Your Expat Community in Prague

Here’s a closer look at what life in Prague has to offer and why it might just be the perfect spot to call your new home.

Cultural Richness and Entertainment: Prague has so many historical wonders for you to explore. The city is also lively and has many entertainment options, from bars and clubs to parks and museums, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.

Affordability and Living Costs: While Prague offers a high quality of life, it’s considerably more affordable than many of its Western European counterparts such as Amsterdam and Paris. This economic advantage makes it an attractive option for those seeking a European experience without the hefty price tag.

Excellent Connectivity and Transport: Thanks to its strategic location, Prague serves as a great base for exploring the rest of Europe. The city’s public transportation system is efficient and well-covered, so whether you live downtown or in the suburbs, getting around is not a problem.

**Expat Friendly:**With a substantial expat community, Prague is home to many cultures and languages. English is widely spoken in tourist hotspots and is commonly used in many professional settings, thanks to the diverse international community. This makes finding work and socializing easier for English speakers.

**Safety and Community:**Prague is considered a safe city with a low rate of violent crime. However, like any major city, it’s wise to be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas. On the social front, making new friends and building networks can be incredibly rewarding here, with platforms like InterNations providing a fantastic way to meet fellow expats through various events and gatherings.

**Language and Integration:**While it’s entirely possible to live comfortably in Prague without a deep knowledge of Czech, learning the language can significantly help your integration into the local culture. It opens you up to new interactions and helps deepen your understanding of the Czech way of life.

According to Prague International there are more than 200.000 expats living in Prague. Prague is a very International city whether your purpose is to work or study.

Prague's large international community makes it an ideal destination for expatriates from all corners of the globe.

Prague 2 – Vinohrady: A top choice among expats. This is a centrally located area with many parks, providing an escape from the city hustle, with many options for bars and restaurants.

Prague 6: Known for its residential calm and green spaces, this district houses most of the city's embassies and international schools, making it great for international residents. Its family-friendly atmosphere is perfect for expats looking for a secure place to raise children.

Prague 1: This area is the most tourist-centric part of the city, filled with history, culture, and activities. Living here means everything is within walking distance, though this convenience comes at a higher cost due to the prime location.

Prague offers a surprisingly affordable lifestyle, especially when compared to other major European cities. For a family of four, the average monthly living expenses, excluding rent, amount to approximately 2,900 USD.

To help guide your decision to move, here’s a detailed breakdown of living costs in Prague

In Prague many young locals are proficient in English, making it relatively easy for expats and travelers to communicate in younger crowds and popular tourist spots. Most restaurants in the city center, as well as many official offices, also cater to English speakers, with numerous signs and instructions translated for added convenience.

However, interaction with older generations or with certain officials, like police officers, might require some knowledge of Czech. While English serves well in many scenarios, a basic grasp of Czech can be important in more formal or less tourist-centered contexts.

To truly feel at home and integrate into the local community, learning Czech is highly recommended. Locals often appreciate even minimal efforts to speak their language, and your attempts, however imperfect, will not go unnoticed. Prague is home to about 200,000 foreign nationals, creating a multilingual environment where languages such as German also play a significant role.

For those new to Czech, an intensive A1 beginner course could be the perfect start. Priced around 270 USD for 2 to 12 weeks with 10 classes per week, Czech Courses Prague offers an excellent foundation. These courses are suitable for individuals aged 15 and up, making them a great option for families with teenagers.

For those who can dedicate more time, the Classic Home Tuition Program offers an immersive experience. Though pricier, starting at 2260 USD for up to 52 weeks, this program allows you to live with a teacher, engaging in daily activities and conversations solely in Czech. This method promises a deep dive into the language and culture, providing a rapid and natural learning progression.

In Prague, local schools typically conduct classes in Czech, especially from the early grades onward. If you're concerned about language barriers for your child, international schools offer an excellent alternative with instruction primarily in English.

Options beyond local schools: Many private schools in Prague provide bilingual education, which could be a viable option if the more expensive international schools stretch beyond your budget. For those who can invest more, Prague offers a variety of reputable international schools that offer globally recognized curriculums such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the Cambridge Curriculum. These programs are designed to provide seamless educational continuity should your family relocate again, with similar schools available worldwide.

Popular schools among expats: Among the most favored choices for the expatriate community are the Prague British School, Riverside School, and the International School of Prague. These institutions are well-known for their high standards and robust academic programs.

Enrollment process: Getting your child enrolled is straightforward but requires timely action due to the limited spots in these schools. Necessary documentation typically includes proof of residence, your child's birth certificate, vaccination records, and any additional paperwork requested by the school.

Cost considerations: Tuition fees for international schools in Prague vary, ranging approximately from 23,000 to 33,500 USD per academic year, depending on the grade level of your child. Given the high demand and limited space, it's advisable to apply early to secure a place and potentially have more options that fit your budget and educational preferences.

Prague is known for its efficient and extensive public transport network, one of the best in Europe, making sure that both the city and its outskirts are easily accessible. The comprehensive system means that owning a car is more a luxury than a necessity.

Metro: The Prague Metro operates three principal lines: A, B, and C, each serving different sectors of the city. With trains arriving every 2 to 4 minutes during peak times. A complete journey from one end of Prague to the other can be accomplished in just 30 to 40 minutes, making it an exceptionally fast option for city commuting.

Trams and Buses: They are your surface travel companions. For those who prefer ground-level travel, trams and buses provide an excellent alternative. Known for their reliability, trams are especially easy to use and navigate. During rush hours, trams run at intervals of 6 to 10 minutes, and even at night, the service is maintained every 30 minutes

Ticketing Made Simple: Public transport tickets in Prague are conveniently priced and varied, catering to different travel needs with options like 30-minute, 90-minute, 24-hour, and 72-hour durations, ranging from 2 to 15 USD. For frequent travelers, monthly and yearly passes offer added value. Additionally, children up to 15 years and seniors over 60 travel for free, making it a budget-friendly option for families and older residents.

Navigational Tools: To aid in travel planning, locals and expats often turn to apps such as PID Lítačka, Pubtran, and Můj Vlak. These tools are indispensable for navigating Prague’s transport system effectively. For added convenience, Google Maps provides up-to-date transit information and directions, ensuring you can move around Prague with ease.

Relocating to a new country can often feel overwhelming, sometimes even lonely. Establishing new friendships and connections is a major step towards feeling at home in Prague. InterNations understands the challenges faced by expats and has crafted a welcoming community to help bridge those gaps.

Discover the joy of connection through our diverse range of events tailored to suit every interest and lifestyle. Whether you're an avid hiker looking to join the Prague Walking Group, a food enthusiast eager to explore local cuisines with the Brunch and Fun Group, or a wine lover wanting to indulge in Wine and Food Evenings, InterNations has you covered.

No matter what your interests are, there's a vibrant group or activity waiting to welcome you. With InterNations, you’re not just moving to a new city; you’re becoming part of a global community, making it effortless to meet like-minded people and truly enjoy your new life in Prague.