VISUALIZED: Where do Prague’s international tourists come from?

Prague's tourism landscape is shifting as the city positions itself as a destination for those seeking a more refined experience. Upscale hotels, fine dining, and exclusive cultural events are attracting a wealthier crowd, signaling a move toward a more sophisticated image.

“The number of visitors is reaching pre-pandemic levels. At the same time, we are seeing a big change in the type of visitors to Prague. The share of travelers who are looking for the highest quality services, whether hotels, restaurants or exclusive experiences, is increasing,” said Deputy Mayor of Prague for Culture and Tourism Jiří Pospíšil who added that 2024 was a successful year for tourism.

In fact, Prague experienced a significant surge in tourism last year, welcoming over eight million visitors—a nine percent increase from 2023. Notably, domestic travelers accounted for 1,573,114 of these visitors, representing twenty percent of the total tourist influx. This underscores the city's enduring appeal to both local and international travelers.

The top international visitors hailed from Germany (1,054,347), the U.S. (492,748), and the UK (472,391). Additionally, there was a notable rise in tourists from Asian countries, with a 28 percent year-on-year increase, totaling 880,802 visitors. South Korea led this growth with 170,709 visitors (a ten percent increase), followed by Japan with 53,295 visitors (a 29 percent increase).

Switzerland (29 percent), Spain (21 percent), UK (18 percent) saw the biggest increases among European travelers.

A significant trend in 2024 was the shift towards luxury accommodations. Approximately sixty-six percent of visitors opted for four-star and five-star hotels, indicating a growing preference for premium services. Luxury hotel occupancy saw a twelve percent rise compared to 2023.

The average price per night stood at 3,000 CZK (€120), comparable to rates in Berlin. Tourists also increased their spending on high-end experiences, dining, and cultural events, reflecting a desire for enriched travel experiences.

While 2024 saw notable growth and a move toward a more refined visitor, the city is still grappling with its reputation as a party hotspot. Recently named the best destination for stag parties, Prague faces the ongoing challenge of managing alcohol-driven tourism.

Despite efforts to curb rowdy pub crawls, the future of Prague's tourism will hinge on how the city balances its growing luxury appeal with the realities of its boisterous nightlife.