'Learn some Czech and expect rudeness': Expats share advice for Prague newcomers

Moving to a new country is daunting. A different language, culture, and ways of doing things—from navigating public transport and finding an apartment to greeting strangers—can make settling in a tough test, with various culture shocks to be expected.

We asked expats who have already moved to Prague for one piece of advice they would give people planning on moving to the Czech capital, or even thinking about doing so.

Language was a central theme of the responses, with most expats advising potential newcomers to know some basic Czech before moving here. This, many suggested, makes life easier.

“Start learning Czech from day one. Don't wait,” said Bryson from the U.S., with many echoing the same sentiment.  

Not knowing Czech can lead to some problematic issues. “The foreign police and Immigration Office don’t speak English,” warned Chloe from Andorra. 

On a more practical level, for foreigners who don’t speak Czech, Catherine from Italy suggested “finding a Czech friend—you’ll need it when sorting any documents.” Oscar, who is Portuguese, also recommended to “find a reliable translator from day one.”

Not everyone thought knowing Czech was crucial, though. “I can't really agree with people who say Czech is a top priority. Ninety percent of people in Prague speak English and—on the rare occasions they don't—I use an AI translation app,” said one expat.

Adapting to cultural differences—mainly seen in Czechs’ behavior and interactions—was also popular advice.

“Be prepared for xenophobic interactions from Czech locals,” bluntly said Hana.

“Depending on where you are moving from, living in this area might present a pretty significant cultural shock,” said Joshua, who moved from Ohio in the U.S. to Prague.

Similarly, Instagram user Afm1ko said: “If you previously lived in the UK or the U.S., then you will have difficulties understanding the Czech post-Soviet attitude.

Gabriele from Lithuania more bluntly said: “Prepare yourself for extremely rude Czechs.” Another expat, Christy, told people to “not take Czechs’ occasional coldness personally.”

Instagram user fuka_kohara commented that the way locals speak can shape perceptions about the Czech attitude: “Don't expect the tone of English to be the same as in UK or U.S. Their attitude is very direct—maybe curt—but they don't mean to be so,” they said.

Several people offered practical tips and words of advice to navigate through Prague. 

“Finding a place is way more difficult than you might think,” said Otto. “Start house-hunting early,” suggested Payal from the Philippines.

“Buy an annual transport pass; remember that local transport and walking arefast and reliable. Leave shopping for the holidays, unless you enjoy empty shelves and long lines,” advised Jaroslav from Ukraine. 

He also advised against “buying fake weed” and damningly remarked that: “Trdelník is a no.”

Julia from Poland advised newcomers to download the PID Lítačka application, and Marcelina—also hailing from Poland—issued a stark reminder: “Don’t try riding without a ticket: inspectors are everywhere.”

Sorting paperwork- and government administration-related dealings also got a few mentions. “Set aside plenty of time to receive your government paperwork,” remarked Instagram user st_slayer. Chloe also said: that the “bureaucracy is a never-ending story.”

Ultimately, moving to a new country greatly depends on your effort and who you meet along the way.

“Locals are not uniform. Many appreciate attempts to speak Czech, while others are indifferent and used to English. Some are reserved and inscrutable, others open and friendly. A few dislike everyone, but most are like locals anywhere.” 

Instagram user Laylamarinojournalist told newcomers to Prague to simply “learn to take things on the chin, and quickly,” and another person advised newcomers to “not get discouraged along the way, as integrating can take some time.”