Common Tourist Scams in Prague Trams (and How to Avoid Them)
Pickpockets — Tram 22 the canonical line
- Tram 22 reputation: tourist-route 22 from Národní třída up to Prague Castle is Prague's pickpocket-densest tram, with documented teams working the line for decades.
- The pattern: 2-3 person teams. One causes a distraction (asks a question, drops a coin, blocks an exit at a stop); the other lifts the wallet/phone from a back pocket or open bag.
- Hotspot stops: Národní divadlo, Malostranská, Pražský hrad/Pohořelec — all peak-tourist boarding stations.
- Prevention: front-pocket phone, zipped bag, bag in front of body in crowded conditions; bus to Castle is an alternative.
- If hit: police station at Karlín or Vinohradenská přes most for reporting; insurance claim documentation.
FAQ
- Why is Tram 22 famous for pickpockets?
- Tram 22 is the tourist line from Národní třída up to Prague Castle. The combination of guaranteed tourist passengers, predictable boarding stops (Národní divadlo, Malostranská, Pražský hrad) and crowded conditions has made it the canonical pickpocket route for decades. 2-3 person teams use distraction techniques. Front-pocket phone, zipped bag, bag in front in crowded conditions.
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