One-Day Layover in Prague:
Luggage & City Guide

Can You Leave the Airport During a Layover in Prague?

Prague is one of the best cities in Europe for a layover: the airport is relatively close to the center, public transport is straightforward and most of the main sights are within walking distance once you arrive. The key question is not just “Can I go to the city?” but “Do I have enough time – and what do I do with my luggage?”.

1. How much time do you really have?

When planning a layover in Prague, don’t just look at the gap between your flights. Subtract:

• Time to get off the plane and through passport control.
• Time to collect your luggage (if it isn’t checked through).
• Travel time between the airport and the city center.
• At least 2 hours before your next flight for check-in and security.

As a simple rule, a 6–8 hour layover is the minimum where a short city visit starts to make sense. With 8–12 hours, you can enjoy a relaxed half-day in Prague.

2. Getting from Prague Airport to the city

You have three main options:

• Airport Express bus: connects the airport with the Main Train Station (Hlavní nádraží).
• Public bus + metro: bus 119 to Nádraží Veleslavín, then metro line A to the center.
• Taxi or ride-hailing: more expensive, but fastest and easiest with luggage.

For a short layover, every minute counts – so decide on your route in advance instead of figuring it out on the spot.

3. What to do with your luggage during a layover

Your luggage strategy will make or break your layover. Here are the most common scenarios:

• Luggage checked through to your final destination: ideal situation – you only carry hand luggage and can go straight to the city.
• You must collect luggage in Prague: then you need a place to leave it, otherwise you’ll be dragging suitcases across the Old Town.

Typical options include:

• Lockers at the Main Station – good for shorter layovers, but you must return there.
• Private storage shops – similar principle, different locations and prices.
• Luggage pickup services – some companies collect your bags and bring them to the airport later, so you don’t have to pass via a storage point again.

4. Suggested layover itineraries in Prague

4.1 6–8 hour layover

• Head to the Old Town (Staré Město) and walk towards Charles Bridge.
• Have coffee or breakfast near the river.
• Cross the bridge, spend some time on Kampa Island.
• Return to the Main Station or your storage point with a comfortable buffer.

4.2 8–12 hour layover

• Old Town and Charles Bridge in the morning.
• Lunch in Malá Strana (the Lesser Town) or near the river.
• Walk or take a tram up to Letná or Prague Castle area for views.
• Head back towards the airport in the late afternoon.

5. Things to avoid on a short layover

• Trying to see everything in one day – pick one or two areas and stay there.
• Planning complicated routes far from the airport bus or train.
• Keeping heavy luggage with you “just in case” – it will slow you down and tire you out.
• Cutting it too close – always keep a safety margin for traffic and queues at security.

6. Packing a “layover day bag”

Even if you use lockers or a luggage service, keep one small bag with everything you need until boarding:

• Passport, boarding passes and travel documents.
• Phone, charger and maybe a small power bank.
• Wallet, water and some snacks.
• One extra layer of clothing – Prague weather can change quickly.

7. Is a layover in Prague worth it?

If you have enough time and a clear plan for your luggage, a layover in Prague is absolutely worth it. A few hours in the historical center, a walk by the river and a proper Czech meal will feel much better than spending half a day sitting at the airport gate.