Prague Car Rental

Unless you’re planning to travel outside of the city, it’s probably not worth renting a car in Prague, particularly as the city’s public transport is so efficient (and serves almost all of Prague’s major tourist attractions). Should you need a vehicle, most well-known (internationally recognised) rental companies have offices in Prague.

That said, it’s often easier to arrange a rental through your travel agent rather than on arrival. Not only will you save money (anything from 15-20%) but you’ll also be able to find out about deposits, drop off charges, cancellation penalties and insurance costs without having to make yourself understood in a foreign language.

To quickly compare rates between leading local hire companies, enter your trip details:

Make sure though you find out what equipment comes as standard (air-conditioning is not always available) and check that the price quoted includes VAT. Optional extras such as roof racks and child seats should also be arranged before you go. U.S. and Canadian citizens should note that the majority of rental cars in Prague have manual (stick-shift), rather than automatic transmission.

To hire a car in the Czech Republic you must be at least 18 years of age, though most rental companies insist upon a minimum age of 21-25 years old. Mileage rates are of the fixed amount free, unlimited or per kilometre variety, with extra charges for any additional drivers wanting to use the vehicle.

Although reputable companies operate new fleets and service them to a high standard, make your own checks before accepting a rental car. These should include:

i) checking for minor bodywork damage, making sure that small defects are noted on the rental agreement before you take the vehicle;

ii) checking for tyre wear (insist on a different vehicle if the tread appears low, uneven or if there are cuts or bulges in any tyre sidewalls);

iii) checking in advance to see if rear seat belts are fitted (and arrange for a car seat if you have small children).

iv) allow yourself plenty of time to get used to the vehicle, unfamiliar road signs and Prague’s drivers. When returning the car, fuel should be topped up to the same level as when you first picked it up (otherwise you’ll be charged at the rental company’s own tariff per litre which is invariably higher than that of local forecourts). Insurance requirements and general rules on driving in the Czech Republic (including local road signs) are covered in Getting There.