Czechia

Legal Framework

Prostitution in the Czech Republic (Czechia) exists in a legal gray area similar to Spain's. It is neither explicitly legal nor illegal under national law. The activity itself is not criminalized, but operating a brothel for profit is illegal under the Criminal Code (living off the earnings of prostitution).

Despite this legal prohibition on organized prostitution, a large number of establishments operate throughout the country, particularly in border areas and major cities. Attempts to pass comprehensive regulatory legislation have been debated in parliament multiple times since the 1990s but have never been enacted.

Municipal governments have some authority over public order, and some towns have enacted local ordinances addressing street-based sex work. The overall legal situation remains ambiguous and unsettled.

Enforcement Reality

Enforcement is generally lax regarding indoor adult entertainment. Licensed nightclubs and bars that offer adult entertainment operate with minimal interference as long as they maintain public order and comply with general business regulations.

Police attention focuses primarily on street solicitation in areas where it creates public nuisance, trafficking, and exploitation of minors. Border areas with Germany and Austria have historically seen more enforcement activity due to concerns about cross-border trafficking.

The municipal police (Mestska Policie) handle public order issues, while the national police (Policie CR) address organized crime and trafficking. Tourists are unlikely to encounter enforcement issues at established venues in Prague.

Cultural Context

Czech culture is generally liberal and secular. The country consistently ranks among the most atheistic in Europe, and this cultural secularism extends to attitudes about personal behavior. Adult entertainment is treated with relative indifference by the general public.

Prague's position as a major European tourist destination has created a substantial nightlife industry oriented toward international visitors. The city's low cost of living relative to Western Europe has historically made it an affordable destination.

Key Cities

Prague is overwhelmingly the primary destination for foreign visitors. The city's compact historic center and abundance of nightlife options make it the focus of most adult entertainment activity.

Brno, the second-largest city, has a smaller but notable nightlife scene.

Border towns near Germany and Austria (Cheb, Domazlice, etc.) have historically had significant adult entertainment industries, though these have declined in recent years.

Safety Considerations

Czechia is a safe country with reliable emergency services. Prague, while safe by global standards, has specific risks associated with its tourism industry:

• Pickpocketing is common in tourist areas, especially on Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and in the metro
• Watch for tourist-trap exchange offices offering poor rates — use bank ATMs instead
• Prague's nightlife district (Wenceslas Square area) can feel intimidating late at night, though violent crime is rare
• Trams and the metro run until midnight; night trams operate through the night
• Public intoxication is more common in Prague than most European capitals due to cheap alcohol prices

Common Scams

Currency exchange scams: Unofficial exchange offices display attractive rates but apply hidden commissions. Use bank ATMs or reputable exchange offices only.

Taxi overcharging: Prague taxis have historically overcharged tourists. Use ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Liftago) or agree on a fare before departure.

"Pretty woman" bar scam: Attractive individuals approach tourists and suggest visiting a specific bar. Once inside, the victim is presented with an enormous bill for drinks. This is Prague's most notorious tourist scam and remains active.

Excessive bar tabs: Some clubs in the Wenceslas Square area add charges to bills or use confusing pricing. Always verify what you are being charged for.

What Not to Do

• Do not follow strangers who suggest visiting specific bars or clubs
• Do not use unofficial currency exchange services
• Do not carry large amounts of cash in nightlife areas
• Do not leave drinks unattended
• Do not assume that venues near Wenceslas Square offer the best value — many are tourist traps
• Do not become excessively intoxicated — cheap beer makes this an easy mistake