Water for 900 CZK? Overpricing Scams Exposed in Prague
Prague Morning

Visitors to Prague are being warned about extremely high prices in some shops and taxis around the city center.
A recent investigation by tvnoviny.sk, a Slovak news website, shows how easily travelers can pay far more than the usual rate for everyday items and short taxi rides.
The reporters started their test at Prague Main Station, looking for a taxi to Wenceslas Square. According to local taxi apps, the trip should cost around 120 CZK.
However, one driver refused to take such a short trip, while others offered the ride for at least 500 CZK, more than four times the normal price.
When asked for a receipt, one driver became nervous, lowered the price, but still refused to give any proof of payment. After the journalist revealed she worked for the media and started speaking Slovak, the driver returned the money and quickly left the scene.
900 CZK for Bottled Water, 150 CZK for Beer
The investigation also looked at prices in small shops near Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
In one store, a six-pack of bottled water was selling for 900 CZK. A single can of beer was priced at 150 CZK.
When the journalist asked why the water was so expensive, the shop assistant blamed the city center location. However, just a few streets away, the same products were available at much lower prices in regular grocery stores.
Journalist Janek Rubeš, who has spent years reporting on tourist scams in Prague, said the problem with taxi drivers and overpriced shops has been going on for more than a decade.
“I dealt with taxi drivers ten years ago,” Rubeš told tvnoviny.sk. “Unfortunately, it’s still something we’re dealing with.”
Travelers are advised to use official taxi apps, check prices in advance, and be cautious when shopping in the city center.
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