Prague’s Wants to Ban Pub Crawls: A Move to Curb Alcohol Tourism

In a bid to reduce public disturbances and curb alcohol tourism, Prague officials are preparing to ban organized pub crawls at night.

Pub crawls, where tourists move from one bar to another led by specialized agencies, have caused increasing frustration for local residents, particularly in Prague 1.

On Monday, city councilors will review a proposed amendment that could introduce this ban, aimed at restoring peace during the night hours.

Why Prague 1 Wants Change

Residents in the city center have long been complaining about the chaos these pub crawls bring. According to locals, the groups—often intoxicated—disturb the quiet of the night as they pass through residential neighborhoods, particularly under apartment windows.

If passed, the amendment would prohibit organized pub crawls between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., while allowing traditional guided tours.

“These activities place a significant burden on municipal services, such as cleaning and public safety, which strains both the budget and personnel of the city,” the reasoning report for the proposal explains.

The draft proposal notes that excessive alcohol consumption and the associated unruly behavior may give an impression of a city that lacks sophistication, which could deter potential visitors, investors, and even residents.

“Alcohol-fueled pub crawls diminish the perception of safety and may discourage both locals and tourists from frequenting certain areas, which could lead to a decline in the city’s reputation,” the document adds.

The Struggle Against Alcohol Tourism

Prague 1 has long been grappling with the rise of “alcohol tourism”, particularly among younger foreign visitors. Many come to Prague for its reputation as a party destination, taking advantage of the cheap alcohol prices compared to their home countries.

Last year, Prague hosted a record number of tourists, with 7.4 million people staying in hotels and guesthouses, a 25% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from the Czech Statistical Office.

Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more