How to steer clear of tourist traps in Prague

Avoid any restaurant with photos of food on the menu and never exchange money at street-side kiosks. Stick to neighborhoods like Vinohrady or Letná to find authentic prices and skip the aggressive souvenir stalls around the Old Town Square.

1. Use public transit, not cabs. Never hail a taxi off the street in Prague. They are notorious for overcharging tourists. Use the 'Lítačka' app to buy transport tickets or use Uber/Bolt if you must drive; they provide fixed prices upfront.
2. Eat away from the Astronomical Clock. Restaurants within a three-block radius of the Astronomical Clock often charge double or triple. Walk 15 minutes away to the Vinohrady district to find pubs where locals actually eat for a fraction of the cost.
3. Skip the 'Trdelník' hype. The chimney cakes sold on every corner of the Old Town are not a traditional Czech dessert; they are a mass-produced tourist product. If you want a real local treat, look for a traditional 'cukrárna' (patisserie) and order a 'větrník'.
4. Change money only at banks. Never use the 'Exchange' shops that line the tourist streets, even if they claim '0% commission.' They use terrible exchange rates. Withdraw cash from a bank-operated ATM or exchange money inside a legitimate bank branch.

Are the street performers in Old Town worth it?

Most are aggressive and will demand money for photos. Politely say no and keep walking; they are not part of a cultural tradition.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

Yes, Prague has some of the cleanest tap water in Europe. Bring a bottle and refill it anywhere.