Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is not just a fairytale capital — it’s one of Europe’s most visited destinations.
Ranking as the 5th most visited city in Europe, Prague welcomed over 8 million international visitors in 2023, and when domestic travelers are included, the city saw more than 14 million arrivals.
Tourism here isn’t just about numbers — it’s about Gothic cathedrals, medieval squares, vibrant beer culture, and the charm of Charles Bridge, which alone attracts around 5 million pedestrians each year.
How Many Tourists Visit Prague Each Year?
Tourism in Prague is booming again. In 2023, the city welcomed 14 million visitors who generated more than 19 million overnight stays.
International arrivals accounted for ~8 million, making Prague one of the top 10 European city-break destinations.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Prague?
Visitors spent nearly CZK 160 billion (€6.5 billion) in Prague in 2023, a major boost for the local economy.
The average visitor spends around €150 per day, with Americans and Asians typically spending more than European neighbors.
Which Countries Visit Prague the Most?
Prague attracts a broad mix of visitors, dominated by Europeans.
Germany leads the way, followed by Slovakia, the United States, and Poland.
Asian tourism is also bouncing back, with visitors from South Korea and China returning strongly.
| Country | Share of Visitors |
|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 18% |
| 🇸🇰 Slovakia | 9% |
| 🇺🇸 United States | 7% |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | 6% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 6% |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | 5% |
| 🇨🇳 China | 4% |
| 🇫🇷 France | 4% |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | 3% |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | 3% |
What Are Prague’s Most Visited Attractions?
Prague’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its landmarks are among the most visited in Europe.
The Prague Castle complex is the biggest draw, with almost 2 million ticketed visitors annually, while the Charles Bridge sees more than 5 million pedestrians.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors |
|---|---|
| Prague Castle | ~1.9M |
| Charles Bridge | ~5M (pedestrian traffic) |
| Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock | ~3M |
| St. Vitus Cathedral | ~1.8M |
| National Gallery Prague | ~1M |
| Jewish Quarter (Josefov) | ~0.9M |
| Petřín Lookout Tower | ~0.7M |
| Dancing House | ~0.6M |
| National Museum | ~1.1M |
| Vyšehrad Fortress | ~0.5M |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Prague? (Seasonality)
Prague is highly seasonal. The summer months (June–August) are the busiest, with hotel occupancy exceeding 85%, while January and February are calmer, popular with budget travelers.
December also attracts huge crowds thanks to Prague’s famous Christmas markets.
| Month | Visitors (Hotel Stays) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | ~0.9M | Low season |
| February | ~1.0M | Valentine’s & winter trips |
| March | ~1.2M | Start of spring travel |
| April | ~1.5M | Easter tourism |
| May | ~1.6M | Shoulder season peak |
| June | ~1.7M | Summer build-up |
| July | ~1.8M | High season |
| August | ~1.9M | High season |
| September | ~1.6M | Shoulder season |
| October | ~1.4M | Autumn breaks |
| November | ~1.1M | Quiet month |
| December | ~1.5M | Christmas markets |
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Prague?
Prague’s event calendar mixes history, music, and beer culture.
The Prague Spring International Music Festival attracts classical music lovers worldwide, while the Signal Festival in October transforms the city into a glowing art gallery.
Meanwhile, the Prague Christmas Markets remain the most famous in Europe, drawing millions each year.
| Event | Annual Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prague Spring International Music Festival | ~50K | Classical music, May–June |
| Signal Festival | ~600K | Light art, October |
| Prague Marathon | ~40K runners + spectators | May sporting event |
| United Islands of Prague | ~100K | Free open-air music festival in June |
| Christmas Markets | ~2M | December, Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square |
| Easter Markets | ~500K | March–April, Old Town Square |
| Prague International Film Festival – Febiofest | ~50K | March |
| Prague Pride | ~70K | August LGBTQ+ event |
| Beer Festival Prague | ~50K | May beer celebration |
| St. Nicholas Celebrations | ~200K | Early December |
How Does Tourism Impact Prague’s Economy?
Tourism contributes around 3% of the Czech Republic’s GDP, with Prague being the main driver.
The sector employs over 100,000 people in the capital and supports thousands of businesses.
However, rising visitor numbers have fueled debates about overtourism, especially in the Old Town.
FAQ – Prague Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Prague each year?
In 2023, Prague welcomed 14 million visitors, including 8 million international arrivals.
What is Prague ranked in tourism?
Prague ranks as the 5th most visited city in Europe.
Why is Prague so popular?
Its preserved medieval center, Gothic and Baroque landmarks, affordable prices, and famous beer culture make it unique.
Is Prague cheap or expensive?
Compared to Paris or London, Prague is affordable. Food, beer, and public transport are cheap, while accommodation prices rise in peak summer.
Is Prague safe for tourists?
Yes, Prague is generally safe. The main risk is pickpocketing in crowded areas like Charles Bridge or Old Town Square.
When is the best time to visit Prague?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are best — fewer crowds and mild weather. December is magical thanks to Christmas markets.
Which attraction is most visited in Prague?
The Charles Bridge with around 5 million pedestrians annually.
Is Prague English-friendly?
Yes — English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
Sources
- Prague City Tourism — Prague Tourism Statistics 2023–2024
- Czech Statistical Office (ČSÚ) — Tourism in the Czech Republic – Statistical Data
- Statista — Number of International Tourists in Prague (2015–2024)
- Eurostat — Tourism Statistics – Nights Spent in Tourist Accommodation
- Prague Castle — Visitor Information and Annual Attendance
- Charles Bridge Museum — Charles Bridge – Facts & Figures
- Prague.eu (Official Tourism Portal) — Major Events and Festivals in Prague
- Signal Festival Prague — Signal Festival – Official Attendance Data
- Prague Spring International Music Festival — Prague Spring Festival – Facts & Visitors
- Christmas Markets Prague — Prague Christmas Markets – Visitor Guide
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