Arriving Early in Prague
Before You Can Check In

Welcome to Prague: Early Arrival Basics

Many flights to Prague land early in the morning, while check-in at hotels and Airbnbs often starts around 14:00–15:00. That leaves you with a few hours in the city, usually while you’re still tired from the journey and carrying luggage.

This guide gives you simple options for where to go, how to handle your bags and how to start your trip smoothly instead of just waiting in a lobby.

1. Ask your hotel or host about early luggage drop-off

The easiest option is to contact your accommodation in advance and ask if you can store your luggage there before check-in. Many hotels and some apartment hosts will:

• Let you leave bags at reception or in a luggage room.
• Offer an early check-in for a small fee if the room is ready.
• Provide a place to freshen up or have a coffee while you wait.

2. Using station lockers or storage shops

If early drop-off isn’t possible, you can use public options:

• Lockers at Prague Main Station – good if you arrive by train or plan to explore the center.
• Luggage storage shops – located around Old Town and Wenceslas Square.

These work best if you don’t mind returning to the same place later to pick everything up.

3. Where to go first after an early arrival

Once your bags are taken care of, choose a simple plan for the first half-day:

• Café near your accommodation – ideal if you’re tired and just want breakfast and Wi-Fi.
• Easy city walk – around Old Town Square and the river, with plenty of stops.
• Parks with views – Letná or Riegrovy sady are perfect if the weather is good.

4. Early-arrival itinerary ideas

Option A – Slow Old Town Morning (3–4 hours)

• Coffee and breakfast near Old Town Square.
• Short walk to Charles Bridge.
• Photo stops by the river and back streets.

Option B – Café + Park (2–3 hours)

• Find a good café close to your future hotel.
• Head to a nearby park (Letná, Riegrovy sady or Kampa).
• Return when your check-in time opens.

Option C – Rainy Morning Plan

• Shopping center (Palladium, Nový Smíchov) with cafés and restrooms.
• Indoor attractions such as museums or aquariums.

5. Practical tips for early arrival day

• Keep essential items (documents, electronics, medication) in your day bag.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on cobblestones.
• Save your hotel address in your phone for easy navigation later.
• Plan a simple route – avoid crossing the whole city with heavy bags.