Search Results forprague
Beyond Prague: Czechia Expands India Playbook with Wellness and Wine Trails
With the Czech Consulate General in Mumbai operational again, Czechia is repositioning itself for deeper engagement with India’s fast-growing outbound travel market. The reopening is expected to improve visa clarity and confidence, particularly across Western and Southern India, while supporting Czechia’s broader push to diversify travel beyond Prague. In a conversation with Barbara Andelova, International Marketing Manager – New Markets at CzechTourism, she outlines how improved access, evolving demand patterns and regional storytelling will shape Czechia’s India roadmap in 2026 and beyond. Excerpts: Strategic Boost to Access The reopening of the Mumbai Consulate marks an important step in strengthening travel and mobility between India and Czechia. According to Andelova, it brings greater ease, confidence and consistency to visa processing for Indian travellers. Strategically, it supports growth across leisure and MICE segments by improving clarity and access, while reinforcing Czechia’s long-term commitment to the Indian market. It also aligns with efforts to position the country as a year-round destination and encourage exploration beyond Prague Growth Expected from Western and Southern India Western and Southern India already represent some of the strongest outbound segments across leisure, corporate and MICE travel. Improved access to consular services is expected to support steady growth from key Tier 1 and emerging Tier 2 cities. While the increase may be gradual, Andelova anticipates a consistent rise in visa applications translating into higher travel volumes, particularly among FIT travellers, corporate movements and evolving MICE demand, including travel beyond the capital FIT and MICE Drivers Czechia positions itself in India as a culturally rich, experience-led destination offering depth across leisure, business and MICE travel. Currently, FIT travellers and leisure groups form the core of demand, while MICE and business travel are gaining momentum, supported by infrastructure in Prague and Brno. Looking ahead, FIT travel, premium leisure groups and MICE are expected to be the strongest growth drivers, as Indian travellers increasingly prioritise flexibility and personalised journeys Beyond Prague: Wellness, Wine and Slower Itineraries For 2026, CzechTourism’s “Feel Free To” concept will anchor its positioning in India, promoting a slower, more immersive travel style. Key regions include Karlovy Vary and West Bohemia’s spa towns for wellness-led travel, South Moravia for wine and gastronomy experiences, Český Krumlov and South Bohemia for heritage stays, and Bohemian Switzerland for nature-driven exploration. The focus is on encouraging travellers to spend more time in-region rather than treating Czechia as a brief stopover Connectivity and a Long-Term India Vision Direct air connectivity remains an important lever for strengthening Czechia’s presence in India, although the medium-term focus is on building awareness and leveraging key one-stop hubs and airline partnerships. CzechTourism, alongside the Embassy and Prague Airport, is aligned on improving India–Czechia connectivity over time, while continuing destination storytelling and product-led campaigns to build stronger preference in the market.
Bob W sign a long-term lease in central Prague for 150-room property
Bob W, the tech-powered hospitality operator, has signed a long-term lease for a 150-key property in central Prague, marking its first property in the Czech Republic and a major milestone in its Central and Eastern Europe expansion strategy. Situated in a well-connected, high-demand urban area of Prague, the site will be transformed into a full-service Bob W property offering a mix of studio and one-bedroom units. The property will showcase Bob W’s signature design-led interiors, sustainable operations and fully digital guest experience. Further details, including launch timing, will be shared as the project progresses. The deal builds on Bob W’s momentum across Europe and reinforces its focus on Central Europe as a growth corridor. By entering the Czech market, Bob W is responding to growing demand for flexible, hybrid hospitality models that blend leisure, corporate and extended-stay use. Niko Karstikko, Co-Founder and CEO of Bob W, said: “Prague represents an exciting step in our Central European growth story. It’s a market that blends leisure, corporate and extended-stay demand, making it ideal for our hybrid hospitality model. We’re seeing strong appetite for flexible, design-led accommodation that offers the consistency of a hotel and the authenticity of a local stay — and Prague delivers that balance perfectly.” Taavi Pettai, Vice President, Real Estate, Lead in CEE and Nordics at Bob W, added: “This lease underscores our confidence in Prague’s long-term fundamentals and vibrant hospitality sector. Central and Eastern Europe remain strategic growth regions for Bob W, and we’re actively pursuing additional opportunities across the region in collaboration with landlords and developers who share our vision for sustainable, tech-enabled hospitality.” Once complete, the site will reflect Bob W’s design ethos rooted in local culture, with interiors featuring locally sourced furnishings and sustainable materials. Additional project specifics and imagery will be released in due course. The project underscores Bob W’s long-term confidence in the Czech hospitality sector and its strong growth fundamentals. Building on this momentum, the company is actively pursuing additional opportunities across Central and Eastern Europe, with several negotiations already underway.
American Airlines to Connect Prague with Philadelphia
Václav Havel Airport Prague will expand its long-haul flight offer to North America. American Airlines will launch operation on a direct route between Prague and Philadelphia next year. The regular seasonal service will be operated daily from 21 May to 5 October 2026. American Airlines will deploy the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft on the route. “Operation of the direct service between Prague and Philadelphia was among our priorities. We are therefore very pleased about our successful partnership with American Airlines; this was also thanks to the coordinated support and cooperation with our partners. This route represents one of the milestones in our strategy of developing long-haul flights and strengthening direct connections between the Czech Republic and North America. We firmly believe that the route will be successful and beneficial for both Czech passengers and tourists and business travellers heading to Prague. We greatly appreciate the cooperation with American Airlines and look forward to the launch of the direct connection,” said Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Prague Airport Board of Directors. The direct service to Philadelphia will offer passengers a quick connection to one of American Airlines’ main hubs on the East Coast of the USA, as well as convenient connecting flights to more than 100 other destinations across North America. The flight from Philadelphia International Airport is scheduled to depart at 6:40 p.m. local time and arrive in Prague at 8:45 a.m. the following day. The return flight from Prague will depart at 11:00 a.m. with arrival in Philadelphia at 2:00 p.m. local time “The customer demand for flights to and from cities rich in culture continues to grow. We’re increasingly seeing customers flock to cities they can step back in time, exploring history and culture beyond anything experienced before,” said José A. Freig, Vice President – International and Inflight Dining Operations. “With this route, our customers in the Czech Republic will also have access to one of our fastest growing U.S. hubs in Philadelphia, from where they can explore more than 100 destinations in the U.S. and beyond.” The launch of direct flights between Prague and Philadelphia was supported not only by the standard Prague Airport incentive program, but also by marketing campaigns implemented on the US market in cooperation between Prague Airport and the key tourism industry stakeholders, CzechTourism and Prague City Tourism, as well as by coordination of activities within the working group on direct air connections to the U.S., whose additional members were representatives of the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Czech embassy in the USA.
Etihad celebrates first flights to Prague and Warsaw
Etihad Airways is celebrating the launch of flights to two exciting new destinations in Central Europe – Prague and Warsaw. On Monday 2 June, the UAE’s national airline operated its inaugural flight to the enchanting Czech capital Prague, one of 16 new destinations the airline will add this year. On 3 June, the airline touched down in Warsaw for the first time, adding the vibrant Polish capital to its expanding European network. "Our new Prague and Warsaw services open doors to countless possibilities," said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways. "These new routes create a bridge between two remarkable regions, connecting travellers from the Middle East to the heart of Central Europe, while offering seamless connections via Abu Dhabi to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia.” Often called the 'City of a Hundred Spires', Prague captivates visitors with its stunning Gothic architecture, centuries-old squares, and lively cultural scene. The Czech capital's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases architectural treasures spanning eight centuries, while its modern districts pulse with innovative cuisine, art, and design. Beyond the city, the surrounding region offers picturesque landscapes, from historic castles to renowned spa towns. In Poland, the modern city of Warsaw captivates with its distinctive contrasts – elegant architecture and contemporary skylines, traditional markets and inspired dining scenes, historic parks and cutting-edge cultural venues. This diversity is complemented by Poland's enticing array of experiences, from medieval cities to pristine forests and mountain ranges. Visitors to the UAE from Czechia and Poland, can enjoy Abu Dhabi’s distinctive blend of tradition and modern luxury. The UAE capital offers everything from the serenity of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the artistic masterpieces of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The city serves as an ideal gateway to desert adventures, championship golf courses, and the entertainment district of Yas Island with its world-class theme parks and Yas Marina Circuit. Prague and Warsaw join Etihad's expanding European network at an exciting time. The airline is set to welcome 16 new destinations throughout 2025, including Atlanta (July), Taipei (September), and key Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Krabi in the fourth quarter. Operating on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the services feature 28 Business Studios and 262 Economy Smart seats. Each Business Studio transforms into a fully-flat bed and offers direct aisle access, while Economy Smart seats provide enhanced comfort for all guests. The aircraft offers the latest in-flight entertainment technology and thoughtfully crafted comfort in both cabins. Etihad’s Extraordinary Challenge To celebrate Etihad’s expanding network, the airline has launched a competition, The Extraordinary Challenge, daring guests to compete in a race to visit 15 of the airline’s new destinations, including Prague and Warsaw, to win five million Etihad Guest miles. Any new or existing Etihad Guest member can register to compete and has 12 months to complete the challenge, the first three members to visit all 15 destinations will be awarded. First place will win five million Etihad Guest miles, Second place will win three million miles, and Third place will win one million miles. For more information, please visit etihad.com/racetofly. Flight schedule Prague from 2 June 2025 – all times local Flight Number Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft EY 155 Abu Dhabi 2:25 Prague 6:50 Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun B787-9 EY 156 Prague 11:20 Abu Dhabi 19:05 Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun B787-9 Flight schedule Warsaw from 3 June 2025 – all times local Flight Number Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency Aircraft EY 159 Abu Dhabi 02:40 Warsaw 07:00 Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun B787-9 EY 160 Warsaw 11:20 Abu Dhabi 19:00 Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun B787-9
Fairmont Golden Prague opens with 320 keys
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the hospitality group Accor, is pleased to announce the debut of Fairmont Golden Prague, bringing a new chapter to one of the city’s most iconic and historic buildings. Located at the gate of prestigious Pařížská Boulevard on the banks of the Vltava River, the hotel unveils a multi-million euro renovation of the landmark building of brutalist architecture it occupies. With its commitment to preserving cultural and artistic history, the renovation, spearheaded by chief architect Marek Tichý, will honor the architecture of the structure – originally designed by Czech architect Karel Filsak in the brutalist style in 1974 – while introducing an entirely new hospitality approach into the space and the city. All the internal preserved arts and craft elements, including blown glass chandeliers, gilded light fixtures, and ornate ash wood posts, will be restored, seamlessly incorporating Czech influences into an otherwise contemporary design. Guests arriving at the new hotel will find an atmosphere of sophistication and cultural significance alongside modern comfort, heartfelt service, and immersive local experiences. “The opening of Fairmont Golden Prague is a significant milestone for Fairmont as we continue to grow our presence in Europe. Prague is a city with an incredible story to tell, and we are honored to play a part in preserving its great heritage. Blending Fairmont’s celebratory spirit with the property’s architectural grandeur will bring a captivating new luxury hotel experience to the Czech capital, and its innovative restaurant concepts – an exciting new offering to the city’s vibrant culinary scene,” said Omer Acar, Chief Executive Officer, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. The hotel features 320 elegant rooms, suites, and serviced residences, blending modernist aesthetics with warm tones of rich dark wood contrasted against lighter elements. This harmonious design creates a calming sanctuary, where the beauty of the Czech capital takes center stage. Drawing inspiration from the building’s original architecture, the interiors seamlessly integrate traditional Czech glass artistry into structural elements, enhancing room partitions and spatial lighting that create a distinctive, refined touch. Six diverse locations to drink and dine in style will ensure guests have an array of choices. On the rooftop, Zlata Praha will offer a seasonally driven, fine dining experience complemented by breathtaking panoramic views of Prague. For a taste of modern Asian cuisine, Golden Eye will present a sleek cosmopolitan ambiance inspired by the 1970s, featuring stunning skyline views. In the lobby, Coocoo’s Nest—named after the Academy Award-winning film from Czech-American Miloš Forman, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, will serve as a stylish social hub. Connected to the ground-floor art gallery and adorned with a mix of 1970s and contemporary artwork, it will provide the perfect setting for a morning coffee, light meal, or an evening cocktail. Those looking to experience the iconic Czech beer culture should not miss Greenhouse, the hotel’s all-day venue where guests can enjoy Czech pilsner, fine wines, and snacks prepared on the restaurant’s Josper grill while taking in views of the riverbank and the Prague Castle. Renowned as a work of art in and of itself since its construction in the 1970s, the building will now also house one of the country’s most impressive and extensive art collections, driven by its owners’ deep passion for Czech art and film. Pieces from the 1960s and 1970s will seamlessly blend with contemporary works, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present while complementing the hotel's historical features. Among the treasures awaiting guests are chandeliers by René Roubíček that evoke thistle flowers; Miroslav Hejný’s sculpted wooden colonnades; or Čestmír Kafka’s gilded ceiling sculptures. Guests seeking a respite from exploring the city of Prague can relish in tailored wellness experiences at the property’s signature 1,400 sqm Fairmont Spa & Wellness center which combines luxury, nature, and state-of-the-art technology. Skilled therapists take a holistic approach to healing, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations to create truly personalized treatments. The spa features five serene treatment suites, a tranquil garden, three saunas, a steam bath, and a world-class fitness studio. A one of its kind in central Prague, their L-shaped pool fuses indoor and outdoor spaces for a truly immersive experience. Fairmont Golden Prague will also offer the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience, a ‘hotel within a hotel’ that provides guests with exceptional privacy, personalized service, and access to premium amenities. Benefits will include a private check-in upon arrival and access to the elegant Fairmont Gold Lounge, featuring a complimentary healthy breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapés, a late-night dessert buffet, and an honor bar. Additionally, the hotel will have a 600-square meter column-free ballroom, exemplary event spaces, and three exclusive C-Suite rooftop boardrooms, all offering private terraces, the latest audio-visual equipment, customized catering, and an experienced events team. As part of Accor’s unrivaled luxury portfolio, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts continues to inspire with destinations that celebrate culture, heritage, and timeless elegance. With Fairmont currently operating more than 10 properties across Europe including, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace in Switzerland, The Savoy in the United Kingdom, and the recently launched Fairmont La Hacienda Costa Del Sol in Spain, Fairmont Golden Prague sets to enhance this portfolio continuing to make special moments happen throughout the region. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has a notable pipeline of more than 30 hotels under development, with openings planned in Udaipur, Bangkok, Tokyo, Hanoi, New Orleans and in the English countryside over the next year.
W Prague opens with 161 keys in central Europe
The first W Hotels location in the Czech capital reinvigorates a storied landmark with a blend of old-world opulence and bold new concepts, capturing Prague’s rich history and furthering the brand’s dynamic expansion across Europe. W Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, announces the highly anticipated unveiling of W Prague, marking the brand’s entry into the Czech Republic and the start of a new chapter for the former Grand Hotel Evropa, a renowned Art Nouveau-style property. With the brand’s signature, unconventional approach to luxury, W Prague joins newly unveiled and celebrated European gems such as W Rome and W Budapest, redefining luxury lifestyle hospitality in the region. The hotel blends Prague’s heritage-filled legacy with contemporary touches through a trifecta of distinct design, elevated service, and dynamic culinary offerings and experiences, making W Prague the new social soul of the city. Located on Wenceslas Square, W Prague revitalizes the former and famed hotel, once a witness to many historical moments and a pioneer of innovation in the 1900s. With its forward-thinking design and progressive spirit, the hotel now presents a modern and sophisticated setting for the next generation of luxury travellers. The hotel offers 161 stylishly appointed guestrooms and suites, including the WOW Bohemia Duplex, the signature W Lounge, and Above Rooftop bar with sweeping cityscape views, all influenced by city’s storied history and culture. “The opening of W Prague promises travellers an unexpected and engaging hotel experience in the heart of one of Europe’s most cultured and lively cities,” said Helen Leighton, Vice President, Luxury Brands & Communications, EMEA. “We look forward to our guests immersing themselves in this creative city and experiencing its charm through the hotel’s striking design, innovative dining concepts, and exceptional guest service”. Authentic, Impactful Design Internationally acclaimed architects Benoy and award-winning global design firm AvroKO’s London Studio, in collaboration with local designers Chapman Taylor, have reimagined one of the city’s most iconic landmarks drawing inspiration from Prague’s cultural richness and the building’s Art Nouveau roots. The colour palate utilises the original tones of the protected heritage building, including natural earthy hues of yellow, beige, terracotta, dark grey, and a unique green for the stucco decorations. In conjunction with the meticulous restoration, a new chapter has been created with the addition of a 9-storey contemporary elliptical shaped wing, designed by architectural studio DAM. Further inspiration came from the magical concept of the ‘Elixir’, symbolising a blend of tradition and innovation, nature and industry, and reality and fantasy. With Prague often referred to as the ‘City of Gold’, this golden elixir theme is woven throughout the design, from the enchanting façade to the inviting communal areas through to the W Hotels totem, guiding guests between the heritage building and contemporary wing. Adding to this transformative experience is the ‘Fantastical Garden’, inspired by the dreamlike art of Czech artist Alphonse Mucha. The design incorporates whimsical and escapist elements through both the heritage and new wing, inviting guests on a journey of discovery and wonder. Connecting the heritage building and new wing, the corridor is draped with a unique ‘Fantastical Garden’ faux embroidery by London based Studio, Adam Ellis, inspired by elements of a magical garden. Guests are transported through the visually stunning passage by a variety of flora and fauna embellishments including tall grasses, weaving botanicals, hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies enhanced by floral chandeliers created by Preciosa Lighting. Encapsulating the hotel’s vision of both tradition and modernity, the hotel’s 161 distinctive guestrooms, including 23 suites, feature striking colours and reflective textures, creating a refined ambiance. The E-WOW Suite, the brand’s modern interpretation of a Presidential Suite, on the 8th floor echoes the architecture of the new building whilst embracing Art Nouveau styles partitioning the room for guests to recharge, entertain, and work. The WOW Bohemia Duplex in the heritage building features restored beams and decorative arch windows, finished in a deep grenache colour palette. An oversized curtain lends a theatrical air that accentuates the suite’s double height ceilings, while creating a sanctuary on the upper floor. Skylights allow natural light into the restored loft-like space and plaster finished walls hark back to building’s illustrious legacy. Transformational Hotel Artworks and Installations The striking art and glass installations at W Prague, curated by Adam Ellis Studio and local artists, are designed to enhance the guest experience and spark meaningful conversations. Highlights include the psychedelic wall art at the bar, Bisou, and a fantastical garden mural by Michael Škapa which is the centrepiece of W Lounge Garden. Additionally, KLIMCHI, will open its first boutique store at W Prague, showcasing elegant Bohemian glassware including a curated collection for W Lounge and Minus One. The restored atrium, with its stucco details from 1905 and illustrations from 1925, now shines with a stunning crystal installation by Preciosa Lighting and Pavla Doležalová. Symbolising Bohemian heritage, the handcrafted crystals come alive in a mesmerising ‘dripping’ effect, beautifully transforming the space. A Fantastical Culinary Journey Transforming Prague’s culinary landscape, extraordinary flavours blend tradition with experimentation, offering an unrivalled journey that caters to every mood, day or night. W Prague invites guests to explore a myriad of venues, each offering a unique and memorable dining experience. Once the epicentre for Prague socialites in the 1920s, the hotel will see the revival of the iconic Grand Café, partnering with Monaco based restaurateur, Riccardo Giraudi. Le Petit Beefbar at Grand Café is an upscale bistro that breaks from the traditional codes of steakhouses and focuses on sharing concepts with premium and local meats, drawing inspiration from global palettes and recipes. Located on the ground floor in the contemporary wing, W Lounge is the social epicentre of the hotel which seamlessly transitions from a tranquil morning retreat to a lively evening hotspot. The inviting and relaxing space with furnishings in soft blues, greens, and terracotta spills out onto a lush interior terrace – W Lounge Garden – which embraces nature and offers a secret escape from the buzzing city. Guests and locals alike can enjoy sharing plates and signature cocktails while the Music Curator, Adriana Mižigárová, sets the tone for the night. In contrast, Bisou offers a sanctuary of tranquillity and is the ideal space to meet friends and sip and enjoy coffee, local wines, and champagne. Set against the striking Prague skyline, the Above Rooftop is a seasonal outdoor terrace which is poised to be the capital’s go-to destination during spring and summer. With refreshing drinks, great food, and curated beats, the Above Rooftop offers a perfect combination of relaxation and energy. Minus One, nestled in the basement, invites guests to discover different immersive experiences as they meander through the space. A premium cocktail scene, curated by award-winning mixologist Jan Šebek, boasts a menu featuring both innovative cocktails and a signature selection of reimagined classics. The ambiance transitions seamlessly into a performance and lounge venue, where a warm glow radiates from the gold-plastered ceiling and terracotta hues, creating an inviting atmosphere for events and social gatherings. Tucked away, a hidden speakeasy enveloped in floor-to-ceiling drapery offers a secluded haven for those seeking a nightcap in a more intimate setting. Finally, a room adorned with lacquered shelves in a deep forest green and the soft shimmer of the golden ceiling provides an enclave for private tastings. Each corner of Minus One presents a distinct design narrative, crafting an anthology of sensory delights for the discerning traveller. An Urban Sanctuary Tucked away, the AWAY Spa provides a serene escape from the lively city. Taking centre stage is the stunning WET pool, offering a tranquil oasis. Guests can indulge in a comprehensive thermal suite experience featuring access to a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and the All Seasons Water Journey, a multisensory immersive experience where guests can encounter environments that replicate the sensations of all four seasons. The AWAY Spa boasts a beauty bar and five treatment rooms, including one couple’s room. Services offered include luxurious treatments such as the brand’s signature De-Stress massage, designed to release tension, soothe tired muscles, and provide deep relaxation with calming aromas. For fitness enthusiasts, the brand’s signature gym, FIT is equipped with state-of-the-art Matrix equipment and Fitness on Demand offerings. Guests can also connect with locals and explore the city at a faster pace by joining the local running club.
Sunny 20th Anniversary of TAP Air Portugal connecting Prague to Lisbon
Nearly 1.4 million passengers and over 13,100 flights; these are the numbers which best describe the twentieth anniversary of TAP Air Portugal’s route between Prague and Lisbon. During the celebrations at Václav Havel Airport Prague, a unique Airbus A321neo in a special retro livery arrived in Prague. The airport firefighters welcomed it with a traditional water salute and there was also an accompanying program at the gate. The first flight on the Prague – Lisbon route was operated on 1 June 2004. TAP originally launched three frequencies per week and gradually increased the service to comprise 11 weekly flights in 2018-2019. Today, the carrier operates the route seven times a week, and from June until the end of the summer season, passengers will be able to choose from as many as eight frequencies. “I am glad that our cooperation with TAP Air Portugal has been working very well in the long term. It is a carrier that provides our passengers with a wide range of connections not only to Portugal, but also on connecting routes, especially to South and North America. I also appreciate the fact that TAP Air Portugal was one of the first airlines to resume connections with Prague after restrictions were relaxed post the Covid-19 pandemic. I personally believe that our cooperation will continue in the same spirit in the future,” Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Prague Airport Board of Directors, said. Frédéric Gossot, Sales and Distribution Senior Director of TAP Air Portugal, added: “It’s with great satisfaction that we are here, today, celebrating 20 years of success of TAP flights connecting Prague and Lisbon. In the past 20 years, TAP has transported almost 1.4 million passengers between the capital cities of Czechia and Portugal. We cheer all our partners, and especially our host today, Václav Havel Airport Prague; you are part of this success. We bring many tourists, not only from Portugal, but also from Brazil, the United States, and Canada to discover Prague and Czechia, and we offer the Czechs some of the best options to visit Lisbon and all the gems of Portugal and beyond, onboard our all-Airbus fleet, one of the youngest fleets in Europe.” From June until the end of the summer season, TAP Air Portugal operates the Prague-Lisbon route eight times a week. Depending on the aircraft seat occupancy, the flights are operated by either an Airbus A321neo or an A320neo aircraft.
Prague remains among world’s most sought-after ‘Meeting Destinations’
According to the latest data, the Czech capital has improved year-on-year not only in terms of the number of meetings and conferences held here, but also in terms of the number of delegates who arrived for these events. In 2023, almost five thousand professional events were held in Prague, attended by almost 700,000 people. In an international comparison, Prague also landed in the sixth place in the ranking of the most sought-after meeting destinations in the world. It surpassed cities such as Madrid, Seoul, London, Berlin, or Tokyo. The meetings industry in the capital is maintaining its upward trend after an enforced pandemic hiatus. In 2023, according to aggregated data from the Prague Convention Bureau and the Czech Statistical Office, a total of 4,889 meetings and conferences were held in Prague, with 691,103 delegates attending, representing a year-on-year increase of 25% and 12% respectively. However, still not enough to surpass the record year of 2019. "In terms of the number of delegates, we are at almost 97% of 2019's performance, but in terms of the number of events, we are only at 82%," says Roman Muška, Managing Director of the Prague Convention Bureau, the organisation that officially represents Prague's meeting industry, adding: "These data only confirms the trend of recent years, when fewer meetings and conferences are held, but with a much higher turnout of delegates. In our statistics we see that the number of events attended by 500 or more delegates has increased year on year. At the same time, we see an increase in the average length of an event, mainly due to a sharp increase in the number of meetings that last four or more days and a decrease in the segment of shorter, mostly two-day, events." Return of international events and acquisition of creditworthy visitors In its tourism strategy documents, Prague has set out to target a high net-worth clientele, especially the meetings delegates. Not only do they not burden the destination in the main tourist season, as congresses are most often held in spring and autumn months, but they also have on average up to three times higher spending compared to the average tourists. Attracting a sophisticated clientele is also successful thanks to the return of international expert events to Prague. According to the Prague Convention Bureau data, the number of international meetings and conferences in Prague has increased by 54% year-on-year, thus balancing the proportion of international (49.3%) and local events (50.7%). „In the long term, most events have been coming from the European continent (88%). However, if we focus on individual countries, in 2023, the United States of America returned to the top spot of source countries after four years, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Belgium," Roman Muška explains. Medical sciences, economics, finance and business, and IT and technology have long been among the most frequent topics delegates come to Prague to discuss. Locally, Prague has confirmed its position as a premier city, overtaken by Singapore on the international scene Prague has long been the first choice of international event organisers in the Czech Republic. In 2023, 35.5% of all events held in the Czech Republic headed to the Czech capital, according to data from the Czech Statistical Office. This was followed by the South Moravian Region (18.9%), the Olomouc Region (8.3%) and the Central Bohemian Region (7.4%). In international competition, Prague still holds its position among the most sought-after meeting destinations in the world. In the ranking, compiled annually by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) on the basis of the number of meetings with international rotation and participation of more than 50 delegates, Prague ranked sixth globally this year, and within Europe it defended its fifth place. Although year-on-year, the Czech capital hosted 4% more association events that met the ICCA criteria, Prague was dethroned from the global top five by the Asian meetings champion Singapore, which climbed from 13th to second place in 2022. The tourism industry, as well as the meeting industry, started to take off later in Asia, when compared to the rest of the world, due to longer-lasting pandemic restrictions. We are now seeing the return of Asian destinations in full strength, with Seoul (10th), Tokyo (13th) and Bangkok (15th) completing the top 15 convention destinations. "The increase in the number of association conventions occurs mainly due to the joint efforts of all stakeholders over the past years. In most cases, it takes several years from launching the candidacy process itself to the subsequent implementation of major association meetings. However, to remain at the top of the meetings destinations in the future, we need to continue to develop and invest in the meetings industry. In addition to association congresses, which we have been focusing on for a long time and which are systematically supported by the City of Prague in the form of various incentives, we must not neglect the segment of corporate conferences and incentive events, which have high spending rates in destinations and thus fit in with the City's targeting of creditworthy clients," comments Roman Muška. What will the year 2024 be like? From 2022 onwards, we can observe a revival of the meetings industry not only in Prague, but also in other global destinations. What's more, according to the International Congress Association's recent "ICCA 60 Years Report", the number of congresses has more than doubled in the last 60 years, so the competition Prague faces is immense. The report also predicts that globally in 2023 the number of events will return to 90% of 2019 and the number of delegates to 95%, which the Czech capital has only partially achieved. In 2024, according to expert estimates, the congress industry should surpass 2019 figures by 37% in terms of delegate numbers and 1% in terms of events.
Delta Air Lines operates its Prague – New York Route again
Delta Air Lines has resumed operation of its regular connection from Prague to New York, which it will service on a daily basis until 6 October 2024. Flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport will be operated by Boeing 767-300ER aircraft for 217 passengers, with the cabin configuration of 181 seats in Economy Class and 36 seats in Business Class. Delta Air Lines has been providing its regular flights between Prague and the American metropolis regularly since 19 June 2009. The route operation was disrupted only in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “I am pleased that Delta Air Lines has been offering direct connections from Prague to New York for as many as 15 years. During the period of running its operations in Prague, the American carrier already serviced 5,900 flights and transported 1,119,000 passengers. The United States is a very important market for us, which generated for us over half a million handled passengers last year, including connecting flights. In the first quarter of this year, we also recorded a growth of 17 percent in this segment, so we hope that Delta will increase the capacity and will also extend the operations of this route.” Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Prague Airport Board of Directors, said. "We are thrilled to resume this nonstop route from Prague to New York-JFK for the summer season. As the sole direct connection to North America, it holds special significance for both business travelers and those visiting friends and family, or traveling for tourism to America or the Czech Republic.” Thomas Brandt, Regional Manager Sales Central & Eastern Europe, Delta Air Lines, said.
Prague Airport successfully reduces emission through energy saving and green electricity purchases
Prague Airport continues to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Last year, 59.45% of CO₂ emissions were saved compared to 2009, when the airport first calculated its carbon footprint. After a year, the airport defended the Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 3, involving third parties, namely airlines, tenants, service providers, and others. The certification process also included verification of the carbon footprint by an independent auditor. Soňa Hykyšová, Prague Airport Environmental Protection and ESG Director, explains the airport’s approach to the reduction of emissions saying: “Last year, for the first time, we adopted a long-term commitment to purchase green electricity in the proportion of 60%, with a gradual increase until 2030. We launched operations of the first photovoltaic power plant at the airport, located at Terminal 3. We purchased Dacia Spring electric cars and will continue purchasing electromobiles. We also continue replacing the existing lights with new energy-saving LED lighting and closely follow the development in the field of alternative fuels – both sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrogen.” Prague Airport has been reducing emissions by an average of three to five thousand tons of CO2 annually. Prague Airport wants to reach carbon neutrality by 2030 and net carbon neutrality by 2050. However, as many as 85 percent of airport emissions are generated by third parties – that is, suppliers and airlines. Therefore, the airport motivates them to reduce emissions in different ways. Prague Airport organizes the TOP Sustainable Airline contest for carriers, in which, alongside noise and emissions, the entire airline’s approach to sustainability is monitored. Air carriers are thus motivated to deploy new, modern aircraft with lower emission and noise pollution levels on routes to Prague. Emissions are also saved thanks to the change in departure procedures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific approach to reducing CO₂ emissions in the long-term horizon will be published next year in the decarbonisation plan, which is currently being supplemented with planned investment actions and operational measures. Subsidiaries Also Reduce Emissions Prague Airport’s subsidiaries have also taken measures to reduce CO₂ emissions. Czech Airlines Technics has replaced the lamps on Hangar F with LED lighting and at the same time purchases green electricity. The same approach was adopted by Czech Airlines Handling, which also uses electric ground support equipment (GSE) with a commitment of a 40 percent share in 2030. Prague Airport employees are also motivated to reduce their carbon footprint, for example, as part of the Biking to Work initiative. The main goal of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme is to support airport operators in their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from various airport activities. The programme brings together hundreds of airports around the world that map their carbon footprint and implement procedures to reduce it.
No Event found matching your search.
Return To Home