🗓️First Month Guide Prague

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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