How to get to Pardubice

Pardubice is a cosy historical city in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, known for its architectural monuments, delicious gingerbread, and famous horse races. If you are looking for information on how to get to Pardubice, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of routes: thanks to the developed infrastructure, it is easy to reach this region by plane, train, bus, or private car.

The city has an international airport, but it is primarily focused on charter flights and a small number of seasonal scheduled flights. Finding a direct flight directly to Pardubice is difficult, so this option is more often used by organised tour groups or those flying with specific low-cost carriers.

For most independent travellers, Prague remains the most convenient hub. The capital's airport receives aircraft from all over the world and is located approximately 100 kilometres away, allowing you to reach your destination in just an hour. Alternatively, you can consider flying into Brno in the Czech Republic or Wroclaw in Poland — there are also good transport connections to the region from these cities.

The railway is perhaps the most convenient and popular way to get to the city. Pardubice is an important railway junction located on the country's main transport corridor, so connections here are organised at the highest level.

You can get from Prague by train very easily and quickly: the journey takes just about an hour. Trains run with enviable frequency, ensuring a stable connection with the capital and other regions. Thanks to the comfort and convenient schedule, this mode of transport becomes the number one choice for most travellers.

A bus journey to Pardubice is a great opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of Eastern Bohemia, especially if you prefer budget travel options. Services from Prague depart regularly, covering a distance of 100 kilometres in approximately one and a half to two hours, making this route an affordable alternative to the railway.

Convenient connections are also established with other major cities in the region: the road from Brno, about 140 kilometres long, will take an average of 2.5 hours. Travellers from Poland will find it convenient to get there from Wroclaw — comfortable buses cover 180 kilometres of the journey in approximately 3–4 hours.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your route flexibly and enjoy the pastoral landscapes of Eastern Bohemia. The drive from Prague along the modern D11 motorway will take just over an hour, as the cities are separated by only about 120 kilometres, and the cost of an official taxi or individual transfer on this route usually varies from 90 to 120 euros.

If you are travelling from Moravia, expect to spend about two hours behind the wheel: the 145-kilometre route from Brno passes through picturesque but narrower regional roads. For guests from neighbouring Poland, it is most convenient to travel via Wroclaw, from where it is approximately a 3–3.5 hour drive and 180 kilometres to the final destination.

To ensure your trip to Pardubice is as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with local features in advance. We have collected a list of useful recommendations for you that will help plan the perfect trip to this picturesque corner of the Czech Republic.

1. Clothing and belongings. The historic city centre is paved with old cobblestones, so choose the most comfortable flat-soled shoes for walking; heels will be inappropriate here. The climate is moderately continental, but the weather can be changeable: even in summer, it is recommended to carry a light windbreaker or jumper for the evenings.
2. Transport. The centre of Pardubice is compact, and it is most pleasant to explore it on foot. For trips to remote areas or the racecourse, it is convenient to use city buses and trolleybuses, which run strictly according to schedule. Tickets must be purchased in advance at newsstands (Tabák) or yellow machines at stops, as they may cost more from the driver or not be sold at all.
3. Finances. The national currency is the Czech crown (CZK). Although cards are accepted in most supermarkets and restaurants, cash will definitely be needed to pay for small souvenirs, visit restrooms, or buy transport tickets. It is better to change money at official bank branches, avoiding exchange offices marked "0% commission", where the rate is often unfavourable.
4. Health and safety. This is a calm and safe city where you can walk even after dark. Tap water here is of excellent quality and suitable for drinking. If you need medicine, look for the sign "Lékárna" (pharmacy); many basic preparations are available without a prescription.
5. Communication. Locals speak Czech. In tourist places, staff often speak English or German. Young people speak English well, while the older generation may understand Russian. Learn a couple of polite phrases, for example, "Dobrý den" (Good day) — this always encourages communication.
6. Local etiquette. In the Czech Republic, it is customary to greet people when entering small shops, cafes, and even elevators. In restaurants, service charges are usually not included in the bill: if you liked the service, it is customary to leave about 10% of the amount or simply round up the check when paying.
7. What to avoid. Do not change currency with people on the street — this is almost always a scam. Also, be careful when crossing streets: drivers are generally disciplined, but traffic can be intense, and at pedestrian crossings without traffic lights, you should make sure that you are being let through.
8. A sweet souvenir. Pardubice is famous for its gingerbread, the recipe for which has been kept for centuries. Be sure to buy a decorated gingerbread (perník) in one of the local shops — it is not just a dessert, but the main symbol of the city and the best souvenir for friends.

Following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organisational troubles and fully focus on your holiday. Pardubice is a hospitable city that opens up to those who are ready to respect its traditions and unhurried rhythm of life.