Sunday, December 18, 2016

Tourist Information While You Traveling at Prague

Visit a Prague tourist information centre or simply read our guide below, which contains practical visitor information to help you plan your Prague trip.

1. PRAGUE TOURIST INFORMATION
Images by Google

Three Prague tourist information centres in the city centre:

-Old Town Hall, Old Town Square 1, Prague 1.
Open: Daily 09:00-19:00.

-Rytířská 12, Old Town, Prague 1.
Open: Daily 09:00-19:00.

-Wenceslas Square 42 (a kiosk near Štěpánská street), New Town, Prague 1.
Open: Mar-Oct: Daily 10:00-18:00.

Two visitor centres at Prague Airport:

-Terminal 1 Arrivals Hall: Daily 08:00-20:00.
-Terminal 2 Arrivals Hall: Daily 08:00-20:00.

2. CURRENCY & MONEY
Images by Google

Cost of living in Prague
Food and drink in ordinary cafés, restaurants and shops in Prague is cheaper than in Western Europe. Beer and wine in pubs is considerably cheaper. While the price of clothes and other durable consumer goods is similar to elsewhere in Europe.

Currency in Prague: Czech Crown (czk)
The currency in Prague is the Czech Crown (czk).

Czech banknotes are issued in the following denominations: 100/200/500/1000/2000/5000.

Some hotels, shops and restaurants accept Euros as well, but many only take Czech Crowns.

Czech Crown currency converter
At current exchange rates 1000czk = £32/€38/$40.

Currency exchange
Visitors can obtain Czech Crowns for a better exchange rate in Prague rather than in your home country, but observe the following guidelines: Czech Crown (czk): Currency in Prague
Currency in Prague: Czech Crown (czk)

(i) Cash machines (ATMs) in Prague
The best exchange rate for your money is normally obtained by withdrawing Czech Crowns from a bank's cash machine (ATM) in Prague, even accounting for any transaction fee your own bank may charge (ask your bank before you travel what the fee is). Cash points in Prague accept debit and credit cards backed by Visa, Mastercard/EuroCard, American Express and Maestro.

Three key points on withdrawing money from an ATM:
1. Use a debit card if possible. Your own bank will probably charge lower fees.
2. Use an official bank ATM. If you are unsure about this, use an ATM at an actual bank. Some (not all) stand alone ATMs impose extra charges.
3. Opt to pay in 'local currency'. Some ATMs offer the option to pay using 'home currency', however ignore this and select local currency. The transaction will then be converted at a good international rate authorised by your own bank. If you select home currency, the ATM converts the Czech Crowns at its own rate; this is called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). Avoid it.

City Centre ATMs: use an ATM at a Czech or International bank. These are mostly located in and around Wenceslas Square in the New Town. In the Lesser Town there is an ATM at Česká spořitelna bank at the top of Mostecké street.

Prague Airport ATMs: At Terminal 1, exit customs and in the arrivals hall the ATMs are to the right, by the stairs. At Terminal 2, exit customs and in the arrivals hall the ATMs are to the left - Prague Airport.

(ii) Best places to change money in Prague
To change cash for Czech Crowns, the best exchange rates can be found in Prague's city centre. But be careful where you go. For excellent exchange rates and no commission, we recommend: eXchange at Kaprova 15, near the Old Town Square and Samiko Exchange at Štěpánská 39, near Wenceslas Square.

Czech and International banks in Prague, mostly located at Wenceslas Square, offer good exchange rates too, but they do charge commission.

Be wary of small currency exchange booths. Some offer reasonable rates, but at many, offers of 0% commission and confusing signs mask a poor rate. Ask what the total amount you will receive is before handing over your money.

Credit card acceptance in Prague
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, international shops and more expensive restaurants. Local shops and cheaper restaurants may not take credit cards. Cash is king in the Czech Republic, so if you able to, pay in cash.

3. WEATHER
Images by Google

The weather in Prague varies dramatically between seasons, far more for example than in London.

The summer is often hot and sunny, reaching the high temperatures of Paris. Whereas winter can be very cold, with long periods of snow.

In spring and autumn, Prague can enjoy lengthy spells of glorious warm and sunny weather, interspersed with dull days and heavy showers.

The average temperature in June/July is 30C (86F). In December/January it is -5C (23F).

What time of year to visit: Prague is a lovely city to visit all year round. The contrasts in weather only add to its romantic appeal. Tourist services like restaurants, hotels, shops, opera, theatre and tourist attractions are well-equipped to welcome visitors at any time. Places are heated in the winter and some, but not all, are air-conditioned in the summer.

What clothes to wear: The weather in Prague is highly changeable, as elsewhere in Central Europe. On good days in spring, summer and autumn, visitors will find cool shirts, shorts, skirts and dresses most welcome. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats may also be important. However, even in the summer bring a fleece and a waterproof jacket or umbrella in case of a cold snap or heavy shower. In the winter, bring a warm coat, hat and gloves. Waterproof shoes are also a good idea in case of rain or snow.

Prague is a wonderful city to explore on foot and a comfortable pair of shoes is highly recommended, particularly if you take a sightseeing tour. The city centre is compact, making it easy to walk between the sights and attractions. Also, the most important sights such as Prague Castle and Old Town Square are only fully accessible on foot.

While it is sometimes nice to dress smartly, and many people do, Prague is a casual city. Restaurants, the opera houses, concert halls, theatres and other tourist venues do not have strict dress codes and accept most forms of attire.

4. COMMUNICATIONS: INTERNET ACCESS, WI-FI, POST & TELEPHONE
Images by Google

Internet access & Wi-Fi in Prague
Fast Internet access is widely available in Prague. Internet enabled phones, tablets and other devices can connect to Vodafone, T-Mobile, France Telecom, Deutsche Telekom, O2 and other international networks.

Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, apartments, pensions and hostels in Prague.

Almost all restaurants listed on Prague Experience offer free Wi-Fi, as do many pubs, bars & cafés, for example Jama Pub near Wenceslas Square and Hangar Bar in the Old Town. There is also free Wi-Fi at Starbucks and Costa Coffee outlets.

For an 'old-fashioned' internet café, with computers and printing facilities near the Old Town Square, try: Click Internet Café, Malé náměstí 13, Prague 1.

Post - Central Prague Post Office
Jindrisska 14 (just off Wenceslas Square), Prague 1. Tel: 221 131 111.
Open: Daily 02:00-24:00.

Postage rates
Domestic letters & postcards: 13czk (50g).
International letters & postcards: Europe 25czk (50g); Outside Europe 30czk (50g).

DHL: Opletalova (off Wenceslas Square), Prague 1. Tel: 840 103 000.
Open: Mon-Fri 08:00-18:30; Sat 09:00-15:00.

Telephone
International Dialling Code for Czech Republic: +420.

Most public telephones accept phone cards, which cost 200czk, 300czk and 500czk and are available to purchase from post offices and newsstands.

Useful & emergency telephone numbers
Directory enquiries: Czech numbers: 1180. International numbers: 1181.
General emergency: 112.
Fire: 150. Ambulance: 155. Municipal Police: 156. Police: 158.
First Aid: 141 23. Pharmacy: 141 24. Dental: 141 22.
Emergency Road Service: 1230/1240.

5. ELECTRICITY

As in most of northern and central Europe, the electricity supply in Prague is 230v. Electrical sockets take standard European two-pin plugs. British, North American and other tourists should bring adaptors, which can be purchased at your departure airport. To buy an adaptor in Prague, try Tesco or Euronics at Palladium Shopping Centre.

6. MEDICAL INFORMATION
Images by Google
Read also:


Doctors (Doktori) - 24 hour tourist services
Health Centre Prague International, Vodickova 28, 3rd entrance, 2nd floor, Prague 1.
Tel: Mon-Fri 08:00-17:00: 224 220 040; 24 hours emergency: 603 433 833.
Open: Mon-Fri 08:00-17:00.
Web: www.doctor-prague.cz.

Pharmacies (Lekarny)
There are many pharmacies, or chemists, in the city centre. Most are located in the New Town, including one in every shopping mall.

Dr. Max Lekarna, Vodickova 40 (off Wenceslas Square), Prague 1. Tel: 224 235 847.
Open: Mon-Fri 08:00-20:00; Sat 09:00-18:00.

Lekarna, Palladium Shopping Centre (Level -2), Náměstí Republiky, Prague 1.
Tel: 777 775 127.
Open: Thu-Sat 09:00-22:00; Sun-Wed 09:00-21:00.

Lekarna Opletalova, Opletalova 4 (off Wenceslas Square), Prague 1. Tel: 224 220 703.
Open: Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00; Sat 10:00-14:00.

Lékárna U červeného orla / Pharma Point, Havelska 14 (between Wenceslas Square & Old Town Square), Prague 1. Tel: 222 094 110.
Open: Mon-Fri 08:30-17:00.

Lekarna, Palackeho 5 (near Wenceslas Square), Prague 1. Tel: 224 946 982.
Open: Mon-Sun 24 hours.

Dr. Max Lekarna, Praha Hlavni Nadrazi (Main Train Station), Wilsonova 8, Prague 2.
Open: Mon-Fri 07:00-19:00; Sat-Sun 08:00-20:00.

Lekarna U svate Ludmily, Belgická 37, Prague 2. Tel: 222 513 396.
Open: Mon-Sun 24 hours.

Dentists (Zubari) - 24 hour tourist services
Prague City Dental, Klimentská 20, Prague 1. Tel: 775 785 222. Open: 24 hours.
Web: www.prague-dental.cz.

American Dental Associates, Hvězdova 33, Prague 4.
Tel: 241 410 001. Mobile: 733 737 337.
Open: Mon-Thu 08:00-20:00; Fri 08:00-16:00.
Web: www.americandental.cz.

7. TIPPING
Tips are naturally welcomed by workers in the tourist industry in Prague, although the feeling is relaxed. Staff do not generally chase tips. 5%-10% is appropriate. The exception is the very touristy restaurants, which Prague Experience do not list. To avoid them, you may wish to consider those appearing in our Prague restaurants listings.

8. PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION
The Prague public transport network is cheap, efficient and highly integrated. Public transportation runs frequently, during the day and at night, and a single ticket permits travel on all trams, buses and the metro.

9. DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
Prague is a safe city to walk around, and public transport, even at night, is used by everyone, young and old. Assaults are extremely rare. However, in any city a tourist is a target for the unscrupulous: Pickpockets are skillful, so keep a close eye on valuables; do not use your back pocket for your wallet, avoid hanging handbags on chairs in cafés. The golden rule: if you don't need to carry it, leave it in the hotel safe.

Beware over-charging. In restaurants, check the bill. In taxis, insist the driver puts the meter on - and if you take one without a meter, agree a price before you set off.

Prague Experience aims to help visitors enjoy their trip. Tourist services listed on this website have been tested and approved. Once listed, if they subsequently fall short (places do change), they are removed. For our Prague airport transfers we use polite, honest drivers. Our accommodation is of a high standard. Our restaurants serve great food, with good customer service. And we only list the best sightseeing tours, and the best performances at the opera houses and concert halls and theatres.

10. CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES AND INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
Images by Google

As we have said, Prague is a safe city to walk around, and to travel on public transport. Parents need have no extra concerns for their children over the normal care one would take in a city. But importantly, watch out for the trams when you cross roads.

There are many activities for children in Prague to enjoy. There are Gothic towers to climb, a funicular railway, swimming pools, parks and outdoor areas, museums, Prague Zoo, Sea World, river cruises and a host of puppet and theatre performances to choose from: children's activities in Prague.

Most restaurants and cafés welcome children, and some have high chairs for babies. Smoking can be a problem, so see our guide to family friendly restaurants which lists non-smoking restaurants. Kids' menus are rare, but waiters will happily suggest suitable dishes for children or they may offer half portions of adult meals.

11. WHEELCHAIRS, DISABLED ACCESS & BABY BUGGIES
Users of wheelchairs and baby buggies, and people with walking difficulties will be pleased to note that Prague is a compact city; distances between the sights and attractions are short. Stay in a hotel in the city centre (Prague 1) and you can participate in much of the sightseeing and entertainment without the use of public transport or taxis.

There are cobbled streets in parts of the city, notably in parts of the Old Town, Lesser Town and at Prague Castle. The cobbles can be a little hard going, but are not too onerous.

The main challenge wheelchair users face in Prague is an almost total lack of disabled toilets. Many buildings are ancient and have preservation orders on them, so cannot be adapted for wheelchairs. But in other cases, efforts just simply have not been made.

The New Town is generally the most suitable area to stay in. Road surfaces are more even. The hotels and apartments, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues tend to be more modern; buildings are more spacious and more likely to have lifts.

On public transport, accessibility for disabled passengers and baby buggies is greatly improving: half the Prague metro stations offer wheelchair access. Both international train stations in Prague have lifts to the platforms. Newer trams are adapted for wheelchairs and prams, and are becoming more common - public transport.

Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, so can be an option for travelling around Prague. But importantly, ask your hotel when you check in to recommend a reputable taxi firm.
For your arrival in Prague, we recommend using our Prague airport transfers service. Let us know your requirements and we will arrange for a suitable vehicle to meet you.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafés in Prague at street level. And while a number are situated in cellars and on roof terraces, many of these are serviced by lifts. We offer a guide to wheelchair accessible restaurants. But a word of caution, disabled toilets are almost non-existent: Prague restaurants with wheelchair access.

Most opera houses and concert halls and theatres are accessible to wheelchairs.

Many Prague sights and attractions are accessible to wheelchairs.

The following sightseeing tours and excursions are suitable for wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties, provided you advise us in advance: Prague Dinner River Cruise & City Tour, Traditional Czech Night, Karlovy Vary Sightseeing & Moser Glass Tour, Kutna Hora Sightseeing Tour and Terezin Memorial Tour. Wheelchair users should be able to walk a few steps, bring a folding wheelchair, and a travel companion to assist with getting on and off the coach. It may be necessary to forgo certain parts of the tour depending on your individual needs.

Because Prague is highly pedestrianised, there is no daytime tour of Prague we can recommend for wheelchair users or people with severe walking difficulties. But, for people who can walk reasonably well albeit at a slow pace, the Prague Grand City Sightseeing Tour & Boat Trip may be suitable - read the tour description thoroughly to be sure.

With regards to river cruises, access to the quayside is via a gentle ramp (which pedestrians, taxis and mini-coaches can use). And from the quayside, users of light folding wheelchairs can board all the river cruises we offer, provided you advise us of your requirements in advance (staff can assist where necessary). Heavy electric wheelchairs can only access certain boats. There are no disabled toilets.

If you are a wheelchair user or have walking difficulties, let us know at the time of booking. 
To book one of our tourist services, use the standard booking form and advise us of your medical condition and requirements in the Special Requests box.

12. LOST PROPERTY OFFICE
Prague 1, Karoliny Svetle 5. Tel: 224 235 085.
Mon & Wed 08:00-17:30; Tue & Thu 08:00-16:00; Fri 08:00-14:00.

13. VISA & PASSPORT INFORMATION
Images by Google

Nationals of the UK and EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, USA and a number of other countries can visit Prague without a visa.

The Czech Republic is a member of the EU and the Schengen area, so holders of a Schengen visa can enter the country. Other travelers may require a visa.

Passports for UK and EU nationals: your passport must be valid for the length of the visit.
Passports for other nationals: your passport must be valid for at least 90 days after your departure:
visa & passport information.

14. FOREIGN EMBASSIES & CONSULATES
Foreign Embassies in Prague: Foreign embassies in Prague
Czech Embassy in London: Czech Embassy in London
Czech Embassies Worldwide: Czech embassies worldwide.

15. CUSTOMS ALLOWANCES WITHIN THE EUROPEAN UNION (EU)
Arriving in Prague: If you travel from another EU country, you can bring an unlimited amount of most goods into Prague, including alcohol and tobacco, so long as they are for your personal use and are transported by you.

Leaving Prague: If you travel from Prague to another EU country, you can take an unlimited amount of most goods, including alcohol and tobacco, so long as they are for your personal use and are transported by you. If you are travelling to the UK, the official line is that customs officers are more likely to ask questions if you take over: 800 cigarettes. 400 cigarillos. 200 cigars. 1kg of smoking tobacco. 110 litres of beer. 90 litres of wine. 20 litres of fortified wine (up to 22%). 10 litres of spirits (over 22%).

16. MORE PRAGUE TOURIST INFORMATION
For information on the layout of the city and key facts: Prague tourism information, please visit www.pragueexperience.com


EmoticonEmoticon