A Traveler's Safety Guide for Navigating the Capital's Nightlife and Entertainment Districts

 

The nocturnal scene in Prague has achieved legendary status From jazz basements that occupy spaces that are centuries old To riverfront dance floors that remain alive with rhythm until the early hours. When night falls, the city is transformed by a powerful energy that draws in tourists from all over the world. But behind the bright signs and the clinking of glasses, there is a side of Prague's nightlife that every tourist should recognise. Moving safely through Prague's areas of nightlife is not a matter of being afraid. It is about being alert, being ready, and knowing the unwritten rules. This manual supplies the key information for enjoying the city's nightlife while protecting yourself from the ordinary risks. Detailed information on avoiding upfront payments in Prague can be found via our digital platform.

Prague's nightlife is organised into a number of separate districts, each with its own identity and its own problems. The main square of the Old Town and the surrounding streets are full of tourists, lively bars, and street performers. However, they also draw pickpockets who do well in busy places. Wenceslas Square, the busy centre of the city, contains large hotels, gambling houses, and late-night clubs. But the smaller streets that run off it contain expensive "gentlemen's clubs" and taxi drivers who take advantage of drunk people. The district of Zizkov, an unpolished and real neighbourhood to the east, gives a more native experience with its odd pubs and music spaces that are not on the surface. Yet the alleys that have little light require you to be watchful after midnight. The riverside zone, particularly the area around Karlovy Lazne (a multi-level club in a former spa), is popular but also has a reputation for being a little chaotic, with long queues and the occasional trouble.

The scam where drinks are overpriced is widespread in clubs that are popular with tourists. A person you have only just met and who seems friendly asks you to have a drink with them; the bill then comes with very high amounts   often thousands of the local currency   and a security guard who tells you that you must pay. Always check the menu for prices before ordering. And never accept a drink that comes from someone you have only just met.

The "false officer" scheme involves people pretending to be plainclothes police who ask to see your passport and your wallet, and then they help themselves to your money. Genuine Czech police have official badges and they never ask to see your money. If you are not certain, you should call the official police number (158).

The exchange offices that are close to the nightlife districts often show rates that seem good, but they put on additional charges that are not made clear, or they change the way the calculation is done. For security, use ATMs that are inside the bank, or use exchange offices with a good name, such as the ones in the city centre.

Before you set off, it is wise to inform the hotel's reception of your intentions. And take a business card with the hotel's address. Taxi drivers will often make the claim that they cannot understand English. Having the address written will avoid any mistakes in communication. You are advised to take with you only the cash that is needed for that evening, and also to have a credit card and a photocopy of your passport. Ensure the original is left in the hotel safe. Wear a money belt or a bag that is worn across the body and is positioned at the front. You should also keep your phone and your money in different pockets, both of which should be closed with a zip.