First time in the Czech Republic? Start here
The Czech Republic is compact, walkable, and easy to love. Prague gets the headlines, but Cesky Krumlov, Brno, and the spa town of Karlovy Vary reward a few extra days. A little prep makes the whole trip smoother.
Plugs and voltage
The Czech Republic uses Type E sockets at 230V / 50Hz. Type C and F plugs fit too, so most EU chargers work without an adapter.
- Travelers from the UK, US, and elsewhere need a Type E adapter
- US devices need to be dual-voltage (most phone and laptop chargers are)
- Buy adapters before you fly; airport prices are steep
Language basics
Czech is the official language, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas. A few words go a long way.
- Dobry den - hello (formal)
- Dekuji - thank you
- Prosim - please / you're welcome
- Prominte - excuse me
- Kolik to stoji? - how much is it?
Money and tipping
The currency is the Czech koruna (CZK), not the euro. Cards are accepted nearly everywhere, but carry some cash for markets and small cafes.
- Avoid Euronet ATMs; use bank ATMs and decline the conversion offer
- Tipping around 10 percent is normal in restaurants
- Refuse currency exchange on the street
What to pack
- Comfortable shoes; Prague's cobblestones are unforgiving
- A light rain jacket year-round
- Warm layers from October to March; winters are cold
- A reusable water bottle - tap water is safe to drink
Quick tips for first-timers
- Validate your tram ticket in the yellow machine or risk a fine
- Beer is often cheaper than water - a pint can cost under 50 CZK
- Charles Bridge at sunrise is crowd-free and magical
- Watch for pickpockets on trams 22 and around Old Town Square
- Restaurant couvert (bread, nuts) is rarely free; ask first
- Day-trip by train to Kutna Hora or Cesky Krumlov - cheap and scenic
- Sunday hours can be short outside Prague
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