How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Prague [advice from a local]
BIG NO to Trdelník ("Chimney")
Every travel influencer seems to recommend trying this "traditional" Czech pastry, but here's the truth: Trdelník is far from authentic Czech cuisine. In fact, it's more Hungarian than Czech, and the price you pay is several times its actual value. Don’t fall for the hype!
If you actually want to try something traditionally Czech that the locals eat, try Koláč instead.
This is where can you get this delicious and much cheaper pastry:
Kus Koláče
The best Koláče in Prague you'll find! I go there more often than my wallet would like me to, but I just can't help myself! It's THAT GOOD!
Antonín's Bakery
Treat yourself to delicious, high-quality Czech pastries like Koláče or freshly baked sourdough bread. These spots may be just outside the historical center, but they’re only a quick 5–10-minute ride by public transport. A local favorite for fancy pastries, they also serve amazing ice cream during the hot summer months!
Náš Chléb
Your ordinary Czech bakery and where you can get Koláče or other pastries if you are on a budget and fine with an average quality.
Old Prague Ham is a scam!
Have you seen vloggers raving about the "famous" Old Prague Ham in Old Town Square? Chances are, they paid far more than they should have. An investigation by the Honest Guide exposed how vendors manipulate the scales to overcharge tourists outrageously.
Take a tip from the locals and steer clear—it’s best to avoid it altogether.
Lokál
Looking to try authentic Czech cuisine? Lokál is a local favorite, known for its high-quality food and excellent beer on tap. My top picks? Go for Svíčková (sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings) or Guláš (technically not Czech, but we’ve claimed it as our own).
For something unique, I dare you to try Fried Cheese with potatoes and tartar sauce. It’s an acquired taste and might raise some eyebrows from locals, but every traveler I’ve introduced it to loved it—and so do I! (Think of it as Czech comfort food with the same quirky reputation as pineapple pizza in Italy. 😄)
Kuchyň
U Kalendů
Traditional Czech cuisine isn’t the most vegetarian- or vegan-friendly, and it’s not exactly known for being a healthy choice either. So, if you have dietary restrictions, consider this your heads-up! Fortunately, Prague is home to plenty of vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free bistros and restaurants to suit your needs.
Don't Buy Love Locks!
Please don’t damage our beautiful landmarks with love locks. 💔 Shops often scam tourists by selling overpriced locks, which are then placed on Charles Bridge statues or other sights. It’s not a tradition, and the locks will be removed anyway.
I understand—Prague is incredibly romantic! Instead, why not explore some of our stunning parks and gardens? Take a peaceful stroll, enjoy the flowers, and soak in a bit of nature right in the heart of the city. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale!
Here are some of the most beautiful parks near the center:
Overpriced low-quality coffee places in the Old and New Town
You’ve seen them—those famous Instagram rooftop cafés where you can snap a selfie with the sights. I’m sure you know the ones I mean, but I won’t name them here. 😄
Instead, why not experience Prague’s incredible specialty coffee scene? These cafés offer coffee so good you’ll dream about it long after your visit. Don’t waste your money on overpriced Insta-spots just for a photo (and yes, they’ll make you buy something to stay). Treat yourself to the real deal!
EMA espresso bar
Are you a coffee enthusiast that wants to know all the secret spots the locals get their cuppas? Check out my Specialty Coffee Prague Guide!
Fake Absinthe Stores
Looking to try some local liquors? Avoid the tourist traps selling green, sugary "absinthe"—there’s nothing authentic about it.
Instead, head to Sklizeno, a store offering local delicacies, farmers’ products, and high-quality liquors from local producers like the renowned Žufánek distillery.
Founded by the Žufánek family, their spirits have become legendary, winning awards and the hearts of liquor enthusiasts across the country. By choosing their products, you’re not only getting exceptional quality but also supporting a local business.
You can find Žufánek liquors in select stores, though rarely in regular supermarkets. And yes, they even sell authentic absinthe—the real deal!
That concludes the top 5 tourist traps in Prague and what I recommend doing instead to get a more authentic experience of our beautiful capitol city. Enjoy your visit and hope you feel like a local!
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© Copyright Lenka Šilhánová, 2025. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Lenka Šilhánová is strictly prohibited.
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