Quick Decision: Which Prague Pass is Right for You?

If you are in a hurry, here is the fast way to choose. Your choice depends on how much you plan to move around. It also depends on which top sights in Prague you want to see. Some people prefer walking, while others want the tram nearby. Both passes cover the main landmarks but offer different perks.

• Pick the Prague Visitor Pass if you want unlimited public transport and the Airport Express.
• Pick the Prague CoolPass if you want the largest selection of museums and a river cruise.
• Pick individual tickets if you only plan to visit one or two sites per day.

The official city portal at Prague.eu provides detailed lists of every included site. Generally, if you visit three attractions a day, a pass is worth it. This is especially true for the more expensive historic sites. Always check the current opening hours before you start your day.

Detailed Prague Sightseeing Pass Comparison for 2026

Comparing these two options requires looking at specific features. The Prague Visitor Pass is the official municipal card. The Prague CoolPass is a private alternative formerly known as the Prague Card. Both have high ratings but different strengths. The table below highlights the key differences you need to know.

As you can see, the transport inclusion is the biggest difference. The Visitor Pass covers all metro, tram, and bus lines. It also includes the funicular to Petrin Hill. The CoolPass focuses entirely on entry fees and tours. If you stay in the city center, you might not need the transport perk.

Prices for both cards are similar for 48, 72, or 120 hours. Expect to pay between €75 and €110 depending on the duration. Children and students usually get a significant discount. Always bring a valid ID to prove your age for these lower rates.

The Prague Visitor Pass: The Official City Choice

The Prague Visitor Pass is excellent for travelers who value convenience. It allows you to hop on any tram or bus without buying tickets. This is very helpful when visiting Prague Castle or other hilly areas. You can also use it to get from the airport to the city. This saves you the cost of a private taxi or shuttle.

This pass includes access to many city towers. You can climb the Old Town Bridge Tower or the Lesser Town Bridge Tower. These spots offer some of the best scenic viewpoints in Prague. Most of these towers are not included in the competing CoolPass. This makes it a great choice for photographers.

You can manage everything through a dedicated mobile app. The app shows you which attractions are nearby. It also provides a digital map of the city. If you prefer a physical card, you can pick one up at tourist centers. The official Prague Castle website also lists this pass as a valid entry method.

The Prague CoolPass: A Focus on Sightseeing

The Prague CoolPass is designed for the ultimate museum lover. It covers over 70 attractions across the city. This includes the best museums in Prague like the National Museum. It also offers a free two-hour bus tour of the historic center. This is a great way to see the city quickly.

One major highlight is the inclusion of several river cruises. You can enjoy a relaxing trip on the Vltava River. This pass also covers the Jewish Museum and all its synagogues. It is a very comprehensive option for history enthusiasts. You can even visit the Prague Zoo for free with this card.

The CoolPass is entirely digital, so you need a smartphone. You simply show the QR code at the entrance of each site. It does not include transport, so you must walk or buy separate tickets. However, many Old Town Square attractions are within walking distance of each other. This makes the lack of transport less of an issue for some.

Individual Tickets vs Sightseeing Passes

Sometimes, buying a pass is not the cheapest option. If you only want to see the Charles Bridge and the Lennon Wall, don't buy a pass. Many sites in Prague are free to view from the outside. You only need a ticket to enter the interiors. Calculate your costs before making a final purchase.

A standard 24-hour transport ticket costs about €5. Entry to the Castle is around €18. If you only do these two things, you spend €23. A 48-hour pass costs much more than that daily average. However, if you add the Jewish Museum and a tower, the pass becomes cheaper. The National Museum also has its own entry fees to consider.

Consider your pace of travel. Some people like to see five sites in one day. Others prefer to sit in a cafe and enjoy the atmosphere. If you are a slow traveler, individual tickets are usually better. If you want to see everything, the pass is your best friend. You can also visit the Vysehrad fortress which is often less crowded.

How to Maximize Your Prague Sightseeing Savings

To get the most value, plan your route geographically. Group the Castle and Petrin Hill together on one day. Use another day for the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter. This reduces your travel time between attractions. It also ensures you don't miss anything important before your pass expires.

The timing of your pass is also very important. Most passes work on a 24-hour basis, not a calendar day. If you activate it at 2:00 PM, it lasts until 2:00 PM on the final day. This allows you to spread your sightseeing over an extra morning. Use the transport perk late at night to get back to your hotel safely.

Always check if you need to book a time slot. Some popular tours or sites require an advance reservation even with a pass. This is common for seasonal events or special exhibitions. Read the guide that comes with your digital pass carefully. This will help you avoid long lines and disappointment during busy months.