Dodge Shady ATMs and Dynamic Currency Conversion

Prague is largely a cashless city, but when you do need physical Czech Korunas (CZK), be vigilant about which ATMs you use. Avoid bright blue-and-yellow independent standalone ATMs (such as Euronet) located in tourist centers, which charge exorbitant transaction fees and unfavorable exchange markups.

Always use bank-affiliated ATMs attached to reputable national institutions such as Česká spořitelna, Komerční banka, or ČSOB. Look for ATMs built directly into the exterior walls of physical bank branches.

Whether paying by card at a restaurant or withdrawing cash from an ATM, always select the option to be charged in CZK (Czech Koruna) without conversion. If you accept Dynamic Currency Conversion (charging in your home currency), the terminal will apply an inflated exchange rate that can add up to 10-15% to your purchase.