Vltava paddle steamer cruise tickets in Prague: prices, duration and how to book fairly

Short scenic rides along the old town last about 50 to 75 minutes and are the cheapest option. Scheduled routes to Karlovy Vary or Mělník cost more since they run much longer and can be booked one-way or return.

Full-day trips to Kutná Hora or Bohemian Switzerland often combine the cruise with a bus transfer back and cost noticeably more than plain round trips.

The main pier sits at the Moldauufer in the centre; both the short round trips and the scheduled upstream and downstream routes leave from there.

Upstream trips to Karlovy Vary or Kutná Hora take longer than the return leg because the historic paddle steamers travel against the current. For a return trip to Kutná Hora, plan for a full day.

Seats in the covered saloon are usually included in the base price; deck seating can carry a surcharge depending on the operator. Check before boarding whether the price covers the return leg or only the outward trip.

Some routes are cancelled during very low or very high water levels, so pick an offer with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead.