Prague has one of the highest pickpocket rates in Europe. Be aware of this risk and take steps to protect yourself from being the victim of a pickpocket in the Czech capital. All it takes is being aware of your surroundings, taking easy precautions, and knowing how this type of thief works.
High risk pickpocket areas
Your risk of pickpockets increases when you visit the tourist areas of Prague. These and other crowded areas will see more action from street scammers during peak season, when more tourists flock to the city and visit top attractions and landmarks. These areas include:
- charles bridge
- Karlova Street
- Old town square
- Wenceslas Square
Thieves do not limit their activities to these areas. They hang out in any crowded area. People have also been robbed on the Prague metro and trams.
Avoid Prague pickpockets
Prague pickpockets are professionals and can steal your money, credit cards and other valuables without attracting attention. To avoid pickpockets in Prague:
- Be careful of your surroundings. Being aware is the number one strategy to avoid pickpockets. Not only will you be aware let you know what is happening around you, if you make yourself look up to it, pickpockets can become an easy victim.
- Don’t underestimate the skill of pickpockets. Tricks practiced, teamwork and an eye for those who do not know are some of the tools they use to steal travelers’ money.
- Take only what you need for that day and leave the rest in your hotel safe: extra cash, credit cards, and your passport. Even if a pickpocket chooses you as a victim, you will not be cleared if you follow this strategy.
- If you see money on the sidewalk, let it sit. Some scammers stick money on the sidewalk and prey on those who bend over to pick it up.
- Always be careful if someone comes across you and spills a drink or ice cream on your clothing. This is another known ruse to distract the victim and gain access to their belongings.
- Never change money on the street. Use designated cash exchanges to avoid being dangerously scammed.
Carry your money safely
The way you carry your money determines, in part, your likelihood of being stolen. Use the following tips:
- Bring your money close to you. Some people prefer money belts as the safest option.
- If you don’t like the idea of a money belt, use a pocket wall. Slip your hand into your pocket and grab your wallet when entering crowded spaces.
- If you carry your money in a bag, choose a bag designed with a lid that closes securely. In crowded areas and on public transportation, carry the bag in front of you with your arm pressed against the opening. Shorter strap bags are easier to keep close to you than long strap bags.
- For minor transactions, keep cash in a separate compartment to avoid showing all your money when paying for your purchases.
- If you are traveling with a backpack, keep it in front of or under your arm. Pickpockets adapt to access backpacks that are used in the traditional way without the owner knowing.
When you travel to Prague you will also determine your probability of encountering thieves. Shoulder seasons will mean fewer crowds, giving you ample space to survey your surroundings, while high summer means the best opportunities for pickpockets to choose who to steal from.
