Is Prague Safe? Discover Why This City Ranks 3rd in Safety

Discover why this enchanting Czech capital consistently ranks among Europe's safest cities for visitors, blending rich history with modern security.

West Parker
By
West Parker
July 18, 2024

Ever find yourself daydreaming about strolling through cobblestone streets, admiring stunning architecture, and sipping world-class beer, but then that nagging voice in your head chimes in with "But is it safe?" If Prague is on your travel radar, you're not alone in wondering about its safety.

My wife Sarah and I just returned from a week-long adventure in the Czech capital, and let me tell you, our experience was eye-opening. We went from being those cautious travelers who triple-check every travel advisory to feeling like we'd discovered Europe's best-kept secret (well, maybe not so secret, but you get the idea).

So, is Prague safe? Let's break it down, shall we? I'm going to share how we determined if Prague felt safe for us and our honest travel experience during our stay. Buckle up for a journey through one of Europe's most captivating cities!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we dive into our personal experiences, let's look at the three key factors we used to assess Prague's safety. Trust me, I'm the kind of traveler who likes to do my homework before stepping foot in a new city!

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First things first, I always check the U.S. Department of State travel advisories. It's like getting a weather forecast for safety - not always perfect, but a good starting point.

For Prague and the Czech Republic, the current advisory is Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions. That's the lowest level of concern, folks! It's like the travel advisory equivalent of "You're good to go, just don't do anything stupid."

Compared to some of its neighbors, the Czech Republic is looking pretty good. It's right up there with other safe European destinations like Germany and Austria.

State Department Check: PASS

02- Latest News

Next, I dove into the latest news about Prague. I was half expecting to find stories about pickpocket rings or tourist scams, but what I found was... surprisingly positive?

The big news seems to be about Prague's booming tourism industry and efforts to manage over-tourism. The city is actually ranked as the 3rd safest city in the world for travelers, according to a study by William Russell. That's some serious bragging rights!

Oh, and get this - the Czech Republic is ranked 9th globally in the 2023 Global Peace Index. That's not just safe; that's "leave your worries at home" safe.

Current News Check: PASS

03- Community Forums

Finally, I turned to the wisdom of the crowds. I spent hours scrolling through TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads, looking for the real scoop from fellow travelers.

The consensus? Prague is consistently praised for its safety. Most travelers report feeling very secure, even when exploring at night. The main concerns seem to be pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas (hello, Old Town Square!) and the occasional taxi scam.

One Reddit user summed it up perfectly: "I felt safer walking around Prague at night than I do in my hometown in the US." Now that's saying something!

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Prague

Alright, now for the juicy part. We spent a full week exploring Prague, and let me tell you, it was an adventure! Here's our neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of safety in the Czech capital.

Old Town (Staré Město)

Prague's famous Astronomical Clock illuminated at night with visible police presence, emphasizing safety in tourist areas
Even at midnight, Old Town Square felt safe and magical - the lit-up clock and subtle police presence added to our peace of mind.

Old Town is the beating heart of Prague, and it's where we spent a good chunk of our time. Picture this: narrow cobblestone streets, stunning Gothic architecture, and the famous Astronomical Clock that's been ticking away since 1410.

Sarah and I felt completely at ease wandering around Old Town, day and night. The area is well-lit and usually bustling with tourists and locals alike. However, this is also pickpocket central, so keep your wits about you in crowded spots like Old Town Square.

We enjoyed some fantastic experiences here:

  • Watching the Astronomical Clock show (while keeping a firm grip on our belongings)
  • Savoring traditional Czech cuisine at Lokál Dlouhááá (the roast duck was to die for!)
  • Taking a nighttime ghost tour (spooky, but we felt perfectly safe)

One evening, we accidentally wandered down a quiet side street. For a moment, I felt a bit uneasy, but then we stumbled upon a charming little jazz bar. The locals inside were incredibly welcoming, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip!

Is Old Town Safe? YES (but watch your pockets)

New Town (Nové Město)

Don't let the name fool you - New Town dates back to the 14th century. It's a bit more modern and spacious than Old Town, with wider streets and a mix of architectural styles.

We felt very secure walking around New Town, even late into the evening. The area around Wenceslas Square can get a bit rowdy at night due to the nightlife scene, but we never felt threatened.

Some of our favorite New Town experiences:

  • Shopping along Na Příkopě street (Sarah may have gone a bit overboard)
  • Visiting the quirky Museum of Communism
  • Enjoying a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of Dancing House

One afternoon, we got a bit lost trying to find a specific restaurant. A local gentleman not only gave us directions but actually walked us halfway there, chatting about his city the whole way. Talk about feeling welcome!

Is New Town Safe? YES

Malá Strana

Picturesque cobblestone street in Prague's Malá Strana district, showcasing the area's safe and charming atmosphere
Wandering through Malá Strana felt like traveling back in time, with each turn revealing a new architectural gem.

Ah, Malá Strana - the "Lesser Town" that's anything but lesser. This picturesque neighborhood sits at the foot of Prague Castle and offers some of the most stunning views in the city.

We spent a full day exploring Malá Strana and felt incredibly safe. The area is quieter than Old Town, with a more local feel. Even as night fell and the streets emptied out a bit, we never felt uncomfortable.

Our Malá Strana highlights:

  • Climbing the tower of St. Nicholas Church for panoramic views
  • Strolling through the peaceful Vojan Gardens
  • Enjoying a romantic dinner at Hergetova Cihelna, overlooking Charles Bridge

One morning, we decided to wake up early to watch the sunrise from Charles Bridge. As we walked through the quiet streets of Malá Strana at 5 AM, we were struck by how peaceful and safe it felt, even at that hour.

Is Malá Strana Safe? YES

Vinohrady

Locals and visitors enjoying a safe evening in Riegrovy Sady park, Vinohrady, showcasing Prague's relaxed atmosphere
Picnicking in Riegrovy Sady became our favorite evening ritual - the perfect spot to watch the sun set over Prague's skyline.

Vinohrady is a trendy, upscale neighborhood known for its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and tree-lined streets. It's popular with expats and young professionals, and we could see why!

This area felt incredibly safe, even late at night. We saw lots of people out jogging or walking their dogs after dark, which is always a good sign.

Our Vinohrady adventures:

  • Picnicking in Riegrovy Sady park, watching the sunset over the city
  • Cafe-hopping along Korunní street (the coffee scene here is amazing)
  • Enjoying a tasting menu at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise (splurge-worthy!)

One evening, Sarah wasn't feeling well, so I ventured out alone to grab some groceries. Even as a solo traveler at night, I felt completely at ease in this neighborhood.

Is Vinohrady Safe? YES

Žižkov

Breathtaking panoramic view of Prague from Žižkov Tower, highlighting the city's beauty and safe urban landscape
The view from Žižkov Tower left us speechless - it's a must-visit for anyone wanting to grasp Prague's layout and charm.

Žižkov is Prague's bohemian quarter, known for its edgy vibe and abundance of pubs. It's a bit grittier than the more touristy areas, but we found it charming and full of character.

While Žižkov might look a bit rough around the edges, we never felt unsafe. The streets are well-lit, and there's always a lively atmosphere, especially around the many bars and restaurants.

Our Žižkov experiences:

  • Climbing Žižkov Tower for unique views (and a drink in the bar at the top)
  • Bar-hopping along Bořivojova street
  • Exploring the massive Olšany Cemetery (during the day, of course)

We did notice more graffiti and some run-down buildings in this area, which might make some travelers uneasy. However, the locals we met were friendly and welcoming, and the neighborhood has a great community feel.

Is Žižkov Safe? YES (but stay alert at night)

Karlín

Locals and tourists safely enjoying coffee outside a trendy cafe in Prague's up-and-coming Karlín district
Karlín's cafe scene was a delightful surprise - we felt like locals sipping our morning coffee among Prague's young professionals.

Karlín is an up-and-coming neighborhood that's quickly becoming one of Prague's trendiest areas. It's a bit off the typical tourist trail, but we're so glad we ventured out here.

This area felt very safe, with lots of young families and professionals around. The streets are wide and well-lit, and there's a great mix of modern developments and restored historical buildings.

Our Karlín favorites:

  • Breakfast at Eska (possibly the best bread I've ever had)
  • Relaxing in Kasárna Karlín, a former military barracks turned cultural center
  • Enjoying the weekly farmers market at Karlínské náměstí

One rainy afternoon, we ducked into a local pub to escape the weather. We ended up spending hours chatting with the bartender and some regulars, who shared their favorite hidden spots in the city. It was moments like these that really made us feel safe and welcome in Prague.

Is Karlín Safe? YES

Prague by Foot and Public Transport

One of the things we loved most about Prague was how walkable it is. We spent most of our days exploring on foot, and we always felt safe doing so.

The city center is compact and easy to navigate. The streets are generally well-lit at night, and we often saw police patrols in the more touristy areas.

That said, those charming cobblestone streets can be a bit treacherous, especially after a few Czech beers! Sarah nearly took a tumble one evening (note to self: leave the high heels at home next time).

When our feet got tired, we turned to Prague's excellent public transportation system. The metro, trams, and buses are clean, efficient, and felt very safe, even late at night.

A few tips for staying safe while getting around Prague:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport
  • Keep valuables close to your body and out of easily accessible pockets
  • Validate your public transport ticket to avoid fines
  • Use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt

We only took Uber a few times during our stay:

  • From the airport to our hotel (because navigating public transport with luggage is no fun)
  • Late one night after a concert at the O2 Arena
  • When we ventured out to Vyšehrad fortress (it's a bit far from the city center)

Overall, we found getting around Prague to be safe and straightforward. Just use common sense, and you'll be fine!

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experience, here's a suggested 3-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of Prague while staying safe:

Day 1:

  • Morning: Explore Old Town, including Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock
  • Afternoon: Cross Charles Bridge to Malá Strana
  • Evening: Dinner in Malá Strana, followed by a night walk back to Old Town

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
  • Afternoon: Explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
  • Evening: Dinner and drinks in Vinohrady

Day 3:

  • Morning: Visit New Town, including Wenceslas Square and the National Museum
  • Afternoon: Relax in Letná Park, enjoying views over the city
  • Evening: Sunset river cruise on the Vltava

Remember to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and you'll have a fantastic time!

Final Thoughts

So, is Prague safe? Based on our experience, the answer is a resounding yes! We felt secure throughout our stay, whether we were exploring major tourist sites or venturing into local neighborhoods.

That said, no city is 100% safe, and it's always important to take basic precautions. Here are our top safety tips for visiting Prague:

  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas
  • Use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps
  • Don't flash expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash
  • Stay alert when using ATMs, and cover your PIN
  • Learn a few basic Czech phrases - locals appreciate the effort!
  • Trust your instincts - if a situation feels off, remove yourself

Compared to other major European cities we've visited, Prague felt incredibly safe. We encountered none of the aggressive scams we've seen in Paris or the pickpocketing attempts we experienced in Barcelona.

Would we recommend visiting Prague? Absolutely! This beautiful city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, all wrapped up in a safe, welcoming package.

Just remember to pack your common sense along with your camera, and you're in for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe's most charming capitals. Na zdraví! (Cheers!)

About Us

Hi there! We're West and Sarah, a pair of forty-something remote workers who've turned our love for travel into a full-time lifestyle. After years of squeezing trips into limited vacation time, we decided to take the plunge into digital nomad life in 2023.

We're on a mission to explore the world's most interesting cities, always on the lookout for the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and safety. Our background in hotel management (thanks, Cornell!) and a shared obsession with finding the best local eats means we're always hunting for those hidden gems that make a city truly special.

We believe that with the right information, everyone can travel better and safer. That's why we started sharing our experiences - to help fellow travelers make informed decisions and have amazing adventures.

When we're not wandering down cobblestone streets or sampling local delicacies, you'll find us working from cozy cafes, planning our next move, or debating the merits of various airline loyalty programs (West is a points and miles guru, much to Sarah's amusement).

We hope our articles give you the confidence to explore new places, try new things, and create your own unforgettable travel stories. After all, the world is too big and beautiful to stay in one place!

Safe travels, and don't forget to try the local beer wherever you go!

Safety Statistics and Facts

Let's dive into some hard numbers that back up our experience of Prague as a safe city:

These statistics align with our personal experience. Throughout our week in Prague, we never once felt threatened or unsafe. The biggest "danger" we encountered was the risk of overindulging in the city's delicious beer and hearty cuisine!

Neighborhood Safety Guide

While Prague is generally safe across the board, each neighborhood has its own character and safety considerations. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the areas we explored:

  1. Old Town (Staré Město): The heart of tourist Prague. Generally very safe, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially around the Astronomical Clock and Old Town Square.
  2. New Town (Nové Město): Despite its name, it's part of the historic center. Safe area with many hotels and shopping opportunities. Exercise normal precautions, especially around Wenceslas Square at night.
  3. Malá Strana: This picturesque neighborhood below Prague Castle is very safe. Be aware of your surroundings at night, as some streets can be quiet and dimly lit.
  4. Hradčany: Home to Prague Castle. Very safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas around the castle complex.
  5. Vinohrady: Trendy, expat-friendly area. Generally very safe, even at night. Lots of great restaurants and bars.
  6. Žižkov: Bohemian neighborhood with a slightly edgier vibe. Safe overall, but be aware of your surroundings late at night, especially if you've been enjoying the area's famous pub scene.
  7. Karlín: Up-and-coming district. Very safe, with many young professionals and families. Great for escaping the tourist crowds.
  8. Holešovice: Former industrial area turned hipster haven. Generally safe, but some areas may feel deserted at night.
  9. Smíchov: Mix of residential and commercial areas. Safe and well-populated, even in the evenings.
  10. Černý Most: Residential area on the outskirts. While we didn't visit personally, it's reported to be safer than the Prague average, with a crime index of 15.4 compared to the city's 18.7.

Safety Precautions

While Prague is safe, it's always wise to take some basic precautions:

  1. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  2. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. Consider using a money belt for extra security.
  3. Use official currency exchange offices or banks, not street money changers.
  4. Validate public transport tickets to avoid fines.
  5. Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night.
  6. Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt.
  7. Be cautious when using ATMs and cover your PIN.
  8. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
  9. Keep copies of important documents separate from originals.
  10. Learn basic Czech phrases to show respect and potentially avoid misunderstandings.

What to Pack for Safety

Here are some items we recommend packing to enhance your safety in Prague:

  1. RFID-blocking wallet or money belt
  2. Portable door lock for added hotel room security
  3. Small flashlight or headlamp for nighttime navigation
  4. Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, etc.)
  5. European two-pin electrical adapter
  6. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for those cobblestone streets
  7. Weather-appropriate clothing (layers for unpredictable weather)
  8. Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
  9. Basic first aid kit
  10. Travel insurance information and emergency contact cards

For a comprehensive packing list, check out this Prague packing guide.

Safe Transportation Options

Prague offers several safe transportation options:

  1. Metro: Efficient and safe, but be aware of pickpockets during peak hours.
  2. Trams: Convenient and generally safe. Remember to validate your ticket upon boarding.
  3. Buses: Safe option for reaching areas not covered by metro or trams.
  4. Official taxis: Use reputable companies like AAA Taxi or Tick Tack.
  5. Ride-sharing apps: Uber, Bolt, and Liftago are reliable options.

For more information on getting around Prague safely, check out this Prague travel guide.

Emergency Information

It's always good to be prepared. Here's some essential emergency information for Prague:

  • Emergency number: 112 (works for police, fire, and medical emergencies)
  • Police: 158
  • Fire Department: 150
  • Ambulance: 155

Reputable hospitals:

  • Motol University Hospital: V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Praha 5
  • General University Hospital: U Nemocnice 2, 128 08 Praha 2

Embassy contact details:

  • U.S. Embassy: Tržiště 15, 118 01 Praha 1 - Malá Strana, +420 257 022 000
  • British Embassy: Thunovská 14, 118 00 Praha 1 - Malá Strana, +420 257 402 111
  • Canadian Embassy: Muchova 6, 160 00 Praha 6, +420 272 101 800

Further Safety Resources

To help you stay informed and safe during your visit to Prague, here are some additional resources:

  1. Prague City Tourism official website
  2. Záchranka app (emergency services app)
  3. Prague Public Transport (PID Lítačka) app
  4. Prague City Tourism app
  5. Mapy.cz app (detailed offline maps)
  6. Honest Guide YouTube channel (tips on avoiding scams)
  7. Expats.cz (resource for expatriates and visitors)
  8. Prague.tv (English-language news and events)
  9. Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Visitor Safety Experiences

Don't just take our word for it. Here are some experiences from other visitors to Prague:

  1. "I've lived in Prague for two years and feel incredibly safe walking alone at night. The well-lit streets and efficient public transportation make it easy to get around securely." - Sarah, American expat
  2. "As a woman traveling alone, I felt very comfortable exploring Prague. The city's low crime rate and friendly atmosphere made my trip enjoyable and stress-free." - Maria, solo female traveler
  3. "Our family felt safe throughout our stay. The pedestrian-friendly areas and numerous parks made it easy to enjoy the city with kids without worrying about safety." - Tom, family vacationer
  4. "Prague is quite welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers. While public displays of affection might draw some looks, I never felt unsafe or discriminated against." - Alex, LGBTQ+ visitor
  5. "After five years in Prague, I still marvel at how safe it feels. The strong sense of community and respect for public spaces contribute to this security." - Lena, long-term resident

Safety for Different Traveler Types

Prague caters well to various types of travelers. Here are some specific safety considerations:

  1. Solo Travelers: Prague is generally very safe for solo travelers. Stay alert in crowded areas and avoid walking alone in deserted areas late at night.
  2. Women: The city is considered safe for female travelers, with a score of 74.46 on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index. Use common sense precautions, especially when out at night.
  3. Families: Prague is family-friendly with numerous safe parks and attractions. The low crime rate and efficient public transportation make it easy to navigate with children.
  4. LGBTQ+ Visitors: Prague is generally accepting of LGBTQ+ travelers, with legal protections in place. Public displays of affection may attract attention in some areas.
  5. Travelers with Disabilities: Many attractions and public spaces are becoming more accessible. The public transportation system has improved accessibility features, but some challenges remain with older infrastructure.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs can help you stay safe and avoid misunderstandings:

  1. Respect quiet hours: Czechs value peace and quiet, especially in residential areas. Avoid loud conversations or music after 10 PM.
  2. Remove shoes when visiting homes: It's customary and shows respect.
  3. Tipping culture: While not mandatory, a 10% tip in restaurants is appreciated. Not tipping might be seen as dissatisfaction with the service.
  4. Public drinking: While legal, excessive public intoxication is frowned upon and can lead to fines.
  5. Dress code: Czechs generally dress casually but neatly. Very revealing clothing might attract unwanted attention in some areas.

Safe Nightlife Guide

Prague has a vibrant nightlife scene. Here are some tips to enjoy it safely:

  1. Stick to well-lit and populated areas when bar-hopping.
  2. Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps for late-night transportation.
  3. Be cautious of drink spiking in bars and clubs. Don't leave drinks unattended.
  4. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
  5. Be aware that some establishments may overcharge tourists. Check prices before ordering.

Scams and Petty Crimes to Watch Out For

While Prague is generally safe, be aware of these common scams:

  1. Currency Exchange Scams: Use only official exchange offices or banks.
  2. Taxi Overcharging: Use official taxi services or ride-sharing apps.
  3. Pickpocketing: Be vigilant in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
  4. Fake Police Officers: Real officers will not ask to see your money.
  5. Restaurant Bill Padding: Always check your bill carefully before paying.

Conclusion

Prague stands out as one of the safest major cities in Europe, offering a secure environment for various types of travelers. Its low crime rates, efficient public services, and overall stability make it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

While common-sense precautions are always advisable, visitors can generally explore the city with confidence, enjoying its rich history, culture, and beauty without undue concern for their safety. Compared to other popular European destinations, Prague often ranks higher in safety indices, making it an attractive choice for those prioritizing security in their travel plans.

Our week in Prague was filled with unforgettable experiences, delicious food, and a sense of ease that came from feeling safe and welcome. Whether you're wandering through the historic streets of Old Town, enjoying a beer in a local pub, or taking in the breathtaking views from Prague Castle, you can rest assured that you're in one of Europe's safest and most charming capitals.

So, is Prague safe? Absolutely. Pack your bags, brush up on your Czech phrases, and prepare for an amazing adventure in the heart of Europe. Just don't blame us if you fall in love with the city and start planning your return trip before you've even left!

A Day in the Life: Our Prague Safety Experience

To give you a more personal look at safety in Prague, let me walk you through a typical day from our recent trip. This should give you a good idea of what to expect and how safe you can feel exploring this beautiful city.

6:30 AM: Early Morning Stroll

Sarah and I are early risers, so we decided to catch the sunrise from Charles Bridge. Walking through the quiet streets of Malá Strana at dawn, we felt completely at ease. The only other people we encountered were a few joggers and street cleaners preparing for the day.

Tip: Early morning is a great time to explore popular spots without the crowds. Just be aware that some areas might be dimly lit before sunrise.

8:00 AM: Breakfast in Karlín

After our morning walk, we took the metro to Karlín for breakfast at Eska. The metro was clean and efficient, and even during the morning rush, we didn't feel any safety concerns. In Karlín, we enjoyed watching locals go about their morning routines - parents dropping kids at school, people grabbing coffee before work. It felt like being in a safe, thriving neighborhood rather than a tourist hub.

10:00 AM: Exploring Prague Castle

We spent the late morning exploring Prague Castle. Despite the crowds, we never felt unsafe. There was a visible security presence, and the well-organized queues kept everything orderly. We did keep a close eye on our belongings in the busiest areas, but that's just good practice anywhere.

1:00 PM: Lunch in Žižkov

For lunch, we ventured to Žižkov to try some local cuisine off the beaten path. While Žižkov has a bit of a gritty reputation, we found it charming and felt perfectly safe walking around. We chatted with some locals at the restaurant who were thrilled to share their favorite hidden spots in the neighborhood.

3:00 PM: Afternoon in Vinohrady

We spent the afternoon exploring Vinohrady, popping into shops and cafes. This upscale area felt extremely safe, with lots of families and young professionals around. We even felt comfortable enough to split up for a bit - I checked out a local bookstore while Sarah did some shopping.

7:00 PM: Dinner in Old Town

For dinner, we headed back to Old Town. The streets were busy with tourists and locals enjoying the evening. We stayed alert for pickpockets in the crowded areas but never felt threatened. After dinner, we enjoyed some street performances in Old Town Square, which had a festive, family-friendly atmosphere even as night fell.

10:00 PM: Late Night Drinks in New Town

We ended our night with drinks at a rooftop bar in New Town. Even walking back to our hotel around midnight, the streets felt safe. There were still plenty of people out and about, and we saw regular police patrols.

Throughout this entire day, from early morning to late night, we never once felt unsafe. Of course, we always practiced basic safety measures - being aware of our surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding any areas that felt questionable. But these are precautions we'd take in any city, even back home.

Comparing Prague's Safety to Other European Cities

Having traveled extensively throughout Europe, we found Prague to be one of the safest cities we've visited. Here's how it compares to some other popular destinations:

  • Paris: While we love Paris, we've always felt the need to be more vigilant there, especially around tourist attractions where scams and pickpocketing are common. Prague felt noticeably more relaxed in comparison.
  • Rome: Rome, like Prague, is full of historic charm. However, we've encountered more aggressive street vendors and heard more reports of petty theft in Rome. Prague seemed to have less of these issues.
  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam and Prague are similar in terms of overall safety. Both cities have well-lit streets and efficient public transportation. However, Prague felt a bit more laid-back, especially in the evenings.
  • Berlin: Berlin and Prague both felt very safe to us. However, Prague's compact city center made it feel a bit easier to navigate safely, especially at night.
  • Barcelona: While Barcelona is a fantastic city, it's known for its pickpocketing problems. We felt we had to be much more careful with our belongings there than in Prague.

Of course, these are just our personal experiences, and safety can vary depending on specific circumstances. However, Prague consistently ranks high in safety indices compared to other European capitals, which aligns with our observations.

Final Recommendations

After spending a week exploring Prague, here are our top recommendations for a safe and enjoyable trip:

  1. Stay in a central area: We loved our hotel in Vinohrady, which offered easy access to the city center while providing a more local experience.
  2. Use public transportation: Prague's metro and tram system is safe, efficient, and a great way to explore the city.
  3. Learn a few Czech phrases: Locals appreciate the effort, and it can help you navigate any unexpected situations.
  4. Enjoy the nightlife responsibly: Prague's beer is famous for a reason, but remember to drink responsibly and stay aware of your surroundings.
  5. Explore beyond the tourist centers: Some of our favorite experiences were in less touristy neighborhoods like Karlín and Žižkov.
  6. Trust your instincts: If a situation feels off, it probably is. Don't be afraid to remove yourself from any scenario that makes you uncomfortable.
  7. Get travel insurance: While Prague is safe, it's always wise to be prepared for any eventuality.

Remember, no city is 100% safe, and it's always important to take basic precautions. However, in our experience, Prague offers a wonderful balance of safety, culture, and adventure that makes it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

Parting Thoughts

As we wrapped up our week in Prague, Sarah and I found ourselves already planning our return trip. This beautiful city had captured our hearts with its stunning architecture, rich history, and yes, its palpable sense of safety and welcome.

From the moment we arrived, Prague felt like a city where we could relax and truly immerse ourselves in the experience, without the constant worry about safety that can sometimes overshadow travel in unfamiliar places.

We wandered down winding cobblestone streets, marveled at centuries-old buildings, indulged in hearty Czech cuisine, and clinked glasses of pilsner with locals and fellow travelers alike. And through it all, we felt secure, respected, and genuinely welcomed.

Is Prague safe? In our experience, it's not just safe - it's a place where you can feel free to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple like us, or a family with kids, Prague offers a safe and enchanting environment to experience the best of European culture and history.

So pack your bags, book that ticket, and prepare to fall in love with one of Europe's most captivating capitals. Prague is waiting to welcome you with open arms and yes, a very safe embrace.

Safe travels, and Na zdraví from Prague!

West Parker
West Parker
Article updated:
August 20, 2024 6:14 PM

West Parker, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about. West's expertise spans from exclusive real estate to fine dining, making him the go-to strategist for those who demand nothing but the extraordinary in their travels.

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