Conference Venue

Hotel Expo

Za Elektrárnou 3, 170 00 Prague 7, Czech republic
Tel.: +420 266 712 470, 00420 234 722 200 Fax.: +420 266 712 469
Hotel website: www.expoprag.cz   
hotel email: hotel@expoprag.cz

To travel from Václav Havel Airport (PRG) to Hotel Expo, located in the Holešovice district (near the Výstavišt? exhibition grounds), you have several efficient options ranging from budget-friendly public transit to door-to-door private transfers.

1. Public Transport (Most Affordable)

Prague’s public transport is highly reliable. For Hotel Expo, you have two primary routes. Both require a 90-minute ticket (40 CZK / approx. €1.60), which you can buy at the airport via yellow vending machines or the PID Líta?ka app.

  • Option A: Trolleybus 59 + Metro + Tram (Fastest Public Route)

    1. Take Trolleybus 59 from the airport to its final stop, Nádraží Veleslavín.

    2. Transfer to Metro Line A (Green) toward Depo Hostiva? and get off at Hrad?anská.

    3. Exit and take Tram 1 or 25 to the Výstavišt? stop. The hotel is just a 2-minute walk from there.

  • Option B: Airport Express (AE) + Metro

    1. Take the AE Bus (100 CZK) directly to the Main Train Station (Hlavní nádraží).

    2. Transfer to Metro Line C (Red) toward Let?any and get off at Nádraží Holešovice.

    3. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk or a 1-stop tram ride (Tram 6, 12, or 17) to Výstavišt?.

2. Official Taxi & Ride-Sharing (Most Convenient)

  • Uber: Uber is the official taxi partner at Prague Airport. You can book via the app or at digital kiosks in the Arrivals hall. A ride to Hotel Expo typically costs between 600 CZK and 800 CZK ($25–$35) and takes about 25–30 minutes depending on traffic.

  • Bolt: Widely available and often slightly cheaper than Uber, though you must meet the driver at the designated "Rideshare" pickup point (usually in the parking garage across from the terminal).

3. Private Transfers (Best for Groups/Peace of Mind)

  • Prague Airport Transfers: You can pre-book a fixed-price private car for approximately 750–800 CZK. The driver will meet you in the Arrivals hall with a sign. This is ideal if you have heavy luggage or are traveling with a group.

 

ABOUT PRAGUE

Prague is a city of stunning spires and cobblestone charm, but like any world-class destination, it has its quirks. In 2026, the city has implemented several new rules (like a ban on organized pub crawls) to maintain its local character.

Here is the essential information you need for a smooth trip.

Currency & Payments

  • Official Currency: The Czech Koruna (CZK). While some places accept Euros, the exchange rate is almost always terrible.

  • Card vs. Cash: Prague is highly digital. You can pay by card or phone in most cafes and shops. However, keep some cash (roughly 500–1000 CZK) for small pubs, traditional markets, and public toilets (which usually cost 10–20 CZK).

  • ATM Warning: Use ATMs attached to major banks (e.g., KB, ?SOB, Air Bank). Avoid standalone "Euronet" ATMs which charge high fees. If the ATM asks to "Accept Conversion," always decline and choose to be charged in CZK to get your bank's better rate.

Getting Around

  • Public Transport: The system is world-class. Use the PID Líta?ka app to buy tickets and see real-time routes.

    • 30 min: 39 CZK | 90 min: 50 CZK | 24 hours: 150 CZK.

  • Validation is Key: If you buy a paper ticket, you must validate it in the yellow machines before entering the metro or immediately after boarding a tram/bus. Forgetting this can lead to a heavy fine from plainclothes inspectors.

  • Taxis: Never hail a taxi on the street. Use Uber, Bolt, or the local app Liftago for transparent pricing.

Scams & Safety

  • The "Ham Trap": In the Old Town Square, food stalls sell "Prague Ham" by weight (per 100g). They often serve massive portions that can cost over 1,000 CZK. Ask for a specific weight or price before they cut it.

  • Money Changers: Never exchange money with people on the street (they will give you worthless currency). Legitimate exchange offices must give you a receipt, and by law, you have 3 hours to cancel a transaction if you feel the rate was unfair.

  • Pickpockets: Be extra vigilant on Tram 22 (the scenic route to the Castle) and in the crowds at the Astronomical Clock.

Expert Sightseeing Tips

  • Beat the Crowds: Visit the Charles Bridge at sunrise (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM) or after 10:00 PM for a peaceful experience.

  • The Best Views: For the best city panorama, skip the crowded Pet?ín Tower and head to Letná Park or the Vyšehrad fortress.

  • Dining Etiquette: In traditional pubs, a "service charge" is rarely included. It is standard to round up the bill or leave about 10% if the service was good.

VISA INFORMATION

Planning a trip to the Czech Republic (Czechia) requires understanding its role as a member of the Schengen Area. This means that entry requirements are standardized across most of Europe, but there are specific nuances for visiting Prague and the rest of the country.

Whether you need a visa depends entirely on your nationality.

  • Visa-Free (Up to 90 Days): Citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most of the European Union can enter for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

  • Schengen Visa Required: Citizens of many other countries (e.g., India, China, South Africa) must apply for a Schengen Visa (Type C) before arrival.

  • ETIAS (Upcoming Requirement): Starting later in 2025/2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the US and UK) will likely need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) online before travel.

Here are the most useful websites for tourists:

1. Official Government Portals

These should be your primary sources for legal requirements, forms, and policy updates.

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA): The definitive source for "Short-Stay" (Schengen) visa information. It includes details on tourism requirements, a list of supporting documents, and visa fees.

  • Information Portal for Foreigners (IPC): Managed by the Ministry of the Interior, this site is excellent for tracking the status of an existing application and understanding your rights as a visitor.

  • Ministry of the Interior (MVCR): Provides broad information on entry and residence rules, including specialized sections for non-EU (third-country) nationals.

2. Visa Application & Appointments

The Czech Republic outsources much of its visa collection process to external service providers. Depending on your location, you will likely use one of these:

  • VFS Global: The official partner for Czech visa applications in many countries (including the UK, India, and USA). Use this site to book appointments, pay service fees, and track your passport.

  • Embassy/Consulate Websites: If VFS does not operate in your region, you must apply directly at the Czech embassy. This directory helps you find the specific website for the mission in your country.

3. Entry Systems & Travel Auth

  • European Commission - Schengen Visa Info: Best for a general overview of the Schengen rules that apply to the Czech Republic.

  • Official ETIAS Website: For travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the US, Canada, or Australia), this system is scheduled to go live in 2026. Keep this bookmarked for future travel authorization.