Czechia Travel Tips
Practical Tips for Traveling Around Czechia
Passport & Insurance
Get travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and unexpected events. If you’re planning outdoor activities, confirm that your policy includes coverage. You can easily do so via our partners at Allianz.
Currency & ATMs
ATMs, called ‘bankomaty’ locally, are widely available throughout Czechia, especially in cities and tourist spots. Withdrawing cash from ATMs is usually the easiest and most cost-effective way to get Czech koruna, often offering better exchange rates than currency exchange offices.
Before traveling, check with your bank about any foreign transaction or ATM fees that might apply to international withdrawals. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Czechia.
Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express and Discover may be less widely welcomed, particularly in smaller shops and cafes.
Before traveling, inform your bank of your plans to avoid issues with foreign transactions. It’s wise to bring a backup card in case your primary one is lost, stolen, or compromised. Keep an eye on your bank statements while traveling to spot any unauthorized charges.
Language
Here are some useful phrases in Czech:
- Ahoj (ah-hoy) – Hello/Hi/Bye
- Děkuji (dyeh-koo-yee) – Thank you
- Prosím (pro-seem) – Please / You’re welcome
- Promiňte (pro-myeen-teh) – Excuse me / Sorry
- Ano (ah-no) – Yes
- Ne (neh) – No
- Dobré ráno (doh-breh rah-no) – Good morning
- Mluvíte anglicky? (mloo-vee-teh ang-lits-kee) – Do you speak English?
Language plays an important role in Czech culture, rooted in Slavic heritage and closely tied to the country’s history. Czech reflects national pride, and much of the nation’s literature, music, and historical documents are in the language, enriching the cultural experience.
By learning a few Czech words and observing local customs, you’ll navigate more easily and enjoy a deeper, more meaningful experience in this beautiful country
Weather & Clothing
Spring (March–May):
Spring brings mild weather and blooming landscapes, perfect for sightseeing. In cities like Prague, temperatures generally range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in March, warming to 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) by May. Inland towns and countryside may be slightly cooler, so layering is recommended. Light jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeve shirts work well, and an umbrella or light raincoat is useful for occasional showers.
Summer (June–August):
Summers are warm and sunny, ideal for exploring cities and outdoor attractions. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), though heat waves can occasionally push highs above 30°C (86°F). Light, breathable clothing like t-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and hats are essential. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. For visits to churches or historical sites, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advised.
Autumn showcases colorful foliage and crisp, refreshing air. September sees mild temperatures between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F), gradually cooling to 5°C–12°C (41°F–54°F) by November. Layers are key—bring sweaters, scarves, and a medium-weight jacket to adjust to changing conditions. Rain is common, so a waterproof jacket or umbrella is advisable.
Winter (December–February):
Winters are cold, particularly inland. Coastal areas near lakes may remain milder, averaging 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while cities like Prague and Brno can drop to –5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F). Snow is frequent in higher elevations and the mountainous regions, making them great for winter sports. Pack a warm coat, thermal layers, waterproof boots, gloves, and a scarf for comfort and safety.
Final Tips:
- Weather can be unpredictable, so versatile layers are recommended.
- Comfortable footwear is essential for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain in historic towns.
- Check regional forecasts before traveling, especially if visiting mountains or countryside areas.
Electrical Adapters
For multiple devices, a power strip with surge protection is useful for charging everything at once while protecting against power surges. While adapters and converters can be purchased in Czech electronics stores, airports, or convenience stores, it’s usually more convenient and cost-effective to bring them from home.
Mobile Coverage
Tipping Etiquette
In Czechia, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a kind way to show appreciation for good service. Knowing local tipping customs can help you feel more comfortable when dining out or using other services.
For coffee or drinks at a café, tipping isn’t necessary, especially if you order at the counter. If you’re enjoying table service, leaving a small tip, such as 20–50 CZK, shows appreciation but is not required.
Taxi drivers do not expect tips in Czechia, but rounding up to the nearest 10–20 CZK or leaving a little extra for assistance with luggage is appreciated.
For tour guides, it’s customary to tip around 100–150 CZK for half-day tours or 200–300 CZK for full-day tours, especially for exceptional service. For private drivers, tipping 100–250 CZK is thoughtful, depending on the length and quality of service.
At salons or spas, leaving a 5–10% tip for excellent service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Emergency Help
The universal emergency number in Czechia is 112, which connects you to the police, fire services, and ambulance. This number is suitable for any threat to life, health, or property.
Travelers in Czechia can feel assured knowing that the country has a robust emergency response system. Before you travel, review your medical insurance policy to understand what coverage you have while abroad, including the types of emergencies, services, and institutions you can rely on.
For serious situations, such as passport loss, legal issues, or major emergencies, contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Czechia. Keep their contact details accessible during your stay.
- Police (Policie): 158 – Use this number to report crimes, theft, or law enforcement needs.
- Ambulance (Záchranná služba): 155 – For medical emergencies, including requests for an ambulance or urgent medical help.
- Fire Brigade (Hasiči): 150 – For fire-related emergencies, gas leaks, or accidents requiring fire services.
- Tourist Assistance / Information – Many major cities, including Prague, have tourist information centers that provide assistance in English and other languages. For example, Prague Tourist Information: +420 221 714 714.
- +1 (954) 787 5105
- +41 55 539 18 88
Restaurant Prices
For a mid-range dining experience, a three-course meal for two people may cost between 40–60 EUR (1,000–1,500 CZK). This often includes an appetizer like soup or cheese, a main dish featuring Czech specialties or modern European cuisine, and a dessert. Mid-range restaurants offer a comfortable balance of quality and price, allowing you to enjoy Czech cuisine without overspending.
High-end restaurants, especially those in central Prague or with scenic views, can be more expensive. Prices vary depending on the location and style, but you can expect higher costs for premium ingredients, tasting menus, or upscale settings.
Drink prices vary as well. A glass of wine usually costs between 3–6 EUR (75–150 CZK), depending on the restaurant and the region’s quality wines. A beer typically ranges from 2–4 EUR (50–100 CZK), with local lagers often being especially affordable. Non-alcoholic drinks, such as sodas or bottled water, generally cost 1.50–3 EUR (40–75 CZK).
Tips for Saving Money:
- Many restaurants offer daily lunch specials, called polední menu, which are significantly more affordable than dinner menus.
- Look for traditional eateries such as hospody or hostince, which often serve authentic Czech dishes at reasonable prices.
- Explore quick, affordable snacks like grilled sausages, open-faced sandwiches (chlebíčky), and pastries such as koláče or trdelník.
Traditional Dishes
Another beloved dish is vepřo knedlo zelo, a hearty combination of roasted pork, soft dumplings, and stewed cabbage—an iconic representation of Czech home cooking. In traditional pubs (hospody), you’ll also find guláš, a rich beef stew seasoned with paprika and served with dumplings or fresh bread, perfect for colder days.
In the South Bohemian region, kulajda is a local favorite: a creamy mushroom soup flavored with dill, potatoes, and a poached egg. Meanwhile, cabbage rolls known as plněné zelné listy—similar to sarma—are enjoyed across the country, especially in autumn.
In South Bohemia, Budějovické koleno (roasted pork knee) is a festive and flavorful specialty, often enjoyed with mustard and horseradish. The region is also known for fruit-filled pastries and dumplings, such as ovocné knedlíky, which can be sweet or savory depending on the filling.
In Eastern Czechia (Moravian Slovakia), slivovice, a strong plum brandy, often accompanies meals, and local sausages, like klobása, are flavored with paprika and garlic, providing a distinctive regional touch.
Desserts
Other favorites include trdelník, a sweet, rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon, frequently found at street markets and festivals, and ovocné knedlíky, fruit-filled dumplings served with butter, sugar, or cream. Each region of Czechia has its own specialties, such as medovník, a layered honey cake popular in Moravia, showcasing the country’s rich dessert heritage.
Koláče are small, round pastries filled with poppy seeds, cheese, or fruit preserves, commonly enjoyed at celebrations or in bakeries throughout the country. In winter, vanilkové rohlíčky, crescent-shaped vanilla cookies dusted with powdered sugar, are a festive favorite. Buchty, soft yeast buns filled with jam, poppy seeds, or tvaroh (cottage cheese), are perfect for afternoon tea or coffee.
Another beloved dessert is trdelník, a sweet, rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon, frequently found at street markets and festivals. Ovocné knedlíky, fruit-filled dumplings, are typically made with plums, strawberries, or apricots and served with butter, sugar, or cream, making them a classic comfort dessert.
Drinks
Coffee plays an important role in everyday life, with cafés offering a variety of styles, from simple káva černá (black coffee) to espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Many Czechs enjoy coffee alongside a pastry or dessert in the afternoon, making café culture an essential part of social life.
Coffee plays an important role in everyday life, with cafés offering a variety of styles, from simple káva černá (black coffee) to espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Many Czechs enjoy coffee alongside a pastry or dessert in the afternoon, making café culture an essential part of social life.
Non-alcoholic beverages are also widely consumed. Fruit juices, flavored waters, and herbal teas are common, as are carbonated soft drinks like Kofola, a uniquely Czech cola-style drink with a slightly herbal taste. During the summer, fresh fruit smoothies and lemonades are popular at markets and cafés.
Slivovice, a strong plum brandy, is a traditional spirit often served at celebrations or after meals. Moravia is particularly known for its fruit brandies and fortified wines, which showcase the region’s abundant orchards and vineyards. Speaking of wine, Czechia has a growing wine culture, especially in southern Moravia, where crisp white wines, sweet dessert wines, and local reds are served in cozy wine bars called vinárny.
Traditional herbal infusions, such as linden flower or chamomile tea, are appreciated for their soothing qualities and historical use in Czech households.
For festive occasions, locals may enjoy mulled wine (svařené víno) in winter markets or becherovka, a bitter herbal liqueur often served as a digestif. Non-alcoholic options such as mineral waters from local springs are widely available and often consumed with meals. Whether visiting a historic pub, a modern café, or a vineyard, exploring Czech drinks provides a flavorful glimpse into the country’s traditions, social culture, and regional specialties.
Traditions & Celebrations
Easter (Velikonoce) is celebrated with colorful decorated eggs (kraslice), braided bread, and folk rituals. In Moravia and some other regions, men traditionally playfully sprinkle women with water or perfume on Easter Monday, a custom meant to bring health and fertility.
Carnivals and festivals occur throughout the year, often rooted in folklore. The Masopust carnival, celebrated before Lent, features parades, masks, music, and traditional foods such as pork dishes and pastries, reflecting rural customs from centuries past.
Other notable celebrations include Saint Nicholas Day (Mikuláš) on December 5th, when children receive small gifts, and Name Days (svátky), which are often celebrated similarly to birthdays.
Cultural festivals such as Folklore Days, wine harvest festivals in Moravia, and puppet theatre performances highlight Czechia’s artistic and historical heritage.
Even modern holidays like New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, and International Women’s Day are celebrated with local flair, blending international influences with Czech traditions.