Prague to ban organised night-time pub crawls

Prague to Ban Organised Night-Time Pub Crawls

The city of Prague is set to ban organised night-time pub crawls as part of a new initiative aimed at reducing disruptive behaviour by tourists and encouraging a more refined visitor experience. This decision, targeting travel agencies that cater to foreign tourists, especially those attending stag and hen parties, will take effect between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. local time (9 p.m. to 5 a.m. BST).

Deputy Mayor Jiri Pospisil announced that the measure is designed to promote a culture of “refinement and respect for shared public spaces.” The city has long been a popular destination for tourists, particularly from the UK, drawn by its vibrant nightlife and inexpensive beer. However, the influx of rowdy crowds has led to concerns over noise, safety, and cleanliness.

The move follows similar actions taken by other European cities, such as Amsterdam, which last year launched a campaign to deter young British men from travelling to the Dutch capital for excessive drinking and drug use.

Prague’s city council approved the ban to address what they described as “disruptions to night-time peace,” particularly in central districts like Prague One, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Residents and local officials have long complained about the impact of intoxicated tourists on the area’s cleanliness and tranquillity.

Prague One Mayor Terezie Radomerska called the decision a “welcome change” that would help reduce noise levels in the city’s most frequented nightlife areas. Police will be tasked with enforcing the new restrictions, which officials say will ease the strain on local resources caused by excessive cleaning and security demands.

While the move has been widely supported, some, including Prague Pub Crawl, an organiser of these tours, criticised the ban as a “populist move” that fails to address more pressing issues, such as the lack of adequate police presence.

Despite the controversy, Vaclav Starek of the Czech Association of Hotels and Restaurants believes the impact on business will be minimal. He stated, “No one is being banned from visiting pubs, but these organised night-time pub crawls are not something we need.”

Prague, with a population of 1.3 million, attracted approximately 7.4 million tourists last year, many of whom are drawn to its historic charm and affordable beer, often cheaper than bottled water in local establishments. The city hopes this new regulation will strike a balance between preserving its appeal and addressing concerns from residents and local authorities.

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