Taxi in Prague Czech Republic: current options, prices and safety
- Damian Brzeski
- 4 days ago
- 8 min read
Planning a visit to the Czech capital and wondering how to best get around the city? A taxi in Prague can be a convenient solution – especially if you are traveling with luggage, children or late at night.
But beware! Although taxis are widely available in Prague, not all of them guarantee honest service. In this guide, we will show you what the transport options are, how to recognize a legal taxi, how much a taxi ride costs, and what to look out for to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Types of Taxi Services in Prague
When choosing a taxi in Prague , you have several options at your disposal – from classic carriers to modern mobile apps and private airport transfers. Each type of taxi service has its advantages, but also pitfalls to watch out for. Check which form of transport best suits your needs.
Traditional Taxis and Dispatcher Ordering
In Prague, traditional taxis are still popular, although they are not always the cheapest option. They can be ordered by phone or through a dispatch center, or in the case of some companies, through an app.
The most well-known and proven company is AAA Taxi , which offers transparent taxi prices and high quality service. It is worth remembering thata taxi service ordered by a dispatcher usually guarantees a lower price than catching a car on the street.
Taxi from mobile app: Uber, Bolt, Liftago
A modern alternative to classic services are taxis in Prague available through mobile applications such as Uber , Bolt or Liftago .
This is an option that we particularly recommend – not only because of the attractive rates (e.g. from 8.90 CZK/km in the case of Bolt ), but above all because of the safety of Prague taxis .
Get insight into your route, estimated price and driver details – all before you start your ride.
Airport Taxi: Transfers from Václav Havel Airport
If you are flying into Prague Václav Airport , you have several options for transport to the city centre. Apart from mobile apps, Prague airport transfers are very popular, provided by companies such as Prague Airport Transfers .
They offer comfortable rides with a pre-agreed price, which eliminates the risk of unexpected costs. A ride from Prague Ruzyně airport to the city center costs around 600–800 CZK, depending on the selected private taxi service .
Fixed-price taxi vs. metered taxi
In Prague you can come across two payment models: a taximeter fare or a pre-agreed price.
The second option is becoming more and more popular, especially for airport transfers, where a Prague Ruzyně taxi offering a flat fee is often chosen.
If you choose a Prague taxi with a taximeter , make sure the meter is set to zero when you start your journey and ask for a printout of the receipt – this is your safeguard in case of any misunderstandings.
The most popular taxi companies in Prague
If you are looking for a reliable carrier, it is worth paying attention to several companies that are trusted by locals and tourists. They offer different types of taxi services , from city center rides to Prague airport transfers , as well as amenities such as card payments or group transfers.
AAA Taxi: the largest operator in the city
AAA Taxi is one of the market leaders – a company known for its transparency, punctuality and wide reach. Their vehicles can be ordered by phone, through the application or the dispatcher. Importantly, they offer attractive rates – from CZK 27.90 per kilometre – and a guarantee of fair settlement according to the taximeter.
Profi Taxi: VIP services, child transport and card payment
Profi Taxi stands out for its offer of additional services – it allows, among others, transport of children in car seats, VIP reservations and card payments, which is not always standard. It is a good choice for those who expect more comfort or travel with family.
Prague Airport Transfers and Welcome Pickups: airport transfers
For travelers arriving at Prague Václav Airport , companies such as Prague Airport Transfers andWelcome Pickups are a reliable solution. They offer fixed prices and high standards of service, and bookings can be made online before departure.
What are taxi prices in Prague?
Before you decide to take a taxi , it is good to know the basic rates and the rules for calculating them. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and surprising fees. Check out what taxi prices look like in Prague , what affects the final price of the taxi and how to plan your taxi ride advantageously.
Official taxi price list and its regulations
(For reference: 1 EUR ≈ 25 CZK)
The city authorities have set the maximum rates that apply in Prague . They are currently as follows:
initial fee: 60 CZK,
price per kilometer: 36 CZK,
waiting time per minute: 7 CZK.
In practice, however, many companies – especially those operating via apps – offer lower prices. For example, AAA Taxi offers rides from CZK 27.90/km, depending on the time of day, traffic and route. This is one reason why it is worth comparing offers in advance.
Taximeter and method of calculating fares
In Prague, the rule is that every vehicle must be equipped with a working taximeter, which starts charging a fee only after the ride has started. If taxis charge fees other than those indicated by the meter, you have every right to demand an explanation and even report abuse. It is also mandatory to issue a receipt – this is your security.
Price differences between apps and traditional taxis
Mobile apps like Bolt , Liftago and Uber offer not only lower prices, but also greater transparency. Before starting the ride, you can see an estimated price of the ride , you can also rate the driver or cancel if something does not suit you.
Classic taxi services , although still available, are not always as transparent. That is why apps are becoming increasingly popular among tourists and locals.
Example prices for taxi rides in Prague
For a better overview, below you will find approximate prices for popular routes:
From Prague Václav Airport to Prague city centre (approx. 17 km): 600–800 CZK (24–32 EUR)
Prague city centre to Prague Castle (approx. 3 km): 150–200 CZK (6–8 EUR)
From the center to Karlštejn (approx. 30 km): from 1000 CZK for 4 people (40 EUR)
Prague to Český Krumlov (approx. 170 km): approx. 4,400 CZK (176 EUR)
It is worth remembering that the final price may depend on the company chosen, traffic, and booking method. For longer routes, a private taxi with a fixed rate may be more cost-effective.
Safety and quality of services
When traveling in Prague , it’s worth remembering that while most taxis operate honestly, there are exceptions. That’s why passenger safety and quality of service are issues that can’t be underestimated. Here’s what to look for when using a taxi service in the Czech capital.
Taxi Fair Place: official stops and a guarantee of honesty
In the city centre you will find designated Taxi Fair Places. These are official taxi ranks where vehicles meet licensing requirements and drivers are regularly checked. Using such points minimises the risk of encountering a dishonest carrier.
Dishonest Taxi Drivers and How to Avoid Them
Unfortunately, taxi drivers in Prague don’t always play fair. There are cases of overcharging – even up to 99 CZK/km! – despite the maximum fare being 36 CZK. You have to be especially careful in tourist areas, such as Old Town Square. The best advice? Don’t hail a Prague taxi from the street – use an app or book a taxi through your hotel.
Licensed Taxi vs. Unlicensed Taxi
Every equipped Prague taxi must have a visible license number, company name and price list on the front door. The lack of this information is a warning sign - it may be a so-called "wild carrier". Such a Prague taxi can expose you not only to overpaying, but also to insurance problems in the event of an accident.
Taking care of your safety, always pay attention to the vehicle markings, technical condition and the driver's behavior. If something raises your doubts - simply cancel and choose another carrier.
Transfer from Václav Havel Airport to Prague City Centre
When flying into the Czech capital, you want to get to your hotel quickly and without stress. Prague Václav Airport (also known as Prague Ruzyně Airport ) serves millions of passengers a year, and one of the most convenient ways to get to the city center is by taxi or private transfer.
Transport options: taxi, private transfers, apps
From the airport, you can use classic Prague taxis , mobile apps such as Bolt or Liftago , as well as companies offering a pre-arranged ride, such as Prague Airport Transfers or Welcome Pickups. The latter are especially recommended if you want convenience and don't want to negotiate the price on the spot.
What are the prices and travel times from the airport?
A taxi from the airport to Prague city centre (around 17 km) usually costs between 600 and 800 CZK (around 24–32 EUR), depending on the time of day and traffic. The journey takes an average of 25–35 minutes. If you choose the cheapest taxis available through the app, the price can drop to 300–400 CZK (12–16 EUR), especially outside rush hours.
Recommended companies and booking methods
The most frequently chosen companies serving Prague airports include:
Prague Airport Transfers – reliable service, fixed prices, online booking option,
AAA Taxi – a reliable operator, lower rates when booking via the app,
Profi Taxi – an option for those who want to pay by card or need a child seat.
To avoid problems, it is advisable to book your ride in advance – online, via an app or through your hotel reception. Avoid drivers approaching you directly in the arrivals hall – these are not always licensed taxi vehicles .
Tips for Prague Taxi Travelers
Taking a taxi in Prague can be convenient and quick, provided you know what to look out for. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make every taxi ride hassle-free.
How to recognize a legal taxi
A legal Prague taxi should have a yellow “TAXI” sign on the roof, and the license number, company name, and current price list clearly visible on the front door. This information should match the taximeter inside the vehicle. Avoid cars without markings or with stickers imitating official logos – this may not be a legal taxi service .
Card payments, tips and other practical information
Most licensed taxi drivers in Prague accept cash, and increasingly, card. It’s worth asking before you start your ride. A tip is optional, but appreciated – rounding up the amount is usually enough.
Where to find the safest rest stops
The best choice are official taxi ranks marked as Taxi Fair Place , which are located at key points in the city, such as at train stations or around Wenceslas Square.
What to do if you have problems with your driver
If you feel uncomfortable, the driver has not turned on the taximeter or demands a higher fare than the agreed one, you have the right to refuse to pay and call the police.
Keep the taxi registration number and receipt – they can be useful in filing a claim. If necessary, you can contact the Czech Transport Office or ask for help at your hotel.
By following these tips, you can be more certain that your Prague taxi service will go as expected.
What cars will you see most often and how to recognize them
The most common taxis in Prague are Skoda models (e.g. Octavia, Superb), Toyotas, and also Mercedes in the premium segment. Official Prague taxis do not have one color - they can be silver, black or white - so it is worth paying attention not so much to the color, but to the marking.
Characteristic features of Prague taxis include:
yellow light with the word "TAXI" on the roof,
clear markings: company logo, taxi registration number , current price list,
information stickers inside the vehicle (with license and tariffs).
Tipping customs
In the Czech Republic, tips are not mandatory, but they are appreciated. If you are happy with the service, you can leave about 10% of the fare or simply round up the amount to the nearest ten crowns. Drivers are used to this and will certainly appreciate the gesture.
Useful phrases in Czech
Although many drivers speak English, a few basic Czech phrases may be helpful:
"Good day" – Good morning
“Kolik to bude stat?” – How much will it cost?
"Please give me the bill" – I would like the bill please
"Zastavte tady, prosím" - Please stop here
“Mohu platit kartou?” – Can I pay by card?
"Děkuji" - Thank you
With these phrases you can feel more confident and communicate politely with a local driver.
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