Czech Republic

English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, though learning a few Czech phrases can be helpful.

The currency is the Czech koruna (CZK).

The national language of Czechia is Czech. So yes, you will probably be able to get around and manage using just English. But, as always, learning some essential words is fun and makes the locals feel you made an effort for them, which might make them more welcoming. Here are a few basic phrases to get you started: Dobrý Den  = Hello Děkuji = Thank you Prosim = Please Promiňte = Excuse Me Ano = Yes Ne = No

Czechia is relatively a very safe country. The capital, Prague, like any major city has a pickpocket problem. Pay extra attention in the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, the tram, and in the metro.

Yes, Czechia is generally affordable compared to other Western European countries. Accommodation, food, and public transport offer good value, especially outside of Prague.

Police – 158 Firefighters – 150 Ambulance – 155

Taxis are a popular tourists scam in Czechia. There’s a big problem with overcharging tourists absurd amounts of money for rides for which locals pay a fraction of the price. Instead, we advise using rideshare apps, which have known, controlled prices and are easy to use. Uber is a popular option but not always available in less urban areas. In that case, you can use a local app called Liftago. The app offers driver information, rating, ride information, and a known price before ordering the ride to avoid overpaying and scams. If you plan on traveling around the country and are not a fan of public transportation, or want the freedom to stop anytime, anywhere, renting a car could make things easier. We recommend booking your car in advance. If your home country driver’s license is in English and from an EU/EEA country, it is generally sufficient to rent a car in the Czech Republic. For licenses not in English or from non-EU/EEA countries, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or may be required. Always carry your passport with your license. Google Maps application (download Android App / iOS App) is a great app to navigate while driving or walking. You can pre-download maps for offline use, saving on your cellular data plans. Czechia has a ZERO tolerance for alcohol consumption while driving. So if you want to enjoy beer and wine along the way, avoid driving. Instead, you can either find someone else to drive, choose a different mode of transportation, or stick to nonalcoholic beer, which you’ll find in most restaurants. Avoid awkward situations and unnecessary fines by making sure you know the different traffic signs and speed limits in the Czech Republic.

Tipping is customary in the Czech Republic. In restaurants and bars, a tip of 10-15% of the total bill is generally considered appropriate if you are satisfied with the service. For smaller bills or casual dining, rounding up to the nearest convenient amount is also common practice.

A minimum of 4-5 days is recommended to explore Prague and at least one other region, like Český Krumlov or Kutná Hora. For a more comprehensive experience, 7-10 days would allow you to see more of the country.

The best months to visit are April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild, and tourist crowds are smaller.

While the official currency is the Czech koruna (CZK), some places in Prague may accept euros. However, it’s advisable to use korunas for better exchange rates and to avoid confusion.

For EU citizens, no visa is required; a valid passport or national ID card is sufficient for indefinite stays. US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, including the Czech Republic. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. For citizens of other countries, it is advisable to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and the duration of your intended stay.

Yes, tap water in the Czech Republic is generally safe to drink throughout the country. It is of high quality and meets strict EU standards, making it a reliable and environmentally friendly option for hydration during your travels.

Prague boasts an excellent and efficient public transportation system, primarily consisting of the metro, trams, and buses. A single ticket allows transfers between these modes of transport. Day passes and multi-day passes are available and recommended for tourists. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are also widely available and offer convenient alternatives, especially for airport transfers or late-night travel.