The Czech Republic captivates visitors with its fairytale castles, medieval towns, and rich cultural heritage. From Prague's stunning architecture to the spa towns of Karlovy Vary and the natural beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, this Central European gem offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in Europe for travellers. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare; the main risks are petty theft, taxi overcharging, and restaurant scams concentrated in Prague's Old Town and Wenceslas Square tourist areas.
Current safety advisory
Low
Normal precautions advised. No travel advisories in effect. Czech Republic is a stable EU member state with a well-functioning legal system and low violent crime rate.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Czech Republic is rated Level 1 (lowest). Exercise normal precautions. Petty theft remains the primary risk in tourist areas.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Watch for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, especially on Charles Bridge, in Old Town Square, and on public transport — keep bags zipped and carried in front of you.
Use only licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber — unlicensed taxis at the airport and near Wenceslas Square frequently overcharge tourists by 5-10x.
Be cautious of restaurant menus without prices near tourist sites; confirm costs before ordering, especially in restaurants around Old Town.
Avoid money exchange booths on the main tourist strip — they advertise 0% commission but give very unfavorable rates; use ATMs affiliated with major Czech banks (CSOB, Komercni banka).
Zero tolerance for drink-driving: Czech law sets the legal blood-alcohol limit at 0.0% — do not drive after consuming any alcohol whatsoever.
Register your stay with the Foreign Police if remaining in the country for more than 30 days; hotels do this automatically, but guests in private accommodation must register themselves.
Carry your passport or a certified copy at all times — police can request ID, and a simple photocopy may not be accepted.
Prague city centre is generally safe at night, but Zizkov and areas around Wenceslas Square have higher rates of street crime after midnight — stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit side streets.
Medical care in the Czech Republic is high quality; the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is accepted for EU citizens, but comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors.
Beware of the bar scam: a friendly local invites you to a bar, and you receive a bill with extortionate prices; if coerced to pay, contact the police on 158 immediately and do not sign anything.
Tram lines 22 and 17 pass major sights and are safe and easy to use; validate your ticket before boarding or risk a fine of up to 1,500 CZK from plain-clothes inspectors.
Emergency numbers: 112 (general EU emergency), 155 (ambulance), 158 (police), 150 (fire brigade).
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed taxis and even some metered taxis near Wenceslas Square, Old Town Square, and the airport quote or run inflated fares — up to 10x the legitimate price.
How to avoid: Always use Bolt or Uber app; never hail a taxi from the street in tourist areas. AAA Taxi is a reputable phone-booked option.
Bar scam
Friendly locals (often paid decoys) invite tourists to a bar that then presents an exorbitant bill — hundreds of dollars for a few drinks — and uses intimidation to collect payment.
How to avoid: Choose your own bar independently. If presented with an extreme bill, call 158 (Czech police) immediately and do not sign anything.
Currency exchange fraud
Street exchange offices advertise '0% commission' but give exchange rates 20-30% below the interbank rate, effectively charging a massive hidden fee.
How to avoid: Use ATMs affiliated with Czech banks (ČSOB, Komerční banka) only. Never exchange on the street or at tourist-area exchange offices.
Restaurant menu switching
Some tourist-area restaurants present one menu to attract customers then bring a different higher-priced menu when seated, or add illegal service charges and tourist taxes.
How to avoid: Confirm prices before ordering; check the bill carefully. Restaurants in Žižkov and Vinohrady are far less likely to engage in this practice.
Fake police officer
Rare but reported — person poses as plain-clothes police officer and asks to check your wallet for counterfeit bills, then steals cash.
How to avoid: Legitimate Czech police always show marked vehicle and official badge. Decline and ask to go to the nearest police station if uncertain.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No special vaccinations required for Czech Republic. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu) recommended. Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination advised if hiking in forests during spring/summer.
- Water
- Safe to drink throughout the country. Prague tap water meets EU standards and tastes good. Restaurants typically charge for bottled water.
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Excellent for solo travellers of all genders. Prague is very walkable and safe at night in central areas. Night trams are well-lit and busy. Join free walking tours and hostel social events to meet other travellers. Keep a copy of your passport in the hotel safe.
Female travellers
Czech Republic is safe for solo female travellers. Harassment is infrequent compared to many European countries. Prague's bar scene can be rowdy on weekends around Wenceslas Square — Vinohrady and Žižkov feel more local and comfortable. Trust your instincts, use apps for taxis, and stick with groups at night in unfamiliar areas.
Families
Excellent for families. Czech Republic is very family-friendly with safe streets, child-friendly restaurants, excellent public transport with low-floor trams and wide metro carriages, and abundant family attractions including Prague Zoo, Petřín Hill, and castle day trips. Medical facilities are high quality.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are legal and broadly socially accepted in Prague and major cities; civil partnerships recognised. Prague has an active LGBT+ scene centred in Vinohrady (Clubs Saints, Termax, Friends). Rural areas more conservative. PrideFest held annually in August. Public displays of affection generally fine in Prague but use discretion outside cities.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 158
- Medical
- 155
- Embassy
- Tourist Police