Currency
The currency is the Czech koruna (CZK, Kč). Czechia is an EU member but has not adopted the euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and most restaurants. ATMs are easy to find. Avoid currency exchange booths in tourist areas — they often have poor rates and hidden fees. Bank ATMs and larger exchange offices (směnárna) give much better deals.
Language
Czech is a Slavic language and not easy to pick up quickly. English is widely spoken in Prague and in tourist-facing businesses elsewhere. In smaller towns and villages, German is sometimes more useful than English. A few words of Czech — dékuji (thank you), prosím (please/you're welcome), dobrý den (hello) — are always appreciated.
Health
The Czech healthcare system is solid. EU citizens should carry an EHIC card for access to public healthcare. Non-EU visitors should carry travel insurance. For minor issues, a pharmacy (lékárna) can help — pharmacists often speak enough English for basic needs. Emergency services are reliable.
Emergency numbers: 112 (general European emergency), 155 (ambulance), 158 (police), 150 (fire).
Safety
Czechia is a safe country by any measure. The main concerns in Prague are pickpocketing in tourist areas and on trams (especially lines 22 and 23), and overcharging at certain bars and nightclubs. Read your bar bill carefully before paying. Outside the capital, petty crime is rare.
Money and Costs
Czechia is significantly cheaper than Western Europe, though Prague has crept up in price and is no longer the bargain it once was. A good restaurant meal in Prague costs around 300–500 CZK; outside the capital noticeably less. Beer in a local pub runs 40–60 CZK per half-litre — rising steeply in tourist-facing Prague establishments.
Communications
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and most restaurants. Czech SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy — useful for longer stays. EU phone plans work without roaming charges for EU residents.
Electricity
230V, 50Hz. Standard European two-pin plugs (Type E/F). UK and US visitors need adaptors.
Opening Hours
Shops typically open Monday–Friday 9:00–18:00, Saturday 9:00–13:00. Many close Sunday or have reduced hours. Supermarkets and malls keep longer hours. Museums are usually closed on Mondays.