ABOUT THE CZECH REPUBLIC

The Czech Republic, in Central Europe, is a nation steeped in history and culture. Its capital, Prague, is renowned for its stunning mediaeval architecture and vibrant arts scene. Covering about 78,866 square kilometres, the country is bordered by Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Poland, with a landscape that includes hills, plains, forests, and mountain ranges like the Krkonoše.

Once the mediaeval kingdom of Bohemia, the region later became part of the Habsburg Monarchy. After World War I, Czechoslovakia was formed, peacefully splitting into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. Today, the Czech Republic is a parliamentary republic, a NATO member since 1999, and part of the European Union since 2004.

The economy is well-developed, with strong industrial sectors, especially in automotive and machinery, and a growing service industry. The Czech Republic is culturally rich, with Czech as the official language, and is known for its literature, music, and iconic architecture, particularly in Prague. Czech cuisine is hearty, and the country is famous for its beer.

Tourism thrives on the country's historic sites, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Czech Republic is also known for its strong education system and universal healthcare, blending historical significance with modern development.

Entry into the Czech Republic

If you're a citizen of a European Union country, travelling to the Czech Republic is straightforward. As part of the Schengen area, the Czech Republic allows you to enter without restrictions or the need for a visa. You don't even need a passport—your national ID card is sufficient.

For visitors from non-EU countries, entry requirements vary, and it's advisable to check visa requirements before your trip. The country is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible from many parts of Europe and beyond. Once there, you can explore a rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes.

Currency

In the Czech Republic, the official currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). While some businesses, particularly in tourist areas, may accept euros, it's advisable to have korunas for most transactions. Note that 25 CZK equals approximately 1 Euro.

Most merchants routinely accept major payment cards from international card associations. However, if you plan to rent a car, it's important to carry a credit card, as regular debit cards are often not accepted for this purpose. There is a dense network of ATMs throughout all cities, and it's recommended to withdraw money from those operated by banks to avoid excessive fees. ATMs operated by independent providers, such as Euronet, may charge high withdrawal fees, sometimes up to €10 or 10% of the transaction amount.

Electricity

In the Czech Republic, 230 V AC with a frequency of 5 Hz is standard, as it is throughout continental Europe.

Mobile services

The Czech Republic offers reliable mobile services through major providers like O2, Vodafone, and T-Mobile, with extensive 4G coverage and expanding 5G networks. Visitors and residents can choose from a variety of prepaid, postpaid, and tourist-specific plans, ensuring flexible and cost-effective connectivity.

SIM cards are widely available, and EU residents benefit from no additional roaming charges, while non-EU visitors can easily access local prepaid options.

However, if you don't have an EU number and need mobile data, we recommend apps like Airalo.

Health

All tourists in the Czech Republic are entitled to emergency medical care, regardless of nationality. If you are from the European Union, you can access public healthcare services by showing a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This covers medically necessary treatment during your stay. If you don’t have one yet, you can apply for it through your country’s health authority.

Visitors from outside the EU (such as the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia) will need to pay for medical services upfront and then claim reimbursement through their travel or health insurance, unless it is a life-threatening emergency. Be sure your insurance policy covers emergency medical treatment abroad, just in case.

Pharmacies (lékárny) are easy to find in cities like Brno and are usually marked with a green cross. Many common medications are available over the counter, and pharmacists are well trained. While English is not guaranteed everywhere, staff in larger cities or near tourist areas often speak at least basic English.

Safety

The Czech Republic is considered one of the safest countries in Central Europe, with generally low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. Brno, in particular, is known for being a relaxed and student-friendly city.

That said, it's always wise to stay alert in busy areas, especially around public transport hubs, tourist attractions, and large events like MotoGP. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Important telephone numbers

Below you can find important telephone numbers in the Czech Republic. The country's phone code is +420.

• Emergency services: 112
• Police: 158
• Fire Department: 150
• Ambulance: 155
• Municipal Police: 156
• Roadside Assistance (ÚAMK): 1230
• Czech Automobile Club Assistance (ABA): 1240
• Tourist Hotline: +420 221 714 444

Interesting facts about the Czech Republic

Beer consumption
The Czech Republic has the highest beer consumption per capita in the world. Beer is an integral part of Czech culture, and the country is home to some of the oldest breweries, including Pilsner Urquell, the birthplace of the Pilsner style.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Czech Republic boasts 14 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic centres of Prague, Český Krumlov, and Kutná Hora, reflecting its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Castle density
The Czech Republic has the highest density of castles in Europe, with over 2,000 castles, chateaux, and ruins. Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world.

Charles University
Founded in 1348, Charles University in Prague is one of the oldest universities in Europe and remains a prominent centre for education and research.

Czech language
The Czech language is notable for its complexity, particularly its use of diacritics and the fact that it features words with no vowels, such as “krk” (neck).

Velvet Revolution
In 1989, the Velvet Revolution led to the peaceful overthrow of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, marking a significant moment in the country’s modern history.

Czech inventions
The Czechs have contributed several notable inventions, including the modern contact lens, which was invented by Czech chemist Otto Wichterle.

Bohemian glass
The Czech Republic is famous for its Bohemian glass (also known as Czech crystal), which has been produced since the 13th century and is highly valued worldwide for its quality and craftsmanship.

Absence of sea
The Czech Republic is one of the few landlocked countries in Europe. Despite having no coastline, it has a rich tradition of water sports, particularly along the Vltava River.

Mushroom picking
Mushroom hunting is a popular pastime in the Czech Republic. Many Czechs are passionate about foraging for mushrooms in the country’s extensive forests, especially during the autumn months.