Žižkov

Authentic pub culture and cheap prices in a working-class area that's rough around the edges. Fine during the day for the alternative scene, be cautious at night.

Prague's grittiest neighborhood with more pubs per square kilometer than anywhere in Europe. Communist-era TV tower with crawling baby sculptures dominates the skyline. During the day it's fine - families, students, artists on streets that look rougher than Vinohrady. The draw is authentic pub culture, Pilsner for 40 CZK instead of 90 CZK in Old Town. More Czech than English, staff can seem unwelcoming until they see you're genuinely interested. Nightlife brings bohemian crowds to dive bars and alternative clubs open late. Stick to main streets and well-lit areas after dark - some blocks get empty and poorly lit. Area around the TV tower safer than side streets near the train station. Authentic with character and cheap prices, but needs more street awareness.