How to get to Ostrava

Located in the northeast of Czechia, Ostrava is a dynamic city where industrial heritage harmoniously intertwines with modern culture and green parks. When planning how to get to Ostrava, travelers will discover convenient transport connections allowing easy access from anywhere in Europe.

As the country's third-largest city, Ostrava offers a multitude of logistical options: from direct flights to a scenic journey by train, bus, or car through neighboring regions.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by the international Mošnov Airport (OSR), which receives flights from various European hubs and is well-connected to the city center by ground transport.

Alternatively, many tourists choose to fly into airports in neighboring major cities. Convenient options include Katowice, located just 74 km away, as well as Krakow and Brno, from where you can quickly continue your journey to your destination.

Traveling by rail in Czechia and neighboring countries is distinguished by comfort and scenic views from the window. Since direct rail connections to the center itself may vary, experienced travelers often use nearby major cities as transit hubs.

The most convenient transfer points are the Polish cities of Katowice and Krakow, as well as the Czech city of Brno. From these stations, it is easy to reach your final goal via local transport, enjoying a short and pleasant route through the heart of Europe.

Bus services are one of the most economical and popular ways to get to the city of Ostrava. The route from Katowice is particularly convenient: the distance is less than 100 km, and the travel time takes only about 1.9 hours.

Regular connections with other major centers are also established. A trip from Brno will last approximately 2.8 hours, while a journey from tourist-favorite Krakow will take about 3.2 hours. Modern buses on these lines are usually equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable trip.

Traveling by car is an excellent choice for those who value independence and want to see more of the region's beauty on the way to Ostrava. The drive from Katowice takes minimal time — just about 1.1 hours, making this route ideal for short trips.

If you are heading from Brno, expect to spend approximately 1.8 hours behind the wheel, enjoying high-quality highways. The path from Krakow is also not tiring and will require about 1.9 hours of time.

To ensure your trip to Ostrava is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared several important recommendations to help you adapt quickly to the city.

1. Seasonal clothing. The climate here is moderate continental. In summer, light clothing and comfortable walking shoes are useful, while in winter and autumn, a warm jacket, scarf, and waterproof shoes are mandatory, as the weather can be changeable.
2. Public transport. Ostrava boasts an excellent network of trams and buses. We recommend purchasing a unified travel ticket (ODIS), which is valid on all types of urban transport and helps save money.
3. Currency and payment. The official currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Although bank cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, it is always useful to carry some cash for small kiosks or markets.
4. Safety. The city is generally safe for tourists, but as everywhere, it is worth watching your personal belongings in crowded places and at train stations. Avoid walking alone in remote industrial areas at night.
5. Language barrier. The official language is Czech. Young people and staff in the center often speak English, but learning a couple of phrases like "Dobrý den" (Good day) and "Děkuji" (Thank you) will earn you the appreciation of the locals.
6. Etiquette and tipping. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 5–10% of the bill amount if you enjoyed the service. When entering small shops, it is polite to greet the shop assistant.
7. Currency exchange. Avoid exchange offices marked "0% commission" in the most touristy places, as the exchange rate there may be unfavorable. It is better to withdraw Korunas from official bank ATMs.
8. Industrial heritage. Do not miss the chance to visit the Dolní Vítkovice area — a unique monument of industrial architecture that has become the city's hallmark.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and focus on exploring the unique atmosphere of this Czech city.