Top 10 Prague Travel Tips: Beer Etiquette, Currency Scams, and Secret Views
“Prague never lets you go… this dear little mother has sharp claws.”
Prague is a fairy tale come to life. With its gothic spires, baroque bridges, and cobblestone alleys, it is one of the most preserved cities in Europe. But beneath the surface, Prague can be a tricky place for the uninformed. From confusing currency exchanges to tourist-trap "Trdelník" stalls, it's easy to waste money.
To experience the magic of the Bohemian capital like a local, you need to know where to walk and, more importantly, where not to eat. Here is your essential guide to Prague.
1.
The Currency Exchange Trap (Honest Guide)
Prague is infamous for "0% Commission" exchange offices that give you a terrible rate or charge hidden fees.
The Rule: Never exchange money at the airport or on the street. Use a card for everything (contactless is everywhere) or go to the "Honest Guide" approved exchange offices (like Exchange.cz near Old Town Square). Always check the mid-market rate on your phone first.
2.
Don't Fall for the "Trdelník" Myth
You will see "Trdelník" (chimney cake) stalls on every corner. Tourists think it's an ancient Czech tradition.
The Truth: It’s not. It was introduced to tourists around 2010. It’s tasty, but overpriced and not authentic to Prague.
The Hack: For real Czech pastry, find a local Cukrárna (sweet shop) and try a Větrník or Kremeš.
3.
Beer Etiquette: Place a Coaster
Czechs drink more beer per capita than any other nation. At a traditional pub, the service is fast and functional.
The Rule: Put a coaster down in front of you. This is the signal for the waiter to bring you a beer immediately. They will keep bringing them until you place your coaster on top of your glass to show you are finished.
4.
Cross the Charles Bridge at 6 AM
During the day, the Charles Bridge is a mosh pit of selfie sticks and souvenir vendors.
The Hack: Wake up at sunrise. Seeing the statues emerge from the morning mist with zero crowds is a spiritual experience. By 9 AM, the magic is gone, and the "tourist circus" begins.
5.
Validate Your Public Transport Ticket
Prague has excellent trams and a beautiful metro.
The Rule: You must validate your paper ticket in the little orange/yellow machines before you enter the metro platform or as you board the tram. If you don't, even with a ticket in your hand, you will be fined roughly $40 (1000 CZK) by plainclothes inspectors.
6.
Skip the Old Town Square for Dinner
Old Town Square is for looking, not for eating. The restaurants here serve mediocre "tourist" food at 3x the price.
The Hack: Walk 10 minutes away to neighborhoods like Vinohrady or Karlín. You will find trendy cafes, authentic pubs, and better prices where the actual residents of Prague spend their time.
7.
Avoid the "Taxi" Scams (Use Apps)
Prague taxi drivers have a bad reputation for overcharging tourists.
The Rule: Never hail a taxi on the street. Use Bolt or Uber. If you must take a street taxi, ensure it has a fixed price or ask for the "Meter" and check that the rate matches the official city signs.
8.
The Astronomical Clock: Manage Expectations
Every hour, thousands gather to watch the 15th-century clock perform its show.
The Advice: It’s a mechanical marvel, but it only lasts about 45 seconds and is quite subtle. Don't build your whole day around it. See it once, then move on to the nearby Jewish Quarter (Josefov) for deeper history.
9.
Don't Order "Water" in a Restaurant
In Czech pubs, beer is often cheaper than bottled water.
The Tip: If you ask for "water," they will bring an expensive bottle of sparkling water. Tap water is perfectly safe in Prague, but restaurants are not legally required to provide it for free. If you're on a budget, just order a small beer!
10.
Visit Letná Park for the Iconic View
The best view of Prague's bridges isn't from the Castle.
The Hack: Head to Letná Park (Letenské sady). Visit the Beer Garden there and walk to the viewpoint where you can see all the Vltava River bridges lined up in one perfect row. It’s the best sunset spot in the city.
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