Safety

Safety in Czech Republic

The Czech Republic consistently ranks among the world's safest countries. Most expats feel very secure in their daily lives.

Safety Rankings

• Global Peace Index: 12th worldwide
• European ranking: 5th safest in Europe
• Prague Crime Index: 24.43 (much lower than Berlin 44.59 or Paris 57.94)

Crime Statistics

According to police data, Prague saw a 6.4% decrease in registered criminal offenses in 2024, marking the lowest crime rate since pre-pandemic years.

Perceptions of safety:

• 91% feel safe walking alone during the day
• 74% feel safe walking alone at night
• Violent crime is "very low" by European standards

Common Concerns

Petty theft:

• Pickpocketing in tourist areas (Charles Bridge, Old Town Square)
• Bag snatching on crowded trams
• Car break-ins (don't leave valuables visible)

Scams targeting tourists:

• Overcharging at exchange offices (use banks or ATMs)
• Taxi overcharging (use Bolt/Uber instead)
• Fake petitions leading to theft
• Strip club/bar scams in tourist areas

How to protect yourself:

• Use money belts in crowded areas
• Keep bags zipped and in front of you on trams
• Exchange money at banks or use ATMs
• Verify taxi fare before entering (or use apps)

Safe Neighborhoods

Prague: Almost all residential areas are safe. Even "edgier" areas like Žižkov are very safe by international standards.

Other cities: Brno, Plzeň, Ostrava all have low crime rates.

Emergency Contacts

Practical Safety Tips

1. In tourist areas: Keep valuables secure, especially on the metro and trams
2. Money exchange: Use ATMs or banks, never street exchangers
3. Nightlife: Stick to established venues, avoid following touts
4. Taxis: Use Bolt, Uber, or Liftago apps
5. At home: Standard precautions - lock doors, don't buzz in strangers

Natural Disasters

Czechia has low natural disaster risk:

• No earthquakes
• Occasional flooding (Vltava river, historically)
• Severe storms rare
• Winter ice and snow (December-February)