Travel Insurance Tips for a Trip to Prague

If you’re planning a trip to Prague, you’re in for a treat. With its fairy-tale architecture and historic landmarks, the Czech capital is a popular destination that blends old-world charm with modern convenience. But as you gear up for your adventure, like booking hotels, mapping out sightseeing, and figuring out where to try the best chimney cakes, there’s one important thing to add to your checklist: travel insurance.

Travel hiccups happen, even in the most magical places. A sudden flight delay, lost baggage, or a last-minute medical issue can throw a wrench in your plans (and your budget). Having the right travel insurance will ensure that you’re protected financially and have support when you need it.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of travel insurance for Prague so you can focus on exploring without worry.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Prague?

Travel insurance isn’t legally required for visiting Prague if you’re from a visa-exempt country like the U.S., Canada, or Australia. Travelers from these countries can stay in the Czech Republic and other Schengen Area nations for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as their trip is for tourism or business. While proof of travel insurance isn’t mandatory for these visitors, having coverage is still highly recommended to protect against unexpected expenses like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings.

For travelers who do require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, which includes Prague, proof of travel insurance is a requirement. In this case the policy would need to include at least €30,000 in medical coverage.

What Should Your Travel Insurance Cover?

When it comes to travel insurance for Prague, think about the “what ifs” of your trip. A missed connection, a lost bag, or a last-minute visit to a local hospital can quickly throw off your plans, and add unexpected, and possibly considerable, expenses. This is where a good travel insurance policy can be helpful.

At a minimum, your coverage should include:

• Medical Emergencies: Accidents and illnesses can and do happen, even on vacation. Make sure your policy covers emergency care, doctor visits, and hospital stays, ideally with a high coverage limit.

• Trip Cancellations or Interruptions: Life doesn’t always stick to the plan. Look for coverage that reimburses you for prepaid costs like flights or hotels if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to covered reasons.

• Lost or Delayed Baggage: Landing in Prague without your luggage? Insurance can help cover the cost of replacing essentials while your bags catch up to you.

• Travel Delays: Whether it’s a weather-related flight delay or unscheduled aircraft maintenance, this kind of coverage can help pay for extra hotel stays, meals, or re-booking fees.

Depending on your plans, you also might want to consider add-ons to your policy. If you’re visiting Prague in the winter and planning to visit the slopes, look for policies that cover skiing or snowboarding since standard coverage might not include them. On the other hand, if you’ve splurged on a luxury trip, “Cancel for Any Reason” is a coverage upgrade option that provides  extra flexibility if you think you might need to cancel your trip for a reason that isn’t typically covered.

That said, it’s important to know that no policy covers everything. Common exclusions might include pre-existing medical conditions, risky activities like extreme sports (unless you buy specific coverage for adventure activities), or cancellations for reasons not included in your policy. For example, a cancellation due to a change of heart about your trip won’t be covered unless you have “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance.

Always read the policy details about coverage and limits before buying so you’re 100% clear on what’s included and what’s not before you buy.

How Much Does Travel Insurance for Prague Cost?

The cost of travel insurance depends on a few different factors, like your age, how long your trip is, the total trip cost, and the type of coverage you choose. On average, comprehensive travel insurance will typically range from 5% to 7% of your total trip cost.

For example, if you’re spending $5,000 on a week-long trip to Prague, you can expect to pay somewhere between $250 and $350 for a policy, based on the average cost of travel insurance being 5–7% of the trip cost. This typically includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and delays. If you’re a younger traveler in good health, you might find rates on the lower end of that range. Older travelers or those opting for additional coverage, like “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, should anticipate higher premiums.

It’s also worth noting that prices can vary by provider. Some companies specialize in affordable basic plans, while others offer premium policies with higher limits and more flexibility.

Lastly, think about what’s most important to you. If you’re worried about medical coverage, you can prioritize a policy with high emergency medical limits. If you’re traveling with expensive gear or staying in high-end accommodations, baggage and trip interruption coverage may hold more value. By tailoring your policy to your specific trip, you can ensure you’re getting the protection you need at a price that makes sense.

Tips for Traveling to Prague

1. Use Public Transport Like a Local

Prague’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and reliable, so use it! Buy a multi-day pass that covers trams, buses, and the metro. The trams are especially handy for sightseeing, and routes like Tram 22 pass by major attractions like Prague Castle and Old Town.

2. Visit the Popular Attractions Early or Late

Iconic spots like Charles Bridge and Old Town Square are magical but get crowded during peak hours. Plan to visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter, more atmospheric experience. Bonus: The morning light is perfect for photos!

3. Skip the Taxis—Use Ride-Sharing Apps Instead

Traditional taxis in Prague have a reputation for overcharging tourists. Instead, use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber for fair pricing and convenience. Public transport is usually sufficient, but these apps are great for late nights or trips outside the city center.

4. Try Czech Food Beyond Goulash

While goulash and dumplings are famous in Prague, Czech cuisine has so more to offer. Keep a look-out for lesser-known dishes like svíčková (marinated beef with creamy vegetable sauce) or bramborák (crispy potato pancakes). Many local pubs, or hospodas, offer these at reasonable prices. Pair your meal with a draft Czech beer for the full experience.

5. Explore Lesser-Known Neighborhoods

While Old Town and Prague Castle are must-sees, don’t miss charming neighborhoods like Vinohrady, known for its cafés, parks, and Art Nouveau architecture, or Žižkov, a quirky area with the highest number of pubs per capita in Europe. These spots offer a more authentic experience of Prague life.

6. Carry Coins for Bathrooms

Public restrooms in Prague will often require a small fee, typically 10–20 CZK. Keep some coins handy since many facilities don’t accept cards. You can also plan your stops around museums or cafés, which usually have free restrooms for customers.

7. Book Castle Tickets Online

Prague Castle is a sprawling complex with multiple ticketed areas. To save time and avoid long lines, get your tickets online in advance. Opt for the full admission ticket if you want to explore highlights like St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane.

8. Walk as Much as Possible

Prague is a walkable city, and its cobblestone streets are part of the charm. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially considering the common uneven surfaces and steep hills. Walking also helps you discover hidden gems, like tucked-away courtyards and street art.

Final Thoughts

Prague is without-a-doubt a captivating destination chock-full of history, charm, and unique experiences. 

Protect your trip investment with a comprehensive travel insurance policy from TravelInsurance.com, where you can quickly and easily compare travel insurance options tailored to your needs.

With the right coverage in place, you can focus on enjoying all that Prague has to offer, worry-free.

Compare and Buy Travel Insurance

Compare and buy travel insurance plans from top rated insurers