Prague has a good public transport system. However, for a new visitor, the many lines and signs can be confusing so, you need to know how to read Prague timetables correctly. This guide will help you find the right stop and travel with confidence.
Understanding the Stop Sign
When you arrive at a tram or bus stop, look for the tall metal sign. At the top, you will see the name of the stop. Below that, you will see the numbers of all the vehicles that stop there.
To make sure you are in the right place, you must read Prague timetables located in the glass frame. Here is what to look for:
- The Route Number: This is a big number at the top of the paper.
- The List of Stops: This shows every station on the route.
- The Underlined Name: This is your current location.
- The Time: The numbers show when the vehicle arrives during the hour.
The actual timetables for all Prague Transport you can check here.
Read Prague Timetables Correctly: Which Direction Should You Go?
A common mistake is standing on the wrong side of the street. To check your direction, look at the list of stops on the timetable.
If your destination is below the underlined name, you are on the correct side. If your destination is above the underlined name, you must cross the street. The vehicles on your side are going the opposite way. Always double-check this before you board.
💡 Important Ticket Tip: Before you get on, make sure you have a ticket! If you use a paper ticket, you must validate it immediately.
More about tickets for Prague Public Transport read here.
How to Open the Doors and Request a Stop
In the past, buses and trams stopped at every station. Now, things are different in Prague. Every stop is now a “request stop.” This means the driver will only stop if they know someone wants to get off.
To exit the vehicle:
You must “order” your stop by pressing a button.
- Look for the STOP button or the Door Open button.
- Press it as soon as you hear the name of your station.
After you press the button, a STOP sign will light up above the door and also near the driver. This light confirms that the bus or tram will stop at the next station. Please note: often, only the door where you pressed the button will open. Other doors might stay closed to keep the vehicle warm or cool.
To open the door:
- Press the round button on the door. It usually has two arrows.
- The door will open after you press it.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Using the system becomes easy with a little practice. Here are a few simple tips for your trip:
- Check the Front Display: The front of the bus always shows its final destination.
- Watch the Internal Screens: These screens show the next three or four stops.
- Use a Travel App: Apps like Lítačka or Google Maps show real-time changes.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself five minutes to read Prague timetables without rushing.
Traveling in Prague is a beautiful experience. If you follow these simple steps, you will always find your way home.
🇨🇿Useful Words for Your Journey
When you read Prague timetables, you will see several Czech words. You don’t need to speak the language, but knowing these few words will help you understand the signs quickly.
| Czech Word | English Meaning | Why it is useful |
| Zastávka | Stop / Station | This marks the location of the stop. |
| Směr | Direction | This tells you where the vehicle is going. |
| Příští zastávka | Next stop | You will hear this on the speakers before every stop. |
| Na znamení | On request | This means you must press the STOP button. |
| Pracovní den | Working day | Use this column for Monday to Friday schedules. |
| Sobota / Neděle | Saturday / Sunday | Use these columns for weekend schedules. |
| Vozovna | Depot | If you see this, the tram is going to the garage. |
Read Prague timetables: Important Notes
- If you are on a bus and hear the voice say “Příští zastávka… [Name of your stop]”, it is time to get ready and press a STOP button!
- Remember that schedules change on the weekend. Always check the Sobota or Neděle columns if you are traveling on a Saturday or Sunday.
- Mostly, trams and buses in Prague arrive exactly on time. You need to remember that a vehicle can depart immediately when the clock reaches the time on the timetable. They often leave in the very same second! It is much better to be at the stop at least a few minutes before the departure time so you do not miss your ride.
