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Prague Travel Tips

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards are easily obtainable, offering affordable and coverage.

Options for Staying Connected

  • Key companies: Vodafone, O2, T-Mobile.
  • Passport needed for SIM card registration.
  • ESIMs simplify digital data plan activation.

Internet & Wi-Fi Access

Free Wi-Fi is common, and mobile data coverage is extensive.

Accessing the Internet

  • Free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and public spots.
  • Strong 4G/5G mobile data throughout Prague.
  • Consider portable Wi-Fi from Solis Wi-Fi for constant access.

Postal Services

Send postcards and packages with Česká pošta (Czech Post).

Sending Mail

  • Post offices available city-wide.
  • Main post office: Jindřišská 909/14, New Town.
  • Stamps and mailing supplies from a post office.

Language & Translation

Czech is the official language. English is common in tourist zones.

Navigating Language Differences

  • English is spoken at significant landmarks and hotels.
  • Google Translate app (offline mode) is extremely useful.
  • Consider Rosetta Stone for essential language skills.

Essential Czech Phrases

Common Greetings & Thanks

  • Dobrý den (DOH-bree den): Hello (formal)
  • Ahoj (AH-hoy): Hi/Bye (informal)
  • Děkuji (DYEH-koo-yee): Thank you
  • Prosím (PROH-seem): Please / You're welcome

Helpful Phrases for Travelers

  • Ano (AH-noh): Yes
  • Ne (NE): No
  • Pivo (PEE-voh): Beer
  • Mluvíte anglicky? (MLOO-vee-teh AHN-glits-kee?): Can you speak English?

Business Hours & Schedules

Shop Hours

Weekdays: 9/10 AM - 6/7 PM. Malls later. Shorter weekend hours.

Restaurant Hours

Generally 11 IN the morning - 10/11 AT night. Cafes open earlier, bars later.

Attraction Hours

Typically 9/10 AM - 5/6 PM. Numerous sights are closed on Mondays.

Banking & ATMs

Bank branches operate on weekdays. ATMs are widespread.

Financial Services

  • Banks open weekdays 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
  • Use reputable bank ATMs (e.g., Komerční banka).
  • Avoid Euronet ATMs to dodge high fees.

Holidays & Closures

Public holidays bring closures and adjusted public transport.

Impacts on Services

  • Banks, post offices, and many shops close on holidays.
  • Public transport runs on a holiday schedule.
  • Check attraction websites for holiday operating hours.

Public Holiday Calendar

Major National Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1)
  • Easter Monday (movable)
  • Labour Day (May 1ST)

Other Observed Days

  • St. Wenceslas Day (Sept 28)
  • Christmas Eve (Dec 24 - early closure)
  • Christmas Day & St. Stephen's Day (Dec 25-26)

Timing Advice:

Verify specific operating hours for attractions and restaurants, especially during low season or on bank holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigating interactions with people with awareness and respect for local customs.

Greeting Customs

Formal "Dobrý den" and a handshake are appropriate for new acquaintances.

Social Interactions

  • Handshakes are standard for formal introductions.
  • "Ahoj" for friends and younger people.
  • Politeness is always a plus.

Appropriate Attire

Daily wear in Prague is casual, but specific settings require more thought.

Dressing for Occasions

  • Casual attire suits most important daily activities.
  • Shoulders and knees covered for religious sites.
  • Smart casual for opera/classical concerts.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping expectations are typically 5-10% for good restaurant service.

Eating Out

  • 5-A tip of 10 percent for good service is customary.
  • Service may appear less effusive, this is a cultural norm.
  • "Jedno pivo" (one beer) is a common pub order.

Photography Ethics

Generally permitted in public, however always ask before photographing individuals.

Capturing Memories

  • Allowed in public spaces and most attractions.
  • Always seek permission before taking pictures of people.
  • Check for no-flash signs in museums and galleries.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid These Subjects

  • Avoid overly loud or boisterous public behavior.
  • Do not initiate conversations about politics, notably the communist past.
  • Respect historical sites and memorials deeply.

Considerations for Discussion

  • If a local mentions politics, gauge their comfort before engaging.
  • Privacy for individuals is valued; refrain from intrusive photography.
  • Be mindful of personal space in public settings.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

General Tolerance

  • Prague generally exhibits a progressive and tolerant attitude.
  • Same-sex relationships are legally recognized.
  • Central, liberal areas are accepting of public displays of affection.

Considerations

  • Discretion is advised in more conservative or rural settings.
  • Respect is an universal expectation regardless of orientation.
  • The local community is generally open to diversity.

Cultural Courtesy:

A little effort to learn local customs greatly improves your communications and shows respect for Prague's rich cultural heritage.

Accessibility Information

Prague is gradually enhancing its accessibility, though its historic architecture has some navigation challenges.

Mobility Challenges

Historic areas with cobbled streets and stairs pose difficulties for mobility-impaired travelers.

Infrastructure Considerations

  • Cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks can be challenging.
  • Prague Castle areas often involve numerous stairs.
  • Newer developments and renovated zones show accessibility improvements.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

Public transport and major sites increasingly feature accessible options.

Ease of Access

  • Metro Lines B and C have stations with lifts or ramps.
  • New low-floor trams offer wheelchair access.
  • Many major museums and modern attractions are accessible.

Sensory Impairments

Resources for visual and hearing impairments are developing in Prague.

Support for All

  • Public transport announcements include visual displays.
  • Awareness for specific services is growing.
  • Inquire directly with venues for specific accommodations.

Accessibility Resources

Organizations dedicated to accessible travel can assist with planning.

Helpful Information Sources

  • Websites like "Prague for All" detail accessible options.
  • Research specific needs with plenty of time before your trip.
  • Contact hotels or attractions directly to verify accessibility.

General Accessibility Tips

Planning ahead and confirming details are for a seamless journey.

Advance Booking

Book accessible accommodations and transport early.

Route Planning

Map out accessible routes to avoid cobblestone areas.

Local Assistance

Local disability organizations can provide on-the-ground support.

Accessibility Recommendation:

For a more comfortable visit, focus on Prague's New Town and portions of Lesser Town with smoother paths, and utilize accessible metro lines and tram services.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Prague. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation