First month guide in Prague

1. 1

   Register Your Residence (Hlášení pobytu)

   essential

   Within 30 days of arrival, register at the Ministry of Interior (MOI) or Foreign Police. This is essential for legal residency.

2. 2

   Get a Local SIM Card

   essential

   Purchase a Czech SIM from providers like Vodafone, O2, or T-Mobile. Essential for communication, internet, and setting up other services.

3. 3

   Open a Czech Bank Account

   essential

   Set up an account with expat-friendly banks like Fio banka or Air Bank. This simplifies rent payments, utility bills, and daily transactions.

4. 4

   Get Your Lítačka Public Transport Pass

   essential

   Purchase a Lítačka card for unlimited travel on Prague's excellent metro, tram, and bus network. It's cost-effective and convenient.

5. 5

   Arrange Health Insurance

   essential

   Secure comprehensive health insurance. Options include VZP, Slavia, or Kooperativa, depending on your visa type and employment status.

6. 6

   Find a General Practitioner (GP)

   recommended

   Locate a local GP who speaks English. Websites like KnowAndCan.cz can help in your search for a primary care doctor.

7. 7

   Understand Czech ID Numbers (Rodné číslo)

   nice-to-have

   Learn about the Rodné číslo (birth number), which serves as your unique identifier for many official services and accounts.

8. 8

   Utilize Online Translators (Seznam Slovník)

   recommended

   Use Seznam Slovník or Google Translate for quick Czech-English translations. It helps with basic communication and understanding documents.

9. 9

   Activate Czech Bank ID (Bankovní Identita)

   nice-to-have

   Once you have a Czech bank account, activate Bankovní Identita for secure online government services and digital signatures.

10. 10

    Be Aware of Common Scams

    essential

    Familiarize yourself with common scams, especially those targeting expats in housing or online transactions, to stay safe.

1. 1

   Understand Lease Types (Nájemní vs. Podnájemní)

   essential

   Know the difference between 'Nájemní smlouva' (main lease) and 'Smlouva o podnájmu' (sublease) to protect your rights.

2. 2

   Register for Utilities (If Applicable)

   essential

   Confirm who is responsible for utility registration (electricity, gas, internet). Often, landlords handle this, but clarify to avoid issues.

3. 3

   Explore Local Grocery Stores

   essential

   Shop at Albert, Billa, Lidl, or Kaufland for daily groceries. For online delivery, try Rohlik.cz or Kosik.cz for convenience.

4. 4

   Visit Farmers' Markets

   recommended

   Experience local culture and fresh produce at markets like Jiřák (Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad) or Náplavka on the Vltava riverbank.

5. 5

   Learn Waste Sorting Rules

   recommended

   Understand Prague's waste sorting system: different colored bins for plastics, paper, glass, and mixed waste. It's environmentally friendly and mandatory.

6. 6

   Master Basic Czech Phrases

   essential

   Learn 'Dobrý den' (Good day), 'Prosím' (Please/You're welcome), 'Děkuji' (Thank you), and 'Na shledanou' (Goodbye) for daily interactions.

7. 7

   Locate Local Post Office (Česká pošta)

   nice-to-have

   Find your nearest Česká pošta branch for sending/receiving mail and handling official documents. Be prepared for queues.

8. 8

   Familiarize Yourself with Neighborhood Amenities

   essential

   Explore your immediate surroundings for pharmacies (Lékárna), doctors, and local shops. Knowing your neighborhood is key to settling in.

9. 9

   Understand Deposit Refund Procedures

   essential

   Clarify the conditions for your security deposit refund with your landlord or agency to avoid disputes when moving out.

10. 10

    Set Up Home Internet and TV

    recommended

    Contact providers like UPC (now Vodafone) or O2 for internet and TV services, if not already included in your rent.

1. 1

   Join Expat Facebook Groups

   essential

   Connect with groups like 'Expats in Prague' or 'Prague International Meetup Group' for advice, events, and networking opportunities.

2. 2

   Attend Language Exchange Meetups

   recommended

   Find language exchange events on Meetup.com or through local language schools. It's a great way to practice Czech and meet people.

3. 3

   Explore Local Cafes and Pubs

   essential

   Discover Prague's vibrant cafe scene (e.g., EMA espresso bar) and traditional pubs (e.g., Lokál Dlouhááá). They are excellent social hubs.

4. 4

   Engage in Sports or Hobbies

   recommended

   Join a local sports club, gym, or hobby group. Whether it's a running club in Riegrovy Sady or an art class, it fosters connections.

5. 5

   Volunteer for a Local Cause

   nice-to-have

   Contribute to a local charity or organization. It's a rewarding way to meet like-minded people and integrate into the community.

6. 6

   Check Out Cultural Event Listings

   essential

   Use websites like GoOut.cz or Expats.cz events calendar to find concerts, exhibitions, and festivals happening around the city.

7. 7

   Utilize University Student Organizations

   essential

   If you're a student, engage with Erasmus Student Network (ESN) or other university clubs for social events and support.

8. 8

   Network at Co-working Spaces

   nice-to-have

   If you're a professional, consider using co-working spaces like Opero or K10. They often host events and provide networking opportunities.

9. 9

   Explore Dating Apps with a Local Focus

   nice-to-have

   For those seeking romantic connections, dating apps can also be a way to meet locals and other expats in a less formal setting.

10. 10

    Spend Time in Prague's Parks

    recommended

    Enjoy the city's beautiful green spaces like Letná Park or Petřín Hill. They're popular spots for picnics, walks, and casual socializing.

1. 1

   Master Prague Public Transport (DPP)

   essential

   Learn the metro, tram, and bus routes. The DPP website and Lítačka app are indispensable for planning journeys and checking schedules.

2. 2

   Use Ride-Sharing Apps

   recommended

   For convenient and affordable taxi services, download Bolt, Liftago, or Uber. They're widely used and reliable in Prague.

3. 3

   Understand Czech Currency (Koruna) and Tipping

   essential

   Familiarize yourself with the Czech Koruna (Kč) and local tipping etiquette, typically rounding up or 5-10% for good service.

4. 4

   Avoid Tourist Traps

   essential

   Be wary of overpriced exchange offices, street vendors selling fake goods, and overly aggressive restaurant touts in highly touristy areas.

5. 5

   Memorize Emergency Numbers

   essential

   Know 112 (general emergency), 155 (ambulance), 158 (police), and 150 (fire brigade). Essential for any unforeseen circumstances.

6. 6

   Learn Basic Local Customs and Etiquette

   recommended

   For example, removing shoes when entering someone's home, and generally being polite and respectful in public spaces.

7. 7

   Utilize Map Apps (Google Maps, Mapy.cz)

   essential

   Google Maps is great, but Mapy.cz (Czech-developed) often provides more detailed local information, especially for hiking or public transport connections.

8. 8

   Consider Car or Bike Sharing Options

   nice-to-have

   For short trips, explore services like Rekola (bike sharing) or car-sharing apps. They offer flexible and eco-friendly transport alternatives.

9. 9

   Be Aware of Noise Regulations

   nice-to-have

   Prague has strict noise regulations, especially after 10 PM. Be mindful of your neighbors, particularly in residential areas.

10. 10

    Carry Small Change (Coins)

    recommended

    Many smaller shops, public toilets, or markets prefer or require cash, especially coins. It's always good to have some on hand.

• Don't underestimate the power of 'Ahoj' and 'Dobrý den'. A little Czech goes a long way with locals, opening doors and easing interactions beyond tourist areas.
• Always use the official Lítačka app or website for public transport passes; avoid third-party resellers. Fines for invalid tickets are hefty and non-negotiable.
• For best exchange rates, use an ATM from a reputable bank like Fio or Air Bank, and always choose to be charged in CZK, not your home currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees.
• When apartment hunting, prioritize viewings immediately. Good shared housing in central, well-connected districts like Vinohrady or Žižkov gets snapped up incredibly fast due to high demand.
• Join local Facebook groups like 'Prague Expats' or 'Flatshare Prague' for real-time advice and community support; they're invaluable for navigating daily life and finding hidden gems.

This guide is tailored specifically for Prague, reflecting its unique blend of historical charm and modern expat life. The advice on bureaucracy like residence registration, specific public transport (Lítačka), and local banking options (Fio, Air Bank) directly addresses the Czech system. Housing challenges and community building tips are also framed within Prague's competitive rental market and vibrant social scene.

• Best neighborhoods
• Cost of living
• Moving checklist
• Student discounts
• Public transport
• Pet-Friendly living
• Expat community
• Remote work cafés
• Neighbourhoods

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Flatshare etiquette
• Phone & internet
• Banking for expats