Exploring Prague: Airport Layover Itinerary Ideas

what to do around prague airport

Prague Airport is approximately 17 kilometres from the city centre, which takes around 30 to 40 minutes to travel between by car or taxi. The city is easily accessible via public transport, with the Airport Express shuttle bus being the most direct route to the city's main train station, taking 35 minutes. If you have a long layover, you can wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit Prague Castle, wander across Charles Bridge, and explore the cafes, bars, and shops of Mala Strana. You can also sample traditional Czech cuisine and beer, and visit St. Vitus Cathedral. Back at the airport, you can enjoy the views from the observation decks, visit the free museum in Terminal 2, or relax in one of the airport lounges.

Characteristics Values
Distance from the city centre 17 kilometres or 10.5 miles
Travel time to the city centre 25 minutes without traffic, 30-40 minutes with traffic
Cheapest way to get to the city centre Public transportation (bus number 119 or 100, then metro) for €1.60
Other cheap ways to get to the city centre Airport shuttle transfer for €4.00, Uber Airport
Average taxi cost to the city centre 600-800 CZK (€25-€35)
Average Uber cost to the city centre 700 CZK (€27)
Best way to get to the city centre Avoid taxis due to overcharging; private pickup recommended if on a higher budget
Public transport Excellent, with metros, trams, Uber, bikes, and buses
Main attractions Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Mala Strana, Kampa Island
Food Czech and central European cuisine, Mexican, Pilsner Urquell, traditional Czech goulash
Restaurants Restaurace Praha, Paul, Fresherie, Bread & Co, UGO Fresh Bar, Burger King, Costa Coffee
Shops Shops selling Bohemian lead and hand-cut crystal, Prague Old Timer watches and clocks, locally-made natural skincare and makeup, souvenirs, bookstores, and last-minute technology shops
Airport facilities Observation decks, free museum in Terminal 2, unlimited free WiFi, shower facilities, lounges

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Eat at sit-down restaurants serving Czech and central European cuisine or grab food to go from Fresherie or UGO Fresh Bar

Prague Airport offers sit-down restaurants serving Czech and central European cuisine. If you're looking for something quick to eat on the go, Fresherie and UGO Fresh Bar are two great options.

Fresherie Bistro offers light and nutritionally balanced meals prepared with fresh ingredients. They offer breakfast and lunch options, as well as catering services and private events. The menu features a variety of quality meats, fresh fish, vegetables, herbs, and other ingredients, ensuring a rich source of nutrients in every meal.

UGO Fresh Bar provides fresh drinks, snacks, ice cream, breakfast options, and small, light meals made from 100% natural ingredients. They also offer seasonal drinks every two months, featuring fruits and vegetables at their ripest and most delicious.

If you have a long layover and want to explore beyond the airport, Prague's city centre is easily accessible by public transit or taxi. With at least 7 hours between flights, you can wander through the twisting alleys and cobblestone streets of Old Town, watch the Astronomical Clock strike, and visit Tyn Church. You can also cross the Vltava River via the iconic Charles Bridge and explore the cafes, bars, and shops of Mala Strana. Up the hill, you'll find Prague Castle, a sprawling complex that houses the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral. Don't forget to sample traditional Czech cuisine like goulash and locally brewed pilsner beer!

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Visit the observation decks and free museum in Terminal 2

If you're spending a long layover at Prague Airport, you might want to visit the observation decks and free museum in Terminal 2. Two observation decks offer great views of the airport, including aircraft coming and going. The tight spiral staircases that lead to the decks are not as tall as you might imagine, but they are worth the climb for the views of the surrounding countryside.

The free museum in Terminal 2 features excellent photographs, maps, documentaries, and historical information on aviation in the Czech Republic. It is a great way to pass the time and learn something new while you wait for your flight.

If you get hungry, there are plenty of dining options available at the airport. Sit-down restaurants serve Czech and central European cuisine, Mexican food, and classic pours of Pilsner Urquell. For a quick bite, try cafeteria-style spots like Restaurace Praha, which offers affordable meals under CZK 100, or grab-and-go options like Paul, Fresherie, Bread & Co, and UGO Fresh Bar. Western chains such as Burger King and Costa Coffee are also available. Four eateries are open 24 hours a day, including one pre-security option in Terminal 2.

The airport also has a variety of shops to browse, including those focusing on Czech traditions, selling Bohemian lead and hand-cut crystal, Prague Old Timer watches and clocks, and locally-made natural skincare and makeup. There are also international boutiques for great window shopping, as well as convenience stores, Duty-Free areas, bookstores, and technology shops.

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Wander the twisting alleys and cobblestone streets of Old Town

If you're looking for things to do near Prague Airport, the city centre is easily accessible via public transit and taxis. Wander the twisting alleys and cobblestone streets of Old Town, where every turn reveals a vibrant tapestry of history and legend. Here are some tips to make the most of your time in this enchanting part of Prague:

Immerse Yourself in the Supernatural and Folklore: Old Town is known for its mysterious atmosphere and tales of ghosts, treasures, and spectral encounters. Join a guided tour, such as the Legends of Prague's Old Town, to hear captivating stories of the past and uncover hidden gems. Wear comfortable shoes as you navigate the cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways.

Explore the Rich History: Old Town stands as a testament to centuries of cultural evolution. Admire the Gothic spires and Baroque facades that reflect bygone eras. The Astronomical Clock, a majestic marvel of engineering, draws visitors with its intricate design. Stroll through the vibrant squares and imagine the medieval merchants, scholars, and artists who once roamed these streets.

Discover Hidden Streets and Courtyards: Veer off the beaten path and explore the hidden streets and passageways that tourists rarely visit. You may stumble upon quaint courtyards filled with vibrant flowers and the laughter of locals enjoying coffee. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of Prague's residents.

Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Czech cuisine, such as a hearty bowl of Czech goulash paired with a locally-made pilsner beer. The Old Town offers a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can savour the flavours of Prague and relax during your layover.

Plan Your Time: Keep in mind that travelling to and from the airport can take time. Ensure you leave enough time to return to the airport, clear security, and board your next flight. The Airport Express shuttle bus, which takes approximately 35 minutes, offers a direct route to and from Prague's main train station.

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Explore Prague Castle, a sprawling complex that dates back centuries

Prague Castle is a sprawling complex with an area of almost 70,000 square metres, making it the largest ancient castle in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important cultural institutions in the Czech Republic. The castle dates back to around 880 when it was founded by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty. Over the centuries, it has served as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic.

The castle is a unique blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque. It houses several museums, such as the National Gallery collection of Bohemian baroque and mannerist art, an exhibition dedicated to Czech history, the Toy Museum, and the picture gallery of Prague Castle, based on the collection of Rudolph II. The castle also includes the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Crypt, the Saint Wenceslas Chapel, the Romanesque Basilica of St. George, a monastery, several palaces, gardens, and defence towers.

Visitors to the castle can explore its historical buildings, exhibitions, and concerts or participate in guided tours and other activities. The Summer Shakespeare Festival is a highlight, taking place in the courtyard of Burgrave Palace. The neighborhood around Prague Castle, called Hradčany, offers stunning views of the complex and is worth exploring as well.

Prague Castle is easily accessible from Prague's main train station, which can be reached via the Airport Express shuttle bus or taxi from the airport. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Prague, attracting over 1.8 million visitors annually.

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Take a shuttle bus to Prague's main train station and explore the city's other neighbourhoods

If you find yourself with time to spare around Prague Airport, one great option is to take a shuttle bus to the city's main train station and explore some of the other neighbourhoods that Prague has to offer. The airport is conveniently located just a short bus ride away from the city centre, and the journey offers a great opportunity to see some of the surrounding areas.

Once you've arrived at the airport, make your way to the shuttle bus stop. These buses are designed specifically for travellers wishing to connect to the city's main train station, Praha hlavní nádraží. The journey typically takes around 35 minutes, and along the way, you'll get a glimpse of some of Prague's diverse architecture and passing sights.

Upon arriving at the main train station, you'll find yourself in the heart of Prague, with easy access to various other neighbourhoods. One nearby area worth exploring is the historic Old Town, or Staré Město. Here, you can wander through the charming cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit iconic sites such as the Old Town Square and the astronomical clock.

From the main train station, you can also easily access other neighbourhoods, such as the vibrant and artistic district of Žižkov, known for its unique atmosphere and abundance of cafes, bars, and art spaces. Alternatively, head to the elegant and upscale neighbourhood of Vinohrady, where you can find beautiful parks, grand buildings, and a plethora of excellent restaurants and boutique shops.

As you explore Prague's neighbourhoods, don't forget to indulge in some of the city's famous culinary delights. Traditional Czech cuisine features hearty dishes such as dumplings, sausages, and roasted meats, often accompanied by a glass of locally brewed beer. For a quick bite, try a classic Czech street food item, such as a sweet and crispy Trdelník pastry or a savoury open-faced sandwich, known as obložené chlebíčky.

By taking the shuttle bus to Prague's main train station, you can easily access and explore these fascinating neighbourhoods, discovering the rich cultural, historical, and culinary offerings of this magnificent city. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, food, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, this is a great way to make the most of your time near Prague Airport.

Frequently asked questions

Prague Airport has sit-down restaurants serving Czech and central European cuisine, Mexican food, and classic pours of Pilsner Urquell. There are also several international food chains, including Burger King. Four eateries are open 24 hours.

Prague Airport has two observation decks that provide great airport views. In Terminal 2, there is a free museum with excellent photographs, maps, documentaries, and historical information on aviation in the Czech Republic. If you have at least 7 hours between flights, you can leave the airport and visit the city's key attractions, including Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Old Town Square.

The cheapest method is to take public transportation. You can take bus number 119 or 100, which connects to metro lines, for approximately €1.60. Another cheap option is the Airport Express shuttle bus for €4.00 per person. If you want to take a taxi, it is recommended to avoid traditional taxis and use a private pickup or ride-hailing service such as Uber Airport instead.

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