As May draws near, Czech shoppers are advised to check store opening hours for the upcoming public holidays on May 1 and May 8.

In 2025, these holidays fall on consecutive Thursdays, each offering a distinct shopping experience due to the 2016 legislation.

May 1, Labor Day, remains unaffected by the Act on Retail and Wholesale Sales Hours. As a result, stores nationwide, regardless of their size, are free to open, although individual retailers may choose to adjust their hours. Consumers are encouraged to confirm local store hours in advance, as schedules may vary.

On the other hand, May 8, Victory Day, marking the end of World War II, is subject to the law. On this day, stores larger than 200 square meters must remain closed. This rule affects many supermarkets and large retail chains.

Stores exceeding the 200-square-meter threshold are also required to close on other holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, Christmas, Czech Statehood Day, and the Day of the Establishment of an Independent Czechoslovak State.

However, the law does not apply to smaller shops (those under 200 square meters), gas stations, pharmacies, and outlets located in airports, hospitals, and transportation hubs like train and bus stations, ensuring essential services remain available. While e-shops can continue operating, physical retail outlets exceeding the 200-square-meter limit must close.

While this regulation might limit some shopping options, it also opens doors for others. Smaller shops, especially those outside major shopping centers, often see increased foot traffic on such holidays. With larger competitors closed, these stores can attract new customers and benefit from a boost in business.

Retailers are reminded that any attempt to circumvent the law, such as reducing the store size or operating through a service window, can result in fines from the Czech Trade Inspection.

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After seventeen years of planning, Prague has approved the largest zoning plan change in its history, unlocking the long-awaited transformation of the former Žižkov Freight Station into a major residential district.

At Thursday’s meeting, city councillors voted to rezone the 23-hectare brownfield, paving the way for construction of up to 20,000 new homes.

The area, dormant since it ceased operation nearly three decades ago, is finally set for redevelopment.

This change follows lengthy negotiations between the city and multiple investors. A key condition was the signing of contribution agreements, where developers commit to financing public infrastructure and amenities based on the size of their projects. So far, deals have been struck with all major players, securing roughly CZK 1.4 billion for the city.

Among the most prominent investors is Sekyra Group, owned by billionaire Luděk Sekyra, which plans to build 3,000 apartments across three phases under the Žižkov City project, just south of the old station building.

According to CEO Leoš Anderle, the project’s investment volume will be around CZK 25 billion, matching the scale of the developer’s other major ventures in Smíchov and Rohanský ostrov.

“We want to build traditional city blocks like we did in Smíchov. We’ve launched an architectural competition, and the process will mirror Smíchov City,” said Anderle.

Groundbreaking could begin within three years, with the full project expected to be completed in fifteen. The development will primarily feature residential housing, including a portion allocated to rental apartments.

Another developer moving forward is Penta Real Estate, which is planning the Rezidence nádraží Žižkov project.

Designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects (Netherlands) and RA15 (Prague), the development will begin with 271 units in its first phase, for which a zoning permit is already in progress. The recent zoning decision will impact the project’s future phases. In total, Penta plans to invest CZK 3 billion into the area.

Finep, another major player, will also benefit from the rezoning. It intends to build approximately 1,200 apartments.

Meanwhile, Central Group, owned by billionaire Dušan Kunovský, is already ahead. The company has completed and nearly sold out the first block of 389 apartments under its Parková čtvrť project.

Another 372 units are under construction, set to finish by autumn 2026. Central Group’s development was exempt from the construction freeze and is least affected by the zoning change, which only applies to its final two residential blocks.

Overall, Central Group plans to deliver 2,500 apartments across seven semi-closed blocks, along with a kindergarten, a public promenade, and a 1.5-hectare park featuring greenery and water elements.

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A new floating heliport will soon rise on the Vltava River, part of Prague’s plan to boost emergency medical response across several city hospitals.

Approved this week by the City Council, the facility will be located near the Rašín Embankment in the Podskalí area of Prague 2, just below Vyšehrad.

The heliport will serve key institutions including the General University Hospital (VFN), the Institute for Mother and Child Care in Podolí, and the Apolinář Maternity Hospital.

Estimated at CZK 39.7 million (excluding VAT), the project will be city-funded and awarded through a public tender. Construction is set to begin in July 2025, with completion expected in mid-2026. The facility will be operated by the General University Hospital.

“We as a city would not have the competence to manage the operation, so we reached an agreement with the hospital,” said City Councilor Zdeněk Kovářík (ODS).

The floating heliport will measure 20 by 20 meters and rest on unsinkable concrete pontoons. Features will include a wind direction indicator, railings, electrical systems, a detachable access bridge, and navigation aids. It will be limited to helicopters under nine tons and restricted to emergency services only—no private or commercial flights will be allowed.

In addition to routine medical transport, the heliport will be ready for mass casualty events, terrorist incidents, or other large-scale emergencies. “It will serve as a vital platform for specialized rescue units,” said Deputy Mayor Alexandra Udženija (ODS).

Originally proposed during the previous election period by former Mayor Zdeněk Hřib (Pirates), the heliport was initially budgeted at CZK 10 million. The cost has since more than quintupled, but city officials maintain the investment is justified.

“It’s high time that instead of more promises, construction finally begins,” said Ondřej Prokop, head of Prague ANO and chair of the city’s control committee.

Plans to build a fixed heliport directly on the hospital grounds were scrapped due to spatial limitations and protected monuments in the area. The floating platform is expected to remain in use for up to 20 years.

Once operational, the heliport is expected to significantly reduce emergency response times and improve access to critical care for patients across Prague.

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Bolt Drive proudly announces the addition of the legendary first‑generation Škoda Fabia in its iconic pistachio colour to its fleet.

This step blends nostalgia with modern technology and offers a one‑of‑a‑kind driving experience for every lover of automotive history.

Do you remember it? The Fabia in the “Fantasy Green” shade (paint code 5Y5Y) captured the hearts of the Czech public at the turn of the millennium—even though so few were made.

Between 1999 and 2002, only 8,116 units rolled out of the factory, comprising 6,954 hatchbacks, 1,156 estates and a mere 6 saloons. Today, this colour rarity is a collector’s gem, living on in fan pages and drivers’ hearts alike. Bolt has decided to return that love to the roads—at full throttle.

“At Bolt Drive, we’re always looking for new ways to make car‑sharing more fun and a bit more special. In some cities, we’ve added cars like Porsches or BMWs to the fleet because we simply love the driving experience. But this time we took a different route—one that fuses nostalgia with technology. Meet the Pistachio Fabia—an authentic icon of Czech roads that is now joining our fleet,” explains Fabián Strecker, General Manager of Bolt Drive for the Czech Republic.

To adapt this 25‑year‑old legend to today’s car‑sharing standards, technicians have equipped it with the latest technologies the Fabia could only have dreamed of at the time of production:

● Advanced GPS tracking: Enables real‑time monitoring of location, speed and fuel level, ensuring efficient vehicle management.
● Carvaloo AI sensors: Automatically detect vehicle damage, enhancing safety and providing precise information about any incidents.
● Modern touchscreen radio: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

Under the bonnet beats a heart familiar to an entire generation of Czech drivers—the reliable 1.4 MPI petrol engine paired with a manual gearbox. Simple, low‑maintenance and delivering up to 60 hp: the ideal companion for everyday trips and nostalgic weekend drives.

To drive it, you must meet the following requirements:

● Minimum age of 20 and at least 1 year of driving experience.
● At least five successfully completed trips with Bolt Drive.

“We’ve connected history with modern technology. This project is also the first of its kind across all Bolt Drive markets. At the same time, it’s an affordable option—the price starts at CZK 2 per minute and CZK 3 per kilometre. We believe this experiment will appeal to many users, and if it proves successful, we already have similar projects in the pipeline,” adds Fabián Strecker.

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Spring has arrived, bringing longer days and warmer weather — the perfect time to head outdoors with your children.

If you’re looking for nature-filled trips that are both educational and fun, Prague offers plenty of alternatives to the traditional zoo. From farmyards to forest trails, many of these spots are easily accessible by public transport and are either free or require only a symbolic entry fee.

Here are some of the best animal-friendly destinations in and around the city that will charm young explorers and offer parents a peaceful stroll in nature.

Toulcův Dvůr – Rustic Farm Experience in Hostivař

Set in a historic Baroque-Gothic farmhouse in Prague’s Hostivař district, Toulcův Dvůr is home to lambs, rabbits, chickens, goats, pigs, ponies and cows. Spring is especially lively here, as newborn animals add to the Easter spirit. Entry costs just 20 CZK for children. Take bus 177 and get off at Toulcův Dvůr.

Wild Garden Hostivař – Deer and Waterfowl by the Dam

Close to Toulcův Dvůr and tucked into the western edge of Hostivař Forest Park, the Divoká Zahrada (Wild Garden) lets visitors see lesser-known species of ducks, geese, mouflons and fallow deer. Take bus 181 or 182 to the K Obecním hájovnám stop and walk to the end of the street.

Milíčov Zoo Park – Forest Animals Up Close

On the edge of Milíčov Forest, this small zoo park features horses, goats, and sheep. Children enter free, while adult tickets cost 50 CZK. Bus 203 takes you to the Milíčov stop, or you can walk from Háje metro station.

 

Kunratice Zoo Corner – Forest Encounters in Prague 4

In the heart of Kunratice Forest (Krčský les), families will find a small animal enclosure with fallow deer. There’s also a nearby playground, a historic gamekeeper’s lodge, and the U krále Václava IV restaurant. Look out for the unusual mousetrap-shaped moorings on the grounds of the nearby Thomayer Hospital. Buses 193 and 203 stop at Zelené domky nad IKEM, or you can follow the green hiking trail.

Kamýk Zoo Corner – Goats in a Quiet Setting

In the Kamýk Forest between Prague 4 and 12, a modest animal corner near a forest playground houses Cameroon and Walliser goats. Reach it by taking bus 189 or 197 to Lhotecký les or Cílkova, then follow the green tourist trail.

Mini-Zoo Chuchle – A Refuge for Injured Wildlife

Tucked in Chuchelský háj, near a former gamekeeper’s lodge, this forest zoo is part of a rescue station for animals that can’t return to the wild. About 30 species live here, including deer, wild boars, foxes, lynxes, and raccoons. It’s a longer journey, but worth it. Take buses 129, 172, 241 or 244 to Malá Chuchle, then walk past the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. A more stroller-friendly route starts from Nový Slivenec, accessible by buses 120 or 130.

Klánovice Forest – A Learning Trail for Young Nature Lovers

In Klánovice Forest, a nature trail introduces children to 30 native animals. Along the path, information panels offer facts and audio clips of animal sounds. The easiest access is via train to Klánovice Station, right on the forest’s edge.

Dívčí Hrady – Meet the Last Wild Horses

One of Prague’s most extraordinary animal encounters awaits at Dívčí Hrady, where Przewalski’s horses — the last truly wild horse species — roam free. Reintroduced by Prague Zoo, they now graze above the Prokopské Valley. Take bus 153 to Nad Dívčími hrady, or walk from Radlická metro station past the Radlický Cemetery.

 

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Cocktail enthusiasts in Prague rejoice! Prague Cocktail Week is taking place from May 6th to 13th.

The event offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant cocktail scene and discover a world of new flavors.

Participating bars, representing the crème de la crème of Prague’s cocktail scene, will be offering specially priced drinks at just 155 CZK throughout the week. This is your chance to indulge in expertly crafted cocktails at a discounted rate.

The full lineup includes more than 30 bars across Prague, and the festival also features a rich program of workshops, tastings, and guest shifts

The closing night will take place on May 13 at Gabriel Loci in Prague 5.

Bit of History First…

Organizers decided to host the Prague Cocktail Week from May 6th to 13th because the first documented definition of the word “cocktail” was in the May 6, 1806 issue of The Balance and Columbian Repository, in a reader’s letter that asked the publication to define the word.

On May 13, 1806, the paper’s editor responded that it was a concoction of spirits, bitters, water, and sugar — essentially, the recipe for an Old Fashioned. The name was inspired by drinkers who refused to change with the times and ordered their drinks the old fashioned way: a brown spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.

Beyond the Drinks

The week promises an immersive experience beyond just delicious drinks. A rich program of workshops, tastings, and guest bartending sessions will be led by industry experts, allowing you to delve deeper into the world of mixology and unlock the secrets behind your favorite cocktails.

A Grand Finale

The festivities culminate on May 13th, which also happens to be World Cocktail Day. This special day features a grand closing event, showcasing the talents of the Czech cocktail scene through exciting bartending competitions. Witness the best bartenders battle it out in both classic and flamboyant “Flair” styles, creating stunning and innovative cocktails.

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Egg prices in Czechia rose faster than anywhere else in the European Union, according to new data from Eurostat.

In March 2025, the country recorded a staggering 46% year-on-year increase, the highest across the bloc.

By contrast, Slovakia and Hungary also reported high increases—29.8% and 26.1% respectively—but remained well below Czechia’s spike. On the opposite end, the Netherlands saw a 3.6% drop in egg prices, followed by Luxembourg (-3.2%) and Greece (-2%).

The data highlights ongoing inflationary pressures in the food sector, although 2025’s growth has so far remained below the extremes of previous years. In January and February, egg prices in the EU rose by 3.4% and 4.1%, respectively, compared to the same months in 2024.

These modest increases pale in comparison to the sharp hikes recorded in 2022 and 2023. For instance, in February 2023, egg prices jumped 31.2% year-on-year.

Eurostat’s Food Price Monitoring Tool offers deeper insights into these shifts. The platform tracks pricing across the entire supply chain, offering up-to-date comparisons between EU member states. It also helps identify trends in both raw and processed food items, including eggs.

The reasons behind the recent spike in Czechia are still being analysed, but domestic production costs, bird flu outbreaks, and feed prices are likely contributing factors.

Analysts note that Czech households are continuing to feel the squeeze at the checkout, despite overall inflation easing in other sectors.

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The Czech labor market is on the brink of a massive transformation.

According to a new study commissioned by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, up to 2.3 million jobs will be affected by generative artificial intelligence (genAI) by 2035.

Of these, at least 600,000 roles will undergo major changes, with around 67,000 workers needing to completely switch professions to avoid long-term unemployment.

The report, compiled by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and the Aspen Institute, highlights how professions such as civil servants, graphic designers, and lawyers are particularly at risk, while demand for nurses, teachers, cooks, and technicians is expected to grow sharply.

GenAI refers to tools that can generate text, images, code, audio, and video. Though still emerging, these technologies are already improving productivity in many sectors.

“A year or two ago, there was a major shortage. Now, demand has eased—not because we’ve trained thousands more developers, but because AI is boosting individual productivity,” said Tomáš Wiedermann, a BCG partner and one of the authors of the study.

The study estimates that while 1.2 million workers will exit the labor market by 2035, 1.9 million new workers will enter. At the same time, 355,000 jobs will vanish, and 955,000 new roles will be created—mostly in sectors requiring new digital skills.

Brains at Risk, Hands in Demand

The biggest job surpluses are expected among lawyers, court clerks, graphic designers, and hairdressers. In contrast, there will be serious shortages in education, healthcare, social work, and food services.

“Replacing mental tasks seems easier than physical ones,” Wiedermann said, noting that some fields, like nursing and cooking, will remain largely AI-proof.

Rigid Market Needs Reform

Jiří Šatava, head of employment policy at the Ministry of Labor, said that the Czech job market is too inflexible. “People in Czechia change jobs less frequently compared to the rest of Europe,” he noted.

To address this, the ministry is pushing a new amendment to the Labor Code—known as the “flexinovela”. The measure, now awaiting the president’s signature, would increase unemployment benefits to 80% of a worker’s net salary during the initial months and raise support for retraining programs, especially for people over 52.

“The current system discourages people from leaving unsatisfying jobs,” Šatava said. “We need to incentivize mobility and lifelong learning.

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Prague is set to become the epicenter of Czech coffee culture this May with the launch of the “Barista of the Year 2025” festival.

The event, held in Královka Sports Hall in Prague’s Bubeneč district, will take place on May 16 and 17 and promises a full-bodied program for both casual drinkers and seasoned coffee professionals.

This unique festival will host not only public coffee tastings, lectures, and workshops, but also two major national competitions: the Czech Barista Championship and the Czech Cup Tasters Championship. The winners will earn the right to represent Czechia at leading international barista competitions.

Visitors can sample coffees from both Czech and international roasters, and meet leading professionals from across the specialty coffee scene. In addition to tastings, the program includes masterclasses, expert-led discussions, and the chance to watch elite baristas compete live on stage.

The festival is open both days from 10:00 to 18:00, and tickets include unlimited tastings and access to all educational sessions.

• 📍 Venue: Královka Sports Hall, Nad Královskou oborou 1080/51, Prague 7 – Bubeneč
• 🗓 Dates: Friday and Saturday, May 16–17, 2025
• 🎟 Entry: 450 CZK for one day / 600 CZK for a two-day pass

Tickets are available via the festival’s official page

 

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Prague residents will have to wait at least another decade for the long-promised Metro D line, as the city’s latest timetable now sets the opening for 2034.

This section, stretching from Pankrác to the new depot in Písnice, is supposed to open all at once — nearly half a century after the completion of Line B.

The city once hoped the state would cover at least a quarter of the costs — about CZK 12 billion. The rest would be drawn from European funds.

But that plan proved unrealistic. Back in 2019, costs for the section from Náměstí Míru to Písnice were estimated at CZK 73 billion. Two years later, that jumped to CZK 98 billion. Today, it stands at CZK 120 billion — and may climb further.

“Unfortunately, previous political administrations did virtually nothing regarding Metro D, so it wasn’t realistic to meet the original 2023 completion date,” said Zdeněk Hřib (Pirates), Prague’s Deputy Mayor for Transport. “Instead, we used EU funds to expand tram lines.”

Airport Link Abandoned

When Line A was extended to Motol, many hoped it would eventually continue to Václav Havel Airport. In 2018, an analysis suggested the extension would cost CZK 27 billion and take eleven years to build, with stops at Bílá Hora, Dědina, Dlouhá Míle, and Staré Letiště.

Instead, focus shifted to a high-speed rail line between Kladno and Masaryk Station, with a stop at the airport. That project — under discussion for over 30 years — is finally under construction and expected to be completed by 2030.

In the meantime, airport transport has seen a minor upgrade. Buses from Veleslavín were replaced with longer trolleybuses, improving capacity and comfort.

“The three-section trolleybuses are a step forward, but a metro extension to the airport would have been the real solution,” said **Ondřej Matěj Hrubeš** (ODS), transport councilor for Prague 6.

Tram Lines Take Over

With Metro D stalled, the city has turned to expanding the tram network to improve public transport access to western districts. Two years ago, the line from Divoká Šárka was extended to Dědina. Future plans include extending this route via the Prague Ring Road to the Dlouhá Míle terminal, which will connect to the new rail line.

In February, city officials approved zoning changes to allow a new tram line from Motol to Vypich.

The 2.2-kilometer line will better connect Řepy, Břevnov, and Prague districts 5 and 6 by the end of the decade.

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Czech political leaders expressed deep respect and condolences following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away Monday morning at the age of 88.

Across the political spectrum, tributes highlighted his humility, compassion, and efforts to modernize the Catholic Church for the 21st century.

“He was a man of deep faith who worked tirelessly to reshape the Church so it could better fulfill its mission in today’s world,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS), who met Francis in June 2022 at the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. “He showed concern for those facing injustice and radiated humanity and humility.”

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský echoed that sentiment, calling Francis “a voice of compassion, justice, and hope in a troubled world.” He added: “My sincere condolences to the faithful and to all who were inspired by his words and actions. Honor to his memory.”

Minister for European Affairs Martin Dvořák (STAN) praised Francis for trying to guide the Catholic Church into the modern era with integrity. “He honestly sought to ensure the Church entered the 21st century with dignity,” he said.

Andrej Babiš, leader of the opposition ANO movement, remembered Francis as a symbol of humility and unity. “I admired his effort to bring people together and his constant pursuit of goodness. I offer my heartfelt condolences to all who loved him.”

Former Finance Minister Alena Schillerová (ANO) described Francis as “not just a religious leader, but a symbol of modesty and kindness who connected believers and non-believers alike.” She noted that his passing coincided with Easter Monday: “I pray, but I do not mourn. His love remains with us.”

The death of Pope Francis signals a major shift for the world’s estimated 1.37 billion Catholics, noted Jan Bartošek (KDU-ČSL), Deputy Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies. “The end of one era, the beginning of another. Francis earned widespread respect, even outside Catholic circles. He set the bar high,” Bartošek said. “Easter is a symbol of hope, and with it, we now look ahead to the election of a new pope.”

Health Minister Vlastimil Válek (TOP 09) pointed out that Francis’ legacy lies in his focus on the poor and vulnerable, echoing the values of Francis of Assisi, the saint whose name he adopted—the first pope in history to do so.

Interior Minister Vít Rakušan (STAN) added, “Perhaps the Catholic Church has never had a leader so open, so modest, and so committed to necessary change.”

“A Shepherd Who Inspired Through Action”

Science Minister Marek Ženíšek (TOP 09) highlighted the symbolism of Francis’ death during Easter—a time of renewal and rebirth. “He was a man who opened the Church to the world and refused to look away from its challenges. For that, we owe him thanks.”

Minister of Culture Martin Baxa (ODS) reflected on Francis’ historic role as the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to lead the Church. “He welcomed all who approached the Church with sincerity,” Baxa said. “He brought faith closer to ordinary people, not only through his teaching but through his humble presence.”

Labor Minister Marian Jurečka (KDU-ČSL) described Francis as “a good shepherd who led through example, often with a gentle and unique approach that drew people to faith.” Reflecting on the timing of his passing, Jurečka said: “He is entering God’s arms at a time when hope triumphed over death.”

The Prague Museum is unveiling a remarkable exhibition marking 80 years since the Prague Uprising at the end of World War II.

The centerpiece: original fragments of the Old Town Hall bell, destroyed in 1945, alongside a reconstruction of its original sound.

The exhibition opens free to the public on May 5, located on the ground floor of the Old Town Hall.

The display includes preserved parts of the 14th-century bell, a replica model created from 3D-scanned fragments, and an audio rendering of how the bell likely sounded before it was silenced during the war.

This special exhibition is part of a broader memorial project honoring the 80th anniversary of the 1945 uprising, which also features commemorative events, lectures, and a public procession through central Prague.

The museum had 46 preserved fragments of the destroyed bell in storage. These pieces were carefully scanned with 3D technology and then printed at a quarter scale.

Collaborating with a Czech bell foundry, researchers were able to reconstruct the bell’s profile and tone.

Its recreated sound will be played publicly for the first time during a commemorative event on May 5, 2025, and again on May 8 at 4:00 p.m., marking the exact hour the bell fell silent in 1945.

Memorial Events Across the City

To commemorate the uprising, the museum is organizing a memorial march on May 5 from the National Theatre to Old Town Square. The route passes through three symbolic barricade points: Národní třída, the Estates Theatre, and Železná Street.

In the afternoon and evening, the names of 3,000 victims of the Prague Uprising will be read aloud on Old Town Square in a public remembrance event.

A complete program of all activities surrounding the anniversary can be found at prazske-povstani.cz.

A Brief Look at the Prague Uprising

The Prague Uprising began on May 5, 1945, just days before the end of WWII in Europe. Czech resistance fighters launched a coordinated effort to liberate the city from Nazi occupation. They succeeded in forcing the German garrison to surrender, preventing further civilian casualties, and accelerating the arrival of the Red Army.

However, the post-war communist regime erased much of this history. General Karel Kutlvašr, who led the uprising, was later sentenced to life imprisonment. Many others involved were also persecuted after the February 1948 Communist coup.

 

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