The city councillors of Prague 1 decided on Wednesday to change the market regulations and ban the popular but controversial pub crawls between 22:00 and 06:00. According to residents and the city council, these organised pub crawls, which focus on alcohol consumption in various pubs, significantly impair the quality of life in the city centre.
The Prague City Council has adopted this decision to protect the peace and quiet at night and minimise the negative impact on the city. “These events undermine the city’s image as a cultured tourist destination,” emphasised the Mayor of Prague 1, Terezie Radoměřská.
The so-called pub crawls, where dozens of drunk and noisy people often roam the streets, have long been a major problem for the residents of Prague 1. “They disturb the peace and quiet at night, increase the noise level, and leave behind a lot of rubbish and general disorder,” explained Karel Grabein Procházka, City Councillor for Economy and Services.
In addition to noise pollution, excessive alcohol consumption during pub crawls also leads to safety risks. “This brings with it a number of safety risks, including public disputes and vandalism,” said Giancarlo Lamberti, chairman of the Prague 1 Finance Committee.
Another concern is the negative impact on the city’s image and reputation. “The inappropriate behaviour of participants can give the impression that Prague lacks sophistication and deter potential tourists and investors,” added Mayor Radoměřská.
In the long term, this could negatively affect the city’s economic development and social cohesion. Giancarlo Lamberti emphasised that certified and high-quality guiding services that promote sustainable tourism will be harmed by the pub crawls, adding, “The tours they offer aim to promote local culture, history, and gastronomy, thus contributing to the local economy and positive perception of the city.”
With the new regulation, the Municipality of Prague 1 hopes to improve the quality of life of local residents and preserve Prague’s cultured image as a tourist destination.
