Prague’s public transport system (Dopravní podnik) is efficient, fast and reasonably clean. With three metro lines, 22 tram routes and 9 night trams you won't need the bus routes that avoid the centre. Keep in mind that the centre of Prague is easily accessible on foot.

Tickets, valid for all means of transport, can be purchased from the numerous vending machines at all metro stations, major tram stops and news stands. You always need to validate your ticket yourself by stamping it in the machines at metro entrances and on trams. The most common ticket is the 32Kč transfer ticket, which is valid for 90 minutes after validating. The 24Kč non-transfer ticket is meant for tram rides under 30 minutes with no changes, or in the metro for up to 5 stations (changes allowed) from the departure station within 30 minutes. We suggest you save yourself time by buying a handful of these on arrival. If you're planning to stay a bit and explore, get the one-day pass (110Kč)or a three-day pass (310Kč). Children under 6 travel free; and tickets are half price up to 15 years old. Large pieces of luggage (including rucksacks) cost an extra 16Kč while dogs ride the rails (with a muzzle) for free. Fines for non-validated tickets are 800Kč if paid on the spot or pay 1,000Kč later.

Trams trundle around town every few minutes; useful lines are N°22 which runs from the centre up to the rear entrance of the castle, saving you the uphill walk and N°17 which runs along the river and close to Old Town Square. The metro connects the two main train stations and Florenc bus station to the centre and runs up to just after midnight, after which the night trams (the warm mobile home to many a smelly tramp) take over, zipping in all directions from the Lazarská stop (H-5) every half hour. Tram timetables are on the red signs at each stop and is generally correct.

Beware of Prague's ultra-professional pickpockets, especially on trams N 22 and 18 and in busy metro cars; consider waiting for the next train if it looks squeezed.

For more information visit Dopravní podnik's excellent website with English and German information on routes and schedules, at www.dpp.cz, or call tel. 296 191 817.