Is Prague safe for new and unexpecting travelers?
Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic with unique architecture that’s unlike anywhere else in the world.
The food here is incredible, and people visit either to get absolutely wasted or for a classic historic city break (you can do anything here).
Table of Contents
Is Prague Safe?
When you have everything Prague has to offer plus you have direct access to pretty much the whole of central Europe at your fingertips.
The question is, though, is whether Prague is safe for tourism?
After traveling to the capital we’re here to give you the scoop on whether Czechia is not only safe but worth the visit for you. Let’s get stuck in!
How Safe is Prague?
Prague is very safe for tourism. On the one hand, it’s just like any other European city with petty crime problems and the highest chances of crime happening to visitors being pickpocketing.
However, it’s still seen by some visitors as a more dangerous place than the likes of Paris or Berlin which simply isn’t true!
This is mostly due to the fact that there is a lot of underground crime such as drugs and trafficking, along with the long adjustments from Socialism to Capitalism.
In our opinion, Prague is a safe city to visit! We say this mainly because of just how many tourists visit here each year without negative experiences.
You’d be surprised how many people come here to revel in all the astronomical goodness. According to Travel Safe Abroad,
“The most frequent scam is about money exchange on the street, where you might be given a better rate, but you will be fooled since the money you will get would be old Czech Crowns which are no longer acceptable.”
They tend to stand outside exchange bureaus, looking to make deals with strangers. Now you know this particular scam you can easily avoid it.
Prague Crime Rate
- The U.S. Department of State has assessed Prague as being a LOW-threat location for crime.
- The intentional homicide rate as of 2017 is 0.6/100k.
- This is less than half the homicide of England!
- According to numbeo.com, the biggest crime issue is bribery and corruption.
- You’re 72 times more likely to be victim of violent crime in USA than in Czech Republic.
- Don’t talk to anyone offering cheaper exchange rates than bricks and mortar exchange bureaus.
- Walking around flashing expensive items and gadgets will attract attention from unwanted petty criminals.
- Don’t show wads of cash when paying for stuff – control how much cash you carry around and use a hotel safe. Wearing a money belt may attract attention.
- Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food and check your bill carefully before settling up. Some restaurants and bars have been known to charge extortionate amounts and take tourists to cash points to demand more money.
- Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from WorldNomads to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel complications.
- Be careful with drink or drug taking if you’re a fan of the Prague nightlife and approach the nightlife scence with trusted people.
- Keep your bag close to you at cafes/restaurants, never place your bag in a retrievable position open for passers-by to grab.
- If you need a helping hand, you will find that Pacsafe make some amazing bags/backpacks especially for detering thieves.
- Know the typical distraction techniques – pickpockets often work in groups and sometimes pretend to be collecting money for a charity.
- Avoid homeless communities around large train stations – plus groups of people that sit around drinking.
- Prague Marathon (April)
- Prague Food Festival (May)
- Prague Proms (May)
Get a FREE travel insurance quote from WorldNomads to get the right (and timely) support when it comes to protecting yourself in Bulgaria.
Is Prague Safe For Tourists?
Prague is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world, never mind Europe. It’s a city with equal amounts of history, beautiful buildings and nightlife extravaganzas with the cheapest alcohol costs.
The Old Town, the Astronomical Clock, The Absinthe Museum and the Castle are all within short walking distance. Although the transportation is fine, we recommend just losing yourself in the city and exploring.
When it comes to Prague however, there are pitfalls that come with a city that is so heavily catering tourists.
The city attracts sophisticated scam artists and pickpocketers, who take advantage of foreign ignorance towards the Czech Koruna (currency).
Petty crimes like pickpocketing and taxi scams are rife in certain areas, whilst some dangers come from other travellers who have had one too many to drink, making the city notorious for drunken behaviour too.
Where to Stay in Prague
See some of the incredible spots to stay when visiting Prague:
Vinohrady
What used to be a large vineyard way back in the 14th century has now become Prague’s coolest spot!
It is located a few tram stops away from the New Town and Old Town, and staying in Vinohrady will allow you to have a bit more peace and quiet compared to the more central neighbourhoods.
Old Town
Old Town is the most centrally located neighbourhood in Prague and the best place to stay if you’re planning your first ever trip here.
This is where most tourists stay for a first time stay in Prague, as the area concentrates many historical sights and museums.
Mala Strana
Mala Strana is located on the other side of the river from the Old Town.
It provides a quieter environment than Old Town while still remaining in the centre (ish) of Prague and close to all the main sights.
We would recommend this spot for the sort of trip that lasts longer than a long weekend.
Prague: Travel Safety Tips
Although Prague it isn’t the most unsafe location in the world, it wouldn’t hurt to take some precautions before and during your stay to ensure that you stay safe no matter what.
Here are some tips to take with you:
Best Time to Visit Prague
Our trusted source with weather and climate is Travel US News. Here’s what they say:
“The best times to visit Prague are the spring and early fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Because of the city’s generally chilly climate, the warmer summer months (average high temperatures hover in the low to mid-70s) see the largest influx of tourists – which means higher hotel rates.”
Here are some events during this time:
Is Prague Safe? Final Words
Turns out, Prague is quite a safe place if you take the necessary measures.
Planning ahead will make your trip stress free, so make sure you have the best time by being prepared before making the journey.
We would recommend flying to Czech Republic and discovering everything the country has to offer… book your trip today!
Also, follow our sustainable travel tips if you’re not familiar with them, and, remember to pack warm clothes during the winter months!
This post contains affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase or sign up for a program, we may earn a commission. This is at no additional cost to you.
