A Weekend in Prague from Cyprus: Flights, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Prague is the classic Central European city break: a castle above the river, a medieval old town of spires and squares, and beer halls where locals still linger for hours. For expats in Cyprus it makes an easy, rewarding weekend away, with direct flights from Larnaca.

How do you get to Prague from Cyprus?

Direct flights to Prague leave from Larnaca and take about 3 hours 45 minutes. Wizz Air flies the route year-round, and Smartwings adds flights in summer. There are no direct flights from Paphos, so if you live in the west of the island, allow time for the drive to Larnaca. Booking a few weeks ahead usually gives you more choice of times, especially around Christmas and Easter. Routes and schedules change by season, so check with the airline before booking.

Václav Havel Airport Prague is well connected to the city. The Airport Express (AE) bus runs to Prague's main railway station (Praha hlavní nádraží). Alternatively, city bus 119 takes you to Nádraží Veleslavín, where you can change to metro line A towards the centre. Taxis are available outside the terminals.

Is Prague good for a weekend?

Prague is ideal for a weekend. Most of the main sights sit within walking distance of each other, and the city suits couples, friends' trips and first-time visitors to Central Europe. Beer lovers will be especially happy.

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the most comfortable times to visit, with mild temperatures and slightly smaller crowds. Summer is warm and busy. Winter is cold and often grey, but the Christmas markets in late November and December, particularly on Old Town Square, are a big draw.

What to do in Prague in a weekend

Day 1

Begin in Old Town Square, framed by the Gothic towers of the Týn Church. Watch the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall, then wander the lanes towards Josefov, the historic Jewish Quarter, with its old synagogues and cemetery.

In the late afternoon, walk across Charles Bridge, lined with baroque statues, into the Lesser Town (Malá Strana). Its quiet squares and riverside corners are lovely at dusk. Come back to the bridge early the next morning if you want to see it without the crowds.

Day 2

Climb up to Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world. Inside, visit St Vitus Cathedral with its stained-glass windows, and the tiny houses of Golden Lane. Walk down through the Lesser Town or across to Petřín Hill for views over the red rooftops.

In the evening, head to Wenceslas Square and the New Town, then settle into a traditional beer hall for Czech beer and hearty food.

If you have a third day

Visit Vyšehrad, the old fortress on a hill above the river with views and a historic cemetery, or spend an afternoon in the beer garden at Letná Park overlooking the city.

Where to stay in Prague

• Old Town (Staré Město): right in the middle of the sights; best for a short first visit.
• Lesser Town (Malá Strana): romantic and quieter in the evenings, below the castle; good for couples.
• New Town (Nové Město): central and practical, with good transport links and plenty of restaurants.
• Vinohrady: a leafy residential area with cafés and wine bars, popular with travellers who want a local feel.

What to eat

• Svíčková: beef in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings and cranberries.
• Goulash with dumplings: the Czech take on goulash, rich and thick.
• Smažený sýr: fried cheese, a pub classic often served with tartar sauce.
• Chlebíčky: open sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch.
• Czech beer: the country is famous for its pilsner-style lagers.
• Trdelník: a sweet rolled pastry sold all over the centre; more of a tourist treat than a local tradition.

Practical tips for travellers from Cyprus

• Currency: the Czech Republic uses the Czech koruna. Cards are widely accepted; avoid paying in euros, as rates are usually poor.
• Language: Czech. English is common in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas.
• Time difference: Prague is 1 hour behind Cyprus.
• Passport/ID: the Czech Republic is in the EU and Schengen, but Cyprus isn't in Schengen yet, so there are passport checks. Bring your passport or a valid national ID card.
• Mobile roaming: EU roaming rules apply, so your Cyprus plan should work as at home.
• Local tip: in traditional pubs, staff often keep a tally of your drinks on a slip of paper at the table and settle up when you leave.

For more weekend ideas, see our weekend getaways from Cyprus, or pair Prague with a trip to Budapest another time.