Prague boasts a vibrant nightlife (photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Dance is an international language, and dance clubs draw an international crowd. And even for music lovers who don’t understand Czech, taking in a concert by a Czech folk or rock band can be as exciting and new an experience as seeing Prague Castle for the first time. And Prague’s many small clubs offer the chance to experience a face of the city most tourists don’t see. Note: if you’re checking out a club’s program, and a band is called “Nirvana revival” or “Depeche Mode revival,” the word revival here means “cover band.”

Abaton This space is located in an old warehouse along a dark highway in the Libeň district. Just the right atmosphere for underground and alternative music, from metal to hip hop to punk.

Agharta Jazz Centrum One of Prague’s many excellent jazz clubs. Modern jazz, funk jazz, fusion, jazz & blues.

Balbínova poetická hospůdka You never know what act will play this little hole-in-the wall pub. The music is definitely not hard and heavy, leaning towards Czech folk alternative.

Chapeau Rouge Bar & Club The ground floor is a bar, the first underground floor is a dance club and the second underground floor features live alternative music.

EXIT Chmelnice In the grungy heart of Prague’s Žižkov district, this club hosts local and touring metal, alternative, and punk bands.

Futurum Music Bar A popular club with DJs and dance music. Twice a week, the club holds an ‘80s and ‘90s party night.

Klub Roxy The Roxy is perhaps the most popular venue for alternative DJs, dance music, and experimental music and (occasionally) theater as well.

Lucerna Music Bar Right off Wenceslaus Square in the historic Lucerna building. DJs, dance music, occasional live acts (rock, pop, world music).

Matrix Music Club Alternative, rock, drum and bass, party, techno, metal.

Palác Akropolis One of Prague’s largest and best-known venues. Mostly DJ and dance, but also touring acts in world music. Also puts on theater productions.

Jazz Club u Staré paní Another excellent jazz club, located in the basement of the hotel of the same name.

Reduta - Jazz Club Live jazz starting at 9.30 pm every day. Dixieland, big band, but also modern jazz and jam sessions.

Rock Café  One of the best live music venues in downtown Prague has had a hard time staying open because of complaints about the noise. For now, the club is alive so stop by and check it out.

U malého Glena An excellent jazz club in the Lesser Town. The name (“Little Glen”) refers to the club’s American owner.

Vagon club The best of Czech rock and folk. You probably won’t know any of the bands, but you find yourself becoming a fan. At the very least, order a few beers and enjoy the cellar club’s ambience.