How to make the most of your layover in Prague

Prague is a charming city that's known for its fairy-tale architecture, including landmarks like the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. It’s easy to get to all the historical sites, and the city feels so welcoming.

Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Visitors can also enjoy delicious Czech cuisine, like svíčková and goulash, in traditional restaurants. The airport isn't a long ride from the city center, so you can easily explore iconic sites or enjoy a relaxing meal.

The fact that Prague is safe, affordable, and well-connected makes it a perfect stop for any layover. Whether you're on a business trip, or just stopping by, Prague has all the sights that'll scratch that itch for the old and the charming.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Vaclav Havel Airport is the only Prague airport. It's not that close to the city center, so you should take travel time into account before you decide to leave it. Keep reading for more useful tips like these that you should keep in mind!

Visa requirements in Prague

Citizens of the Schengen area don't need a visa for a short visit to Prague. Those from visa-exempt countries can also get a free transit visa that lasts a few days. Other citizens will have to apply for a regular tourist visa at a Czech embassy.

Minimum layover times in Prague

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 45 minutes
   If you're not leaving the Schengen area, then the process is pretty straightforward. There aren't additional security checks and you don't need to change terminals, which saves time. Also, if you purchased a ticket online, you have the option for faster online check-in.
3. International flights: 90-120 minutes
   Leaving or visiting the Schengen area means a lot more security checks and passport control. If you're going to the Schengen area country, you can choose the FastTrack. Skip the queue for a small fee if you're in a rush. You can also book a Private Check-in Service and skip the bureaucracy with an agent.
4. In-airport long layover: 3 hrs
   If you're waiting at the airport for your connecting flight, it has just what you need. From duty-free shops and electronic stores to VIP lounges and the famous aircraft-inspired Runway Restaurant. The airport also has relaxation zones, reading rooms, and AeroRooms for quick naps. You’ll also find some art exhibits and flight simulator pods across the airport for you to check out!
5. Out-of-airport layover: 6 hrs
   Got a long layover? You can reach the city center with the 59 bus to Veteslavian train station, and then change to the Line A metro. You can't buy tickets on the bus, so make sure to get them beforehand. You can do so at the airport, through the app, or with SMS. The half-hour journey to the city is absolutely worth the sights and the local food!

What to do in Prague during a layover

Prague has some famous landmarks you should definitely check out! Below you'll find a list of must-see spots and our favorite joints for local food. Are you traveling with your family? It’s the same old drill with a lot of extra stuff that you might not even use. So there’s a unique service that lets you quickly dump your bags with one of our partners. Check out one of our countless spots and leave your bags with us!

Morning layover in Prague

Check out these iconic landmarks for your morning in Prague:

1. Start your short adventure at Prague Castle. It's a whole historic complex with cobblestone streets, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Royal Palace.
2. The medieval-looking Charles Bridge is a perfect location for a crisp morning walk.
3. Looking for a historic café for brunch? Café Savoy has classic Czech breakfasts like chléb se šunkou (ham bread).
4. With a fitting name, Lokál is also a great place for breakfast with Prague’s signature scrambled eggs with local sausages.

Afternoon layover in Prague

Got some more time? Perfect! A morning simply isn't enough to experience Prague to the fullest! Here are some more great spots:

1. The Old Town Square is practically brimming with culture and history! You can visit the Astronomical Clock Tower and explore the Gothic and Baroque architecture.
2. Discover Prague's Jewish heritage by visiting synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery in the Jewish Quarter.
3. Grab some lunch at U Medvídků. You can try the svíčková, a marinated beef tenderloin, and roast port with sauerkraut.
4. Craving some roast duck or beef goulash? Visit Mincovna and try these delicacies!

Evening layover in Prague

Get to experience an evening in Prague? You’re on a roll! A few more hours in Prague and you'll feel just like a local.

1. The Lennon Wall is a colorful graffiti tribute to John Lennon and peace that you should check out!
2. Take an evening walk to the historical Vyšehrad Fortress for some panoramic views of the Vltava River.
3. Want to have dinner with the castle in view? Stroll over to Kuchyň and try some pork knee and schnitzel.
4. A few beers are just what you need after a long day of exploring. Kolkovna is a nearby restaurant with some great brewing options (and tasty food)!

Overnight layover in Prague

Staying the night? Here are some hotels or exciting places you can visit before you turn in:

1. The Dancing House is perfect for busting a jig on a rooftop bar.
2. A Czech opera is just around the corner. The Prague National Theater has ballets and operas going well into the night.
3. The Holiday Inn Prague Airport Hotel is just next to the airport.
4. Hotel Grandium Prague is a bit more expensive but it's in the center.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Prague

Glance at some tips that'll help you make the most of your time in Prague:

• Czech is the official language but English is common in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
• The Czech koruna (CZK) is their currency, but some places also accept euros.
• Prague is considered a very safe city.
• The city is affordable and you can expect to spend around 150 CZK for a decent meal and 1.500 for a mid-range room.

Our most valuable tip: dump your bags! Remember to check out a Bounce partner while transiting through Prague with family, friends, or solo. Explore worry and baggage-free while we take care of your laptop, extra devices, and toothbrushes!