Drivin' in Czechia
All you need to drive smart in the Czech Republic
Prague is a beautiful city, but like other major European capitals, it can be strict when it comes to parking. Most of the broader city centre is covered by paid parking zones, each with different rules and purposes. They are marked by colours – blue (residential), purple (mixed-use), and orange (visitor). Each city district has slightly different parking rules, so it is essential to follow the supplementary sign on the street’s traffic signage. Outside the operating hours indicated, parking in these zones is free and without a time limit.
Basic rules for visitors to Prague
- Park your car and read the supplementary sign (zone colour, operating hours, max. parking duration).
- Use one of the supported mobile apps (EasyPark, Citymove, ParkSimply) or a parking meter (if available on the street).
- Enter your license plate number, choose your parking duration, and pay by card online. That’s it – there’s no need to place a paper ticket behind the windshield. The parking meter will print a receipt, but it’s mainly for your own reference.
Zone overview: What blue, purple, and orange mean
Blue Zone (Residential)
Primarily for residents, business owners, and property owners with long-term permits. Visitors can park here only short-term – typically for a maximum of three hours, and only by paying online. There are no parking meters in blue zones. Parking is free outside of the operating hours. Specific rules and rates vary by location. The most reliable way to pay is online.
Purple Zone (Mixed-use)
Available to both residents and visitors. Visitors can park for up to 24 hours after payment, either via parking meter or online. If the sign doesn’t indicate specific operating hours, then a 24/7 paid parking system applies. Each district may set different rules, so always refer to the supplementary sign.
Orange Zone (Visitor)
Short-term parking, typically near government offices, hospitals, or busy areas. The time limit is always shown on the sign and varies from street to street. Payment is possible via parking meter or online. Long-term permits are not valid in this zone.
How to pay for parking (step-by-step)
1. Online Parking Meter – no app installation needed
- Scan the QR code on the info box or open the Online Parking Meter in your browser.
- Enter your license plate number and confirm the location – either based on your current position or the code shown on the supplementary sign (e.g., P6-1234).
- Choose your parking duration, pay by card, and save the confirmation.
2. Partner Mobile Applications
The official operator of Prague’s parking zones (TSK) lists verified partners: EasyPark, Citymove, ParkSimply, and SEJF. These apps work similarly to the Online Parking Meter. You’ll need to enter your license plate, the section you are parking in, and the parking duration. All apps allow remote extension of your parking; some may charge service fees.
3. Physical Parking Meters
Available in purple and orange zones. The sign and meter will display the zone code and rules. You can pay by coins or card. Blue zones do not have parking meters.
Frequently Asked Questions about parking in Prague (FAQ)
Use the official zone map – it shows the street, zone type, guides you to payment, and often opens the Online Parking Meter for the correct section. The map also shows selected public and commercial parking lots.or this block. You can use this space for describing your block.
In Prague, electronic enforcement is used – patrol vehicles and handheld scanners check license plates against the payment/permit database. You don’t need to display a paper ticket (and in blue zones, tickets are not issued at all). If the system finds unpaid parking, a notice is sent to the vehicle owner based on local district regulations.
Electric vehicles with a Czech “EL” license plate or a special permit from the city can park for free in blue and purple zones (currently valid through December 31, 2025). Note: foreign license plates do not qualify automatically – special permits are required. Please check with City Hall or TSK (Technická správa komunikací hlavního města Prahy).
Yes – outside of the time shown on the supplementary sign, parking is free and unlimited. Always check local signage.
No. Parking control is based on your license plate – no need to leave a ticket behind the windshield.
In purple zones, yes – it means 24/7 paid parking. Elsewhere, check the supplementary sign at the beginning of the street.
Yes, but only short-term (usually max. 3 hours) and only via online payment. There are no parking meters in blue zones.
Quick zone overview (for visitors)
| Zone | Who can park | Max. time for visitor | Where to pay | Key points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue (Residential) | Residents + short-term visitors | Usually 3 hours | Online via app | No meters; free outside operating hours |
| Purple (Mixed-use) | Residents + visitors | Up to 24 hours | Meter or online | If no hours shown, 24/7 paid parking applies |
| Orange (Visitor) | Visitors only | As indicated on the sign | Meter or online | No long-term permits; often near public institutions |
Practical tips for expats and foreigners
- Take a photo of the supplementary sign and zone colour – useful in disputes or to enter the correct section in the Online Parking Meter.
- Enable parking app notifications – running out of time is the most common reason for fines. Partner apps can notify you and allow easy extensions.
- Don’t forget about P+R: When visiting the city centre, it’s often faster and cheaper to park near the metro and take public transport.
- Check zone changes when you change streets – rules may differ even between neighbouring blocks.
- Prices vary by area – the app will automatically calculate the fee based on your section and time.
Where to check and pay
- Official ZPS Prague zone map – shows zone type, rules, and links to payment.
- Online Parking Meter / Partner Apps – overview of official payment channels.
- Detailed info on blue / purple / orange zones – rules, limits, operating hours.
