The Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in Europe
The Czech Republic has long been in the TOP fifteen safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. In 2024, it ranked 12th ahead of Finland, Belgium, Estonia and Germany.
According to the Safety Index for Europe, the Czech Republic remains in 12th place. In Central and Eastern Europe, the Czech Republic is even the second safest country, scoring 73.2 out of a possible 100. Numbeo, who stands behind Safety Index, asked respondents about the following:
- Feeling safe when walking day and night
- Concerns about criminal acts
- Concerns about property crime
- Fear of murder or rape
The answer to the question, of how safe is the Czech Republic, is therefore: a lot! Czechia is a safe country for tourists, solo travellers, and female tourists. But as the Czechs like to say: “Luck favors the prepared,“ that’s why we have a few tips for you on what to watch out for when visiting the Czech Republic.
Crime
Violent crime rates are low in the Czech Republic and major robberies are not common in Central Europe. Even so, you may encounter pickpockets or organized groups of pickpockets in frequented and tourist-popular places. They operate mainly in public transport, at famous monuments, or in outdoor restaurants.
If you already know which Czech places you will visit, you can check the interactive crime map of the Police of the Czech Republic or another map at Czechcrime, which only has data up to 2021.
Terrorist attacks
Terrorist attacks are very rare in the Czech Republic, so you don’t have to worry about them. However, it is generally recommended that you stay aware of your surroundings. Especially if you attend official celebrations, which tend to be the most common occasion for these types of attacks.
Scams on the street
Unfortunately, the number of scammers trying to rob visitors has been increasing in the Czech Republic in recent years. One of the most widespread scams that you can come across, especially in Prague, are people who will try to exchange your money for Czech crowns on the street, but instead give you expired Belarusian rubles.
Therefore, always change money only at official exchange offices, where you carefully read the exchange rate and terms of fees, or withdraw money from ATMs. But avoid ATMs that charge you high fees, such as Euronet.
Scams in restaurants
In the centers of large cities and near famous monuments (for example, the Old Town Square in Prague), be careful in restaurants about the final amount they will ask you to pay. In addition to the original price of food and drink, they will sometimes charge you other meaningless fees, for example for the use of cutlery, or they will automatically add tips to you.
Before you decide to eat at a restaurant, carefully read the reviews on Google or TripAdvisor. Or you can check tips on the Honest Guide YouTube channel.
What to watch out for in transport?
Public transport in the Czech Republic is safe and reliable. You can crisscross the country by car, train, or bus. Depending on the size of the city you are heading to, you can use public transport – the metro (only in Prague), trams, trolleybuses, and buses. Read more about how to use public transportation in Prague.
You can also travel by taxi. However, always agree on a price with the driver in advance and check that the meter is running during your ride. Use only officially marked taxis or the Bolt and Uber apps, which operate in Prague and Brno.
Roads and highways in the Czech Republic are mostly in good condition, so you can go on a road trip without any worries. To drive in the Czech Republic, you must be at least 18 years old and have an international driving license or an EU driving license.
In the Czech Republic it is important to follow road rules and regulations and alcohol is not tolerated behind the wheel.
Natural disasters
The Czech Republic is located in a mild climate zone, so extreme weather changes are not very common. However, there are occasional exceptions. These were, for example, the Prague floods in 2002, the tornado in Moravia in 2021, and the fires in Bohemian Switzerland in 2022.
When you are planning a trip, do not forget to monitor the weather.
Political situation and protests
The situation on the Czech political scene is considered to be stable in the long term, but there are occasional demonstrations or protests against the government and its regulations. Protests are usually peaceful and most often take place in Prague. If you hear about a demonstration or come across it, it is better to avoid the place.
Is it safe to travel to Czechia due to the Ukraine war?
There is no reason to be worried. Since Czechia does not share a border with Ukraine, the conflict has not directly impacted the country. The most noticeable difference you might see is the increased presence of Ukrainians who came to live in the Czech Republic due to the situation.
A few useful tips at the end
- You should keep your travel documents secure and only carry a photocopy or a digital copy on your mobile phone.
- Do not carry too many unnecessary things and cash.
- Never give your card to the waiter in a restaurant or bar.
- Watch your food and drink. Especially during evening events.
- Do not leave your luggage and valuables unattended.
- If you are a victim of a crime, call the free emergency number 112.
- If you are visiting Prague, read our article: Is it safe to travel to Prague?
Are you going to the Czech Republic as a solo female tourist? Check out our other tips for solo female travellers in Prague.
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