If you wish to hire a car in Prague this winter and head to the mountains, there are three things to consider: winter tyres, drivetrain, and a vehicle size that suits your passengers and luggage. Do not leave winter tyres to be sorted out "somehow on the spot". Verify them by phone or e-mail before booking, and have the confirmation noted in your reservation. For snowy roads and slopes, a 4x4 vehicle makes sense, for example the Škoda Kodiaq. For ordinary commuting around the city in winter, a smaller car is sufficient.
Winter tyres: what to ask before booking
Tyres determine your braking distance and whether you can get up a hill at all. With a rental car, you are responsible for how you drive, so please clarify the following in advance:
- What tyres the car will have on the dates you require. We will confirm the car's current status by phone on +420 703 149 146 or by e-mail at [email protected].
- What requirements apply along your route. Winter equipment rules differ from country to country, so please check them with the relevant authorities before travelling abroad.
- Whether you need additional equipment, such as snow chains or a roof box. For non-standard equipment, please arrange it in advance rather than at pick-up.
When you collect the car, inspect the tyres yourself: tread depth, sidewall condition and markings. If anything is unclear, resolve it right there, not in the car park by the ski slope. Please also photograph the car's condition and check the fuel level or battery charge.
Which car to choose for the mountains
Your choice depends on how many of you are travelling, how many skis or snowboards you are carrying, and what kind of journey lies ahead.
- Škoda Kodiaq – 2.0 TDI, automatic, 4x4, 5 seats, satellite navigation. The most practical choice if you expect snow on minor roads or a steeper climb to your accommodation. You can also read more about this car in our article Škoda Kodiaq for rent.
- [Škoda Kodiaq 7 seats](/vozovy-park/skoda-kodiaq-7-mist) – for larger groups or families. Please bear in mind that luggage space is reduced when all seats are occupied.
- [Škoda Superb Combi](/vozovy-park/skoda-superb-combi) – 2.0 TDI, automatic, satellite navigation. A large boot for skis and luggage, and comfort on long motorway stretches. However, it is not 4x4, so it is best suited to well-maintained roads.
- Škoda Octavia Combi – 1.6 TDI, manual, a practical estate car for a smaller group and a winter weekend on well-maintained roads.
If you are considering an electric car, such as the Škoda Enyaq iV, please note that range drops in freezing temperatures and charging requires more planning.
Preparing for your trip: a short checklist
Before leaving Prague, please go through these points:
- Fuel level or battery charge. In winter, refuel before the tank is nearly empty. With an electric car, plan your charging stops in advance.
- Washer fluid and visibility. Check that the reservoir contains anti-freeze fluid, and test the windscreen wipers.
- Lights and clear windows. Before driving, clear snow from the bonnet and roof as well, so that it does not slide onto the windscreen.
- Documents. Your driving licence and proof of identity; the minimum age is 21. The deposit and other conditions can be found in the details of each vehicle and in the rental terms.
- A charged phone and contacts. Keep the number of the rental company and of the roadside assistance service to hand.
Mileage and rental length
A winter trip is often longer than it seems: detours to the cable car, evening transfers, a trip to the shops. Our daily mileage limit decreases with the length of the rental. For example, for rentals of 2–5 days it is 250 km per day, and for 6–14 days it is 200 km per day. Please allow some margin and roughly estimate your route in advance. If you want to go to the mountains for a longer period or for the entire season, take a look at long-term rental. Short weekend trips are described in the article car hire Prague weekend.
Travelling to the mountains abroad
You may take a rental car abroad only by prior arrangement and only to EU countries. Roadside assistance is also mandatory when travelling abroad. Please therefore let us know the country, dates and route in advance. Please also check local rules on winter equipment and any motorway tolls or charges for entering certain areas.
Insurance and accidents in winter
All our vehicles have compulsory third-party liability insurance and comprehensive (collision) insurance. In the event of an accident, however, the client pays an excess depending on the type of insurance. On icy roads and when parking in snow, it is therefore wise to drive with extra caution and to know how to proceed. You are welcome to discuss the details with us in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Does a rental car have winter tyres in winter?
Please do not assume so automatically. Verify the car's current tyres for your dates by phone or e-mail before booking, and check them at pick-up.
Is a car without 4x4 suitable for the mountains?
For well-maintained roads and routes to larger resorts, generally yes, provided it has suitable winter tyres and you drive carefully. For snowy minor roads and steeper climbs, a 4x4 vehicle such as the Kodiaq is more suitable.
Can I take a rental car skiing in Austria or Slovakia?
Yes, but only to EU countries and by prior arrangement. Roadside assistance is also mandatory when travelling abroad.
Can the car be delivered to an address in Prague?
Delivery of the car within Prague is possible by arrangement by phone or e-mail. It is handy if you are setting off early in the morning with your skis.
Book your car for winter
Choose a car to suit your party and route, verify the winter tyres and confirm your dates. You can make a reservation on the page /rezervace. If you have any questions, write to us via the contact page or call +420 703 149 146.
