Moving to a new city is always an adventure — and Prague is no exception. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant lifestyle, the Czech capital has become an increasingly popular destination for expats and digital nomads alike. But before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, here are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering making Prague your new home.
1. You Probably Don’t Need a Car
One of the first things newcomers notice is how fantastic Prague’s public transport system is. Clean, cheap, safe, and impressively punctual — it’s a model for how urban mobility should work. Trams, metros, and buses crisscross the city with ease, making it super convenient to get around without ever needing a car. Plus, the city is very walkable, especially in the historical center and many residential neighborhoods. Unless you plan on frequent trips to the countryside, you’ll likely do just fine without your own wheels.
2. There Are No “Dangerous” Neighborhoods
Prague consistently ranks among the safest cities in Europe, and for good reason. While some districts might appear a bit rough around the edges or less polished than the center, there's rarely anything to worry about in terms of personal safety. Whether you’re strolling home at night or exploring new areas, you’ll generally feel safe across the board. This peace of mind is one of the city’s most underrated perks.
3. The Weather Can Be… Tricky
Let’s be honest — the climate here won’t win any awards. Winters can be long, grey, and biting cold. Summers? Occasionally oppressively hot. And those perfect spring or autumn days everyone dreams of? You might get two weeks of that — if you’re lucky. But hey, nothing a good coat (or fan) can’t solve. If you're moving from a tropical paradise, this might take some getting used to, but many expats grow to love the cozy, seasonal rhythm.
4. Czechs Love Dogs
If you’re a dog lover, welcome to heaven. Prague is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Europe. Dogs are allowed almost everywhere — in cafés, shops, offices, and definitely on public transport. You’ll see happy pups trotting alongside their owners all over town. Roughly 1 in 6 households in Prague has a dog, and outside Prague, it’s closer to 1 in 2. If you have a furry friend, they’ll feel right at home here. If you’re not a fan of dogs… well, get ready to bump into them — often.
5. Tipping is Expected — But Different
Tipping in the Czech Republic works a little differently than in some countries. While service staff do rely on tips to some extent, it’s not as heavily tip-based as in places like the U.S. That said, it's customary to round up your bill or leave around 5-15% in most restaurants and cafés. The usual way is to state the total you want to pay — for example, if your bill is 180 CZK, you can say “200.” If you simply hand over money and say “děkuji” (thank you), it’s generally assumed that the change is the tip.
6. English Works… Until It Doesn’t
In the city center, in cafés, bars, and most expat hotspots, English is widely spoken. But when it comes to bureaucracy — things like visas, utilities, rental contracts, or tax paperwork — Czech is the language of choice. And unfortunately, Google Translate won’t always be enough to navigate these systems. That’s where having a local contact, translator, or real estate agent (like Vanek Real Estate!) can make all the difference. We help our clients bridge the language and cultural gap, so you can focus on settling in stress-free.
Conclusion: Welcome to Prague — With a Few Quirks
Prague is a wonderful place to live — full of charm, history, and opportunity. But like any city, it comes with its quirks. Knowing what to expect before you move can help you adjust faster and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer. And if you ever need help finding the perfect apartment, navigating contracts, or just figuring out where to start, Vanek Real Estate is here to guide you every step of the way.
