A Digital Nomad Guide to Prague

Czech Republic Visa for Prague

The Czech Republic has one of the easiest entrance policies in Europe. Anyone who is an EU citizen can enter and roam freely within Czechia; you just need to have your passport valid for the duration of your stay. Visas are also not required from those who are from the Schengen area, meaning they can stay for up to 90 days. If you are from a visa-exempt country, you can stay for a maximum of 90 days, and if you do need a visa, you must obtain it before your arrival.

The best way to find out if you need a visa is to ask your embassy in Czechia or speak with the nearest Czech embassy in your country. Then you can find out the procedure you need to take to obtain your visa.

If you plan on working in Prague and are not from the EU or don’t have the right to work, then you will need to obtain a work permit before our arrival. This can be done via an embassy. Czechia offers some great work visas for entrepreneurs, so make sure to research as there might be a more beneficial way for you to stay.

Culture and Food in Prague

Prague is a fantastic city for beer lovers and anyone that enjoys a good hearty meal. Much of the cuisine in Prague is based on traditional Czech recipes, which mostly consist of items such as goulash, the famous pork knuckle, and of course, beer. 

The Best Pork Knuckle

Pork Knuckle, seen as Pečené vepřové koleno on the menu, dates back to the 11th century and would have been a dish served after a hunt. This particular dish would have been cooked traditionally in an aromatic beer, on low, slow heat, to make sure the meat stays juicy and absorbs all the flavor possible. You will find it in many restaurants in Prague, but some of the best restaurants to try it at are U Cejpu and U Zlate Konvice. However, there are many breweries and restaurants serving it too, and other good places to try it are Potrefena Husa, Hostinec U Vodoucha, and Restaurace Kulový blesk.

Traditioanl Resturants

If you want to visit a traditional restaurant in Prague, then your best bet is to find where the locals go and trying to avoid some of the more touristy restaurants. However, having said that some of the tourist restaurants still serve some great food, it is just sometimes a little more expensive. Some good traditional resturants are Restaurace Mlejnice, U Bulínů, Old Prague Restaurant, Lokál and “K” – The Two Brothers. Many breweries in Prague serve up a selection of food and beer snacks with their great choice of locally brewed beers. Some of the best breweries with kicthens to visit are Klášterní Pivovar Strahov, Pocernicky pivovar and Brewery Boat.

Modern Cuisine

If you are looking for a restaurant that is serving up something a little different, then there is a great selection of restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are experimenting with cuisine and developing some of the most unique and tasty treats in the country and here are just a few that are cooking up a storm in Prague. The Art & Food Had, Nota Bene, Spices Restaurant & Bar, and Rickshaw Prague.

Fast Food/ Street Food

There are many fast food places in Prague, serving a variety of traditional fast food delights such as burgers, but there are a few serving up Czech specialties. Most of these specialties tend to be sweet, and the most famous and iconic treat from Prague is the Trdelnik doughnut. Often served with ice cream in the center and many sweet sauces, these are every sweet tooth’s dream come true, and they are on every corner. The recipe is over 200 years old and has become a phenomenon of Prague street food. Other popular sweet treats are strudel, kolach, and medovnik.

Vegan and Vegetarian

There is a great selection of vegan and vegetarian cuisine in Prague, so you don’t have to worry about not finding anything to suit your dietary needs. As well as having modern twists on traditional dishes so that they can be enjoyed as a vegetarian-friendly version, there are also international vegetarian restaurants scattered across the city. With almost 20 vegetarian restaurants, you will not get bored. Some of the best vegan and vegetarian places to eat are Maitrea restaurace, Bebos bistro & bar, Vegan’s Prague, Herbivore,  Restaurace Satsang, CHUTNEJ, bistRAW & Tea, Veget bistro café and Natureza Vegetarian House.

If you are looking for a nice dinner out, then make sure to check out Lehká hlava as it is a very well-decorated vegetarian restaurant with a quirky atmosphere. For a vegan buffet, then visit Sandokan Vegan Bistro, as it is a great hip café offering a great selection of vegan food.

Prague Nightlife

Prague is a city that never sleeps, and you will find that there is something going on almost every night. Whether you want to have a chilled evening over a few drinks or some fine dining, or if you want to just let off some steam and go clubbing, Prague has it all. Prague is home to Central Europes largest club, and this draws many tourists every year to party in the capital of Czechia. 

Bar Crawl

There are many companies offering pub crawls in Prague but make sure to go with Prague Pub Crawl official crawl as you will end at Karlovy Lazne and have free entry! Most pub crawls cost around $29 USD, which includes multiple bar entries, unlimited drinks for the first bar, and other drinks specials. 

Karlovy Lazne

This is central Europe’s largest club, split across multiple levels with a total of five dance floors, each with a different vibe playing varying music. It is considered to have some of the best sound and light equipment for a club in the world. The entry fees vary depending on the day of the week, and it costs around $12 USD in the week and around $14.50 USD on weekends. 

Nightclubs

There are many nightclubs in Prague, and some charge an entrance fee or require you to be part of a VIP list before entry. Here is a list of some of the best nightclubs in Prague Golden Tree Prague, Epic Prague, DÉJÁVU Music Club Prague, Ace Club, Chapeau Rouge, and Cross Club.

Night Tour

There is a great selection of walking tours in Prague, and some of the best occur at night. The haunted ghost walk costs around $25 USD and lasts around two hours. There are also guided night tours to enjoy the city lights, and these are sometimes run on a tipping basis, so they are free, but you are expected to tip your guide. It is possible to get night tours of most of the historical buildings and cathedrals.

Medieval Dinner

If you are a bit of a fan of medieval culture, then why not have a medieval banquet. This is a great way to spend an evening, and it is a unique experience over a five-course dinner. Prices start at around $50 USD. 

Beer Tasting

Czechia is famous for its Pilsner brew, and what better way to learn about the beer than through a tasting tour. For around $30 USD, you can have a beer tasting tour lasting around 1.5 hours. You will get to experience not only the different types of brew, but you will learn about the mysteries behind the famous Mlíko pint.

Night Cruise

If you want a more relaxed or sophisticated evening, then why not dine on a river cruise for as little as $40 USD. There are a variety of cruises, some offering three-course meals, other buffet self-service dinners, but whatever you choose, you are guaranteed to have a relaxed evening admiring the city lights from the river. The boat trip will take you past some of the most famous buildings and under some of the most prestigious bridges.

Things to do in Prague

Prague is a city rich in history, and this is best seen through its architecture and incredible buildings. Prague is known for its astronomical clock, its delicious street food, and its unique beer, as well as its museums, galleries, and an incredible nightlife scene. It is a great city if you are into architecture, history, and art as there are many free things to do in the city to cater to these interests. 

• Explore Old Town

The Old Town is what Prague is famous for; its cobbled streets and old buildings make for the perfect setting for an afternoon stroll in what feels like a fairytale city. There are many walking tours and free city guides who will show you the best buildings and unique architectural features. 

• Astronomical Clock

This is one of Prague’s most famous things to see as it is just magical. The astronomical clock is situated in the Old Town, and it is special because it was installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world that is still operating. Every hour the clock strikes, and a little show happens, where a door above the clock opens, and small mechanical figures appear. Many people go on the hour to see this display, so make sure to get there early to get a good view.

• Beer Spa

This has become a bit of an alternative attraction to Prague, and it suits all beer lovers. There are many beer spas popping up over Prague, and they vary in prices depending on the package you want. For just yourself, it will cost around $80 USD for entry into the beer spa, where you will have your own tub to soak, have access to unlimited beer, and can relax on the wheat beds or relax in the tub. For couples, the price is around $119 USD if you want to share a tub, and the price goes up from there. Everyone gets a towel and slippers on entry, but there are special rooms that can be booked with saunas and extra places to relax.

• Museums

There is a great selection of museums and galleries in Prague, showcasing art, history, and conflict. Depending on what you want to see, here are some of the top museums to visit in Prague. If you are a history buff, then these museums may be of interest; Museum of Communism, which costs around $7 USD entrance, Jewish Museum in Prague costing $20 USD entrance and Speculum Alchemiae, which offers a window into medieval science. Other museums offering a variety of entertainment are the Museums of Senses, Museum of Miniatures, Museum of Medieval Torture, National Techincal Museum, and the Kafka Museum.

• Art Galleries

There is a great selection of art galleries in Prague and here are just some of the best; Museum of Decorative Arts, Illusion Art Museum, Czech Museum of Music, Lobkowicz Palace, and Central Gallery. All have a variety of entry costs, and most can be found online view their websites. 

• Charles Bridge

This is probably one of the most iconic things to see in Prague. The famous bridge was built in the 14th century, and it is very popular with tourists, especially for photo opportunities. It is free to walk across. 

• Lennon Wall

Anyone who is a fan of the Beatles or John Lennon should definitely visit the Lennon wall. Although it is far from the home of the band, it is one of the world’s largest tribute walls with graffiti of song lyrics and Lennon himself. It is free to visit. 

• Prague Castle

Another historical monument in Prague is the castle, situated on the west of the river, and it is a famous place to visit in Prague. The castle was home to the rulers of the country, and even today, it is home to the president. You can enter and walk around the gardens and grounds of the castle for free, and entrance to get inside costs around $16 USD for a standard ticket. 

• The Old Jewish Quarter

Also known as Josefov, the Old Jewish quarter is located between the Old Town and the Vltava River. The place was once home to the jews that were banished from living in the city center, and many exiled jews from surrounding European countries fled here. The small district has six synagogues, and although many buildings were destroyed over the years, some remain. 

• St Vitus Cathedral

Located on the grounds of the castle is a treasure trove of artifacts that lie inside the St Vitus Cathedral. Inside you will see some of the most unique and oldest stained glass windows, as well as the tomb of St John of Nepomunk. You can take combined tours of the cathedral and the castle. 

• Sedlec Ossuary

Located a short drive out of the city, in a small town called Kutna Hora is one of Czechia’s most interesting churches. Sedlec Ossuary is sometimes referred to as the ‘bone church,’ and you have probably seen it on Instagram as it is a popular spot for photos. In Kutna Hora, there are a collection of churches, abbeys, and the ossuary where a dramatic story led to the bones of the deceased villagers being placed inside the ossuary as sculptures. The eerie ossuary costs around $5 USD to enter, and you are presented with some of the most creepy sculptures that hold a deep meaning in history. 

• Speculum Alchemiae

If you are into mysteries, then you must visit the speculum alchemiae, the museum of alchemy. The museum is home to a secret underground potions lab that was built for Emperor Rudolf II and, at the time, was an act going against the church. This mysterious museum entrance costs around $32 USD, and the tour takes you on a journey underneath Prague.

Best Time to Visit Prague

The weather in Prague varies year-round, with four defined seasons. Prague is in the Northern Hemisphere, so the summer months run from June through until September, with July being the hottest month with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). 

The winter runs from December until around April, and January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping to around -1°C (30°F). It is common for it to snow in Prague during the winter months, particularly at the end of December through to February. January and February are the least touristy months, mostly due to the cold weather, so this is a good time to visit if you like the snow and prefer a quieter city. 

The spring occurs in March, April, and May, with May being the wettest month. Autumn occurs in October, November time, and this is when you will see all the autumnal colors, and the temperature begins to drop. The days are mostly dry and cold as it gets into winter.

Prague for Families

Prague is a good city for families as it has many conveniences and facilities as well as lots of entertainment for kids all in one hub. There are international schools, daycares, hospitals, and there is a big ex-pat community in Prague, so you are likely to fit in well. The International School of Prague is the best known international school, accommodation around 60 different nationalities, and there are many more across the city. In terms of getting to know Prague before you arrive and having things in place, the best thing to do is search and ask questions on ex-pat forums such as families in Prague facebook group, ex-pat.cz, or ex-pat.praha.

As for entertainment, there is a lot to do with children, from exploring and walking around the Old Town and admiring the old architecture to visiting Prague Zoo or spending an afternoon in a park. If you are there during summer, then there are plenty of free things to do outside, but in winter you can still find entertainment via the museums and galleries.

Living in Prague

Prague Transportation

Prague has a great selection of modes of public transport, from trams to buses and rental bicycles and their public transport systems are rated as some of the best in Europe. The tickets also work across multiple forms of transport. For example, if you buy a ticket for the tram, you can also use it on the metro and buses too.

Bus

There are a number of bus routes in Prague, and you will find timetables and services online. The important lines are 119, which connects Prague airport to the nearest metro line, as well as 112, which takes you to Prague zoo, from the city center. 

Metro

Prague’s metro system has four lines that are all color-coded to make it fairly easy to navigate. Trains tend to start running from around 5 am and stop around midnight. The tickets in Prague are very affordable, and they have a variety of tickets on sale. You can get just a 30-minute ticket, which allows you to ride as much as you like within the given time frame for just $1.10 USD. They also have weekly and monthly metro tickets too, so once you had figured out your commute, you can decide what to invest in. A one-month ticket costs around $31 USD.

Tram

There are two tramlines running in Prague with a total track length of 500 km. The trams weave in and out of the city, meaning they take passengers on the most convenient routes possible. The price of the tram is exactly the same as the metro.

Train

The train is best used for longer journeys, such as visiting other cities in Czechia or even neighboring countries. The trains can be a little expensive if bought on the day; however, if they are booked in advance, you can get a ticket for as little as $35 USD to travel to another city in Czechia. Thetrainline.com is the best website for finding cheaper tickets and for booking in advance. 

Bicycle

There are multiple bicycle rentals places in Prague, but one of the best rated is City Bike Prague. They have a large selection of bikes that you can rent daily or for longer. They also offer guided city tours and more! Their guided tours start from around $30 USD, or if you just want to hire a bicycle, prices start from $16 USD for two hours. If you want a bicycle for longer, it may be better to ask at your accommodation before booking, as some have rentals for guests which are often more affordable. 

Electric Scooters

Companies such as Lime have come to Prague and other cities in Czechia, offering cheap, quick, easy transports options for anyone in major cities. Lime scooters require you to download the app and link with a bank card before riding. But it is really simple to use and a great way to sightsee. I love using electric scooters because they are very cost-effective, and if you are there in summer, you get a nice cool breeze rather than being packed in on public transport.

Fitness and Health

There is a great selection of gyms and fitness classes in Prague, so you won’t have to worry about health when staying there. Whether you want to work out, take part in a relaxing yoga class or just go for a run, there are plenty of options for you.

R5 is a great leisure center that offers a variety of classes such as spinning and yoga, as well as functioning as a normal gym. Their prices are great, and it is centrally located. Their classes start at around $7 USD for drop-ins, but it is also possible to bulk buy, so you save a few dollars. They also have a sauna which costs around $11 USD for 90 minutes, and other facilities. 

Form factory is another great fitness center, and single entry costs around $14 USD. They offer a great selection of classes, from yoga to body combat and circuit training. This is a great place if you enjoy exercise classes and like variation of workouts. Pro One Fitness is $7 USD for a single entry, and if you bulk buy you can get a discount. A month-long membership of one entry per day costs around $47 USD per month. 

Xplore Fitness is another place with varied classes and a great selection of gym equipment. It is one of the more expensive gyms because it is also a wellness center, offering massages and personal trainers. Entry costs around $13.50 USD for a single entry, but they have many packages and special classes on offer.

Prague People

The people of Prague are very friendly and welcoming towards any visitors, and they will make sure you have a good time. The population is mostly Czech, with a very small percentage being foreigners when compared with the number of locals. 

Like with most countries, it is common in Czechia to move to the capital city as this is where you are likely to find the best jobs and earn the most, hence the densely populated city. After WW II, there were many effects on the region and, in particular, Prague. Statistics show that there is still a higher female-to-male ratio as a result of the war. There are also fewer people having families, or if they do, they are kept small due to the need of both parents needing to work. As a result, there is a small natural increase in the population every year. 

Unless you speak Czech, then you may not notice, but there is a Prague accent. Prague natives have a distinct accent within the country, so if you are familiar with it, it is easy to notice. 

When you visit Prague, you will feel this energy and this hardworking vibe amongst the city and more so in areas of business. You will also notice that there are still many places where the menus are only written in Czech, and many people will not speak second languages. As tourism grows and more younger generations learn other languages in school, there has been a slight increase in the number of bilinguals in Prague; however, this isn’t the case across the whole city. In the touristy areas, there will be people who can speak English, but outside of Old Town, this is less common.

Prague Insurance and Medical Care

Wherever you travel, it is always advised to have health and travel insurance in place because you never know what could happen. The healthcare available in Prague is of high quality, and there are multiple international hospitals in the city, with doctors and nurses that are used to accommodating foreigners.  The standard of healthcare in Prague is high, so there is no need to worry if you have a medical emergency as you will receive good care. It is best to have health insurance in place or have a European health card with you as the expenses could quickly mount up.

Doctor-prague.com is a great resource for finding prices and practices for foreigners in Prague. A doctor’s visit with health care insurance will cost you around $37 USD. Most practices will also only take cash payments, so make sure to get receipts in case you do get treatment and need to make a claim with your insurance. 

Although Prague is a safe city, it is always best to take out insurance that covers your belongings as well as medical, as accidents can happen anywhere. If you are bringing expensive equipment, then make sure to cover your work items as some forms of accommodation that don’t have safes, or secure locker rooms may lead to stolen items.

Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide.

Jobs in Prague

Finding a job in Prague can be somewhat easy, depending on your industry. There is a huge need for those who work in tourism, as well as Prague being the capital of Czechia, meaning all major companies headquarters are based there. So this means that you will find many opportunities that don’t require you to speak Czech.

Just bear in mind that salaries in Prague are not the highest in Europe, so expect t be earning a little less than countries in Western Europe. However, it is common to get great benefits with work such as long vacation time and flexible working hours.

The best way to find a job is to search online; websites such as glassdoor.com, goabraod.com, and Linkedin are great ways to find work before you arrive. This way, your employer can obtain a visa for you and have it ready for your arrival. There are also other ways of finding jobs online that are a little less reliable, like using Facebook marketplace and Facebook groups for remote jobs. 

If you are a language teacher, specifically teaching English, then this is another avenue of work as learning English is becoming more popular, and the demand for English teachers is growing. Using websites such as telf.com and the British Council are good ways of finding jobs in specific cities.

You will also notice that tourism is a huge sector in Prague, so you might find when you arrive that you are able to pick up casual work such as bar jobs, waitressing, or jobs working with tour agencies. It is worth contacting some places before you arrive if this sounds like something you are interested in, and make sure to check out when their peak season is, as this is when they are most likely to be hiring.

Check out our Digital Nomads Jobs Postings to find the best jobs available for Digital Nomads.