A new video by the popular Honest Guide team has shed light on a persistent problem at Prague Airport: tourists being scammed by taxi drivers, even when using what appear to be official airport taxis. The Honest Guide crew documented several cases where visitors paid double the legal fare for rides from the airport to the city center, often without receiving a receipt.

Prague has long struggled with the reputation of having crooked taxi drivers who overcharge unsuspecting tourists. While the city has made significant efforts to address this issue, recent incidents show the problem hasn’t disappeared entirely. For more, see our earlier post about crooked taxi drivers in Prague.

How the Scam Works

Upon exiting the terminal, tourists are greeted by people in yellow jackets standing next to signs marked “official airport taxi.” However, these taxis are not always officially authorized. In one case, two tourists paid 1,200 CZK (about €48) for a ride that should have cost around €28. They paid by card but received no receipt.

In another instance, a tourist paid €52 for a similar journey. This time, she did receive a receipt, but the details were suspicious: the receipt claimed the ride was 26 km, while the actual distance was only 17 km. The start time on the receipt also did not match the real departure time. According to sources, some drivers use devices to manipulate the meter, inflating the fare.

What About Uber?

Although Uber is the official airport transport provider (paying over €5 million a year for the privilege), unauthorized taxi drivers still operate right outside the terminal. These drivers are often assisted by “dispatchers” who direct tourists to their taxis in exchange for cash. This practice is against airport rules, which prohibit offering taxi services in the terminal or directly in front of it without written permission.

The Honest Guide team spoke with the airport’s spokesperson and the municipal police’s special taxi team. Both confirmed that only authorized services are allowed to operate, but in practice, unauthorized taxis and their dispatchers continue to solicit customers openly. The airport’s rules are clear, but enforcement appears to be lacking.

Recommended Way of Transport

The Honest Guide hosts recommend using public transport as the safest and cheapest option. Prague’s buses are reliable, punctual, and much more affordable than taxis or even Uber. If you are over 65, you can ride public transport for free. If you prefer a car, use the official Uber app or kiosk inside the terminal and avoid anyone offering rides directly outside.

For those who want a hassle-free, fixed-price ride, we also recommend booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups. The service costs just €33, includes meet-and-greet at arrivals, and guarantees a professional driver and no hidden fees.