Quick Decision Guide for Prague Passes

Are you in a hurry to start your adventure? Use these quick rules to choose your pass. Most travelers find that one specific card fits their style better. Your choice depends on how much you plan to walk. It also depends on your interest in museums versus viewpoints.

• Pick the Prague Visitor Pass if: You want unlimited public transport and entry to the Prague Castle complex guide sites.
• Pick the Prague CoolPass if: You only care about attraction entries and prefer a mobile app.
• Skip both if: You only plan to visit one or two landmarks during your entire stay.

The table below shows the primary differences between the two major options. Prices and features are updated for the 2026 travel season. Check the official Prague.eu portal for any last-minute changes.

The Official Prague Visitor Pass Benefits

The Prague Visitor Pass is the official city card. It is the most comprehensive option for 2026. This pass includes all trams, buses, and metro lines. You even get a free ride on the Airport Express bus. This makes it very convenient for arriving travelers.

You can visit many Jewish Quarter Prague landmarks with this pass. It also covers the famous Charles Bridge and towers for great views. The pass is available for 48, 72, or 120 hours. This flexibility helps you plan your schedule around your arrival time.

One major benefit is the inclusion of the Petrin funicular. You also get access to the best viewpoints in Prague located in the Old Town. Many people enjoy the historical tram line 42 as well. This tram offers a scenic route through the historic center.

Comparing Prague City Passes for Attractions: CoolPass

The Prague CoolPass is a private alternative to the official pass. It was formerly known as the Prague Card. This pass focuses heavily on the sheer number of attractions. It includes entry to over 70 sites across the city. It is ideal for people who love visiting best museums in Prague.

However, this pass does not include public transport. You will need to buy separate tickets for the metro or trams. This is a good choice if you prefer walking between Old Town Square sights. Many central attractions are close enough to reach on foot.

The CoolPass is entirely digital via a mobile app. You simply scan your QR code at each entrance. It often includes a free river cruise as a bonus. This is a great way to see the city from the Vltava River. Always check the app for current opening hours of each partner site.

Value Analysis and Break-Even Rules

Is a city pass actually worth the money? To find out, use the "Three Sights Rule." If you visit three major paid attractions per day, the pass pays for itself. For example, visiting Prague Castle, the Jewish Museum, and a tower usually costs more than a day pass. You also save time by not standing in ticket lines.

Individual tickets for major sites range from €10 to €20 each. A 48-hour pass typically costs around €80. If you see six sites over two days, you break even. Any additional transport or small museum visits become pure profit. This makes the passes excellent for active sightseers.

Consider the cost of transport when doing your math. A 24-hour transport ticket costs about €5. If you take the tram four times a day, the Visitor Pass adds value. For those staying in the city center, this might be less important. Use the National Museum as a benchmark for high-value entry prices.

Maximizing Your Pass in the City

To get the most value, start your pass early in the morning. Most passes work on a 24-hour basis rather than calendar days. If you activate it at 2:00 PM, it lasts until 2:00 PM on your final day. Plan your heavy sightseeing for the middle of your trip. Use the final hours for one last expensive museum entry.

Group your visits by neighborhood to save travel time. Spend one morning at the Castle and the afternoon in Mala Strana. Spend another day exploring the Jewish Quarter and Old Town. This strategy reduces the time spent on trams or buses. It also leaves more time for enjoying the local atmosphere.

Always check if you need to book a time slot. Some popular tours or sites require advance reservations even with a pass. This is common for guided tours of the Municipal House. Bring a physical ID as some venues may ask to see it. Digital passes work best when your phone is fully charged.