Prague's nightlife is legendary From jazz basements that occupy spaces that are centuries old To venues on the river's edge whose music pulses right through to dawn. When night falls, the city is transformed by a powerful energy that draws in tourists from all over the world. Yet beneath the glittering lights and clinking beer glasses lurks a shadow side that every traveller should understand. Moving through the city's nightlife districts with safety is not a matter of anxiety. It is about being conscious of what is happening, being prepared, and knowing the rules. This guide offers the essential advice for making the most of Prague's nightlife while also staying safe from the most typical hazards. Complete guides on safe booking practices in Prague can be found on our website.

Prague's nightlife is situated in different zones, each with its own style and its own particular dangers. The Old Town Square and its surrounding streets are packed with tourists, animated bars, and street entertainers. However, they also bring in pickpockets who are at home in crowded spaces. Wenceslas Square, the busy centre of the city, contains large hotels, gambling houses, and late-night clubs. But its side streets hide overpriced "gentlemen's clubs" and taxi touts who prey on the intoxicated. Žižkov, a gritty, authentic neighbourhood east of the centre, offers a more local experience with quirky pubs and underground music venues. However, the poorly lit lanes of the district mean you should be careful after midnight. The riverside district, especially the area around Karlovy Lázně (a former spa that is now a multi-storey club), is in demand but can be chaotic, with long queues and the occasional scuffle.

The "expensive drinks" con is common in nightclubs that are full of visitors. An unknown person who acts in a friendly manner suggests that you have a drink; the bill then appears with very high prices — often several thousand crowns — and a bouncer who tells you to pay. Always be sure to look at the drinks menu to see the prices before you make your choice. And never agree to have a drink that is offered by someone you have only just met.

The "counterfeit police" trick is where people pretend to be officers who are not in uniform, they ask to see your passport and your money, and then they make off with your cash. Genuine Czech police have official badges and will never ask to look at your cash. If you have any question, you should insist on dialling the real police number (158).

The places for exchanging money that are near the nightlife districts often advertise rates that seem attractive, but they add charges that are not made clear, or they manipulate the calculation. To be safe, use ATMs that are in bank buildings, or exchange offices that are considered trustworthy, such as those in the centre.

Before you leave the hotel, it is a good idea to let the hotel staff know your plans for the evening. And do not forget to take a card with the hotel's address. Taxi drivers regularly pretend not to understand English. Having the address written down will ensure that there is no misunderstanding. Take only the cash you will use during the night, and also carry one bank card and a copy of your passport. You should leave the actual passport in the hotel's safe. Use a money belt or a bag that you wear cross-body and keep in front. You should also keep your phone and your money in different pockets, both of which should be closed with a zip.