Tip # 907 : General Tram Manners
When studying abroad in Prague, you may notice the lack of hustle and bustle usually associated with NYC public transportation — especially on trams. For example, it is generally quiet on public transportation in Prague, and this seems to stem from a general rule of quiet in public places (Prague even has city-wide quiet hours after 10 p.m.). Most passengers tend to read books, stare out the window or just people-watch other passengers. This makes NYU students and other tourists immediately noticeable, as they continue their loud chatter throughout the duration of the tram ride. We’re not saying your tram ride has to be completely silent! Just take note of your surroundings and try to be respectful to other tram users.
Also, this next rule is pretty universal, but it is definitely part of tram etiquette in Prague: when an old lady, mother or child enters the tram, you are expected to give up your seat for them if able. If you don’t, you’re definitely subject to angry looks from other passengers. Regardless, just keep an eye out for anyone who might need your seat more than you, and you’ll be just fine.
Tip #382 : Public Transportation Pass
When you arrive in Prague, NYU will provide you with a one month pass to get around the city, but you’ll have to purchase your own after that one expires. Luckily, if you get an ISIC card, you can purchase a three month pass for 360 Kč or $16.12 (the non-student pass is approximately $66!). The easiest way to get your pass is to download the PID Lítačka app on your phone. Edit your profile to include a photo and your ISIC number (located on the top right of the plastic card), and then you can purchase your pass! You can find more details on the AYTK page.
The inspectors who come on the trams, buses and metro to spot-check for passes will NOT let you off the hook if you don’t have a pass!!! You will have to pay a fine on the spot (1,000 Kč) or later at a payment location (1,500 Kč) along with the ticket price for your current journey.
Tip # 089 : Public Transportation to the Airport
Getting to the airport from the NYU dorms is super simple, and only takes ten more minutes than Ubering for a fraction of the cost. Flying in and out of Prague is very accessible via the metro, and you’ll see plenty of people on the metro with a suitcase.
If you live in Machová, get on the green line toward Nemocnice Motol at Namesti Miru. If you live in Osadní, hop on the 1 or 25 tram at Tusarova and transfer to the green line at Hradčanska. From there, you’ll ride the green line to Nádraží Veleslavín — if the station names are getting hard to remember, don’t worry! This stop is labeled on the maps with an airplane symbol. Once you exit the train, follow the exit signs to the DPP 119 bus, which is just outside the metro station. Ride the bus out whatever terminal your flight is at, and don’t worry, they announce these stops in English as well so they’ll be hard to miss.
Tip # 331 : Night Trams
On a late night out, don’t expect to catch the train home like you might in New York. Prague’s metro is closed from midnight to 5 a.m., but the trusty tram can be caught at all hours of the day. However, you may have to wait a bit — from midnight to 4:30 a.m., trams run about every 30 minutes, over double what the wait is normally during the day.
In my experience, even during the late night hours, Prague’s trams have a decent number of people on them and feel quite safe. But as always, if out late, be vigilant of your surroundings and travel in groups when possible.
Tip # 129 : Helpful Phrases
While you are taking public transport, it can be helpful to know a few Czech phrases to have a more seamless ride. Here are some phrases that everyone should know!
“Příští zastávka” – Next stop
“Promiňte” – Excuse me/Sorry
“Pomac” – Help!
Tip # 891 : Beware of Trams!!!
This is very important: TRAMS WILL NOT STOP FOR YOU! If you are at a crosswalk that doesn’t have a light or if you are jaywalking, trams have the right of way and will hit you. Lots of people get injured or die this way, and we don’t want it to be our students! Always look both ways before crossing at the crosswalks. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Tip # 245 : Escalator Etiquette
If you’re taking the metro at any point in time, you’ll definitely encounter some escalators. The ones in the Namesti Miru station, close to Machova, are apparently the longest escalators in the European Union (according to Wikipedia)! It’s good to know the Czech etiquette on these escalators! If you don’t intend to walk up or down an escalator, keep close to the right hand rail. This way, people in a rush can pass by you easily on the left-hand side.