Prague is generally a safe city for tourists. Violent crime is uncommon, and I regularly travel around the city alone, including late at night.
However, pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas and on public transport. Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, busy Metro stations, and popular trams are places where you should pay more attention to your belongings.
Are pickpockets bad in Prague? They are not something you need to fear, but you should know how they operate. This guide explains the common tricks and simple ways to protect your phone, wallet, and bags.
Is Prague Generally a Safe City?
Official statistics show that Czechia has a high level of safety. In the 2025 Global Peace Index, the country ranked 11th out of 163 countries.
The crime figures below cover the whole Czech Republic, not only Prague. However, they provide useful context:
- 2023: 181,417 recorded crimes
- 2024: 173,322 recorded crimes
- 2025: 170,051 recorded crimes
The number of recorded crimes fell in both 2024 and 2025.
Reported pickpocketing also decreased:
- 2023: 5,783 cases
- 2024: 4,161 cases
- 2025: 3,384 cases
This does not mean that pickpocketing has disappeared. Tourists should still pay attention in crowded places, especially around major attractions and on busy public transport.
The figures come from the Czech Statistical Office, based on data from the Police of the Czech Republic.
Are Pickpockets Common in Prague?
Pickpocketing can happen in Prague, but it is mainly a risk in crowded places where tourists gather. Most visitors do not experience any problems during their trip.
You should be especially careful in:
- Old Town Square and nearby streets
- Charles Bridge
- Wenceslas Square
- Prague Castle and the tram stops below it
- Busy Metro stations such as Můstek, Muzeum, and Florenc
- Prague Main Railway Station
- Crowded trams, especially lines 22 and 23
Pickpockets often work in groups and use distractions. One person may block your way, bump into you, or attract your attention while another takes something from your pocket or bag.
You do not need to avoid these places. Keep your phone and wallet in a secure place and pay attention when someone stands unusually close to you.
Common Pickpocket Tricks on Prague Public Transport
Crowded trams, Metro trains, stations, and escalators give pickpockets an opportunity to get close to you. They often work in pairs or groups and use distractions to hide what they are doing.
Blocking the Door
One person may suddenly stop or move slowly while people are entering a tram or Metro train. This creates a crowd near the door. While you are focused on getting inside, another person may try to reach into your pocket or bag.
Keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets and make sure your bag is closed before boarding.
Bumping Into You
Someone may bump into you when a tram brakes, while you are walking through a busy station, or on a crowded escalator. The contact may look accidental, but it can distract you while another person reaches for your belongings.
If someone bumps into you unexpectedly, check your phone, wallet, and bag.
Stopping an Escalator
Police have warned about groups of pickpockets using emergency-stop buttons on escalators, particularly at busy train or Metro stations.
One person may suddenly stop the escalator. When passengers lose their balance or reach for the handrail, other members of the group use the confusion to steal from pockets or bags.
If an escalator stops unexpectedly, hold your belongings close and check that your phone and wallet are still secure.
Using a Jacket as a Cover
A person may carry a jacket, coat, newspaper, or bag over one arm. They can use it to hide their hand while opening a pocket or bag in a crowded vehicle.
Be careful when someone stands very close to you even though there is more space available.
Targeting Sleeping Passengers
A sleeping passenger is an easier target, particularly on night trams and buses. A phone held loosely in your hand or a bag placed beside you can be taken without waking you.
If you are very tired, keep your belongings secured and avoid falling asleep. After a late night, you can also use an official taxi or a ride-hailing app such as Bolt or Uber.
Common Pickpocket Tricks in Prague Tourist Areas
Pickpockets also use distractions in crowded streets and around popular attractions. Be particularly careful around Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, and busy Christmas markets.
The Accidental Bump
Someone may bump into you on a crowded street and pretend it was an accident. While you are distracted, that person or an accomplice may try to take something from your pocket or bag.
If someone bumps into you unexpectedly, check your belongings and move away from the crowd before continuing.
The Fake Charity Petition
Someone holding a clipboard may ask you to sign a petition or donate to a charity. The clipboard can block your view while another person reaches into your bag or pocket.
Do not hand over money or take out your wallet. Politely refuse and continue walking. If the person follows you or becomes aggressive, move toward a shop, hotel, or police officer.
Creating a Distraction
One person may ask for directions, spill something on your clothes, or point to something on the ground. While you are focused on helping or checking what happened, another person may approach your bag or pockets.
You do not need to ignore everyone who asks for help. Simply keep hold of your belongings and maintain some personal space.
Beware of Fake Ticket Inspectors
Real Prague ticket inspectors may wear normal clothes, but they must show an official badge and identification card. They can accept a fine by cash or card and must give you a receipt.
Do not follow anyone to an ATM. If you are unsure, ask to see their identification or call the police on 158.
For identification details, current fine amounts, and payment options Fine in Prague Public Transport: How to Avoid Them
How to Protect Your Belongings in Prague
You do not need special anti-theft equipment. A few simple habits are usually enough:
- Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables in a zipped inside pocket or closed crossbody bag. Use your backpack for less valuable items such as water, an umbrella, or extra clothing.
- Never put valuable items in your back pockets.
- Split your cards and money between two secure places. If one item is stolen, you will still have a backup.
- Take your backpack off before entering a crowded vehicle. Make sure it is closed, then hold it in front of you or place it between your feet while keeping hold of the handle. Do not keep valuables in its outside pockets.
- Carry only the cash and cards you expect to use that day.
- Keep a copy of your passport separately from the original.
What to Do If Something Is Stolen in Prague
If your phone, wallet, passport, or bag is stolen:
- Block your bank cards immediately in your banking app or by calling your bank.
- Lock and locate your phone using Apple Find My or Google Find My Device.
- Report the theft at a Czech Police station. Call 158 for the Czech Police or 112 in an emergency.
- Contact your embassy if your passport was stolen.
- Ask your bank or travel insurer which documents they need for a claim.
Keep digital copies of your passport, insurance details, and important phone numbers somewhere you can access without your phone.
Quick Prague Safety Checklist
Prague is generally a safe city, and most visitors experience no problems. Pickpocketing is mainly a risk in crowded tourist areas and on busy public transport.
Remember these simple rules:
- Never keep valuable items in your back pockets.
- Use zipped inside pockets or a small crossbody bag.
- Keep your money and cards in two different secure places.
- Hold your backpack in front of you on crowded public transport.
- Check your belongings after someone bumps into or distracts you.
- Do not follow anyone claiming to be a ticket inspector to an ATM.
- Avoid falling asleep with your phone or bag unsecured.
Stay aware in busy places, but do not let worries about pickpockets spoil your visit. With a few simple precautions, you can explore Prague confidently during the day and at night.
Before going out in the evening, read how Prague night trams and buses work.
