Prague: Rank 14 of our top
The interest in Prague among all kinds of people is confirmed by the fact that more than 190,000 foreigners live as residents in the city. This is a percentage of more than 15% of the population, which is well above what is seen elsewhere in Europe.
Respondents to our survey gave Prague 14th place in the overall top, but they particularly emphasise the good impressions the city generates in categories such as leisure, with third place, or cost of living and gastronomy, categories in which it ranks fourth in Europe.
Located in the centre of Europe, Prague is one of the cities that has best understood, over the years, the importance of maintaining its most traditional essence while at the same time embracing modernity. Today it is one of the main points of connection with the rest of the continent. In fact, for our respondents, it has deserved the 14th position in the ranking.
The temperature in Prague is too extreme throughout the year, which means that new residents to the city have to work hard to get used to it, at least if they come from regions with milder climates.
However, its hot summers and very cold winters are not too different from other European cities either. One reason why Prague’s climate is not convincing is the high level of humidity and its instability, which complicates matters.
There is also room for improvement. The city keeps its various transport systems very isolated so that they are used in one way or another depending on where you are going to travel.
To get around the city centre you have to use the tram, while if you want to get around the outer areas you can opt for the metro. The bus circuit provides general support.
Despite the large number of universities, Prague does not make it into the top ten in this category according to our survey responses. At least this is the overall perception of the more than 25,000 respondents.
In total there are more than 30 universities, most of which are private. There are also 20 international schools, such as the International School of Prague, the Lycée Francais de Prague or the Prague British International School. Most of these are English-language schools, which allows students from all backgrounds to share classes in an international language.
Prague has some of the best gastronomy in the Czech Republic, which has favoured the city in the rankings, where it comes in fourth place behind Copenhagen, Madrid and Lisbon. The city’s food is full of spices and is heavily weighted towards meats. Some of the most popular dishes in its restaurants include utopenec, knedliky balls and svíčková sirloin steak. A city of good life and culture, which is also reflected at the table.
The city has strong links with many major European locations and has even been used on occasion to host events of international significance.
Its airport is 10 km from the city and is a very modern place whose facilities are used by millions of travellers every year. Prague receives many visitors due to its ideal position in one of Europe’s central locations.
Prague’s crime level is in line with that seen in many other European cities, but it’s wise not to risk it and to avoid some places at night, such as the Smíchov district.
Police officers tend not to have a high level of English, so be aware of this. In addition, there are other places in the city that should be avoided at certain times of the night, such as Benediktská or Bartolomějská.
Although its sustainable actions have not been enough to give Prague a presence in the top 10 according to our respondents’ results, the city is striving to become more and more sustainable.
They are encouraging the planting of new trees and the creation of more green spaces, increasing local and organic consumption with initiatives that encourage greener businesses, and constructing green buildings where the presence of large gardens is emphasised.
Living in Prague is not cheap, but at the same time, salaries are very high. This helps to offset prices and the cost of living with a job in the region is very reasonable. So much so that Prague was ranked fourth in the survey in terms of cost of living after Lyon, Lisbon and Madrid. This is a very balanced income-expense perception, which is reflected in the surveys carried out.
Transport is cheaper than elsewhere in Europe and the investment in food can be optimised by relying on local businesses rather than shopping in large supermarkets.
It is one of Europe’s most culturally traditional cities, with a large selection of places where time can be spent in a culturally enriching way. Some of its museums are world-famous, such as the Jewish Museum in Prague or the National Museum, as well as those dedicated to Czech artists, such as the Alfons Mucha Museum.
Other cultural offerings include concert halls, art galleries, cinemas and theatres. It is a good place to live with children because the museums are in accessible areas and can be combined with other activities on a day out.
Our survey ranks Prague third in the top European leisure scene. Places like Kampa Park are great for spending a few hours in a fun environment surrounded by nature. But that’s not the only thing to look out for in Prague, as the city is also known for its leisure options.
For shopping, it is essential to head to Wenceslas Square, while children will love going to Prague Castle. Fun is also guaranteed at the Lunapark amusement park, and don’t forget to enjoy visiting cafés where you can try delicious desserts and chocolate recipes. In addition, as a good university city, Prague has an especially attractive atmosphere and life during the school months for students.