Travel to Prague for Three Days of International Film Screenings and Workshops

Published on September 10, 2025

This September, Prague rolls out the red carpet for every movie buff at the Prague Independent Film Festival (PIFF), a three-day festival devoted to films made outside the Hollywood orbit. From September 19 to 21, 2025, the event screens the most exciting new indie titles, hosts hands-on filmmaking classes, and introduces guests to the city’s thriving creative vibe, all free for anyone roaming the cobbled streets.

Opening night kicks off at the gorgeous Kino Lucerna, a Belle Époque gem that’s fit for any period drama. The feature, Come Monday, screens at 5:00 p.m. and comes with a live script-read and Q&A so guests can pick up tips right from the writer’s desk. Between films, you can stroll the lantern-lit paths of Prague’s Old Town, pop into legendary taverns for goulash, or grab a Trdelník to eat while admiring the Astronomical Clock.

On September 20, head back to the Lucerna for Never Said Goodbye, a moving Ukrainian tale of exile, identity, and belonging, at 6:00 p.m. at 6:00 p.m. Check the festival app for the late-night shorts block at 7:30 p.m., where micro-movies from Brazil to Budapest crank creative borders to 10 minutes or less, the works of fresh international voices sure to surprise every audience.

September 21, the festival wraps with The Reckoning, a psychological drama starting at 18:00, hosted by lead actress. This film, inspired by Maupassant’s Pierre et Jean, dives into tangled family ties set against a French landscape, letting audiences see classic literature through the fresh eyes of the indie scene.

Most screenings happen at Kino Lucerna and nearby cultural spots, all right on Prague’s clean metro, tram, and bus lines. Guests can hop achingly close and fit some sightseeing in at the same time. Boutique hotels in Prague 1 and sleek lodgings in Prague 3 stand ready within a short stroll for visitors planning back-to-back shows.

Beyond the screen, guided walking tours of the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle round out the adventure and enrich the festival. Tourist boards see cultural programs like PIFF as growing lodestars for visitors who crave arts over all, making this city a must on any arts-focused itinerary.

Film Festival and Tourism

The Prague Independent Film Festival isn’t just about watching films; it’s a chance to connect with creative minds. Attendees can dive into screenplay showcases, expert-led panels, and filmmaker Q&As that unravel how movies are made. Hands-on workshops dive into independent production techniques, so every traveller, whether they’re here for a future Oscar speech or just for fun, leaves feeling a part of the creative buzz.

By bringing together directors, crew members, and film buffs from around the globe, PIFF also boosts Prague’s tourism scene. Local eateries, cosy cafés, and cultural hot spots see a steady wave of guests savouring regional dishes, browsing artisan crafts, and soaking up live performances while the reels roll. Festival fun easily becomes a city tour, tying Prague’s rich vibes directly to the silver screen.

Besides the movie magic in the theatres, autumn in Prague offers its own show-stopping attractions. The weather is pleasantly mild, the leaves along the Vltava River blaze in orange and gold, and cultural performances pop up in the public squares. Travellers can pair film festival events with day trips to nearby UNESCO sites, visit art galleries, and wander through historic landmarks—all in a beautifully crafted travel itinerary.

The festival’s international lineup strengthens Prague’s reputation as a cultural hotspot. Film lovers from Europe, North America, Asia, and further afield arrive to soak in the atmosphere. By staying a few days, guests can catch multiple screenings, join hands-on workshops, and discover the city’s centuries-old stories—all while the festival anchors September’s tourism calendar.

To join the action, festival passes are best purchased online, and advance registration is highly recommended for the popular screenings and workshops with limited seats. Some public talks and cultural programs may have fluctuating access, so checking the official schedule on the Czech Film Centre’s site is a smart move.

Conclusion

The screenings are thoughtfully scheduled in Prague’s historic squares, along riverside venues, and within easy public transport reach. This design cuts down on travel time and reinforces the festival’s sustainable tourism goal. Visitors can move from a compelling film straight into the heart of the city, weaving together entertainment, education, and unforgettable exploration.

The Prague Independent Film Festival is a fantastic chance for travellers to dive into worldwide indie movies while soaking up the city’s breathtaking history and stunning buildings. You can catch full-length features as well as short films, and there are hands-on workshops and expert panel talks, too. By mixing the art of cinema with the capital’s rich past, PIFF helps visitors discover the creative heartbeat of the Czech Republic alongside its ancient architecture and lively culture.