Emergency Help Abroad – Czech Republic

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting The Czech Republic — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession or use of illegal drugs can result in fines or criminal charges.

• Carrying weapons, including certain knives or sprays, without lawful reason is prohibited.

• Drink-driving laws are extremely strict — the legal limit is zero alcohol.

• Police regularly conduct roadside breath tests.

• Bringing illegal substances into the country can result in arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Respect is expected in churches, historic squares, museums and cultural sites.

• Littering, vandalism and damage to monuments are criminal offences.

• Public intoxication is taken seriously, particularly around cultural or residential areas.

• Be respectful of local customs in smaller towns and villages.

• Noise disturbances in residential buildings may result in fines.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification — keep your passport or a clear copy with you.

• Pickpocketing and bag-theft occur in busy areas, especially Prague’s Old Town, Charles Bridge and transport hubs.

• Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet or poorly lit neighbourhoods.

• Be cautious near bars or clubs — drink-spiking can occur.

• Attempting to bribe officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Public transport requires a valid ticket that must be validated — inspectors issue on-the-spot fines.

• Speed limits and road laws are strictly enforced.

• Only use licensed taxis or reputable apps; avoid drivers offering rides on the street.

• Overstaying your permitted stay in the Schengen zone may lead to penalties.

• Parking violations or entering restricted zones (e.g., historic centres) can result in fines.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drones are regulated and may be banned in central Prague and near government or military zones.

• Avoid photographing police stations, embassies or security facilities.

• Some churches and museums restrict photography — follow signage.

• Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural areas.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing stones, plants or natural materials from protected areas is prohibited.

• Hiking outside marked trails in national parks is unsafe and may incur fines.

• Swimming in unmonitored lakes or rivers can be risky.

• Lighting fires or barbecues outside designated areas is forbidden.

• Feeding wildlife in protected forests is discouraged.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging castles, monuments, churches or archaeological sites is a criminal offence.

• Removing artefacts or historic materials from heritage zones is illegal.

• Entering closed or restricted cultural areas without permission is forbidden.

• Buying items made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels relaxed or routine in the UK may not align with local customs or regulations in the Czech Republic.

• Don’t cross streets on red pedestrian lights, even if no cars are coming — fines apply.

• Don’t treat historic buildings like photo props, and avoid leaning or climbing on fragile surfaces.

• Don’t leave valuables exposed in parked cars, especially in Prague’s tourist districts.

• Don’t assume all bars accept cards, and carry some cash for smaller pubs.

• Don’t forget to validate public transport tickets, as inspectors issue on-the-spot fines.

• Don’t speak loudly on trams or in restaurants, where calm conversation is preferred.

• Don’t drink alcohol in prohibited public areas, especially in central Prague.

• Don’t underestimate slippery cobblestones after rain or snow, which can be hazardous.

• Don’t disrespect churches or monasteries, where modest behaviour is expected.

• Don’t take photos where signs forbid it, especially in certain museums or historic venues.

• Don’t litter in parks or along rivers, where fines may apply.

• Don’t assume English is spoken everywhere, particularly in rural towns.

• Don’t be aggressive when negotiating prices, which is rare outside markets.

• Don’t underestimate winter weather, which can be icy and cold.

• Don’t walk alone in very quiet backstreets late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

• Don’t swim in rivers without checking currents, particularly the Vltava.

• Don’t cycle on pavements, unless specifically marked.

• Don’t touch or disturb memorials, which hold historical significance.

• Don’t rely on free Wi-Fi, as it may be slow or unavailable outside main areas.

• Don’t block sidewalks when stopping for photos, especially in narrow old-town streets.