The Prague party scene is not only reserved for the packs of Stag parties and the thousands of exchange students arriving in the city search of a good evening. It’s often overwhelming as a backpacker coming to Prague looking for a great night as most of the decent pubs and clubs are not located directly in the centre. That’s where I come in! I’ve been living in Prague as an exchange student for a few months now, so I definitely know where to go for a party!
Karlovy Lazne
Located so close to the Charles Bridge it’s practically underneath it, Karlovy Lazne is Central Europe’s largest nightclub. With its 5 floors and a (FREEZING) Ice Bar it’s a memorable night, however, you won’t find many locals here. Although cheap compared to countries such as the UK, going out in this club is pretty costly in Prague. It seems to be catered to the groups of partying tourists. This place is definitely one for the bucket list as it is one hell of an experience!
Cross Club
You’ll find this bar a short metro away from the centre. It’s in Prague 7 (a little north of the river) and although it’s not in the centre, this is one bar that everyone must visit while in Prague. It’s built out of old pieces of buses and other scrap metals! How many other people can say they’ve been to a bar made out of what looked like Grandma’s old car? They sometimes have themed evenings such as vintage and rockabilly nights. Check out their
website to see if there are any special events on! Oh and they also brew their own beer too, which is very delicious so make sure to have a taste.
Club Roxy
I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that this is the best club in the city. The music is good, the booze is cheap, the atmosphere is top notch – what more could you ask for? This club is pretty central, about a 10-minute walk away from Old Town Square. It’s one of the oldest in Prague and many big name DJs can be found here.
Bukowski’s Bar
This is more of a sit-down bar than a club, but every single night I’ve had here has been one to remember (…or not!). Bukowski’s is a local favourite, found in the residential area of Žižkov Prague 3. It’s approximately 15 minutes by tram from the centre. This place is always busy, no matter which day you go, and there is a really friendly atmosphere. Pretend to be a local for a night and check this place out. You won’t regret it, I promise!
Nebe
With 3 in the centre of Prague, it can be easy to go to the wrong one – the main one is situated on Wenceslas Square. It plays the sort of music that everyone wants to hear in clubs but is too ashamed to admit. This club specialises in cocktails which are not expensive at all. There’s a super friendly atmosphere and is very easy to while away a Friday night with your newfound pals you met in the hostel!
Chapeau Rouge
The building seems to literally rock at night. You’ll be mad if you missed a night partying here! The ground floor is a pub, so if you want something quiet then chill out here, but if you’re looking for a proper good night, head downstairs and join the party! There are 3 floors in total, and each one has different music and a different atmosphere. So when you go, there’s something for everyone.
Club Duplex
Like Nebe, Duplex is found on Wenceslas Square. Although this place can be pretty average on some nights, I’ve found that the organised parties by the club are the best. If you’re in town while a party is on, go. You will not regret it! I have also heard rumours that this is the club where all the celebs (such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z) go while staying in Prague. While you’re there, see if you can spot any famous people!
So now that you know where to go, here are some things that you might want to know about the
Prague Party Scene:
- It’s legal to smoke inside - be prepared to come home smelling like an ashtray.
- Most parties don’t start until post-midnight. Some clubs offer free entry before 12, but unless you want to be one of the only ones on the dance floor, I’d wait.
- Use the cloakroom – Unlike in the UK, no one is stupid enough to go outside in Prague without a coat. The cloakroom is usually about 20CZK, so do as the Czechs do and use it.
- Make sure you know your way back home – the metro closes at midnight, and the night trams run much more infrequently than the day time trams.
- Don’t get a taxi! They’ll rip you off.
- Be sure to pick up some pizza on your way home. They sell it by the slice (usually about 30CZK), and there are stores everywhere. Keep your eyes peeled!
And finally, this is just my personal guide. I’m aware that going out partying is very subjective, and I know that different people will have different ideas on what constitutes as a ‘good night out’.
By Angharad Owen
