Is Prague safe to visit?

Where to take extra care in Prague

The UK Foreign Office’s Czechia safety advice highlights theft in busy tourist districts, airport transport and trams serving Prague Castle. Keep bags closed and in front in a crowd; do not leave a phone on an outdoor table.

At Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and castle viewpoints, stop somewhere out of the flow before opening your bag or checking directions. For the national picture, see our Czech Republic safety guide.

Changing money: compare the amount, keep the receipt

Before handing over cash, ask what you will receive in koruna, including any fee. Compare that amount rather than relying on a “0% commission” sign. Do not exchange money with someone who approaches you on the street.

The Czech National Bank explains cancellation rights: an exchange-office transaction can normally be cancelled at the same office within three hours, counted during its public opening hours. Protection covers up to the equivalent of €1,000 (≈ $1,111), including that portion of a larger transaction. Machine exchanges have different deadlines. Keep the receipt and read the full conditions; this is not an unlimited refund promise. Our Prague scams guide covers other money traps.

Fake police and taxis

The Foreign Office warning describes impostors asking to inspect foreign currency and passports. Do not hand over money for inspection; offer to go to a police station, or call 112 to check the person’s identity.

Arrange your airport journey in advance: use an official service, a prearranged taxi or public transport. Check the fare terms before boarding, keep the vehicle details and decline an unsolicited change of destination. Our Prague airport transfer guide explains the trolleybus and Airport Express choices.

Trams, tickets and the current penalty fare

Prague’s integrated transport authority explains ticket purchase and validation. Paper tickets that need stamping are validated on first use; app tickets must be activated with their required waiting period completed before travel. Follow the instructions for the product you buy.

The DPP penalty schedule, checked 10 November 2026, lists 2,000 CZK (≈ $91) for no valid ticket, reduced to 1,200 CZK (≈ $55) if paid during inspection or 1,500 CZK (≈ $68) if paid through the specified channels by the 15th calendar day. This replaces older fine figures still repeated elsewhere. Check DPP for conditions and changes.

Look for trams as well as cars when crossing. Leave room at stops and avoid stepping onto tracks while taking photographs.

Nights out and solo travel

The Foreign Office warns about drink spiking and high nightclub charges, including penalties attached to consumption cards. Keep your drink in sight and ask how the bill works before ordering.

Save your accommodation address, choose the route back before the evening starts and keep a separate way to pay for transport. Our where to stay in Prague helps compare locations without declaring any area risk-free.

If something goes wrong

Call 112 for an emergency. For theft, the Foreign Office guidance says to report it in person within 24 hours and obtain a crime reference for insurance. Save booking details separately from the phone you carry.

Continue planning with our Prague and Bohemia guide, best time to visit Prague and Kutná Hora day trip.

Frequently asked questions