Prague Travel Tips

Title: Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Prague (Markdown Format)

Table of Contents

  • Greetings and Addressing People
  • Dining Etiquette
  • Tipping Culture
  • Public Transportation
  • Respecting Historical Landmarks
  • Shopping and Bargaining
  • Personal Space and Courtesies

Greetings and Addressing People

  • Czechs are formal in their communication, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Use titles (Pan for men, Paní for women) followed by surname.
  • A handshake is common when greeting someone.
  • Czechs rarely use first names among strangers or until invited to do so.

Dining Etiquette

  • Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Waitstaff may not bring the bill unless asked, so don’t hesitate to ask if you’re ready to leave.
  • Tap water is usually free in restaurants and it’s customary to order at least one drink per person.

Tipping Culture

  • A service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. However, rounding up or adding 10% is appreciated by waitstaff.
  • For taxi services, round the fare up to the nearest 5 CZK.

Public Transportation

  • Prague has an extensive public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and metro lines.
  • Always validate your ticket before boarding any public transport.
  • Seats on public transport are not reserved; stand if necessary to avoid inconveniencing others.

Respecting Historical Landmarks

  • Be mindful when taking photos at historical sites, especially in churches and museums. Flash photography may be prohibited.
  • Always follow any posted signs or guidelines for visitor conduct.

Shopping and Bargaining

  • Bargaining is not common in most shops, but it might be expected at markets and souvenir stands.
  • Haggling over price is usually possible, especially if buying multiple items from the same vendor.

Personal Space and Courtesies

  • Czechs value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance when speaking with someone or standing in lines.
  • Punctuality is important; arriving late for appointments may offend others.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions to ensure an enjoyable visit to Prague.