Avoiding the Tourist Traps: 10 Pitfalls for Visitors in Prague
Prague, often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, is a must-visit destination for many travelers. However, like any popular tourist spot, it has its share of tourist traps that can detract from your experience. Here’s a list of ten pitfalls to avoid during your visit, helping you to have a more authentic and enjoyable time in this magical city.
After countless visits to Prague, I can confidently say I’ve encountered all the tourist traps this beautiful city has to offer. While I did indulge in the heavily overrated trdelník, I’ve managed to resist most other temptations.
Most visitors to Prague only stay for a few days, darting from one landmark to another in the throngs of tourists. It’s no wonder that the majority of these traps are conveniently located along the most popular routes.
Some even like the tourist traps
On local Czech websites, I often see heartfelt pleas urging people not to support these tourist traps. Unfortunately, many tourists - whether naive or just plain stupid - don’t even realize they’ve been caught in one. Even worse, some actually enjoy their experience in these traps!
If you belong to that group, bring plenty of cash and feel free to stop reading here.
However, if you choose to read on, you’ll soon be able to spot these traps around Prague, and you might even find it amusing how many people fall for them.
- A bag of candy for 15 euros at Captain Candy? No problem.
- A greasy pastry roll with a dab of ice cream and sauce for seven euros? Yes, please!
- An hour-long ride in a fake old-timer for more than hundred euros with three friends? It’s a holiday after all!
What is a tourist trap?
“A tourist destination that lacks genuine cultural, historical, geographical, or geological significance,
specifically designed to lure in tourists with the goal of making them spend as much money as possible.”
First of all, let me share some general secrets with you:
- When you spot "Traditional Czech" at a restaurant or shop, it often signals a tourist trap rather than an authentic experience. These places tend to offer low-quality food and drinks at inflated prices, especially around hotspots like Old Town Square and busy streets like Karlova and Mostecka, where you might end up paying double what you should.
- In Prague, street vendors aren’t allowed to sell goods, so if you see a red umbrella advertising something from a hop-on bus, be cautious - it's likely a tourist trap!
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Be cautious of restaurants that offer menus only in English, especially in tourist-heavy areas. They might cater primarily to tourists and charge higher prices for lower-quality food.
Are you ready for the ten most seen tourist traps in Prague.
Do whatever you want to do with this information.
But once you know it, you know it...
1. Trdelník: The Sweet Scam
You can’t stroll through the streets of Prague without encountering vendors selling trdelník, the sweet, doughnut-like pastry. While it may look tempting, this treat is not a traditional Czech delicacy and is often overpriced. Instead, seek out authentic Czech pastries like koláče or větrník from local bakeries, where you’ll get better quality and value.
- too expensive for what you get (5-8 euro)
- icecream with low quality (better go to creme de la creme for real ice)
- the trdelnik itself is not fresh/old most of the time and it will end up in a bin
2. Fake Old-Timer Rides
Tourists love the charm of a vintage car ride around the city, but beware of the fake old-timer taxis often parked near popular attractions.
These vehicles are not genuine vintage cars and can charge exorbitant rates. If you want to experience a classic ride, look for licensed, reputable services or opt for a regular taxi instead.
- too expensive (100-200 euro per ride)
- they are fake and probably unsafe
- no time to actually look at the sights
3. Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses
While these buses may seem like a convenient way to see the city, they often fall short in delivering value.
Many stops are close to major attractions, meaning you might miss out on exploring hidden gems on foot.
Instead, consider walking or using public transport to get a better feel for the city and its unique atmosphere.
- too expensive (30 euro for one day, that is one month of Public Transport, with more stops and more hop on hop off feeling)
- you have to wait a lot for a bus to arrive
- only a couple of stops in town
- sometimes a small van instead of a bus
- almost no explanation of the sights you are driving by
- you'll end up in traffic for half of the time
4. Candyshops: A Sugary Trap
Captain Candy is a popular candy shop in the Old Town, enticing tourists with its colorful displays. However, prices are inflated (5 euro for 100 grams) , and the quality is questionable.
You only know what you need to pay when you reach the cash register.
Instead, explore local shops that offer traditional Czech sweets and treats, where you can find delicious options at reasonable prices.
- too expensive
- old sweets (months or more)
5. ATM Scams (Euronet)
When withdrawing cash in Prague, be cautious of ATMs that charge high fees or offer poor exchange rates. Some machines are strategically placed in tourist areas and may also provide options that seem favorable but end up costing you more. Always use ATMs from reputable banks and avoid those in tourist-heavy spots.
- you lose money on a bad conversion rate
- you will probably withdraw too much money
6. Matryoshka Dolls: Not What You Think
While charming, the Russian matryoshka dolls sold at many souvenir shops are not a traditional Czech item. Tourists often purchase them, thinking they represent local culture, but they are actually a symbol of Russian heritage. If you’re looking for authentic Czech souvenirs, consider items like * Czech glass* or Czech garnet.
- not Czech at all, but a reminder of the oppression of communism and Russia
7. Ham Stands on Old Town Square
The ham stands in Old Town Square may be hard to resist with their tantalizing aroma, but the prices can be steep, and the quality is often mediocre. Instead, seek out local markets or smaller eateries where you can enjoy authentic Czech cuisine at more reasonable prices.
- more expensive than eating in a great restaurant
- they sell per gram, but you think it is per portion, so you will end up with 16 euro of ham on a plastic plate
- the ham might be hanging there for a day and it is burned
8. Thai Massage Shops
While a massage might sound appealing after a day of sightseeing, many Thai massage shops in Prague detract from the architectural beauty of the city. It has got nothing to do with the Czech culture and only attracts tourists. with fluorescent lighting and bored masseuses.
Instead, look for reputable wellness centers with good reviews to ensure a more relaxing experience.
- eyesore
- waste of beautiful architecture
- no cultural value in Prague
9. Taking Pictures with Animals for Money
This is just plain stupid. Why would you take a picture with an owl or a snake in Prague?
In popular tourist areas, you might encounter individuals offering to take pictures with animals, like birds or reptiles, for a fee. These practices are illegal, can be unethical and harmful to the animals involved. Instead of participating, consider taking photos of the beautiful surroundings or local street performers who are often more deserving of your attention.
- plain stupid
- animals might be harmed (An owl on a one-metre string to prevent it to fly away, was pulled down)
- no value at all
10. Souvenir Shops Filled with Junk and Kitsch
Finally, be cautious of souvenir shops filled with low-quality trinkets and mass-produced items. These often cater to tourists looking for quick, cheap buys. To find meaningful mementos, explore local artisan markets or shops that sell handmade crafts and unique items representative of Czech culture.
- Too expensive for AliExpress/Temu quality
- Fluorescent lighting
- Eyesore, waste of architecture and historical buildings
- No cultural value
Final Thoughts
By being aware of these tourist traps, you can make the most of your time in Prague and immerse yourself in the city’s authentic culture. Instead of falling for gimmicks, explore the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant local scene that make Prague such a beloved destination. Enjoy your adventure in this enchanting city!
You Love Prague