The History of the Metro
The first plans for an underground railway in Prague appeared as early as 1898, but the first actual project was created in 1926. Construction began in 1966, making Prague the 44th city in the world to acquire this form of transport.
The original metro trains were robust and manufactured in the Soviet Union. In 1974, passengers were still using coin-operated turnstiles, with fares costing one crown, and the metro operated with a minimal number of trains.
Network Expansion
The Prague Metro can take you from one edge of the city to the other. All three existing lines – green A, yellow B, and red C – intersect in Prague’s historic centre, and line A, in particular, leads to some of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. Line B stops beneath the main bus station at Florenc, and line C serves the same station, as well as providing a connection to the main railway station, which welcomes international Eurocity trains. Line D is currently under construction.
The Deepest Metro Station
The total length of the Prague Metro lines is 65 kilometres, with 61 stations, transporting over 1.6 million people daily – for context, Prague has a population of around 1.4 million, with approximately 2.1 million living in the greater metropolitan area. The deepest station is at Náměstí Míru, located 53 metres underground. The longest and most stop-rich line is line B, stretching nearly 26 kilometres with 24 stops.
Underground Art
The Prague Metro also serves as a vast art gallery. Each station boasts unique artistic details, ranging from stained glass and gleaming aluminium panels (which have become sought-after collector’s items) to sculptures. Malostranská station, for example, is adorned with replicas of Baroque statues, while Hradčanská features golden tiles symbolising Prague Castle. Line B is decorated with glass tiles, with the most valuable examples found at Karlovo náměstí and Jinonice stations. A striking glass design can also be seen at Náměstí Republiky – the “lenses” resemble retro television screens.
The Secret Klárov Station
Hidden beneath Klárov lies a secret underground structure built as a government shelter. There is speculation that it may have been the first station of the unfinished "Stalin Metro," but officially it is part of the metro's protective system.
Scenic Route on Tram Line 22
You can admire the beauty of Prague not only on foot but also from the window of a tram. The tourist tram line 42 operates year-round, taking you to Prague’s most beautiful spots in historic vehicles (for a higher fare). However, you can also enjoy stunning views and a sightseeing tour for the regular fare by hopping on tram line 22. This route begins at Bílá Hora, right opposite the Benedictine convent, passes by the Břevnov Monastery – the oldest functioning monastery in the country – and continues past Prague Castle and the world-famous Bílek Villa to one of the most picturesque tram views in Prague. From there, the tram crosses the river to the National Theatre and the lovely Náměstí Míru, where St. Ludmila’s Cathedral is well worth a visit. Tram line 23 offers a similar experience.
The T3 Party Tram
For a truly unique experience, hop aboard the legendary T3 tram, which has been transformed into a semi-open, designer excursion and party tram. It can be rented for private celebrations, allowing you to enjoy drinks and snacks while cruising through the city of a hundred spires. The tram's interior even features a bar counter.
And what else can you use to get around Prague?
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