In a bold move to address the growing concerns of “alcohol tourism” and its impact on local residents, Prague’s city leadership has officially banned organized pub crawls targeting foreign tourists. This decision, made on Monday, marks a significant shift in the city’s approach to nightlife and tourism management.
The new regulation, which will take effect immediately upon publication in the legal code, comes as a response to long-standing calls from Prague 1 district – the area most affected by nighttime disturbances caused by inebriated foreign tourists. Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib of the Pirate Party stated that the amendment was discussed with various stakeholders, including Prague 1 officials, Prague City Tourism, and representatives of traditional tour guides.
To implement this ban, the city has modified its market regulations, prohibiting so-called “ambulatory service provision,” which includes pub crawls. However, the amendment makes an exception for traditional guided tours, allowing them to operate between 6 AM and 10 PM. This compromise ensures that legitimate tourism activities can continue while addressing the specific issues associated with organized drinking tours.
City officials justify this move by citing the numerous negative consequences of pub crawls on urban life and administration. These include disruptions to nighttime peace, increased noise levels, public space pollution, and the need for enhanced security measures. The strain on municipal services, such as cleaning crews and local police, has led to budget and personnel burdens for the affected areas.
Beyond the immediate logistical concerns, the city government also points to the broader impact on Prague’s reputation. The regular presence of groups of intoxicated individuals has been damaging the city’s image, potentially deterring other tourists, investors, and even affecting the quality of life for residents. This initiative is part of a larger effort to combat “overtourism” and promote more sustainable and respectful forms of tourism in the Czech capital.
As Prague continues to grapple with the challenges of its popularity as a tourist destination – with 7.4 million visitors staying in hotels and guesthouses last year alone, a 25% increase from the previous year- this ban on organized pub crawls represents a significant step towards redefining the city’s relationship with tourism and preserving its cultural integrity.