The capital's evening entertainment is legendary in its scope and variety From underground jazz clubs in centuries-old cellars To dance areas along the riverside that stay active until morning light. When the sun goes down, the city is enlivened by a vibrant atmosphere that reaches visitors from every continent. Nevertheless, beneath the neon signs and the sound of glasses, there is a less attractive side that every visitor should be familiar with. Finding your way safely through Prague's nightlife zones is not about letting fear control you. It is about being observant, being prepared, and knowing the rules of the nightlife culture. This guide provides important advice for making the most of the city's nightlife while also staying safe from the most common dangers. A wealth of knowledge on avoiding upfront payments in Prague can be found via our digital platform.
The capital's after-dark activities are found in several locations, each with its own character and risks. The Old Town Square and its surrounding streets are packed with tourists, animated bars, and street entertainers. Yet they also attract pickpockets who are expert at operating in crowded surroundings. Wenceslas Square, which is the city's main busy street, contains large hotels, gambling establishments, and clubs that stay open late. But its smaller side streets have overpriced "gentlemen's clubs" and taxi touts who take advantage of people who have drunk too much. East of the centre, Zizkov is a gritty, genuine neighbourhood that gives a more local feeling with its odd pubs and underground music spots. However, the dark lanes of the area require you to be cautious after the hour of midnight. The riverside district, especially the area around Karlovy Lazne (a former spa that is now a multi-storey club), is in demand but can be chaotic, with long queues and the occasional scuffle.
The "inflated drink prices" trick is often found in clubs that cater to tourists. A stranger who appears welcoming asks you to have a drink; the bill is then presented with amounts that are excessive many thousands of crowns and a bouncer who requires you to pay. Before you place an order, always be certain to have looked at the menu and its prices. And never agree to have a drink that is offered by 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. Authentic Czech police carry official identification and do not ask to see your wallet. If you have any suspicion, you should call the true police number, 158.
The exchange counters that are located near the nightlife areas often have rates that seem appealing, but they apply charges that are not stated or they change the way the exchange is calculated. Use cash machines that are situated in bank branches, or use exchange offices that are known to be reliable, like those that are in the centre of the city.
Before you set off, it is wise to inform the hotel's reception of your intentions. And be sure to take a card from the hotel which shows its address. Taxi drivers often claim to not understand English. If you have the address written down, this prevents any misunderstanding. You should only take with you the cash that you will need for the evening, and also take a single credit card and a copy of your passport. Make sure the original is left in the safe at the hotel. A money belt is a good idea, or you could use a bag that is worn across the body and sits at the front. You should keep your phone and your wallet in separate pockets, and both pockets should be zipped.
