Honest Prague Guide: The Only Video You Need to Watch

Summary

In this informative video, the Honest Guide of Prague offers essential travel tips for visitors. He advises on transportation, recommending public transit over taxis or the overpriced Airport Express. He also warns against common tourist traps, such as Hop On Hop Off buses and overpriced exchange offices, and highlights the importance of paying with cards due to the prevalence of card acceptance in Prague. The guide provides insights on local food and drink, including the Czech favorite, Pilsner Urquell beer, and advises against public drinking. He also covers safety tips, language, and the importance of respecting local customs. The video concludes with an invitation to enjoy Prague's unique atmosphere and a lesson in Czech language, teaching the word 'molo' for pier.

Takeaways

• 🚌 Use public transport from Prague airport: Take bus 119 to the green metro for a cost of 40 Czech crowns.
• 🚶 Prague is walkable, avoid overpriced Hop On Hop Off buses and taxis unless necessary.
• 💡 Buy a full day or three-day ticket for public transport at the airport and validate it to avoid fines.
• 💰 Czech koruna is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted, avoid bad exchange rates and ATM fees.
• 🏧 Be cautious with exchange offices, check rates, and remember you can return an exchange within three hours.
• 🍺 Try local beers like Pilsner Urquell, and other beverages including Moravian wines and Kofola.
• 🚫 Avoid drinking alcohol in public places in Prague as it's illegal and can result in fines.
• 🍽️ Prague offers a variety of cuisines; check reviews for quality and cater to dietary needs like vegetarian or vegan.
• 🍦 Traditional Czech sweets can be found in local sweet shops, not the touristy trdelník.
• 🗣️ English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic Czech phrases like 'Dobrý den' (hello) is appreciated.
• 🔒 Prague is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets and avoid carrying excessive cash.

Q & A

What is the recommended way to get from Prague airport to the city center?

The recommended way is to take the bus number 119 to the green metro line, which will take you to the city center. This option is fast, reliable, and cheap, costing 40 Czech crowns (about 1.5 Euros).

Why is it not advisable to use the Airport Express bus from Prague airport?

The Airport Express bus is more expensive, costing more than double the regular public transport fare, and it runs only every 30 minutes, making it less convenient than regular buses which run every five minutes.

What should you avoid when using taxis in Prague?

You should avoid taking taxis that stand around the main train stations as they are likely to overcharge you. It's better to use public transport or ride-sharing apps to know the price upfront.

Is it necessary to exchange money before arriving in Prague?

No, it is not necessary to exchange money before arriving in Prague. You can use your card for most transactions, as card payments are widely accepted. If you do need cash, it's better to be cautious with exchange offices and ATMs due to potentially bad rates and fees.

What should tourists avoid when it comes to exchanging money in Prague?

Tourists should avoid exchanging money at the airport or in touristy areas due to bad rates. They should also avoid using ATMs without declining conversion and never exchange money on the street.

Is tap water safe to drink in Prague?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Prague. Any source of water, such as water fountains or faucets, must be drinkable unless indicated otherwise.

What should tourists know about drinking alcohol in public in Prague?

It is illegal to drink alcohol in public in Prague, and doing so can result in a fine. Tourists should keep their drinking confined to bars and clubs, not on the streets.

What are some traditional Czech drinks and foods that tourists should try?

Tourists should try local Czech beers like Pilsner Urquell, Czech wines or Moravian wines, and non-alcoholic drinks like Czech Kofola. Traditional foods include dumplings, sauce, and meat dishes.

Is it common for restaurants in Prague to have English menus?

In the city center and touristy areas, many restaurants will have English menus, and English is widely spoken. If a place only has a menu in Czech, it may be a sign of a good local spot, and using a translation app can be helpful.

What are some safety tips for tourists in Prague?

Prague is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, avoid leaving bags unattended, and be mindful of trams and Lime scooters, as trams will not stop for pedestrians and scooters should not be ridden on sidewalks.