Can I swim in the river in Prague?

Yes, you can swim in the Vltava River in Prague, but it is generally recommended to do so upstream (south) of the city center, such as near Žluté lázně, Podolí, or Braník, where the water quality is better and the current is less dangerous. The central, fast-moving, and boat-heavy, navigation channel is dangerous.

Can you swim in the river in Prague?

You can go for a swim: swimming in Vltava became popular int the 1st half of the 19th century, when the river started to be lined with many beautiful swimming facilities (some of them in art nouveau style) – you can even visit some of those buildings today – for example so called Občanská plovárna (Civic swimming baths ...

How clean is the river in Prague?

It's quite clean in the southern part of the city (approximately upstream from Barrandov bridge), but it gets dirtier downstream from the center. The river is not useful for shipping because of the low capacity of the river locks and shallow depths.

Where can you swim in Prague?

Prague's largest swimming centre, the Podoli Swimming Pool Complex is located near the Vltava River by Vyšehrad Park. It is a ten minute tram ride from the city centre. Podoli consists of one Olympic sized 50m indoor swimming pool, two outdoor swimming pools of 50m and 33m in length, plus a paddling pool for children.

What to beware of in Prague?

Prague city police advise visitors to:

• always change money at a currency exchange or bank rather than on the street as this money is often counterfeit.
• take care when using cash machines.
• avoid contact with sex workers.
• be aware of consumption charges in night clubs as they are often high.

Over 40 swimmers brave icy Vltava River for Prague's Three Kings Swim

What is considered rude in Prague?

Czechs appreciate calm and quiet in public spaces. Loud or overly animated behavior can be considered disruptive. For example, keeping your voice low on public transport is not just polite but expected.

What not to do as a tourist in Prague?

What Not to Do in Prague on Your 1st Visit

• Thinking Matryoshka dolls and Trdlo/Trdelnikor are traditionally Czech.
• Missing out on traditional local dishes.
• Eating at a touristy “local” restaurant.
• Only coming to Prague for the beer.
• Just asking for “beer” from a bar or café
• Expecting everyone to be friendly.

Was Harry Potter filmed in Prague?

There was great excitement when it was announced that the fifth in the blockbuster Harry Potter film series - the Order of the Phoenix - was going to be filmed here in Prague.

Is Prague cheap or expensive?

Wondering “Is Prague expensive to visit”? Prague sits in a sweet spot: cheaper than Paris but pricier than Budapest. In 2025, mid-range travelers average €70–€140/day, while savvy backpackers thrive on €35/day.

Which side of the river is better in Prague?

Which side of the river is best to stay in Prague? In this guide, my top picks when it comes to all areas of Prague are Staré Mesto and Malá Strana. Staré Mesto is on the east side of the river and where most main tourist attractions are located.

Is it okay to speak English in Prague?

Don't worry—many people speak English: In most tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels, staff usually speak decent English. However, it's helpful to know a few Czech phrases for polite interactions.

What is the leading cause of death in the Czech Republic?

In 2024, a total of 112,211 people died in the Czech Republic. As in previous years, cardiovascular diseases remained by far the most common cause of death – led by coronary heart disease, followed by heart failure and strokes. This is according to the latest figures released today by the Czech Statistical Office.

What lives in the river in Prague?

Vltava River: Swans, Nutria and Ducks

The coypu or nutria is an exotic and native to South America. Investors saw a market in Europe for their fur and meat but once they realized that they had vastly overestimated its potential, they set the animals free. In 1929, the first nutrias appeared in the United Kingdom.

How polluted is the Vltava river?

According to ČSN 75 7143, Vltava water is “conditionally suitable” for irrigation at most sampling sites, i.e., the numbers of thermotolerant (fecal) coliform bacteria and enterococci range between 1,000 and 10,000 CFU/100 ml [15].

Can Brits drink the water in Prague?

Some general information you might find useful: Tap water is safe to drink all across the country, feel free to bring your reusable water bottle and fill it wherever.

What is the river in Prague called in English?

The Vltava is Prague's river and an important symbol of the Czech capital.

Do and don'ts in Prague?

Don't use your credit card in unknown places or small businesses. It's better to get cash (Czech koruna) from the bank or ATM for use in smaller shops, stands, and restaurants. Prague is a generally safe city, except for a relatively high risk of pickpocketing. A money belt or pouch may be a good idea.

Is $50,000 czk a good salary?

Generally, the average wage and above is considered good. But you need to factor in your lifestyle, expenses and where you'll be living. For example, cost of living in Prague will be higher than Bruno, Ostrava, or the countryside. Locals suggest that 50,000 Kč per month is enough to live in the city.

Was Titanic filmed in Prague?

@ W Prague, Once known as Grand Hotel Europa, this iconic spot features the Titanic dining room shooting location and the best bar experience in town.

Where is Hogwarts Castle?

Ever wondered 'where is the Harry Potter castle?' - well, you'll find answers right here at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland - one of the most iconic filming locations in the wizarding world, and an import Harry Potter castle location.

Where is the cave in the Half Blood Prince?

The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland form the original setting for this impressive scene. An eerie sight met their eyes: they were standing on the edge of a great black lake, so vast that Harry could not make out the distant banks, in a cavern so high that the ceiling, too, was out of sight.

Where not to eat in Prague?

Don't Eat at Tourist-Trap Restaurants

Avoid eateries directly on the Old Town Square or along the main tourist streets unless you are okay paying premium prices. Instead, venture a few streets away to find authentic Czech cuisine at more reasonable prices.

Is 100 Czech koruna a good tip?

In both Prague and the Czech Republic, it's standard practice to leave a tip, ideally 5% to 10% of the total bill, in restaurants and cafés. Locals usually round up the amount to the nearest 10 or 100 crowns. At the bottom of the receipt you'll see “service is not included”.

Is there a dress code for Prague?

Dress code and what to wear

In the summer time we recommend to wear long trousers (no mini skirts or shorts) and advise you to cover your shoulders if dressed in sleeveless tops primarily when attending a church concert or visiting synagogues. There are no restrictions when visiting black light theatres or jazz clubs.