Panic in Czechia as locals ‘forced out by tourists’ thanks to huge pub crawls

The Czech Republic’s capital, famous for its stag and hen dos, is now saying no to pub crawls taking place between 10pm and 6 am.

It comes as part of Prague’s mission to crack down on rowdy British tourists, which are “forcing residents out” of the country’s largest city, Euronews reports, with Airbnbs also a massive concern.

The city, which is claimed to offer “Europe’s biggest pub crawl”, often sees groups of tourists going from bar to bar, reportedly causing loud noise at nighttime and increasing litter on the streets. 

The Czech Republic has been named the world’s thirstiest nation, with citizens drinking an average of 128 litres of beer. In the beer-loving country’s capital, Prague, you will find beer cheaper than water in many pubs, which is what draws tourists to the city.

However, locals and city officials have complained about the effects of the organised pub crawls, which led to the new enforcement.

The new ban is likely to cause a problem for hit tour operators who rely on the city’s reputation as one for partying. Last year, Prague saw 7 million tourists visit the Prague 1 district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Despite the pubs and bars in the district drawing in so many people, city officials hope that it will address noise, security, and reputational concerns. 

It is also part of the city’s bigger plan to promote cultural tourism and attract people to stay longer than a weekend. 

Many councillors are welcoming the move as they said disorderly behaviour had led to “an excessive deployment” of cleaning and police services.

Jiri Pospisil, Prague’s deputy mayor, said: “[Prague city hall was] seeking a more cultured, wealthier tourist…not one who comes for a short time only to get drunk.”

The ban will be effective from November.