Studying in Prague: A student survival guide to discounts, nightlife, and more

So you’ve decided to attend university in Prague, perhaps due to the city's breathtaking scenery, or its relatively low cost of living. Regardless, enrolling in school in a foreign country can feel like getting dropped in the deep end. Don’t panic yet, and welcome to your student handbook featuring advice from a fellow international student to make your transition as smooth and financially friendly as possible.

No matter how far from home a college student is going, not knowing what to pack is an issue for us all. Every individual will inevitably make their own mistakes, but generally speaking, there are a few things that may be harder to come by in Prague and some that should probably be picked up upon arrival.

One of the best ways to save money is to ensure you are using your student discount. To do this, you need an ISIC card, which is an identification card available to students across the Czech Republic and internationally; some of its most practical applications are for phone services and transportation. It is common for universities to issue them with a small fee, but you can also buy one online here if they do not. 

Prague has various grocery store options, ranging from premium to budget-friendly. Consider shopping at discount supermarkets like Lidl or Penny Market which often offer lower prices than larger chains.

Grocery delivery in Prague is another way to save money on food. Platforms such as Rohlík or Košik often offer deep discounts. And many stores have "ugly" produce bins with discounted produce. Beware of mini markets in the city center, which are likely more expensive than elsewhere due to the influx of tourists.

Prague’s dynamic nightlife appeals to many students, especially those who have just reached legal drinking age. However, clubbing is also known to bring plenty of challenges for newbies. Frida Dunetz, a fellow expat student and employee at one of Prague’s most popular clubs, offers some of her wisdom in this regard. 

She suggests that students should check out Duplex on weekdays for their student discounts or Chapeau Rouge, which has cheaper drinks than other clubs in the city center. She also recommends not getting too intoxicated to avoid potentially dangerous or needlessly expensive situations. "Taxis can charge you between CZK 500 and CZK 1000 [more] if they see you’re drunk and unfamiliar with the city," Dunetz says. She suggests taking an Uber or Bolt home instead. 

Overall, Prague is easy to navigate, reasonably priced, and full of opportunities for students. Equipped with this information, it will only get easier to find your rhythm as a student in the Czech Republic.