British Embassy: Thunovska 14, Prague; 0042 257 402 370. Open Mon-Friday, 9am-5pm
Czech emergency services: dial 112
Prague Information Service: Staroměstské náměstí 1 (0042 221 714 444; praguewelcome.cz)
Local laws & etiquette: Czech law requires that you always have personal ID about your person, so keep your passport on you.
• When you address someone, whether to share a table in a pub or to buy something in a shop, say “dobrý den” for “good day” or “dobrý večer” for “good evening.”
• Most Czechs in Prague’s centre speak excellent English – but greatly appreciate your attempts at a few phrases of Czech, even if it’s just “děkuji” for “thank you” or “prosím” for “please.”
• Prague is, for better or worse, used to hordes of mates on drinking rampages – but recent laws banned public drinking in many of the city’s main parks so best to be discreet in between pub visits. A smoking ban has been in effect since 2017 that encompasses all restaurants, bars and many public spaces including tram stops.
• Despite reports to the contrary, drugs, even for personal use, are not legal in the Czech Republic, although enforcement for casual users is rare.