Welcome to Czech Republic 😊

Quick Facts About Czech Republic

Money and Finances

The currency of Czech Republic is Czech koruna (CZK). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Kč, and banknotes are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 Kč.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available throughout Czech Republic, including in smaller towns and rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in larger stores, hotels, and restaurants in major cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, followed by AMEX. However, it is always advisable to carry cash as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.

Internet and Phones

The Czech Republic has an average internet speed of 29.8 Mbps for downloads and 10 Mbps for uploads. However, there are occasional government blocks on certain websites and surveillance of internet activity.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The major telco companies in the Czech Republic are T-Mobile, Vodafone, and O2. A typical mobile phone plan costs around CZK 400-800 (~$18-$36) per month. Some phones may not be compatible with Czech sim cards, so it is recommended to check before purchasing a plan.

Dialling to Czech Republic

To call the Czech Republic from another country, dial +420 followed by the area code and phone number. Within the country, area codes are used for landline numbers and are typically one or two digits long.

Transport Around Czech Republic

Air Travel

The Czech Republic has several international airports, including Václav Havel Airport Prague, Brno-Tuřany Airport, and Ostrava Leos Janacek Airport. Václav Havel Airport Prague is the largest and busiest airport, with flights to many European and international destinations.

Train Travel

The train network in the Czech Republic is extensive, with inter-city trains connecting major cities such as Prague, Brno, and Ostrava. Example ticket prices for a one-way journey from Prague to Brno start at CZK 219 (approximately USD 10), and journey times are typically around 2.5-3 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

Prague has a metro system with three lines and multiple stations, providing convenient transport around the city.

Buses

There is also a comprehensive bus network in the Czech Republic, with companies such as Flixbus and Regiojet offering routes to many destinations across the country. Example ticket prices for a one-way journey from Prague to Brno start at CZK 99 (approximately USD 4.50), and journey times are typically around 3-4 hours.

Rideshare

Rideshare companies such as Uber and Bolt operate in the Czech Republic, with average prices varying depending on the distance and time of day.

Driving by Car

Driving in the Czech Republic is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and good signage. The speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h (31 mph), and on highways it is 130 km/h (81 mph). The Czech Republic uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In the Czech Republic, tipping is common in restaurants, with around 10% considered standard. Locals greet each other with a handshake and a smile, and bowing is not customary. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to use formal titles and surnames until invited to use first names. Men and women generally address each other with equal respect and there are no specific customs for addressing people based on gender.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The Czech Republic has a public healthcare system that provides universal coverage to all citizens and legal residents. The cost of seeing a doctor is typically around $20-$40, with additional fees for medications or procedures. Private healthcare is also available, but can be expensive. Health insurance is required for all residents and can be obtained through the public system or privately. Emergency medical care is free for all.

COVID Situation

The Czech Republic was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, with a surge in cases in the fall/winter months. However, the country has since taken measures to improve the situation and currently has a low rate of new infections and hospitalizations. The government has implemented vaccination programs and limits on public gatherings to prevent a resurgence of the virus.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in the Czech Republic include tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and encephalitis, as well as food poisoning from contaminated food or water. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of pickpocketing and theft in tourist areas.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

The legal drinking age in the Czech Republic is 18 years. Alcohol can be bought in grocery stores and consumed in public spaces. However, public drunkenness is prohibited and can result in fines or even arrest. Sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in certain places, such as hospitals, schools, and public transportation. It is also illegal to drink and drive.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including cannabis and other party drugs, is illegal in the Czech Republic. Possession, sale, and distribution of drugs are criminal offenses and can result in imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws in the Czech Republic that specifically regulate pre-marital relationships. Sexual activity between consenting adults is legal.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in the Czech Republic. It was the first post-communist country to legalize homosexuality in 1962. Same-sex couples are not allowed to marry, but they can enter into registered partnerships which provide several legal rights and protections. Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation is prohibited.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are heavily regulated in the Czech Republic. A license is required to own and carry firearms. The use of firearms for self-defense is allowed only under certain circumstances, such as during a physical attack. The country has a relatively low rate of firearm homicides compared to other countries in Europe.