Prague is such a beautiful place rich in history. After visiting I can see why so many people love it. While there I learned a few things not only from my own experience, but from those who live there as well. So here are some things to know before you go to Prague!
English is Spoken. – You really don’t need to worry about learning Czech because everyone I encountered spoke English. It is cool to know some words/phrases though.
Wear Comfortable Shoes. – Prague is a very walkable city. Especially if you are staying in or near Old Town. I did a ton of walking and on cobblestone no less. Even with comfortable sneakers on my feet hurt. So definitely make sure you have some comfortable shoes with support.
Currency. – They use the Czech Crown, but if you have Euros many places take that as well. Don’t change money at any of the places around the city. The exchange rates aren’t good and there may be hidden fees. You mostly likely will not get the correct amount of money back. If you need money, use an ATM.
Weather. – Some people have told me when they think of Prague they think it is always cold. It isn’t. I went during the summer and it was hot. I actually walked around in jeans thinking 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit wouldn’t be too bad. I was very wrong and wish I had shorts on. I even got a tan from walking around, so wear sunscreen! At night is does cool down and you may need a light jacket.
Different Areas. – Clearly Prague has different areas, but if you want to be in the more walkable areas to check out different sites, shop, and eat out you will want to stay in what is known as Praha 1. There are 10 distinct districts. If you stay outside those areas you can hop on the tram.
Taxis. – They are known for ripping off tourist. The city is so walkable or you can just take the tram so you don’t really need one. We took one, but had the hotel call it for us since we were in a time crunch. We also inquired about the price prior so we had no issues.
Drink Beer. – I don’t really drink, it is pretty rare. I certainly don’t drink beer, I have never been fond of the taste. However Prague is known for their beer, they have hundreds of kinds so I figured let me give it a try. To my surprise the two different ones I tried were very good. Beer is also very cheap. Less than $2.00!
Restaurant Service. – Our tour guide informed us that the service in many restaurants were pretty bad. If you go and sit there and no one acknowledges you, it isn’t you, it is just how it goes. In fact one place we went to no one came to take anyone’s order at all. When I saw a waitress walk by I politely asked her when she had a moment I just wanted to order something to drink. She started screaming “No!” at me.
Also if something is put down on the table such as bread, odds are you will be paying for that on the bill. So if yo don’t want it, tell them to take it away. If you are in a big party, check your bill. We were told sometimes things can end up on there that shouldn’t be. Luckily we didn’t have this issue.
Affordable. – Prague isn’t as expensive as it’s many European counterparts. I didn’t spend all the money I changed into Crowns. Your money can go far.
Have you been to Prague? If so what tips do you have?
55 Comments
Roni Faida
I haven’t been to Prague in years! The fact that many speak English is a plus and good for people to know as it may help them to feel more comfortable.
Holly
I really liked it and was glad that many people spoke English. Made things much easier.
Eva
I only drink beer occasionally, but at that price, I might just take it up! Adding Prague to my wish list 🙂
Latoya Scott
With the way service goes here in states, some waitresses might as well holler no at us, lol. The pictures are beautiful and it looks like a lovely place to visit. How long did you stay?
Holly
I don’t think any waitress should be hollering no at someone waiting to give an order. Customer service is a b*tch, but still lol. I was there for a couple of days. It was a beautiful city.
Donna Shana (@byDonnaShana)
You always share great travel tips! I hope I can remember to search your site before I book my next trip!
Holly
Thank you so much! You can always sign up
Daria
I will be adding this to my wish list! Looks like a beautiful place to visit. Thanks for sharing!
Holly
I don’t blame you, you won’t regret it. Prague is great.
Jo
I was definitely interested in Prague after going to the NYT Travel Show. These are really good tips. Thanks for sharing.
Holly
It is a beautiful city. I would happily go back.
Ty
These are great tips but I don’t know about the restaurant thing. How are you supposed to get your food? Go to the kitchen yourself?
Holly
I was wondering the same thing. The one restaurant I went to had great service another was terrible. And all I wanted was something to drink. I would say don’t go when you are on the verge of hangry lol.
tiffanytravelsblog
Never thought about going to Prague, but maybe I should add to my list. Wow, i would have been taken back by the response by the waiter. It seems like taxis are a rip off in the states and out of the country. I need to find some comfortable walking shoes! any suggestions?
Holly
It is a great city. Very pretty! Yea we were pretty surprised and all we wanted was something to drink. Yea they can be. We took one and were fine though. I would suggest sneakers or anything with support.
Shamera Branson
I dont know if I’ll ever visit but all of this is very good to know if I do go someday. specially the restaurant service, I’m the type to take stuff like that personal haha
Holly
It is a great city so hopefully one day you will get the opportunity. Yea that is why our guide told us in advance, so we wouldn’t take it personal.
Ra'Nesha T Wilson
We have been thinking about planning a trip to check so I really appreciate your post
Holly
Oh awesome! You will love it. Great city!
Tia
I’ve never been to Prague but it looks like a beautiful city. For a price that low, id def drink beer as well!
Holly
It is really beautiful. Yes, the low price will make you want to try it, but it is actually really good.
Sara Broers (@TravelWithSara)
Great travel tips on visiting Prague. Looks like the good old ATM scores success again when it comes to exchanging money.
Holly
Really seems like it right? Better than getting ripped off!
anna
Love Prague! Thanks for your tips- the ATM one is definitely sound advice.
Holly
It is a great city!
clrudder
Prague is an absolutely beautiful city. The beer and selection is top notch. I’m glad you decided to go.
Holly
It is such a beautiful city. The beer is really good. I am too, I would happily go back.
clrudder
I love Prague. The history and architecture is spectacular. The beer is top notch!!! I glad you had fun!!!
Sara | Belly Rumbles (@bellyrumbles)
I’m not a beer drinker either, but while in Rome………. Well in this case, Prague, but so cheep you would have to give it a try.
Holly
Exactly! lol and I wasn’t disappointed.
jemahalftheclothes
I just read an article recently that might explain the service and taxi problems… it was about European cities (cited Prague specifically) being overrun with a demographic of tourists that in the past couldn’t afford to travel there. Now, with cheap flights, the article said cities all over Europe are cracking down on the (mostly) young, beer-loving tourists. In Barcelona, some neighborhoods are actually flying the equivalent of “tourist go away!” signs and flags because of the way its affecting their culture. Crazy, hey?!
Holly
That is very interesting. Although I haven’t had any service issues anywhere else.
LeAnna Brown
My SIL lived in Prague for 4 years and with us just over the border into Germany, we frequent Prague and the CZ often. It’s also worth mentioning the food. Sure, the beers are great, but ask a local what a good dish is and then go find it somewhere…Czech is some of the most delicious European cuisine, IMHO!
Holly
That is pretty awesome. Prague is such a great city. Yep I talked to locals who pointed me in the direction of good beer and food. So I enjoyed.
Bon-Bon
Thanks for the tips… Beers in Prague, sounds like a plan:)
Holly
Good plan. They are pretty good.
melody pittman
Cheap beer! Woohoo! I’m headed there in the spring to finally check it off my bucket list. Thanks for the info, many things I didn’t know. I will definitely not let them put anything on my table that I did not order.
Holly
Oh you will love it. I am glad this is helpful for you and that you will be visiting soon.
Tammyonthemove
I think the Chezchs are the No 1 beer drinking nation, so I am not surprised the beer you tried was very good. Sounds like a fun place to go.
Holly
I think you are right. It was a great place.
Carmen's Luxury Trvl (@carmensluxtrvl)
I absolutely love Prague! Great post, thanks for sharing. Happy travels 🙂
Holly
Thank you. It is a great city so I understand why.
Laura Lynch
I’ve been wanting to go for so long. For some reason, it keeps getting pushed for some other trip. It’ll make it on the list for 2017 for sure. Thanks for the tips. Drinking beer is definitely a must. Glad you tried it!
Holly
I hope you get there soon. I hope 2017 is the year for you. The beer is really good.
Jenna
Great tips! We loved Prague and definitely agree that good walking shoes are a must–it’s such a great city for lots of walking. We were happy to see how affordable everything was, as well!
Holly
It is def a walkable city. Comfy shoes are a must.
titi81
Very useful post. I am planning to go to Prague soon so I will bookmark it.
Holly
Thank you. Glad you are going soon.
mags
Prague is so high on my list right now! I’ll definitely keep this for when I finally plan a trip there.
Holly
Great city to have high on your list.
knycx
Thank you very much for sharing and I would be looking forward for my visit to Prague in the future!
Holly
Great city. You won’t regret the visit.
thestyleperk
I’ve never been to Prague, but it looks beautiful from your pictures! I’ll keep these tips in mind if I ever visit.
Holly Dayz
It is such a beautiful city. I loved it and would go back to explore more.
Danielle
Thanks for the great advice! Was there about 3 days in 2011, and am lucky enough be spending a month there this year to explore the city (and country) more deeply. You mentioned a few things I was unaware of, so I’m taking note. Happy travels!