day 5: Day Trip to Český Krumlov
Day 6: Walk Along Charles Bridge & Visit Prague Castle
Day 7: Shop, eat, and enjoy a final day in Prague
Day 8: Head home
For a list of the top sites and things to do in Prague, check out our Traveler’s Checklist.
Note: All pricing is accurate at date of post, but is subject to change as hotels/airlines frequently update pricing. Pricing is usually accurate for 24-72 hours, may be longer especially for hotels.
Flight from Chicago to Prague
There are a number of affordable flight options to Prague in December. Unfortunately there are not many nonstop so most likely you will need to have a layover. That being said, there are some great flights that come in under $700 per person. One of the best deals is on , one of the best deals is with Aer Lingus and comes in at $655 per person. The dates are departing Chicago December 1st and leaving Prague on December 9th.
Hotel Recommendations in Prague
There are some great options to stay at while visiting Prague. As hotels are so affordable, if you can swing it I recommend splurging a little on the hotel as you can stay at 5 star hotels in Prague for less than the cheapest hotels in other cities like Paris.
Hotel Palác U Kočků: Located in the city center, this hotel mixes Victorian charm with modern amenities. The rooms are larger than most and most have king size beds! The best part is you are less than a five minute walk to most of the top sites and surrounded by amazing restaurants. There is also a restaurant and bar onsite.
Cost: From $118/night in December
Hotel Liberty: This beautiful art deco hotel is located in the city center and an easy walk to everything. The rooms are large and classicly decorated. One of the best parts with this hotel is that it includes a free breakfast buffet!
Cost: From $140/night in December
The Emblem Hotel: This luxury 5 star hotel is an amazing option for those with a little more room in your budget. It is located close to Old Town Square and Prague Astronomical Clock. It has a beautiful rooftop terrace, onsite restaurant, spa, and hair salon on site. The rooms are luxurious and well worth the extra money. The best part is the price!
Cost: From $220/night in December
Getting Around Prague
Airport Transportation
Once you arrive at the airport one of the best options is to hire a private driver. It costs the same as taking a taxi and is a great option for it’s convenience. This Prague Private Transfer is $39 and can fit up to 4 people. Another option is to use Uber, the cost is usually around $30 each way. For those trying to stick to a tight budget you can take an easy bus to the city. The bus station is right in front of Terminal 2 (Exit D) and you will take bus 119 to Nadrazi Veleslavin where you will transfer to the subway Line A (green). From there you will take the subway to the stop closest to your hotel. For most central hotels, that is most likely Mustek. The cost for a transit ticket that is valide for 90 minutes is €1.25.
Getting Around Prague
Prague is a mid size city and you can get to most places on foot. As you will be traveling during the winter, another great option is to use the subway system. You can either buy a day pass or purchase per ride at €1.25 for 90 minutes. For those that are looking for convenience, Ubers are also a great way to get around the city and are relatively affordable.
Total Cost of Transportation: $80 per person. This budgets the private transportation from the airport and allows for at least a couple of Ubers during your stay.
Budget Breakdown - $1,250
For those with a very tight budget, you can do Prague for $1,300 (this includes flights, hotels and transportation). See below for the budget breakdown:
Roundtrip Air Fare: $655
Hotel Palác U Kočků $968 (7 Nights): $484/person
Transportation: $80
Total Cost : $1,219
Budget Breakdown - $1,600
For those with more room within their budget, you can stay at some great hotels and still come in under $1,600 (this includes flights, hotels and transportation). See below for the budget breakdown:
Roundtrip Air Fare: $655
Emblem Hotel $1,731 (7 Nights): $866/person
Transportation: $80
Total Cost : $1,601
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