Czech Republic : Safety by City
The Czech Republic is a country located in Central Europe, squeezed in between Austria, Poland and Slovakia. Due to its eventful history of Czechs, Germans, Jews, Slovaks, Italian stonemasons, French vendors and Napoleon’s army deserters all living there and shaping it into what it is now, it has developed into a gorgeous country filled with ancient castles, monasteries, churches and even small towns so gorgeous that they look like artifacts of sorts.
However, it is not all about architecture, castles and history in Czech Republic. It also flaunts gorgeous natural beauties such as beautiful mountains, vast forests and gorgeous natural parks. For example, Krkonoše National Park is known for its diverse ecosystems varying from alpine meadows and moorland to high slopes and tundra. The ecosystems are actually so unique that the park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1992.
Warnings & Dangers in Czech Republic
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Czech Republic is very safe to travel to, the crime rates are very low, and even pickpocketing is not that common. However, it is advised that you remain vigilant at all times, especially on the streets.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Transportation in the Czech Republic is safe and mainly reliable, except for the pickpockets operating in public transport. Always negotiate the price before using a taxi and never pay upfront, or simple use a reputable company (e.g. in Prague AAA taxi, Profi Taxi, City Taxi). Taxi drivers in Prague are notorious for taking the longest possible route to earn more money or for using the so-called “turbos” which speed the meter up.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW
Pickpocketing exists in the Czech Republic but it is not too big of an issue. There are specific gang groups of pickpockets circulating along trams and public transportation and pickpocketing people as they get on and off. Be careful and keep your valuables close by your side.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
As for natural disasters, there are no greater risks, apart from flooding that sometimes happens in spring.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
It is not likely you will get mugged or kidnapped in the Czech Republic. Still, don't let your guard down and stay away from dark and deserted areas of bigger cities.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
There haven't been any terrorist attacks in the Czech Republic's recent history, but they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
There are several scams performed in the Czech Republic, especially in Prague, one of them being performed by fake police officers, as well as criminals using electronic "skimming" to steal credit card information at certain ATMs. Also, when paying, never give your credit card to waiters or vendors to make transactions themselves, and always keep your eyes on your credit card. Another advice for tourists is to never exchange your money on the street.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Overall, the Czech Republic is very safe for women traveling solo. Just use your common sense and have your wits with you. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas at night and finding yourself in places filled with drunken people.
So... How Safe Is Czech Republic Really?
The Czech Republic is very safe to travel to. Possible problems you may encounter are petty theft and street crime, but if you take basic precaution measures, you shouldn’t have problems with that either. Violent crime and assaults in the Czech Republic are also rare, and tourists are unlikely to find themselves in such situations. However, the Czech Republic is not completely free of dangers: there are several nuisances that travelers should be aware of.
Be careful in crowded places, since this is where pickpockets operate, particularly in Prague. You may find yourself in a large group of people jostling you. You should also watch out for particular pickpocket gangs operating in Prague: they are usually male, although sometimes there are women too; they are all extremely overweight and rely on their sheer size and number to disorientate tourists. Operating on the 9, 10 and 22 trams as well as the central metro stations, they usually steal from people just as they’re getting on and off, or while they’re on the escalators. Never pull out your tickets unless someone authorized asks you to do so. Keep your wallet and money safely by your side.
Prostitution is not legal in Czech Republic, but it’s not illegal either, which means that prostitution is not regulated by the state. This implies that there is some health risk, especially in cheap brothels (often spotted with red lights on their windows) or on the street. Be careful because there have also been cases with prostitues offering their clients a drink with sleeping pills and then stealing everything.
Useful Information
- Visas - For most countries, visas are not required for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that and you have to obtain a visa. Usually, the Czech Republic government requires for you to prove your payment ability in order to prove that you are able to financially cover your whole trip. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
- Currency - Czech koruna is the official currency in the Czech Republic. Tourists are advised to not exchange money on the streets but in official exchange offices or banks. Also, never let your credit card out of sight and do not let vendors or waiters make transactions on their own.
- Weather - The Czech Republic has temperate climate, characterized by mild, humid summers and occasional waves of heat, and cold, cloudy and humid winters with plenty of precipitation.
- Airports - The busiest airport in the Czech Republic is Václav Havel Airport Prague, the international airport of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, located 12 km west of the centre of Prague.
- Travel Insurance - Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to the Czech Republic, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
