Are you planning a trip to Prague and wondering if you can take a dip in the river? The answer is yes, but with some precautions.
Is it legal to swim in the Prague river?
Yes, it is legal to swim in the Vltava River, which flows through Prague. However, there are some restrictions on where and when you can do it.
Swimming areas:
There are designated swimming areas along the riverbank, which are marked by signs stating “Koupání povoleno” (swimming allowed). These areas have lifeguards on duty during certain hours of the day and are monitored for water quality.
Water quality:
Before taking a plunge, make sure to check the water quality. The city of Prague regularly checks the water for bacteria levels and posts warnings if they exceed safe limits. You can find this information on their website or by checking with local authorities.
What are the risks of swimming in the Prague river?
- Strong currents: The Vltava River has strong currents that can be dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
- Cold water: Even during summer months, the water temperature can be quite chilly.
- Pollution: While efforts have been made to improve water quality, there is still a risk of pollution from runoff and sewage.
Tips for safe swimming:
- Only swim in designated areas with lifeguards present.
- Check water quality before jumping in.
- Avoid swimming after heavy rainfalls as it affects the water quality.
- Never swim alone.
- If you’re not an experienced swimmer or not comfortable with strong currents, avoid swimming altogether.
Conclusion:
Swimming in the Prague river can be a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the hot summer months. However, it’s important to take precautions and swim only in designated areas with lifeguards present.
Always check water quality before swimming and never swim alone. With these tips in mind, you can safely enjoy a dip in the Vltava River.