Prague Hotels

Getting in and out of Prague is a snap, thanks to the cheap and well-run trains of Czech Railways (ČD) and the buses, which are even cheaper still, run more frequently and are quite comfortable. The budget prices and convenience of these modes of transports mean that air travellers to Prague are comparatively rare; if you do fly into the city, you'll fetch up in Ruzyně, the international airport.

Prague's compact historic centre is best appreciated on foot, with the help of cheap, widespread public transportation. To think of driving is just foolhardy - the city's not set up too well for cars (or, for that matter, for bicycles). If you take taxis, beware of inflated fares; your best bet is a radio taxi.

Prague's Ruzyně airport, 17km (11mi) northwest of the city centre, is the Czech Republic's only international airport. It's served by dozens of international carriers, including Česke aerolinie (ČSA), the state airline. Departure tax is included in the price of the ticket. Smaller Karlovy Vary airport primarily serves domestic travellers, but has regular flights to Moscow.

Trains run daily between Prague and most major European cities; Paris, Amsterdam, Munich and Vienna are some major hubs. Within the Czech Republic, Czech Railways (ČD) provides cheap, efficient service. Various passes are available.

Buses tend to be faster, more frequent and marginally cheaper than the train. All domestic long-distance buses and most regional services depart the Florenc station, though many regional buses depart other terminals scattered throughout the city.

Driving through the narrow, winding cobbled streets of Old Town, particularly during rush hour, should be attempted only by masochists. However, if you can handle the parking, trams, pedestrianised zones, other cars, cyclists and police looking for a handout, at least you get to stay on your own schedule, as opposed to the city's timetables.

Prague is plagued with unscrupulous cabbies; a 2002 crackdown exposed the extent of the problem and introduced harsher penalties, but hailing a taxi on the street, at least in a tourist zone, still holds the risk of an inflated fare. Calling a radio taxi will probably be better value.

Bicycling is somewhat problematic, as traffic is heavy and there are few bicycle lanes. Be sure to lock both your frame and tyres!

Weather and water levels permitting, various outfits ply boats up and down the Vltava River. These are more sightseeing cruises than transport.