10 Things You Should Know, before moving to Prague

"Emily in Paris"? How about Prague.

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world—with its stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich history. But before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know.

Because what Netflix doesn’t tell you, MAGPAPER will.

We all know the fantasy: new city, new life, new you. But before episode one begins, every story needs a preview.

Bureaucracy

Not exactly cinematic—but essential when moving abroad.

If you’re an EU citizen, all you need to do is register with the Czech authorities if your stay exceeds 90 days. For non-EU citizens, you’ll need to apply for a long-term visa, specifying the purpose of your stay—whether it’s work, study, or otherwise.

It might sound daunting, but people often overcomplicate it. Everything you need is available on the official government websites, and most staff at the Ministry of the Interior (MVČR) speak English.

Small tip: Always book appointments in advance—walk-ins can mean waiting for hours.

Public Transport

Moving forward? Not with an Uber, but with a tram pass.

Public transport in Prague is incredibly accessible—especially for students. With the PID Lítačka system, you can get monthly or yearly passes that cover buses, trams, and the metro, all for reasonable prices.

Missed your pass renewal? No worries—you can buy short-term tickets directly on board.

As for getting around, all you need is the PID Lítačka app. Type in your destination and it will guide you, stop by stop, from wherever you are.

Small tip: Ticket inspectors usually spot you before you spot them—always have your pass ready.

Groceries

Time to fuel up.

There are plenty of grocery options across the city. Major chains include Albert, Lidl, Billa, Tesco, and Kaufland. For larger restocks, Tesco is a go-to—they offer a wide variety of goods, including traditional Czech sweets. Download their Clubcard app to save on every purchase.

Small tip: Supermarkets are closed on public holidays—mark your calendars in advance.

Markets

Some purchases are practical, others are for the vibes.

For the latter, Saturday Market at Náplavka is a must. There’s no better way to start your morning than with fresh farmer’s goods in an authentic setting. Flowers, drinks, baked goods—it’s all there, right by the river. A perfect place to slow down and soak up the city.

Small tip: Bring cash—and maybe a few friends.

Czech People

No series is complete without its characters.

Czechs might seem reserved at first, but once you get to know them, they’re warm and genuinely friendly. Unlike the quick friendships of TV shows, connections here take time—but they tend to run deeper and last longer. There's a quiet strength to Czech people, and once you're in their circle, you’re truly in.

Expats

Prague is a magnet for people from all over the world.

Whether you’re at university or working, you’re bound to meet other expats. The international community here is vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunities to connect and make the most of your time in the city.

While many people speak English, learning Czech is always a big plus.

Language

Czech is the official language, and although you can get by with English in Prague, knowing a few phrases can really smooth your day-to-day life. Want to go further? There are plenty of language schools and courses that can take you from A2 to B1—and beyond.

Mental Health

It’s easy to focus on external changes and forget about what’s happening inside.

At first, everything feels exciting—new city, new people, new experiences. But homesickness can hit, and that’s normal. Immigration isn’t just about arriving somewhere new—it’s about growing. And sometimes, you need to lose a version of yourself to discover a better, stronger one.

Small tip: Don’t chase the old you. Get to know the new one.

Journaling or spending quiet time alone can help, but don’t isolate yourself either.

Spots

Grab your journal, your thoughts, or your favorite people—and take a walk.

Prague is stunning, but when you know the right places, it becomes magical. Don't know where to start? Keep up with MAGPAPER—we've got you.

Enjoy

TV shows rarely capture what moving truly feels like.

But nothing’s stopping you from becoming the main character of your own story. Embrace the process—with all its highs and lows. One day, you’ll look around and realize the life you once dreamed of is now your reality.

Welcome to episode one of your Prague journey. Ready to hit play?