Best in May
Czechia
Brno
Moderate
From $92 /day
Czechia
Czechia is a land where medieval history and modern vibrancy coexist within a landscape of rolling hills and fairy-tale architecture. Often described as the heart of Europe, this nation offers much more than the gothic spires and cobblestone streets of its capital city. You will discover a country rich in UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Renaissance chateaus to baroque gardens that feel untouched by time. Beyond the urban centers, the landscape transforms into lush forests, dramatic sandstone rock formations, and world-renowned spa towns. Whether you are exploring ancient castle ruins or enjoying a world-class pilsner in a traditional cellar, the atmosphere is one of authentic charm and historical depth.
On This Page
We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
2 cities
6 guides
$77 – $92 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Prague
Languages
Czech
Currency
Czech Koruna (CZK)
1 $ ≈ 21 Kč
Plug Type
Type C/E
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+420
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
CET/CEST (UTC+1/UTC+2)
Emergency
112 (all services); also 150 (Fire), 155 (Ambulance), 158 (Police)
Why Visit Czechia
Architectural Masterpieces
Czechia boasts one of the highest concentrations of preserved historical buildings in Europe, ranging from Romanesque rotundas to Art Nouveau palaces. Walking through cities like Prague or Český Krumlov feels like stepping into a living museum where centuries of design are perfectly preserved.
World-Class Brewing Heritage
As the birthplace of the original pilsner, the country maintains a beer culture that is unrivaled in quality and tradition. You can visit historic breweries in Plzeň and České Budějovice or simply enjoy a perfectly poured lager in a local neighborhood pub for just $2.36–$3.53 / 48 Kč–73 Kč.
Accessible Natural Beauty
The country is home to four stunning national parks, including the dramatic peaks of the Krkonoše Mountains and the sandstone arches of Bohemian Switzerland. A dense network of well-marked hiking trails makes it easy for you to transition from bustling city centers to serene forest landscapes within an hour.
Exceptional Travel Value
While offering a high standard of living and top-tier infrastructure, Czechia remains more affordable than many of its Western European neighbors. With an average daily budget of ~$85 / 1,745 Kč, you can enjoy fine dining, comfortable boutique hotels, and extensive cultural sightseeing without overspending.
Dense Cultural Calendar
From the prestigious Prague Spring International Music Festival to the vibrant wine harvests in South Moravia, the country celebrates its heritage year-round. You can experience traditional folklore festivals, contemporary art galleries in Brno, and world-renowned film festivals in Karlovy Vary.
Seamless Public Transport
Boasting one of the most efficient rail and bus networks in the world, the country makes regional exploration effortless and inexpensive. Integrated ticketing systems allow you to use a single pass for trams, metros, and buses, ensuring you can navigate even the smallest villages with ease.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Czechia
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Prague and Central Bohemia
This central hub is dominated by the 'City of a Hundred Spires' and surrounded by royal castles like Karlštejn and Křivoklát. It offers a mix of world-renowned landmarks, legendary nightlife, and historical estates all within a short train ride from the capital.
South Moravia
Known as the country's sun-drenched wine region, South Moravia features rolling vineyards and the vibrant university city of Brno. You can explore the sprawling Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape or descend into the prehistoric caves of the Moravian Karst.
West Bohemian Spa Triangle
Centered around the elegant towns of Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně, and Františkovy Lázně, this region is famous for its thermal springs and grand colonnades. It is the perfect destination for wellness seekers and those interested in the history of European high society.
South Bohemia
This region is defined by its network of fishponds, medieval villages, and the enchanting town of Český Krumlov. The landscape is dotted with white-walled chateaus like Hluboká nad Vltavou, offering a serene and quintessentially Czech rural experience.
Bohemian Switzerland
Located in the north near the German border, this national park is a paradise for hikers and photographers. It features the Pravčická brána, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe, and deep river gorges that can be explored by boat.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest days but brings the highest volume of tourists.
Peak Season
Jun, Jul, Aug, Dec
Summer months bring temperatures of 20–25°C (68–77°F) and a bustling atmosphere with numerous festivals. December is also a peak period due to the world-renowned Christmas markets, despite colder weather averaging -1–4°C (30–39°F).
Shoulder Season
Apr, May, Sep, Oct
Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures around 10–18°C (50–64°F) and fewer crowds. These seasons are ideal for exploring historic gardens in Prague and the vineyards of the Moravia region.
Off-Peak
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov
The winter months (excluding December) are the quietest and most affordable. While skies can be grey and temperatures often drop below freezing, it is the best time for budget travelers and those wishing to see the cities covered in snow.
Getting Around
The country boasts one of the densest and most efficient rail and public transport networks in Europe. The integrated system allows for seamless transfers between metros, trams, and buses using a single ticket or mobile app.
Train
České dráhy operates a reliable network including high-speed SC Pendolino and international Railjet services. Tickets can be purchased conveniently via the Můj vlak mobile app or at major stations.
Metro
The Prague Metro is the backbone of the capital, with three lines (A, B, and C) operating from 05:00–00:00. It is known for its punctuality, safety, and deep, architecturally striking stations.
Bus
Intercity travel is well-served by carriers like RegioJet and FlixBus, which connect major cities like Prague and Brno. In the Prague Integrated Transport (PID) area, all bus and trolleybus stops in Prague and the Central Bohemian Region operate in request-stop mode (from 29 June 2024). To get off, press the stop/request button in time; to board, stand where the driver can clearly see you (waving is not required).
Car
Driving is useful for rural areas, but vehicles with a maximum weight up to 3.5 tonnes must have a valid electronic vignette to use toll motorways. Using toll roads without a valid e-vignette can result in a fine up to CZK 5,000 on the spot or up to CZK 100,000 in administrative proceedings.
Food & Drink
Czech cuisine is hearty, comforting, and deeply rooted in Central European traditions, often focusing on meat, dumplings, and rich sauces. Dining is a social affair, usually accompanied by the world's highest per-capita consumption of premium beer.
Must Try
Svíčková na smetaně
Beef sirloin served in a creamy root vegetable sauce, topped with cranberries and a dollop of cream, always served with bread dumplings.
Vepřo knedlo zelo
The quintessential Czech national dish consisting of roasted pork, bready dumplings, and braised sauerkraut.
Guláš
A thick beef stew seasoned with paprika and marjoram, usually served with raw onions and sliced bread dumplings for dipping into the rich gravy.
Smažený sýr
A popular comfort food featuring a thick slice of Edam or Hermelín cheese, breaded and fried until molten, served with tartar sauce and potatoes.
Trdelník
A sweet spit cake made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, grilled over open flames, and topped with sugar and walnuts.
Kulajda
A creamy potato soup with forest mushrooms, dill, and a poached egg, offering a perfect balance of sour and earthy flavors.
Pivo
The world-famous Czech beer, specifically Pilsner Urquell or Budvar, characterized by its golden color, thick head, and balanced bitterness.
Money & Costs
While no longer a budget destination, it remains more affordable than many Western European capitals, with a daily budget of ~$85 / 1,745 Kč/day. Value is best found in regional cities like Brno and Olomouc.
Tipping
In restaurants, it is customary to tip ~10% for good service or round up the bill in more casual settings.
Cards
Card acceptance is extremely high in cities, with contactless payments being the norm. Cash is still necessary for small rural shops, market stalls, and some public toilets.
ATMs
Use bank-affiliated ATMs when possible and always choose to be charged in CZK (decline Dynamic Currency Conversion). For cash exchange at a bureau de change, Czech National Bank guidance notes you can cancel the exchange within 3 hours (up to the equivalent of $1,178 / 24,230 Kč) at the same exchange office.
Culture & Etiquette
Czechs are generally reserved but polite and value directness and punctuality. Understanding local social norms, especially regarding greetings and beer culture, will greatly enhance your interactions with locals.
✓
Always say 'Dobrý den' (Good day) when entering a shop, restaurant, or elevator, as it is considered basic politeness.
✓
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home; most hosts will provide you with slippers called 'přezůvky'.
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Validate your public transport ticket immediately upon boarding a tram or bus to avoid heavy fines from plainclothes inspectors.
✓
Look your companions in the eye and say 'Na zdraví' when clinking glasses of beer or wine.
✕
Don't cross the street when the pedestrian light is red, even if no cars are coming, as locals take traffic laws very seriously.
✕
Don't leave your phone or wallet on the table in crowded tourist areas, as petty pickpocketing is the most common crime in Prague.
✓
Round up the bill or leave a 10% tip in restaurants if the service was good; it is better to tell the server the total amount you wish to pay rather than leaving cash on the table.
✕
Don't speak loudly on public transport or in quiet restaurants, as Czech culture tends to favor a lower volume in public spaces.
✓
Follow the 'noční klid' (night quiet) rule between 22:00–06:00, especially in residential areas and apartment rentals.
✕
Don't assume everyone speaks English, particularly older generations; learning a few basic Czech phrases is highly appreciated.
Safety & Health
Czechia is generally very safe for travelers; petty theft (especially pickpocketing) is the main issue in crowded tourist areas. In the Global Peace Index 2025, Czechia ranks 11th out of 163.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
ECDC has reported a multi-country hepatitis A outbreak affecting Czechia (notably during 2024–2025). Travelers should check up-to-date health guidance and consider hepatitis A vaccination (especially for higher-risk travelers), alongside careful hand hygiene.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Currency exchange offices in tourist zones advertising 0% commission but hiding fees in poor rates
- ⚠ Dishonest taxi drivers overcharging for short trips; use official partners like Uber or apps like Bolt and Liftago
- ⚠ Fake plainclothes police officers asking to inspect your currency for 'counterfeit notes'
- ⚠ Food stalls in major squares charging by weight, leading to unexpectedly high meal prices of ~$59 / 1,212 Kč or more
High-quality healthcare is available, but non-EU visitors must carry proof of valid medical insurance. Prescription medication should be kept in original packaging with a copy of the prescription.
Language
Czech is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in the tourism and hospitality sectors of major cities. In rural areas, German is sometimes more prevalent among the older generation.
English Spoken: Moderately spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Dobrý den | DOH-bree den |
| Hi | Ahoj | AH-oy |
| Thank you | Děkuji | DYE-koo-yi |
| Please | Prosím | PRO-seem |
| Yes | Ano | AH-no |
| No | Ne | NEH |
| Excuse me | Promiňte | PRO-min-te |
| Beer | Pivo | PEE-vo |
Visa & Entry
Czechia is part of the Schengen Area. For non-EU visitors, the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) has been operational since 12 Oct 2025 and is being rolled out gradually at border crossing points. ETIAS is scheduled to start operations in the last quarter of 2026; no action is required until it launches.
Max Stay
90 days in 180-day period
Passport Validity
Issued within last 10 years; valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area
Visa-free for
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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