Hostel ELF

Prague manages to blend Baroque architecture and cobbled lanes perfectly with software start-ups and glitzy fashion boutiques. Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires,” there is no shortage of culture and history to explore in the Czech capital, which includes some of the best beer in Europe.

Converted 17th Century buildings, basement bars with exposed brick décor and even eco-friendly rooms in one of the city’s first fully sustainable buildings. Prague has one of the best selections of luxury and boutique hostels in Europe, most of which are only a short walk from the city centre.

Hostels in Prague have everything you need to make the most of your stay: Laundry facilities, secure luggage room, safety deposit boxes, bicycle rentals and 24 check-in. Choose from small dorms, big dorms, private rooms and twin rooms. The best hostels in Prague even give you a chance to get involved with social activities like beer tasting, trivia and crepe making.

Do you like being close to all the action or would you rather stay in one of the local neighbourhoods popular with young Czechs and expats? Two of the best places to stay for convenience are Mala Strana, the historic castle district, and the Old Town, which is the most touristic part of Prague.

Some of the trendiest neighbourhoods include Vinohrady and Zizkov, which are both popular with young creative types and easily accessible via public transport. There’s also Karlin, which has more of a community feel to it, and is home to a great selection of boutique cafes and restaurants.

Well-known for its architecture, you can’t visit Prague without taking a (free) stroll across the 14th century Charles Bridge. There’s also Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral (located on the castle grounds), which includes the tomb of St John of Nepomunk and the Chapel of St Wenceslas.

For a bit of alfresco dining, you can’t go wrong with the Old Town Square, which also gives you the opportunity to take in the city’s stunning architecture, brought to life by the tourists and various street performers that make these central streets one of the main meeting places in town.

Prague is smaller than many other European capitals, which means it’s easy to get around on foot, and for those slightly longer journeys, you can jump on the Metro or one of the many buses that interlink the different areas of the city. Cycling is a popular option as well, thanks to bike lanes that have appeared in recent years – which includes plenty of forest trails for exploring the countryside.