Dangers still lurk in the historic jewel that is the Czech Republic. From bad roads to enjoying too much good quality beer, keep safe with these tips from our safety expert.
Photo © Getty Images/Alexander Spatari
Although it is one of the smallest European countries, the Czech Republic is widely considered to be a historic jewel. This country has incredible architecture, fairytale castles and medieval towns revealing a vibrant, colorful history that is diverse yet unifying.
Its capital, Prague, has transformed itself into a cosmopolitan European destination while at the same time honoring a political and turbulent history that has defined this nation.
Scams in the Czech Republic
There are a few common travel scams that can catch out unsuspecting travelers. Read about these six scams before you go to make sure you don't fall victim to the con artists.
Dangerous roads in the Czech Republic
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers. While walking beside roads, walk carefully and always look before you step out onto the roads. If you are driving yourself around the country, drive carefully – particularly at night.
Be aware that driving in the Czech Republic can be dangerous due to poorly repaired roads, lack of safe infrastructure and poor or inadequate signage. Before you set off on a road trip, study the maps carefully so you have an idea in mind on where you are going. If the weather is poor, take it easy.
If it's possible, to ensure your safety, try to use other methods of transport such as buses, trains or a reputable taxi service.
Stay safe while enjoying Prague's wild nightlife
Prague's reputation for good quality, cheap beer and a multitude of "girly" bars has meant that it has become a popular destination for stag parties. Just search the terms "Prague" and "stag party" and see the proliferation of companies specialising in weekends of drunken debauchery.
The Czechs invented modern lager-style beers and are the heaviest beer drinkers in the world, consuming about 160 liters per capita per year. PilsnerUrqell, Budweiser Budvar and Staropramen, Gambrinus, and Dobranská Hvezda are among the most popular and are a "must try" for any beer lover. Enjoy it but do so responsibly. Drinking to excess can make you vulnerable to any number of crimes – not to mention its highly unlikely any claim you make will be paid if something unfortunate happens.
For those who spend a night or two bar-hopping, keep in mind that the Czech Republic is a Zero Tolerance country. It is illegal to drive a motor vehicle under the influence of ANY amount of alcohol and violators are heavily punished. Plan for a designated driver or take public transportation back to your hotel to avoid problems.
Is crime a risk in the Czech Republic?
Although the Czech Republic has a relatively low crime rate, be aware of your surroundings in heavily populated cities, especially Prague, where pickpocketing and petty thefts are common.
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4 Comments
Phil, not sure were have you driven in Czech Republic - but you’re describing it like driving is as dangerous there as in some South-East Asian countries or on Indian roads on the way to Taj Mahal. Driving in Czech Republic is perfectly organised, zero tolerance is good foundation of road safety, and signage is OK - though you can surely rely on GPS. The roads keep being repaired following the winter conditions & treatment with salt to keep the roads functional in winter. But that’s true in all countries in similar or even harsher climate. Driving in CZ is pretty organised and safe. The biggest danger are winter road conditions and wild animals deers, wild pigs and rabbits crossing road in forresty or rural areas, where you need to be careful and slow down accordingly, particularly when driving at night. If you are not used to drive on ice, don’t frive there in winter. But other than that roads in Czech Republic are in decent condition, with adequate signage and I feel like you are scaring people unnecessarily, putting them off from driving in the beautiful countryside outside from Prague, which has real beauty to it and carbis the best way to reach local villages with the best hiking routes, castles, local food & beer - as well as some very cool technically interesting & fun roads to drive on in rural areas. (While “rural” stands for still very civilised & well-serviced in Czech context, thanks to the country’s high density of population and high living standard.
Dude... I live in Czech Republic and what the fu*k man?! Bad ROADS?! seriosly? drive in Czechia first and one of the smallest European countries? seriously? Just learn about the country more...
I agree with the comments. From the article it sounds like a very dangerous place to drive, which it isn't. However, there is some things to get used to. Highways are well marked and in as good condition as you would expect in a european country. Ofcourse there might be maintenance going on, and condition after winter might be worse than usual....like in most countries. Country roads are normally fine, however they can be a bit narrow and the locals speed higher then you would expect, especially if you are coming from US or Canada. On highways it is very busy with trucks from all over the world, so being careful doesn't hurt. But its not like driving in a 3rd world country or scammers on every corner. (if you do meet scammers, then most likely they are foreign).
"One of the smallest European countries" ... bigger than literally other 30 European countries.
"Bad and dangerous roads with bad signage" ... wtf? Roads definitely aren't perfect but it's perfectly adequate and definitely not dangerous. Signage is on par with any other EU country.
"Dobranská Hvezda are among the most popular" ... wtf is that beer? I actually had to google it because I never heard of it in my life (and by the looks of it I'm not the only one). A seriously "well-researched" article *sarcastic thumbs up*