How to speak in Prague?

In Prague, you can easily navigate the city using English, as it is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations. While Czech is the official language, learning a few basic phrases like Dobrý den (Good day), Prosím (Please), and Děkuji (Thank you) is appreciated and polite.

How do you say hello in Prague?

Dobrý den (dob-ree den) = Hello, Good afternoon.

Is Prague friendly for English speakers?

Prague, a city known for its thriving tourism and international appeal, has seen a steady increase in English proficiency over the years. While Czech is the primary language spoken by locals, English is widely understood and used, particularly in certain demographics and professions.

How do you say thank you in Prague?

In Czech, the most simple way of saying “Thank you” is: Děkuji. Děkuji is a verb, and the dictionary form is děkovat which in English will be translated as “to thank.” So literally translated, the word děkuji means “(I) thank.” Another simple and common way of saying “Thank you” is the word Díky.

How to answer jak se mas?

The answer to the question above, Jak se máš? or Jak se máte?, is usually Děkuju, dobře ("Thank you, I'm fine"). A more casual answer is díky, dobře ("thanks, I'm fine"). One can also say just jo, dobře ("I'm fine"), jde to ("Not too bad"), or výborně ("Great").

Learn the Basics: Czech

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.

Is it rude not to tip in Prague?

General Tipping Culture in Prague. Tipping in Prague is a customary practice but not as rigidly defined as in some other countries. While tipping is appreciated in many situations, it's not always expected, and the amount largely depends on the quality of service and personal preference.

Is it better to use cash or card in Prague?

If you have a debit card, use this, as the associated transaction fees are typically lower than those for credit cards. If a credit card is your only option, it is still preferable over other methods of exchange. 2. Use the ATM of a Czech or European bank, and if possible, use an ATM at an actual bank.

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 Prague famous for eating?

Chlebíčky is a popular and tasty food in Prague. Chlebíčky (open-faced sandwiches) are a particularly popular food native to Prague. They were invented in 1919 and quickly became a staple of the city's artistic elite, eaten by all the actors in the nearby National Theater.

How to be polite in Prague?

Use titles and last names unless invited to use first names, which typically happens in more informal settings. Respect Personal Space: Czechs value personal space, and maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations is appreciated. Avoid physical contact unless you've developed a close relationship.

Can you say "dobry den" at night?

The general formal daytime greeting, used from morning until late is dobrý den, meaning literally good day. That's what Czechs say when they meet a stranger, somebody older or somebody of higher status. The same applies to dobré ráno or good morning, only this greeting is usable only until about 10 am.

What are 5 ways to greet?

Five common forms of greeting include simple verbal greetings ("Hello," "Hi"), time-based greetings ("Good morning," "Good afternoon"), well-being inquiries ("How are you?", "How's it going?"), greetings for familiar faces ("Nice to see you"), and formal introductions ("Pleased to meet you"). These vary from casual chats with friends to formal encounters, showing different levels of respect and familiarity. 

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.

Is it safe to walk in Prague at night?

In fact, Prague is considered one of the safest destinations in the whole area. However, like any big city, there are some areas that are not recommended for walking around at night. Most of these less safe areas are located away from where you would normally move around as a tourist.

Is 10% tip insulting?

Yes, in the U.S., a 10% tip is often considered low and potentially insulting for standard sit-down restaurant service, where 15-20% is the norm, but it can be acceptable for mediocre service or in regions where tipping culture differs (like parts of Europe). The perception depends heavily on location, service quality, and the type of establishment, with fine dining expecting more and takeaway sometimes expecting less, but a 10% tip generally signals dissatisfaction with service in America. 

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.

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”.

How to reply to ni hai?

The easiest reply to ni hao is offering a ni hao in return, but taking the greeting one step further is sure to get a smile during the interaction. Regardless, you should reply with something—not acknowledging someone's friendly ni hao is bad etiquette.

Why do Czechs say "ahoj"?

Czechs say "ahoj" (pronounced "ahoy") as a casual "hi" or "bye" because the term, adopted from English sailors' "ahoy," became popular in the 1920s and 30s through water sports (rowing, canoeing) and youth movements like Scouting, spreading from these groups into general use, despite the landlocked nation's lack of large seafaring traditions.