Is Prague Safe? Everything you need to know!
Thinking of a trip to the capital city of the Czech Republic but wondering is Prague safe?
Millions of tourists go to Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital city, every year because it is such a beautiful place. It’s understandable why so many people are drawn to this city with its rich history, stunning architecture, and dynamic culture. But is Prague safe?
I’ll cover all you need to know about safety in Prague in my comprehensive guide, including things like local customs and language.
Having lived in the Czech Republic myself for over six years, I can say that the country in general is really safe!
What is Prague famous for?
Prague is known for its great fusion of tradition, modernity, and history. What are some of the things you’ll find wandering around the city?
1. Historic architecture
The city is home to popular attractions like Prague Castle, a stunning hilltop fortress that has served as the residence of Czech royalty for more than a thousand years and the famous Charles Bridge, a centuries-old pedestrian bridge decorated with statues.
You’ll also come across St. Vitus Cathedral, which is a towering Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city’s skyline. Prague is made up of numerous additional churches, palaces, and historic structures in addition to these architectural wonders.
2. Cultural attractions
The rich history and creative accomplishments of the Czech Republic are showcased in world-class museums, galleries, and theaters open to visitors.
A few noteworthy establishments for you to explore are the National Museum, the National Gallery, and the Estates Theater, where Mozart’s Don Giovanni had its world premiere.
Prague also offers a lot of festivals and cultural events all year long, like the Prague International Film Festival and the Prague Fringe Festival, giving you a wide range of entertainment alternatives.
3. Czech Cuisine
Prague has a wide selection of mouthwatering Czech cuisine, including fried cheese, beef goulash, and roast pig with dumplings and sauerkraut.
The region is also known for producing some of the best beers in the world. Did you know that the Czechs are the biggest beer drinkers in Europe? I personally always enjoy drinking Pilsner Urquell or Kozel.
Traditional pubs offer local beer samples, and historic breweries like the Staropramen Brewery are open for tours.
4. Vibrant nightlife
Are you looking for some nightlife in Prague? The city offers a variety of exciting pubs, clubs, and live music venues to match a variety of tastes and wishes.
The Old Town, Žižkov, and Vinohrady are the most popular locations for nightlife. They offer a variety of options for you, from intimate wine bars to lively dance clubs.
Is it safe to walk alone at night in Prague?
Prague is generally regarded as a safe city for lone nighttime wandering. The city’s core and prominent tourist destinations are well-lit and police-patrolled, making them safe for exploring at night.
However, like in any big city (especially a capital city), it’s important to be on guard and to take sensible safety measures.
Try to avoid interacting with strangers who seem unusually nice or persistent, stay in well-lit, busy places, and keep your possessions safe by utilizing a money belt or an anti-theft bag.
Where to avoid at night in Prague?
Even though most of Prague is safe at night, there are some spots to be a bit more careful when wandering around.
1. Wenceslas Square
Be alert and on the lookout for scammers and pickpockets in this busy neighborhood. Just try to stay away from anyone who seems unusually pushy or suspicious. It’s a popular place for scammers to wander around.
2. Parks and isolated areas
Avoid going for a nighttime stroll through parks and poorly-lit parts of the city because they may be deserted and even dangerous. Keep to well-lit places and streets where there are other people walking or the shops are open.
3. Some parts of Prague 3 (Žižkov) and Prague 7 (Holešovice)
I advise to stay in busy places and avoid venturing off the beaten path because these neighborhoods have greater crime rates than the city center.
But if you plan to stay in one of these areas, it’s good to do some research on the neighborhood and pick a place to stay with good reviews and security features.
Is Prague safe to travel alone?
It’s generally safe to tour the city alone in Prague. It’s actually a favorite destination for lone travelers! Trams, busses, and the metro system make city navigation simple, and public transit is dependable and effective.
There are plenty of hostels, cafes, and other businesses to choose from when you’re a lone traveler. They provide enough chances to connect with other travelers and exchange experiences.
But to have the most pleasurable journey, apply common sense and think of safety precautions as always. While traveling alone, it’s good to be cautious when you’re disclosing personal information to strangers and let someone at home know where you’ll be staying.
In order to meet new people and enjoy the city with others, think about signing up for group tours or taking part in social activities hosted by your accommodation.
Is Prague safe for female travellers?
Many women have visited Prague without incident, and the city is thought to be secure for female visitors. If you’re a female solo tourist, you can feel at ease using public transportation, going for dinner, and sightseeing because the city generally welcomes and respects female guests.
Yet it’s important to take the usual safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly-lit areas at night, being careful with your possessions, and refusing unwanted offers from strangers.
Always follow your gut feelings and leave any situation where you feel uneasy or unsafe. You can also always ask a local or other tourist for assistance or help if needed.
What to be careful of in Prague?
While Prague is considered to be a safe city, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Pickpocketing
Small-time theft can be an issue in touristy destinations, particularly in crowded places like congested public transportation, popular attractions, and bustling streets. Be watchful with your possessions, and to protect your valuables.
As I mentioned, you could think about wearing a money belt or an anti-theft bag.
2. Scams
Keep an eye out for common tourist-targeted scams, such as overcharging taxi drivers or individuals who offer uninvited assistance with luggage or directions.
You should always be wary of strangers who seem unduly eager to assist you. Instead, it’s good to do your research on reliable taxi services and other transportation options before you arrive. This taxi calculator might help you.
3. Counterfeit currency
It’s a good idea to get some more knowledge about the Czech koruna, which is the local currency, and be sure to check your change before making any transactions. Also check the security features of the bills you receive because counterfeit banknotes might occasionally make their way into circulation.
Is pickpocketing big in Prague?
In crowded tourist areas, such as on public transportation and at popular locations, pickpocketing can be a serious problem. To diminish your chance of being a victim, keep your possessions safe and pay attention to your surroundings.
Carry only what is necessary, and think about storing valuables like passports and sizable sums of cash in a hotel safe or other safe place.
Moreover, avoid becoming distracted because pickpockets may operate in groups to divert attention from their targets while stealing your possessions.
Top scams in Prague
There a few common scams in Prague that I would like to highlight.
1. Taxi scams
By using tampered meters or taking unnecessary long journeys, taxi drivers may overcharge unaware tourists. Choose a trustworthy taxi service, a ridesharing app, or public transportation to prevent this.
If you have to take a taxi, set a price beforehand or make sure the driver utilizes the meter.
2. Currency exchange scams
Even while they claim great rates, some exchange offices really have hidden costs or offer negative exchange rates. To prevent fraud or getting tricked, I would advise to get your money from an ATM, a bank, or an exchange place you can trust.
3. Fake police officers
In order to search your wallet for fake currency, some scammers pretend to be cops. Never give somebody your belongings without first asking for identification. Ask to be taken to the closest police station if you’re unsure, or you can phone the local emergency number for help (which is 112).
Is Prague safe to live?
With little crime and a high standard of living, Prague is regarded as a safe city to live in. Both locals and visitors find the city to be a desirable destination because of its top-notch public transportation, healthcare, and educational facilities.
Its appeal is increased by the fact that the cost of living is relatively low when compared to other European capitals.
To ensure your safety, nevertheless, I recommend to familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods and follow the usual safety procedures, just like in any other city.
A low crime rate, convenient access to amenities like grocery stores and medical centers, and decent public transportation connections are all very positive aspects of the city.
Can you drink tap water in Prague?
Absolutely, Prague’s tap water is high quality and safe to drink. To make sure it satisfies stringent safety requirements, the city’s water supply is meticulously monitored and treated.
Due to its purity and lack of plastic bottle waste, the city’s tap water is often regarded as being superior to many bottled water options that you can buy in shops.
So, fill up your reusable water bottle at any time to stay hydrated while seeing the sights of the city!
Is Prague pedestrian friendly?
You’ll find that you can reach many of Prague’s attractions on foot, making it a relatively pedestrian-friendly city. You can wander around through charming cobblestone lanes, pedestrian areas, and beautiful squares in the city center, making it the ideal place for you to stroll and take in the ambience.
However, I would advise to wear comfortable shoes and be careful as the cobblestones might be unsteady and slippery. Especially after heavy rainfall or during winter months.
When you need to go larger distances, public transit options, such as trams and the metro, are also easily accessible. It is simple to tour various neighborhoods and attractions throughout the city because of the system’s effectiveness and affordability.
Do they speak English in Prague?
Yes, especially those employed in the tourism sector like hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant staff, English is a common language in Prague.
Furthermore, because English is a language that is taught in schools, newer generations of Czechs are more likely to have a strong command of it. If you plan to visit more rural areas, prepare yourself for a serious lack of English speaking Czechs.
To improve your trip and be respectful of the people, it’s usually a good idea to learn a few simple Czech phrases. Dobrý den (hello/good day), děkuji (thank you), and promiňte (excuse me/sorry) are a few examples of useful expressions.
Is Prague worth going to?
Absolutely! Prague is a stunning, vibrant city with a fascinating history. This charming city offers something for everyone with its magnificent architecture, lively cultural scene, great cuisine, and welcoming residents.
You just don’t want to miss Prague, whether you’re a single traveler, a couple, or a family.
Prague is also a great starting point for traveling around Europe because of its central location and the abundance of attractions the city itself offers.
You can take many day trips to close by cities and villages, like Kutná Hora, Český Krumlov or Krakow (Poland), to learn more about the history and culture of Central Europe.
If you have a bit more time, you can also pay a visit to the neighboring countries like Hungary or Slovakia.
The Wrap-Up: Is Prague Safe?
Prague is a charming and safe city that I wholeheartedly recommend for you to visit. You’ll be well-prepared for an amazing vacation by remaining alert, taking common sense precautions, and learning about local customs and any potential hazards.
So pack your bags and get ready to discover Prague, a gorgeous city!
If you’re hesitating between Prague or the neighboring Budapest to visit, check out this comparison.
In case you’re not sure about the visa requirements or if you’re just looking for the most up-to-date information, you can also visit the official Czech government website.
Your restless voyager,
Dustin
