Prague, Czech Republic Hotels and City Guide

Prague - Travel Tips

When to Visit Prague

Seasons
Winter months from mid-November to March are very cold and cloudy with few hours of sunshine. Daytime temperatures approach freezing, and nighttime temperatures drop well below freezing to -15°C. Monochrome silhouettes add to the romance of the city in winter which occasionally gets snow, heavy pollution being an inhibiting factor. You will need to wrap up against the chilly winds, but normally the days are dry. Be aware that in winter most tourist sights are closed, except for Prague Castle. Christmas Markets in the old squares add cheer to the cold city, as does mulled wine!

Spring has pleasant sunny days in April and May with daytime temperatures in the region of 12°C - 18°C. Blossoms burst forth in all their ethereal glory and the countryside turns green. Nighttime temperatures are cooler.

Summer from June to August is hot, humid and crowded. Summer storms are common.

Autumn, from September to November, has fewer hours of sunshine with cooler days. This season has its own particular charm as leaves don their glowing autumnal colours before falling in October, when temperatures being to drop.

Although Prague is a charming city to visit at any time of the year offering different attractions, the best months to visit are May and September when the Prague Spring and Autumn International Music Festivals occur and the city enjoys mild weather.

Arts and Events
Prague hosts many international festivals of music, classical and jazz, literary, the Fringe, fashion shows, art exhibitions, beer and food festivals throughout the year. For a full listing of the annual events occuring in Prague, see our Entertainment page.

Local Holidays
Public transport runs to special timetables. Smaller shops are closed while shopping centres and restaurants have shorter opening times.

Local Customs and Language

Customs
The family comes first and is central to the Czech way of life. If invited to a Czech’s home, take a gift such as chocolates, or a bottle of brandy/wine. Giving flowers to the hostess is somewhat of a minefield as certain flowers are associated with funerals and there must never be thirteen flowers in a bunch, but other odd (never even) numbers are acceptable.

Remove your shoes on entering a Czech’s home and remain standing until asked to sit down. Only eat once the hostess has begun. It is polite to compliment the meal while eating, but refuse the offer of a second helping until the hostess insists. When you have finished your meal, place the knife and fork neatly across your plate.

The second day of February is Hromnice marking the middle of winter which gives rise to weather predictions for the rest of the year.

Language
Czech is the official language. Slovak, German, Polish and English to a lesser extent are also spoken or understood.

Prague Tipping Advice

If a service charge has been levied in a restaurant, it is not necessary to tip. If not, tip restaurant, café and pub staff 10% for good service.

Round up a taxi fare to the next Kč.

For other services provided by porters, cloakroom and toilet attendants, a tip of between 2–5 Kč would be appreciated.

Health and Security Advice

Medical Services
Nationals of EU countries should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitling them to free state-provided medical treatment. Non-EU citizens pay for treatment. Travel with your own prescription medicines. Many pharmacies stay open 24 hours.

Emergency treatment and non-hospital first-aid are free for all visitors. In the case of a serious medical emergency, call 112 which has English- and German-speaking operators.

Crime and Safety Tips 
Prague does not have a serious crime problem but petty theft by pickpockets, often children, occurs at tourist hotspots like Prague Castle (especially during the changing of the guard ceremony), Charles Bridge, Old Town Square (particularly when watching the Astronomical Clock), Wenceslas Square and the entrance to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Always be aware of pickpockets when traveling on public transport and at the main train station, so keep valuables hidden.

Taxi drivers are notorious for swindling tourists. Agree a price and get a receipt before boarding.

Be alert when drawing cash at ATMs and do not exchange money with street money-dealers.

Emergency numbers: General Emergency 112, Police 158, Ambulance 255, Fire 150.

Hotels in Prague, Czech Republic