How Do I Buy a Train Ticket in Prague?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning to travel around Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, you’ll likely need to buy a train ticket. The good news is that the process is relatively straightforward. Here’s what you need to know.

Types of Train Tickets

Firstly, it’s important to understand the different types of train tickets available. The most common options include:

  • Single tickets – valid for a single journey
  • Return tickets – valid for a return journey within a certain period of time
  • 24-hour ticket – valid for unlimited travel on all modes of transport (including buses and trams) within Prague for 24 hours from the time of validation
  • 72-hour ticket – similar to the 24-hour ticket but valid for 72 hours

Where to Buy Train Tickets in Prague

You can buy train tickets at various locations throughout Prague, including:

  • Ticket vending machines located at most metro stations and some tram stops
  • Newspaper stands and convenience stores displaying a yellow and red “DPP” sign (short for Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy, or Prague Public Transit Company)
  • Ticket offices located at major metro stations and some tram stops

Buying Tickets at Vending Machines or Newspaper Stands/Convenience Stores

When buying a ticket from a vending machine or newspaper stand/convenience store, follow these steps:

  1. Select your preferred language (English is usually an option)
  2. Select your ticket type (single, return, etc.) and zone (Prague has three zones with varying prices)
  3. Insert coins or bills (machines usually accept Czech crowns and Euros)
  4. Collect your ticket and change (if applicable)

Buying Tickets at Ticket Offices

When buying a ticket from a ticket office, follow these steps:

  1. Approach the window and wait for the attendant to acknowledge you
  2. Tell the attendant your destination and preferred ticket type (single, return, etc.)
  3. Pay in cash or with a credit/debit card
  4. Collect your ticket and any change (if applicable)

Ticket Validation

Once you have your ticket, it’s important to validate it before boarding the train. Look for yellow validation machines located near the entrances to metro stations, on trams and buses, or on platforms at train stations. Simply insert one end of your ticket into the machine and wait for it to stamp it with the date and time.

Conclusion

Buying a train ticket in Prague is a simple process that can be completed at various locations throughout the city. Understanding the different types of tickets available and how to validate them will help ensure a smooth journey.