Czech Republic
Czech Republic Country Guide
The Czech Republic is a country located in the heart of Central Europe and is notable for its rich history. With a charming capital like Prague, the Czech Republic is full of historic cities adorned with Gothic and Baroque architectural marvels. Known for hosting one of the oldest universities in Europe, this country also stands out with its cultural and artistic heritage. The Czech Republic, which is also the birthplace of many scientists, writers, and artists, has a unique cuisine and a rich musical tradition. It offers a distinctive experience to its visitors with its natural beauty, thermal waters, and historical castles.
Things To Know Before Going To Czech Republic
- English proficiency among older generations may be limited due to historical factors.
- Beer is often more affordable than bottled water.
- Customer service standards may differ from what travelers are accustomed to.
- Tipping in restaurants and similar establishments is typically around 5-10% (rounded up).
- Use the PID Litacka app to purchase public transport passes for convenience.
- Trams and subways are recommended for getting around; buses are less commonly used.
- Contactless cards are widely used; consider using Apple Pay or Google Pay if your card doesn't support contactless payments.
- Uber is available; consider using Bolt as a potentially cheaper alternative.
- Public restrooms generally require a small fee (approximately 10-20 CZK); some locations accept contactless payments.
- Don't exchange money or use ATM machines. Use your credit card and if the terminal gives you a choice, select crowns.
Cultural and Local Czech Republic Tips
- Humor is a big part of our culture; we joke about everything, even dark subjects like the Holocaust, which might be considered offensive in other countries. If you ask "How are you?", be prepared for an honest rant about life's struggles. Don't take offense if shop assistants or servers seem unfriendly; many dislike their jobs and don't pretend otherwise. We generally don't smile at strangers; it's not personal, just our cultural norm. We can be quite judgmental too. Hailing a cab on the street can be risky for getting scammed; opt for public transport to save money and avoid hassle.
Is the Czech Republic Expensive To Visit?
The Czech Republic is known as moderately priced destination. When compared to the rest of Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, it is a moderately priced country.
Is Going To the Czech Republic Worth It?
Yes, the Czech Republic provides a unique cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and excellent value, making it a very worthwhile destination to visit.
Is Czech Republic Good For Honeymoon?
Yes, the Czech Republic is a great destination for a honeymoon, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that can create a memorable and romantic honeymoon experience.
Is the Czech Republic Safe For Tourists?
Yes, the Czech Republic is considered safe for tourists to visit. The country has a low crime rate and few violent crimes.
Are Czech Republic People Friendly?
Czech people may seem grumpy at first, but it's often just our directness and honesty shining through. Once you get to know us, you'll find we're warm, hospitable, and have a strong sense of humor, even if it's on the darker side.
Best Cities in Czech Republic
Here’s your fast Czech Republic city guide depending on where city you are planning to visit:
| City Name | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Prague
| History, Architecture | Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square | Moderate to High |
| Cesky Krumlov | Medieval Charm | Cesky Krumlov Castle, Old Town, Vltava River | Moderate |
| Karlovy Vary | Spa Town, Wellness Retreats | Hot springs, Spa treatments, Colonnades
| High
|
| Brno | Culture, Modern Art | Špilberk Castle, Villa Tugendhat, Old Town | Moderate
|
Plzen
| Beer Culture | Pilsner Urquell Brewery, Brewery Museum | Moderate |
Find the best Czech Republic hotels here!
Must-See Czech Republic Attractions
Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Czech Republic:
- Prague Castle: The largest castle complex in the world, housing St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George's Basilica, and the Old Royal Palace.
- Charles Bridge: A historic bridge over the Vltava River, lined with statues and offering stunning views of the city.
- Kutná Hora: A town famous for its Gothic architecture, including the Sedlec Ossuary and the Church of St. Barbara.
- Cesky Krumlov Castle: A medieval castle with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Bohemian Paradise: A natural area with unique rock formations and numerous castles.
- Podyji National Park: A protected area known for its unspoiled forests and diverse wildlife.
- Karlstejn Castle: A Gothic castle built by Charles IV to store holy relics and royal treasures.
- Litomyšl: A town known for its well-preserved castle and main square, as well as its connection to composer Bedřich Smetana.
- Žďár nad Sázavou: A city with a rich history, featuring a pilgrimage church dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Moravian Karst: A natural area with numerous caves, gorges, and hiking trails, including the Punkva Caves and the Macocha Abyss.
- Prague's Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square: Iconic public squares in the heart of Prague, featuring famous landmarks like the Astronomical Clock and the National Museum.
- St. Vitus Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral within Prague Castle, known for its intricate architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
- Konopiste Chateau and the Archduke's Trophies: A chateau with an impressive collection of hunting trophies and a beautiful garden.
- Hluboká Castle: A well-preserved Renaissance castle with beautiful gardens and a stunning architecture.
- Karlstejn Castle: A Gothic castle built by Charles IV to store holy relics and royal treasures.
The Best Time To Visit Czech Republic
The best time to visit the Czech Republic is during spring (mid-March to mid-May) and fall (September – mid-November), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
Where is the Czech Republic ?
The Czech Republic is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It is bordered by Germany to the west, Austria to the south, Slovakia to the east, and Poland to the northeast.
What is the Capital of the Czech Republic?
The capital of the Czech Republic is Prague, which is not only its largest city but also one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in Europe.
Languages Spoken in Czech Republic
The official language of the Czech Republic is Czech. Additionally, German, Polish, Hungarian, and Ukrainian are recognized as official minority languages.
Time Zone of Czech Republic
The time zone of the Czech Republic is Central European Time (UTC+01:00) during standard time and Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00) during daylight saving time.
What Currency Does the Czech Republic Use?
The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK).
- 1 Euro (EUR) is equivalent to approximately 25.32 Czech korunas (CZK).
- 1 US Dollar (USD) is equivalent to approximately 24.77 Czech korunas (CZK).
Czech Republic Flag
The flag of the Czech Republic is the same as the flag of the former Czechoslovakia. It consists of two equal horizontal bands of white and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side.
Population of Czech Republic
According to Worldometer, the population of the Czech Republic is approximately 10,837,890 as of 2024.
Strange Laws in Czech Republic
- It is illegal to play musical instruments in public places without a permit.
- Walking your dog in public without a leash can result in a fine.
- Drinking alcohol in some public areas, such as parks and playgrounds, is forbidden.
- Selling products from a market stall is regulated by specific laws and permits.
- Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, including restaurants and bars.