Where to Stay in Prague in October – Local’s Guide (2025)

Imagine strolling through a golden-hued fairytale, where crisp autumn leaves crunch underfoot on cobblestone streets and a low, golden sun casts a magical glow on ancient spires. This is Prague in October. The city is arguably at its most beautiful, draped in the vibrant colors of autumn.

To make your autumn trip perfect, choosing the right place to stay is crucial. This guide will walk you through the best neighborhoods and hotels in Prague, from classic historic quarters to trendy, modern districts, ensuring your October visit is comfortable, convenient, and utterly unforgettable.

Where to Stay in Prague in October – Map:

Why the Right Location Matters in October

October offers some of the best walking weather of the year in Prague. The days are often sunny and pleasant, but the evenings turn cool quickly. A well-chosen location allows you to maximize your time exploring the city’s parks and riverside paths during the day, while also giving you a cozy and convenient base to return to.

More importantly, with major city-wide events happening this month, a central and well-connected accommodation is your ticket to seeing it all without hassle.

The Signal Festival: A Special Consideration for Your Stay

A major highlight of any October trip to Prague is the Signal Festival, a spectacular festival of light art and emerging technologies. For several nights, the city itself becomes a canvas. Buildings, parks, and hidden squares are transformed by breathtaking light installations, video-mapping projections, and interactive artworks created by artists from around the world.

The installations are spread across various neighborhoods—from the historic Old Town and Malá Strana to the modern, trendy district of Karlín. This is why your hotel’s location is so important.

Staying in a central or well-connected area means you can easily walk between multiple installations, creating your own magical evening art tour. A base near a metro or tram hub is a huge advantage, allowing you to effortlessly hop between festival locations across the city.

The Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Prague in October

1. Old Town (Staré Město): The Epicenter of Action

In October, the Old Town is the perfect base camp. You’re at the heart of the historic city and often a central point for the Signal Festival. You can explore the main sights during the day and step right out into a wonderland of light art at night.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Prague – Offering unparalleled views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle, the Four Seasons provides ultimate luxury and impeccable service. After a day at the markets, you can unwind in their top-tier spa.

Boutique: The Emblem Hotel – A chic and modern lifestyle hotel that focuses on creating a sense of community. The Emblem features a stunning rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi (perfect for a brave winter dip!), a luxurious spa, and a sophisticated lounge. It offers a stylish retreat from the bustling streets while being just a short walk from all major sights.

Mid-Range: Hotel Rott  – An elegant and perfectly located hotel just seconds from the Old Town Square. The Emblem features a stunning rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi (perfect for a brave winter dip!), a luxurious spa, and a sophisticated lounge.

Best Value for Money:

Ibis Praha Old Town: This hotel is a prime example of getting a fantastic location without the luxury price tag. Located near the Powder Gate and Republic Square, it offers clean, modern, and reliable rooms. You’re still just a 5-10 minute walk from the main square, but in a slightly less crowded (and more affordable) spot.

Hotel Clement: A highly-rated, modern hotel situated a short walk from the Vltava River and the Old Town. Guests consistently praise its cleanliness, excellent breakfast, and friendly staff, making it a solid choice for great value.

2. Lesser Town (Malá Strana): For Romantic Autumn Walks

October is when Malá Strana shines. The trees on Petřín Hill, which towers above the district, turn brilliant shades of gold, red, and orange, creating a stunning backdrop. It’s a quieter, more romantic area perfect for couples and photographers, offering endless opportunities for atmospheric strolls along its lamp-lit streets.

Luxury: Mandarin Oriental, Prague – A stunning hotel set in a former monastery, offering a peaceful and luxurious sanctuary. It’s an unforgettable romantic escape.

Boutique: The Golden Well Hotel – This boutique gem is one of Prague’s most celebrated hotels, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its rooftop terrace and exceptional service.

Mid-Range: Hotel Pod Věží – A charming hotel located right at the foot of the Charles Bridge with beautifully decorated rooms. Its location is simply unbeatable for romantic walks, and the friendly staff receives rave reviews.

Best Value for Money:

Hotel Pytloun Kampa Garden: Its location is its superpower. Tucked away right next to the beautiful Kampa Park and the Charles Bridge, this hotel offers simple, clean, and comfortable rooms at a fraction of the price of its luxury neighbors. It’s a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on location.

Hotel William: A traditional and well-maintained hotel that offers a comfortable stay in a great location for exploring both Malá Strana and accessing the tram lines to get around the city. It provides a classic Prague experience without breaking the bank.

3. Karlín: For a Taste of Modern, Trendy Prague

Once an industrial district, Karlín has transformed into one of Prague’s trendiest and most dynamic neighborhoods. It’s a foodie paradise, filled with innovative restaurants, hip cafes, and cool bars. Karlín is frequently a key location for the Signal Festival, making it a brilliant and practical place to stay. It offers a fascinating contrast to the historic center and shows you the modern face of Prague.

Luxury/Design: The Hotel Fitzgerald – A stylish and sophisticated boutique hotel that reflects Karlín’s modern energy. It features beautifully designed rooms and a top-floor wellness area, offering a luxurious stay in a vibrant, local setting.

Mid-Range/Trendy: Hotel Royal Prague – For a touch of modern sophistication in the heart of Karlín, Hotel Royal Prague is an excellent choice. Located just steps from the Křižíkova metro station, it offers fantastic connectivity to the rest of the city, making it a practical and elegant base for your October adventures.

Aparthotel: The Viaduct – Karlín – For those who want more space and flexibility, this highly-rated aparthotel offers modern, well-equipped apartments. It’s perfect for feeling like a local while enjoying easy access to the area’s best food spots and the city center.

4. New Town (Nové Město): For Shoppers and Easy Access

The “New” Town is Prague’s main commercial and shopping hub. In November, it’s a fantastic base for those who want easy access to shops, theatres, cinemas, and countless restaurants. It offers excellent transport links (all three metro lines intersect here), making it the perfect launchpad for exploring the entire city, especially on colder days.

Luxury: NH Collection Carlo IV– Housed in a breathtaking Neo-Renaissance palace, the NH Collection Carlo IV offers an experience of pure grandeur. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate magnificent architecture and top-tier wellness facilities, all within walking distance of the main train station and Wenceslas Square.

Mid-Range: K+K Hotel Fenix – A modern and reliable choice just off Wenceslas Square with a wellness area and great breakfast. . Its proximity to the main train station and metro makes it incredibly convenient for travelers.

Best Value for Money:

Motel One Prague-Florentinum: This is perhaps the best example of the “budget-design” concept in Prague. You get incredibly stylish, well-designed rooms, a vibrant bar area, and high-quality service, all for a very affordable price. Its location near the Florenc transport hub is excellent.

Hotel CUBE Prague: A very modern, tech-forward hotel that gets rave reviews. Located between Wenceslas Square and Charles Square, it offers sleek, comfortable rooms, often at a very competitive price point. It’s a favorite among travelers looking for modern comforts and great value.

5. Vinohrady & Holešovice: For a Local Vibe and Creative Energy

For an authentic local experience, these neighborhoods are ideal. Vinohrady is elegant and residential, perfect for enjoying autumn in its beautiful parks like Riegrovy Sady. Holešovice is Prague’s artistic and creative hub, filled with galleries, indie cinemas, and unique spaces.

Apartment Hotel: Le Palais Art Hotel Prague – A stunning Belle Époque hotel on the border of Vinohrady, Le Palais offers a taste of historic luxury. With spacious rooms, a wellness center, and beautiful original artwork, it provides a quiet and sophisticated stay away from the main tourist throngs.

Unique & Trendy Splurge: Mama Shelter Prague – Located in the vibrant, artistic district of Holešovice, Mama Shelter is not just a hotel—it’s an experience. Designed by the legendary Philippe Starck, this hotel explodes with quirky, playful, and colorful design at every turn.

Best Value for Money:

Czech Inn: This is a legend among smart travelers. While it operates as a hostel, it also offers a wide range of beautifully designed and affordable private rooms and apartments in a restored 19th-century building. It’s perfect for experiencing the trendy Vinohrady vibe on a budget.

Clarion Hotel Prague City -This hotel is a smart choice for travelers who want modern comfort and unbeatable convenience in the heart of Vinohrady. As part of a well-known hotel chain, you can expect reliable service, clean, contemporary rooms, and an excellent buffet breakfast to start your day.

Smart Alternatives for Great Value: Apartments & Modern Hostels

Don’t limit yourself to traditional hotels! Prague offers excellent alternatives that are perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

• Apartments & Aparthotels: Renting an apartment via Booking.com can be incredibly cost-effective, especially for families, groups, or those on longer stays. Having a small kitchen allows you to save money by preparing your own breakfast or light meals. Look for options in Nové Město, Vinohrady, or Karlín for the best balance of price and location.
• Modern Hostels: Forget the old stereotypes. Prague has some of Europe’s best hostels, many of which offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms that rival budget hotels in comfort but beat them in price and social atmosphere. They are a fantastic option for solo travelers and young couples. 

Essential Booking Tips for Your November Trip

• Book Ahead for Better Deals: November is a shoulder season, meaning lower prices than in December. Still, booking a few weeks or a month in advance will secure you better rates and more options.
• Check for Central Heating: This is a non-negotiable for a Prague autumn. Ensure your accommodation has reliable heating by checking recent reviews.
• Look for Cozy Amenities: A hotel with a nice lobby bar, an in-house restaurant, or wellness facilities (sauna, pool) can be a huge plus on a cold, dark evening.
• Prioritize Proximity to Public Transport: Staying near a metro or tram stop makes getting to indoor attractions on rainy days quick and painless.

Read also: Weather in Prague in October: What to Expect (+ Local Tips)

Prague in November offers a unique and intimate charm. It’s a time for moody photographs, quiet contemplation in historic squares, and cozy evenings in traditional pubs. Whether you want to be in the historic heart of the Old Town, the romantic lanes of Malá Strana, or a chic local neighborhood, there is a perfect spot waiting for you. Pack a warm coat and an umbrella, and get ready to fall in love with the atmospheric soul of the City of a Hundred Spires.

Practical Tips for Prague from Locals

Maps we have created for you:

We’ve created detailed maps featuring the best sights, hidden gems, recommended places to stay, itineraries, and more — all based on our own local experience. We hope they’ll help you plan an unforgettable trip to our beautiful hometown. Check our maps on this page.

How to save money on currency exchange:

We highly recommend getting a Revolut card — it’s one of the best travel debit cards out there. We’ve been using it for over 10 years and it has already saved us thousands of euros.

Best Guided Tours in Prague (Our Picks):

• Essential for first-timers: Top Sights & Historic Center Introduction Tour
• Jewish Quarter: Jewish Quarter Walking Tour
• Hidden Gems: Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Local Guide
• Bike Tour: Complete City Bike Tour
• Food Tour: Guided Street-Food Stalls Walk (with tastings)
• Beer Tour: Prague Microbrewery Tour