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A little local know-how goes a long way in Prague. Here you will find all the essential advice and information you will need during your stay.
Pickpockets work crowds and busy areas. Use your common sense and be alert to your surroundings. Never leave anything of value in your car as break-ins are rife.
If you have anything stolen, report the crime as soon as possible to the nearest police station, and bring ID with you. Get a copy of the crime report in order to claim on your insurance.
If you have your passport stolen, or if you are involved in a serious crime or accident, contact your embassy as soon as possible.
For minor ailments and prescriptions go to a pharmacy (lékárna). Details of the nearest 24-hour service are usually displayed in pharmacy windows.
EU citizens carrying a valid EHIC card are eligible for free emergency medical care in the Czech Republic. If travelling from outside the EU, payment of hospital bills and other medical expenses is the patient’s responsibility. As such it is important to arrange comprehensive medical insurance before your departure.
You may have to pay upfront for medical treatment and reclaim on your insurance later.
Prague has a strict smoking ban in all public spaces including public buildings, bars, cafés, shops, restaurants and hotels.
The possession of narcotics is prohibited. Possession of illegal substances could result in prosecution and a prison sentence.
There is no blanket ban on the consumption of alcohol on the streets; however, drinking alcohol on the bus or train and in Metro stations, parks, playgrounds and near schools is banned and may incur a fine. Many Old Town streets have banned walking around with an open bottle or can.
The Czech Republic enforces a strict zero tolerance policy on drink-driving. This also applies to cyclists.
There is no requirement for visitors to carry ID, but it is wise to carry a form of ID at all times, or failing that, a photocopy of your passport.
The Czechs are fiercely proud of their language and its difficult pronunciation, often finding foreigners’ attempts at speaking it amusing.
Avoid overzealous tipping – this can cause embarrassment to waiting staff.
Dress respectfully: cover your torso and upper arms; ensure shorts and skirts cover your knees.
Free Wi-Fi hotspots are widely available in Prague’s city centre. Cafés and restaurants usually permit the use of their Wi-Fi on the condition that you make a purchase.
Visitors travelling to Prague with EU tariffs can use their devices abroad without being affected by data roaming charges. Users will be charged the same rates for data, SMS and voice calls as they would pay at home.
Stamps can be bought from post offices, newsagents and tobacconists (tabák).
Parcels and registered letters must be sent from a post office. There is no first- or second-class mail, but the majority of letters usually arrive at their destination within a few days.
VAT in the Czech Republic is usually around 20% for most items. Non-EU residents are entitled to a tax refund on single purchases exceeding Kč2000, subject to certain conditions. This does not include tobacco or alcohol.
When you make a purchase, ask the sales assistant for a tax-free cheque. When leaving the country, present this form, along with the goods receipt and your ID at customs.
There are a number of passes or discount cards available to tourists visiting the city. Most offer free or discounted access to Prague’s top sights, including exhibitions, museums and tours. Some even cover transport costs.
The cards are not free, so consider carefully how many of the offers you are likely to take advantage of before purchasing to ensure you get a good deal.
Prague City Card
Entry to 50 attractions and discounted entry to 50 more, free travel on public transport and airport transfers, and discounted tours, cruises and concerts for two (Kč1150), three (Kč1810) or four (Kč2080) days. Available from participating tourist offices.
The Prague City Pass
Free or discounted entry to Prague’s most popular tours and attractions. The card costs Kč1390 and is valid for 30 days from first use. Available online and from participating tourist offices.
The Prague Welcome Card
Entry to over 50 attractions, discounts on tours, events and more, plus free travel on public transport. The card costs Kč1050 and is valid for 3 days from first use. Available online and from participating tourist offices.
Prague City Card
Prague City Pass
Prague Welcome Card
Need to know Practical Information
Need to know Practical Information
CET/CEST
Central European Summer Time (CEST) runs
31 Mar–27 Oct 2019
Unless stated otherwise, tap water in Prague is safe to drink.
Need to know Practical Information
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Prague City Tourism – Prague’s official tourist information website |
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DPP Prague Public Transport |
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Prague’s official public transport app from the DPP |
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SMS Ticket |
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Buy paperless public transport tickets direct from your mobile or smart device |
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Pivní Deníček |
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An app showing the nearest bar to your location, which beer they serve on tap and how much it costs |