Czech Republic Travel Safety

Road safety

Rural roads may be uneven, under construction or poorly marked. Dial 00-420-1230 for information on road conditions.

Identification

You are required to carry your passport at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of loss or seizure.

Taxis

In Prague, taxis can also be obtained at clearly marked "fair place" taxi stands, which are regulated by the city government. Use only officially marked taxis, such as AAA Radiotaxi, Cititaxi or Profitaxi (note that taxis marked AAA Taxi charge excessive prices) and whenever possible, call for a taxi instead of hailing one on the street.

Public transportation

Czech railways provide clean, efficient train service to almost every part of the country. Exercise caution on overnight trains as there have been reports of robberies occurring. Store your valuables in a safe place, and do not leave your compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside. Express buses are often faster and more convenient than trains.

Women's safety

Czech Republic is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise common precautions throughout your travel.

Fraud

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask you to see your foreign currency and passports. Politely decline to cooperate, but offer to go to the nearest police station. Never exchange money with vendors on the street, as the risk of receiving counterfeit bills is high. There have been cases of automated teller machines (ATMs) being fitted with fraudulent card readers. To avoid being a victim of this fraud: use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid card readers with an irregular aspect, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN, check any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.

Crime

Violent crime is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common, particularly in Prague. Car thefts and break-ins are common, particularly in major cities. Avoid leaving luggage or valuables in the vehicle, use secure parking facilities. Be vigilant in and around popular tourist attractions, major hotels and the Prague main railway station (Praha hlavní nádraží), especially after dark. Be very cautious when travelling on public transport. Gangs of thieves target subway stations, particularly Malostranská, Můstek, Muzeum and Staromĕstská, as well as tram route 22, which runs to and from Prague Castle. Thieves may use jostling and swarming techniques to rob their victims.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

LGBT

Same-sex relationships and civil partnerships are legal in Czech Republic but same-sex marriages aren't recognised in Czech law. Public displays of affection may be frowned upon or attract unwanted attention.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is required. You must be at least 18 years old to drive in the Czech Republic. The use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited, unless they are fitted with a hands-free device. All vehicles must have a first-aid kit and a warning triangle, as well as high-visibility vests (to be carried in the passenger compartment, not the trunk) for the driver and any passenger who leaves the vehicle in case of breakdown. Headlights must be on at all times. A road usage permit is required to travel on all major highways. You may purchase this permit for a period of 10 days, one month or one year, at highway gas stations and border crossings. Failure to display this permit may result in fines. All rental vehicles are provided with valid motorway permits. There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and penalties are strict. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences.