With so much on offer in this beautiful city, Prague offers expats a high quality of life for a reasonable price. The lifestyle in Prague boasts a vibrant atmosphere, rich history and gorgeous architecture.
Expats moving to Prague can enjoy everything from visiting its gothic historical sites to its entertaining cultural events. Everyone from cinephiles, melophiles, aesthetes and nature-loving expats will be catered to in Prague.
Shopping in Prague
With several streets and malls full of local and international brands, as well as boutique and vintage thrift stores in the city, shopaholics will certainly not struggle to get their fill in Prague. In New Town, expats can go to both Wenceslas Square and the pedestrian mall Na Příkopě for local shops and international brands.
Situated near Old Town Square, Parízská Street and its luxury boutiques are where to go in Prague for high-end shopping. Those searching for thrifty vintage ware should look no further than U Elektry Market, the largest flea market in Europe. Kotva Department Store, situated in Republic Square, is a mini shopping mall as well as a cultural monument and is a great place to search for pocket-friendly deals and discounts.
Nightlife in Prague
The nightlife in Prague cannot be rivalled by any other Eastern European country. Boasting the biggest mega club in Central Europe, Karlovy lázně, and an abundance of underground pubs and beer gardens, expats will have no trouble finding something to suit their mood any night of the week.
Old Town is known for its after-dark scene, with great clubs and cheap drinks. Lucerna Music Bar, near Wenceslas Square, is a nightclub that is well worth a visit; it is also one of the most popular venues for music concerts in the city.
Eating out in Prague
From traditional Czech food to all sorts of international cuisine and from cheap meals on the go to deluxe fine-dining experiences, Prague has it all. Eating in the more tourist-friendly areas, such as Old Town, will surely put a dent in one’s budget, but it may be worth it for the delectable food on offer in this part of the city.
That said, there are spots all over Prague serving mouth-watering dishes, from Czech food and Middle Eastern cuisine to Italian and Vietnamese restaurants. Expats in Prague will not have to go far to experience delicious food, but it may be worth inquiring about the best places to go for Czech food from the locals themselves.
Sports and outdoor activities in Prague
With plenty of parks and gardens to explore in Prague, expats can spend an afternoon in the sun, surrounded by nature, without leaving the city. Going for a walk or hike is also a possibility, as many of the parks contain trails and hills that are sure to get an expat's heart rate going.
Ice hockey and football are the most celebrated sports in Prague and gather large crowds of supporters when local or international teams play. For those wanting to get involved in playing themselves, there are clubs to join in all sorts of sports. Basketball, handball, volleyball, athletics and, of course, ice hockey and football are all popular sports in Prague, with leagues that compete for some friendly fun.
Where to meet people and make friends in Prague
Moving to a new country or city is often a life-altering experience, and building new relationships can be one of the most intimidating aspects of the move. Below are a few suggestions for expats looking to meet new people in Prague.
Handipet Rescue
Animal lovers can meet fellow pet lovers at Handipet Rescue. This non-profit organisation rehabilitates and cares for dogs and cats with physical disabilities, with the aim of rehoming these pets.
International Women's Association of Prague
Expat women of all nationalities will be welcomed at the International Women's Association of Prague (IWAP). Expats looking to make friends while making a difference in their local Czech community can join one of the association's many volunteer and charity projects.
Prague Cricket Club
Founded by British, Australian, Indian and Pakistani expats and some Czech locals, the Prague Cricket Club has been a haven for cricket lovers in the city since 1997. The club also hosts a women's cricket league, making it the perfect place to meet like-minded people.
Friendship Prague
Connected to the Help Prague's Homeless group, Friendship Prague is an English-speaking non-profit organisation whose aim is to support and extend friendship to Czechs and expats alike. The organisation collects food, clothing and sanitary essentials every weekend, allowing expats the opportunity to positively contribute to Prague's local homeless community while building lifelong friendships.
Further reading
►For more on how to keep busy on days off, read See and Do in Prague.
►Read about the different festivals and events hosted by the city each year in What's On in Prague.
What do expats say about the lifestyle in Prague?
"In Prague, it is very easy to meet people. For example, my family and I go to the park from time to time to make a fire and enjoy an evening with hot sausages cooked on the fire and a cold beer. Usually other random people come along and join us, so you can connect with them." Learn about how Juris has adapted to the city since he moved to Prague in 2018.
Image credits: Dance again LED sign by Sam Mar; A park with trees and a church in Prague by Marie Bellando Mitjans. Both from Unsplash.
Are you an expat living in Prague?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Prague. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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